equestrian recreation in auckland: riding and driving opportunities in auckland regional parks

Equestrian Recreation in Auckland Riding and Driving Opportunities in Auckland Regional Parks 1/24/2008

Vivien Dostine Final 1.2

Equestrian Auckland: Riding and Driving Opportunities in Auckland’s Regional Parks

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Table of Figures ................................................................................ vi

Glossary .......................................................................................... viii

Acronyms and Equestrian Terminology ......................................................... viii

Equestrian Sports ...................................................................................... ix

BACKGROUND ........................................................................................12

Aims ................................................................................................12

LLIITTEERRAATTUURREE .....................................................................................13

Methods ................................................................................................ 13

INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................14

Rider Numbers .......................................................................................15

Equestrian Sport and Recreation ..............................................................16

Competitive Sports ................................................................................... 17

Riding for Recreation ................................................................................ 19

Where Are Riders Riding Now? .................................................................21

TOP 3 RIDING AREAS.................................................................................. 21

ROADS .................................................................................................. 22

PONY CLUBS – Grounds and Facilities .............................................................. 22

FORESTS AND BEACHES .............................................................................. 24

Private, Commercial ................................................................................. 30

Local Council Provision of Horse riding ............................................................ 31

ARC Provision of Horse Riding ...................................................................... 33

ROADBLOCKS FOR HORSE RECREATION .........................................................38

Top 3 Issues for Riders ..........................................................................38

Roads, Transport, Parking and Bridleways ..................................................39

Roads and Berms ...................................................................................... 39


Bridleways & Unformed Roads ...................................................................... 40

Transport and Distances to Safe Riding ........................................................... 40

Parking ................................................................................................. 41

Lack of Camping ...................................................................................... 42

Information........................................................................................43

FINDING PLACES TO RIDE ............................................................................ 43

Trailbikes ..........................................................................................45

SEASONALITY ......................................................................................45

DOGS ...............................................................................................46

COST ................................................................................................46

ISSUES FOR CLUBS ................................................................................47

Issues for Carriage Driving and Disabled Access ............................................48

Issues For Horse Riders at ARC Parks .........................................................49

Policy, Management and Other Restrictions ...................................................... 49

Protection of Livestock .............................................................................. 55

Horses and Erosion ................................................................................... 55

Getting Information from the ARC ................................................................. 57

Permits and communication ........................................................................ 58

Park Specific Problems .............................................................................. 60

BEST PRACTICE ......................................................................................65

Providing Information ...........................................................................65

DATABASES AND THE INTERNET .................................................................... 65

Codes of Practice ..................................................................................... 67

Trails ...............................................................................................68

Facilities For Horse Recreation Areas ........................................................68

Examples ..........................................................................................71

Crychan Forest ........................................................................................ 71

The Trans Canadian Trail ............................................................................ 71

Horse Lovers Park & Reach 11 recreation area, Phoenix Arizona ............................. 72

RECOMMENDATIONS ................................................................................73

Communication ...................................................................................73

Website ANd Email Communication ................................................................ 73

Permits and Event Booking .......................................................................... 73

Codes of Practice ..................................................................................... 74

Improving Current Infrastructure .............................................................75

Signage, Signage, Signage! .......................................................................... 75

Trails (recreation areas) ............................................................................. 75

Facilities ............................................................................................... 76

Access & Parking ...................................................................................... 76

New Opportunities ...............................................................................79

Carriage Driving ....................................................................................... 79

Supporting Trail Systems - Bridleways .......................................................80

FINDINGS .............................................................................................81

CONCLUSIONS ........................................................................................82

FURTHER RESEARCH ................................................................................83

Appendices ...........................................................................................84

Survey Respondents .............................................................................84

Survey ..............................................................................................67

Pony Clubs .........................................................................................68

Riding for the Disabled (NZRDA)...............................................................69

Additional Resources for Recreation Managers .............................................70

Gates, Structures and Trail Design Guides ........................................................ 70

Example Codes of Practice .....................................................................74

References ..........................................................................................76


TABLE OF FIGURES

Figure 1 Rider Survey respondents by area ............................................................ 11

Figure 2 Equestrian Participation (Sparc 2003) ....................................................... 13

