The actions of two Swiss tourists spotted cycling the Tongariro Alpine Crossing have been slammed by both hapū and the Department of Conservation (DOC).
Adrift Tongariro's Hazel Phillips filmed the pair as they encountered other trampers on the walk.
Those following the rules were forced to step off the track as one of the cyclists made their way past.
DOC Tongariro operations manager George Taylor said to get to this point, the mountain bikers had to pass no cycling signs, hundreds of steps, walkers, and not a single other cyclist.
“It’s clearly not a permitted activity – it’s an affront to those working to protect the fragile environment and cultural significance of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing,” he said.
Ngāti Hikairo ki Tongariro, Te Ngaehe Wanikau said hapū were deeply concerned to hear that mountain bikes had been used to traverse the Tongariro Crossing.
“As the Kaitiaki – guardians and hapū who maintain Mana Whenua in this area - our inherent responsibility requires that we ensure the spiritual, cultural and physical safety and well-being of our sacred maunga Tongariro, and that of all people who share the magnificence of Tongariro with us,” he said.
Under the Tongariro National Park bylaws (1981) it is an offence to use a vehicle, including bicycles, off formed roads.
“Bicycles on walking tracks can damage fragile alpine environments, present a safety risk to trampers, and are generally disrespectful of this taonga national park,” said Taylor.
The pair were fined $400 each and their bikes were confiscated for three days, but hapū said the consequence need to be more severe and would like to see the bikes seized.
DOC said it has the authority to confiscate bikes permanently.
"We felt it was appropriate to do what we did in terms of seizing the bikes and implying the infringement," Taylor said.
"Every situation we'll take on its own merits and assess accordingly."
DOC has introduced a booking system for visitors to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a first step in sustainable management.
It told 1News had the tourists booked their trip they would have received the relevant safety and cultural information.
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