The Maunga Authority received no substantive reports on Mt Eden erosion ahead of its decision to ban vehicles from the summit, Epsom MP David Seymour has revealed.

'I have specifically requested information on measured or estimated damage caused by vehicles on the maunga,” says David.

"While the Authority provided the 80-page 2007 Maungawhau / Mt Eden Management Plan, the document presents no evidence on erosion caused by vehicles. The information release merely states unrestricted access has 'caused concerns' over damage to the site.

'The release instead cites the Authority's empowering legislation, emphasising ‘the spiritual, ancestral, cultural, customary, and historical significance of the maunga'.

'Clearly, car-induced erosion is either not occurring or is not a factor in the Authority's move to ban cars – a fact that contradicts the erosion-focused narrative spun by supporters of car restrictions.”

David also requested information concerning consultation undertaken by the Maunga Authority with Mt Eden's visitors.

'The release reveals that the Authority has not undertaken any consultation with representatives of Auckland ratepayers or Mt Eden's typical visitors. The Authority has only been in contact with ATEED, limited mobility and elderly organisations, and Friends of Maungawhau, a group which vocally opposes vehicle access to the mountain.

'$72,000 is now being spent on electric gates to keep out visitors, a year after the government promised the creation of the Authority would not affect public access to maunga.

'What about serving the interests of the people who use the mountain every day? Aucklanders are left with reduced access, for no good reason.

'The new restrictions are being pushed through by an unelected authority, without public consultation, and at significant expense to ratepayers.”

Source: Office of David Seymour.