Figure 3 Carriages can be modified for disabled drivers............................................. 14 Figure 4 New horse sports like Le Trec (left and Right) and Tie-and-Ride(centre) are appearing

............................................................................................................... 16

Figure 5 Sport, Training and Recreation are closely intertwined .................................. 17

Figure 6 Kidz Kartz, Harness Racing New Zealand's Latest Initiative .............................. 18

Figure 7 Kidz Kartz, Harness Racing New Zealand's Latest Initiative .............................. 18

Figure 8 Pony clubs run 'Open days' for all riders to enjoy .......................................... 21

Figure 9 Pony clubs run 'Open days' for all riders to enjoy .......................................... 21

Figure 10 Usage of ForestS - Surveyed Riders ......................................................... 22 Figure 11 Woodhill registered riders by region (source WFEP) ..................................... 22

Figure 12 WFEP marked sand trails, trail markers and trail name. ................................ 23

Figure 13 Woodhill Forest(shared access Green, WFEP Blue, Five Mile Strip red) , Riverhead

Orange ...................................................................................................... 24

Figure 14 Waiuku Forest main entrance ............................................................... 25

Figure 15 Riverhead can be muddy if you get off the roads ........................................ 26

Figure 16 Beach riding is always popular .............................................................. 27

Figure 17 Whitford Beach Uses A System of Marker Poles To Avoid Nesting Sites ............... 28 Figure 18 ARC park usage - surveyed riders ........................................................... 31

Figure 19 magnificent muriwai at low tide ............................................................ 32

Figure 20 the five mile strip, woodhill forest on the left, across coast rd ........................ 32

Figure 21 rolling pits are the horse equivalent of a hot shower after exercise .................. 33

Figure 23 Issues for riders survey ....................................................................... 36

Figure 24 Franklin District Council's 'Mind the Gap' Signage ......................................... 37

Figure 25 Horse Trucks can be large! ................................................................... 39

Figure 26 WFEP parking is Often full to overflowing at peak times ................................ 40

Figure 27 physically finding places is often the only option ........................................ 41 Figure 28 Trail markers are great but only if you know what the colours mean ................. 42

Figure 29 Trail bikes using the Muriwai horsepark .................................................... 43

Figure 30 Not all horses and dogs get along like this ................................................. 44

Figure 31 Carriage driving (wales Forestry Commission) ............................................ 46

Figure 32 Shared use trails create mutual respect ................................................... 49

Figure 33 Exotic Weed Species at HUnua .............................................................. 51

Figure 34 Even Well Used Horse Trails Can Have Little Impact (WFEP Native Trail) ............ 54

Figure 35 Hancock‟s signage ............................................................................. 59 Figure 36 Placement of trails is important. The New Horse Access Trail at Muriwai ........... 61

Figure 37, 35 Clear Signage is Important ............................................................. 64

Figure 38 multi-use recreation trail with information spot, picnic table, bike stand & toilet

(solar powered) – coeur d‟lane trail (USA) ............................................................. 66

Figure 39 Reach 11 Emphasises Education Opportunities............................................ 70

Figure 40 Add interest on trails ......................................................................... 73

Figure 41(right) Carriage driving in Crychan Forest, Wales ......................................... 77

Figure 42 Example of a Horse Friendly Forest Gate with wheelchair access US FOrest service 70

Figure 43 Code of Conduct Wales forestry commission .............................................. 75


GLOSSARY

ACRONYMS AND EQUESTRIAN TERMINOLOGY

ARPASS Auckland Regional Physical Activity & Sport Strategy

ATV All terrain vehicle – quad bike

ESNZ Equestrian Sports New Zealand - new name for NZEF

Gait Walk, trot, canter, gallop are used like the gears of a car. They not only control speed but also traction and comfort.

