A recent spike in damage to public reserves has prompted the Western Bay of Plenty District Council to remind people that motorised vehicles are banned from those areas.

The council said in a statement it had received reports of vehicles being driven across reserves at Bowentown Domain, Tuapiro Point Reserve, Wilson Park in Waihī Beach and Moore Park in Katikati in recent weeks.

Trail bikes had also been reported speeding on shared trails, with recent near‑misses on the Waihī Beach–Bowentown cycleway, the Waihī Beach forestry trails and the drainage reserve trail between Gilfillan Drive and Wills Rd in Katikati.

Council reserves and facilities manager Peter Watson said the behaviour put both people and public spaces at risk.

“Our reserves and pathways are shared community spaces that everyone should be able to enjoy safely.

“Driving vehicles across grassed areas damages the environment, creates risks for other users and can leave costly repairs.”

He said while this was a year-round issue, he understood wet winter conditions could make reserves more tempting for off-road driving, but increase the damage left behind.

Damage caused by vehicles at Bowentown Headland.

Watson said some of the damaged reserves also held significant cultural and historical value.

“Bowentown Headland forms part of Te Hō Pā and Te Kura a Maia Pā and is an important site for mana whenua.

“The damage being done is disrespectful and shows a lack of regard for places that are special to our community.”

Under the council’s Reserves and Facilities Bylaw 2018, no vehicles or motorbikes are allowed on any reserves, except in areas set aside specifically for that purpose.

Where damage occurs, it may also be an offence under the Reserves Act 1977.

Watson said community support was essential to safeguarding reserves and urged people to report any vehicles seen driving on them, providing details or videos and photos where safely possible.

“These spaces belong to everyone. By respecting the rules and reporting damage when it happens, we can all help keep our reserves safe, accessible and enjoyable for the whole community.”

People can report illegal vehicle activity by contacting the council on 0800 926 732, emailing [email protected] or through the Antenno app.

Dangerous driving can be reported to the police on 111. Non-emergency incidents can be reported by calling 105.