Ground Fees Payment made to use grounds or facilities for riding, may be per hour and\or per horse, per event or per day

Hacking Riding a horse for recreation (or the horse‟s physical and mental wellbeing)

NZEF New Zealand Equestrian Federation. Sports body representing the top level of competitive sports – Dressage, Endurance, Eventing, Show Jumping, Show Hunter

NSO National Sports Organisation (recognised by SPARC)

PC Pony Club – youth sporting organisation involved in education and coaching in equestrian sports

RDA Riding for the Disabled

RST Regional Sports Trust

SPARC Sport And Recreation New Zealand(formerly the Hilary Commission)

Tie-up Tie-rail, hitching rail – somewhere to tie a horse

EQUESTRIAN SPORTS

CTR Competitive Trail Riding – variation of endurance, based on points for completing a trail ride within set criteria

Competitive Mounted Orienteering

Orienteering on horseback

Dressage Olympic Sport, literally means‟ training‟. Horse performs complex movements in a 20x60m (Olympic)or 20x40m arena (pc)

Driving carriage driving, the competitive sport is called competitive driving

Endurance Equestrian sport that involves racing over distances of up to 160km. Horses are checked by vets at regular stages of the race – trails usually form a loop to enable these vet checks to occur

Eventing Olympic Sport,(3 Day Event) Horse and rider compete in Dressage, Cross-Country and Show jumping over either a 1 or 3 day period.

Hunting Riding to Hounds. Exciting non-competitive sport

Le Trec Or simply „Trec‟. A combination of trail riding, orienteering and horse control phases.

Jousting Medieval sport, making a popular modern day comeback. NZ has held the world championships and has world ranked jousters!

Polo Team sport played on a ground measuring 300x 160m or 300x 200m. Four players in a team, each player requires multiple ponies for each game.

Polocrosse Based on Polo and Lacrosse, players only need 1 horse per game

Ride & Tie Team sport involving a running and riding relay. Each member of the team must do both, one member riding to a location, tying the horse and running on, the second team member runs to the tied horse and then rides to the next tie spot. Members must co-ordinate efforts to win.

Show Jumping Olympic Sport. Horse and Rider compete over fences, time and height

Show Hunter Jumping where style and good form count more than height or speed (trains riders and horses for show jumping)

Showing Equine beauty, grace and manners competitions

Western A series of sports and competitions based on „cowboy‟ activities, gear and attire which include (but not restricted to):

Cutting – horse and rider (mainly horse) „cut‟ a single steer or calf from a herd and keep it from returning

Barrel Racing – speed and precision event with horse and rider completely a prescribed course involving tight turns around barrels

Pleasure – an event for riders to show the training (control) and paces of their horse

Reining – a precision event showing the control of the horse and set manoeuvres (western dressage), including spins and sliding halts

12

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RIDING AND DRIVING OPPORTUNITIES IN AUCKLAND REGIONAL PARKS

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This literature review of recreational and sports databases and the internet was undertaken

was undertaken to assist the Auckland Regional Council (ARC) with the development of a

horse riding study, for its regional parkland. This study will in turn, inform future policy and

facility provision. The study has focused on recreation riding rather than sports training or

competitive riding.

AIMS

The aim of this review is to answer a number of questions about equestrian recreation in the

Auckland Region.

How many people are riding in the Region

What is out there now and how can it be improved.

Do the opportunities provided meet that demand, if not why not?

What are the major issues faced by recreational riders in the region?

Equestrian Recreation in Auckland

vR1.2 13

LLIITTEERRAATTUURREE

The sources of information used to compile this report were:

5 original research documents

4 literature reviews

6 reports

Internet websites

Informal interviews with riders

ARC Horse Riding Strategy Workshop attendance, minutes and documentation

Survey (questionnaire) to riders and clubs

Emails and information provided directly from ARC Park Rangers

Site visits to a variety of current horse riding areas, parks and facilities

Methods

This review is based on English-language material only, collected mainly from the United

Kingdom, U.S.A., Australia and New Zealand. The snowball effect has been used to find some

resources, using the bibliography and references in

the papers already examined.

SURVEY METHODS

As part of this literature review, a simple survey

was circulated to recreational riders and riding

groups. The survey was distributed to people

outside of the group already involved in the ARC

workshop, in order to validate views presented

there (or not). A snowball sampling approach was

taken, the questionnaire distributed initially via

email i and published on forumsii. All participants

were encouraged to distribute the survey further,

including riders without email who returned their

responses via mail.

Participants in the survey were from all areas of the region (Kaiwaka to Bombay) and had a

wide variety of recreational and sporting interests. Although the sample itself is very small in

relation to the estimated number of riders, the views supported those already expressed at

the ARC workshop.

40 responses were received from families or individuals, representing 45 riders.

10 responses were received from pony clubs or PC districts, representing 15 clubs with

approx 544 riders. Responses from pony clubs were counted as 1 (one) response for the

purposes of the survey. This is to mitigate the risk that the respondent is NOT representative

of his\her members and not skew results on behalf of Pony Club issues.

FIGURE 1 RIDER SURVEY RESPONDENTS BY

AREA

http://www.sportsci.org/jour/9901/wghreview.html#literature


14 Written for Auckland Regional Council, by Vivien Dostine (2007)

IINNTTRROODDUUCCTTIIOONN

“We New Zealanders are all horse lovers by our British birthright, and as Colonials we have

learned to value the horse as a means of existence, and not merely as a means of recreation…” - Lieutenant-Colonel Powles, Assistant Adjutant and Quartermaster General of the Anzac Mounted Division 1916-1918 (Wilson, 2007)

Horses provide healthy recreation for people of all ages and abilities; they are an integral (if

somewhat ignored) part of our traditional landscape and make an important contribution to

the economy.

New Zealand‟s history and culture are closely intertwined with the horse, as an agricultural,

transport, military and sporting animal. Tom Brooking, Associate Professor of History,

University of Otago describes the horse as vital to New Zealand‟s History and development

(Brooking, 2004). The first horses brought to New Zealand by the Rev. Samuel Marsdon

arrived in Rangihoua, in the Bay of Islands, in December 1814. By 1840 when the first

thoroughbred arrived in New Zealand, horse races were already underway. The soldiers ran

meetings at Auckland and Onehunga using their own troop horses, the officers acting as

officials (Racing History). By the time the first rugby game was played in 1870, horse racing

was so popular that official racing clubs and racecourses were being formed.

The connection with our equestrian history became more remote for many as New Zealand‟s

population rapidly urbanised. However, equestrian sporting achievement and increasing

numbers of therapeutic programmes using horses; prisoner rehabilitation, troubled teens,

personal development and corporate management training have maintained and even

increased interest in horse riding as recreation. While most had never ridden before, the sight

of hundreds of horses thundering across the New Zealand landscape in the Lord of the Rings

films encouraged locals and tourists alike to go horse riding for the first time.

Here in the Auckland Region dwindling open spaces and increasing land prices are reducing

opportunities to enjoy equestrian sports and recreation for New Zealand‟s largest population

base. Many people in the equestrian community feel that horse riders are ignored, restricted,

envied, or feared but rarely understood.


vR1.2 15

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“The racing industry makes a direct contribution of $424 million to New Zealand‟s GDP (0.37%

of total GDP), and it generates more than $1,480 million (1.3% of GDP) if the indirect impact

of expenditure in the racing industry is taken into account. More than 40,000 people are

involved in some capacity in the racing industry (74% in the production of racing animals

(breeding, training etc) and 26% in racing club, raceday and TAB operations). The racing

industry directly sustains 9,248 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs, and when the indirect impact

of racing on other industries is taken into account, the total employment impact rises to

18,320 FTE jobs.” –Briefing Paper (Department of Internal Affairs , 2005)

Despite the detailed information on the racing industry, there is little research available to

quantify the number of horse riders in New Zealand. Statistics New Zealand‟s livestock

numbers show numbers of horses in the Auckland Region growing, from 6,116 in 2004 to 9,786

in 2006 (Livestock Numbers by Regional Council (1994, 2002–2006)). However, these figures

are drawn from “businesses engaged in agricultural production activity” and therefore do no

include horses which are kept on privately (not involved in a GST registered agricultural

business).

Sport and Recreation New Zealand

(SPARC) survey for regular horse riding

participation, those who ride at least once

in every 2-4 weeks.iii Based on these

figures there are approx. 23,000 regular

riders in the Auckland (SPARC, 2003).

SPARC also provide figures for those who

have participated at least once in the past

12 months. Nationally 3% of New Zealand

young people (including 1% of boys and 6%

of girls), and 5% of adults (4% of men and

6% of women) are riding.

Auckland Region‟s participation rate is

slightly higher than the national average

at 6%. This means that 78,000 people may have taken part in some form of horse riding

recreation at least once in the last 12 months based on current population figures (Statistics

New Zealand, 2006).

FIGURE 2 EQUESTRIAN PARTICIPATION (SPARC 2003)



Equestrian Sport and Recreation

Participation starts early and continues well into the over 50s age group(SPARC, 2007). It is

common to find competitors in the 40+ age group still competing at all levels of the sport.

Horse riding has a high female participation rate at all ages, and is the third ranked sport for

girls 5-17 years old. Women in their 30‟s and 40‟s take up riding for the first time, or return

to it after having children. However, it is also an activity that many in their 20‟s must give up

due to the time and money constraints on young adults as they leave home and start a career

or family. While in most equestrian sports men and women compete against one another

equally, some are favoured by one gender or another. For instance, the majority of the 973

rodeo cowboys (SPARC, 2006) are males, as are most polo players, but other disciplines are

dominated by female competitors.

Disabled and paraplegic riders and drivers compete at many levels, including elite sports and

therapeutic horse riding is a growing sector in all countries, including New Zealand.

FIGURE 3 CARRIAGES CAN BE MODIFIED FOR DISABLED

DRIVERS


vR1.2 17

Competitive Sports

Top-level competition where one might expect access to available funding and\or training

facilities is a very small proportion of the rider numbers in the region. SPARC currently only

funds Olympic sports – Dressage, Show Jumping and Eventing. Therefore, despite world

rankings in both junior and elite levels, Endurance (racing over long distances) does not

receive any support.

The New Zealand Equestrian Federation1 (NZEF) controls competitive riders in the traditional

sports of Dressage, Eventing, Endurance, Show Jumping and Show Hunter. This level of

equestrian sports has just 5,842 registered riders, 1,035 of these are from the Auckland

Region.

Competitive carriage driving has approximately 100 members spread throughout the country

with nine clubs in the North Island and three in the South Island (New Zealand Carriage

Driving Society (Inc), 2007). The number of people involved in carriage driving for

recreational purposes is estimated to be 3-4 times this figure. Kidz Kartz created by Harness

Racing New Zealand (HRNZ), is a programme for kids and ponies to compete in harness races

and learn about horsemanship.

Polo provides economic benefit for the country through overseas pony sales, rider training

schools and competition. There are 19 polo clubs throughout the country, and 300

handicapped2 players (New Zealand Polo Association) Club membership figures show polo with

455 registered members (SPARC, 2006). Polocrosse has 18 clubs nationally ( Polocrosse New

Zealand) with 387 registered members (SPARC, 2006). Polocrosse is a cross between polo and

lacrosse, aimed at being a more egalitarian game than polo; it only requires one horse per

rider (as opposed to a team of horses for polo).

1 New Zealand Equestrian Federation(NZEF) has recently changed it‟s name to Equestrian Sports New Zealand (ESNZ) and may be referred to as either NZEF or ESNZ. 2 Polo players have a handicap system, somewhat similar to golf (except in polo the best players have the highest handicap)



Endurance and Competitive Trail Riding (CTR) are the fastest growing equestrian sports.

Horses and riders race over distances ranging from 10 to 160 km. “Have-a-go-days” with 10,

20 and 30km rides are very popular with recreational riders at Woodhill and Waiuku Forests.

Western horse sports are also gaining in popularity. These are based on the American

tradition of cowboy attire, gear (saddles and bridles) and competition (cutting, reining,

pleasure riding etc).

New horse sports are being developed in response to modern riders‟ desire for a more multi-

dimensional recreation than is offered by traditional horse sports. Examples include Le Trec

a multi-discipline sport with elements of orienteering, dressage, cross-country and

horsemanship, which is increasingly popular in Europe and Britain. Tie and Ride is a multi-

discipline sport where runners and horse riders compete as a team and Competitive Mounted

Orienteering is like a mounted treasure hunt. These new sports aim to get riders out into the

environment, involve non-riders, and incorporate new skills.

Old sports are also being revived; New Zealanders are amongst the best jousters in the world.

There are three jousting clubs in New Zealand at present, and world championships have been

held in Lower Hutt on several occasions (Order of the Boar).

In New Zealand it is common for horses and riders to be multi-skilled. Horses and riders will

compete in several sports as well as having a number of recreational interests.

FIGURE 4 NEW HORSE SPORTS LIKE LE TREC (LEFT AND RIGHT) AND TIE-AND-RIDE(CENTRE) ARE

APPEARING


vR1.2 19

Riding for Recreation

Recreational riding is not just about time off from

competition. Many recreational riders do not have

competitive aspirations, but instead enjoy horse riding for

the physical, social, and emotional benefits it brings into

their lives.

There are an increasing number of independent riding

clubs outside of the pony clubs system. These riders are

often adults, who are more interested in having fun than

competing. These clubs are as likely to organise a group

trail ride, as a club show jumping day.

Others still provide traditional competition, but in a more

relaxed atmosphere. Waitemata Riding Club, one of the

largest has approx. 230 members (Waitemata Riding Club).

Horse riding is great physical therapy (one adult interviewee had taken up riding as

rehabilitation after a stroke) the swinging, repetitive motion improves balance, coordination,

strength and muscle tone while gently mobilizing the joints. It allows many to enjoy the

outdoor environment in a way that would otherwise be denied them. New Zealand Riding for

the Disabled (NZRDA) is an association of 53 Member Groups. They provide riding therapy for

children and adults who are physically challenged with a wide variety of disabilities including

cerebral palsy, spina-bifida, paraplegia, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, traumatic

brain injury, or stroke, learning disabilities, or intellectual disabilities.

Learning to ride and control a horse creates self-confidence; it is an outdoor activity that

many women enjoy because it involves freedom, adventure, and physical recreation without

having to break into more male dominated activities. Once independent riding is achieved,

disabled riders can enjoy the freedom of pursuing an outdoor activity on a similar basis to

able-bodied participants.

Western style riding for recreation is gaining in popularity partly because the large western

saddles provide novice or nervous riders with plenty to hang onto, and partly because western

trained horses have low, smooth comfortable paces for long rides.

Horses need recreation opportunities. Just like a human child, horses develop into calm, safe

riding horses by being introduced to new situations in a controlled way. Horses that are

restricted to working in an arena, or even on the same property day-after-day, cannot cope

with objects or activities outside of their limited experience. As time passes they become

more set in their ways, and increasingly unable to cope with any change in their limited

environment.

Riders too must learn how to ride on different types of terrain and handle the behaviour of a

horse outside of a riding school or arena. Some riders enjoy horse riding only at riding schools,

taking weekly lessons in the same way that others may enjoy a round of golf. Riding up or

FIGURE 5 SPORT, TRAINING AND

RECREATION ARE CLOSELY

INTERTWINED



down hills, is quite different from the smooth surface of an arena. Rather than making it

safer, limiting the experiences and interactions of horses (and riders) makes riding a more

dangerous activity.

CARRIAGE DRIVING

Recreational driving has up to 3 times as

many participants as competitive

carriage driving.

In addition to those who currently drive,

there is also a potential for this form of

recreation to increase quickly if given

greater opportunities (places to drive).

Miniature horses and ponies, as well as

donkeys (and miniature donkeys) have

increased due to the popularity of

lifestyle blocks on the city fringes. Not

suitable for riding, these animals are fun

to drive.

The Kidz Kartz programme, while focussed

on harness racing is also introducing many more children and ponies to the skills of driving

(Kidz Kartz). Having gained these skills it is reasonable to assume that some will wish to

continue driving as a recreational activity, if there is the recreation space to do so.

In addition to the able-bodied enthusiasts carriage driving provides opportunities for

wheelchair bound people to enjoy the outdoors in a more self-sufficient way than perhaps any

other recreational activity (Access Adventure).

FIGURE 6 KIDZ KARTZ, HARNESS RACING NEW

ZEALAND'S LATEST INITIATIVE

FIGURE 7 KIDZ KARTZ, HARNESS RACING NEW

ZEALAND'S LATEST INITIATIVE


vR1.2 21

Where Are Riders Riding Now?

So where are these thousands of riders and their horses now?

TOP 3 RIDING AREAS

1. Roads – 92% of riders hack on roads for fitness work and general recreational riding

2. Pony Clubs – 75% of riders surveyed either belong to a pony club to use their facilities,

or pay ground fees in order to use pony club grounds.

3. Forests and Beaches provide large amounts of recreational riding, but riders must deal

with multiple providers and access controls. Individually Woodhill Forest is the biggest

provider in this category.

Many of the riders surveyed are travelling large distances in order to find facilities and safe

riding areas to meet their needs. Competitive riders are travelling to the Waikato Equestrian

Centre, Hamilton because of a lack of suitable facilities in the Auckland Region. Recreational

riders both from the south of the city and as far north as Warkworth and Kaiwaka, are

travelling to use Woodhill Forest. Riders are completing round trips of 200km or more to train

in their sport or ride recreationally. Importantly, unlike some other sports riders use multiple

recreation areas as a matter of course. Variety is important to meet riders (and horses)

needs and all survey respondents indicated 3 or more riding areas.



ROADS

Road riding is not just a means to get from one place to another; it is recreation and training

for both horse and rider. In its natural environment, horses will travel 60-80km in a day to

find food. Long sessions of active walking and trotting make a horse fit for work or

competition; hard surfaces are required to „harden‟ legs

and tendons for fast work.

Despite the dangers, pleasure riding along roads and

berms is still popular because it is something every rider

can do for free and is a resource that is always close to

home. Horse riders are also keen users of paper roads

(unformed roads), and may have agreements with local

landowners to allow them to cut through properties and avoid busy roads on their ride or on

their way to a popular resource (Pony Club, Forest or Beach). For many without transport,

road riding is their primary option for recreation.

PONY CLUBS – Grounds and Facilities

75% of surveyed riders either join pony clubs or pay ground fees in order to use pony club

facilities.

Pony Club is a youth organisation, for under 21 year old riders. Many now have adult members

(known as adult rides) but not all. A few clubs can provide horse riding and care programmes

for children without a horse (known as non-riding members).

Some (mainly older clubs) own their own grounds, others lease from Local Councils, or private

landowners. Clubs grounds may consist of little more than an area of flattish grass, through to

larger clubs which have well established cross-country (pony club level) courses, arenas, show

jumps and other facilities. Grounds are usually used for both grazing and competition, which

can be detrimental to the quality of the competition areas. However, members with grazing

have the luxury of being able to ride their horses\ponies on the grounds where they are kept

(not having to travel).

Pony Club grounds are not automatically open to recreational riders (even those on Council

reserves). Members pay an annual membership fee, which gives them access to all grounds

and club facilities. Non-members can often pay for access to the Club grounds and\or some

facilities on an ad-hoc basis i.e. they can pay to use the grounds (known as ground fees) or

hire facilities (arenas usually). Many riders are paying multiple clubs in order to have a variety

of places to ride and facilities to use because pony clubs are run as independent bodies,

despite affiliation with the NZ Pony Club Association.

Road riding is not just a

means of getting from one

place to another; it is

recreation…


vR1.2 23

Each pony club runs a number of shows and competitions open to non-members, each season

as part of their obligations to

New Zealand Pony Clubs

Association. These

competitions are the

„grassroots‟ level of equestrian

sports and showing. Entry fees

help to finance the club.

Young riders start competition

at this level, as do adult

novices and young horses. Less

competitive riders often use

these days as social outings

and a chance to „dress up‟.

Most Pony Clubs are seasonal,

closing down entirely during

winter. This includes removing all

horses\ponies from grazing, creating a migration of pony club horses and ponies onto private

grazing land for the winter. Since the club grounds are closed for riding, this creates some

additional pressure on other available riding areas. Pony Club members also look for

recreation areas outside of the club grounds, during the club „season‟ to provide variety of

experience, fitness, and recreation.

The entire list of Pony Club grounds with their facilities (if known) is at the end of this

document.

Other Clubs and Organisations

Independent riding clubs usually do not own or rent their own grounds (excluding polo) but

rely on private landowners or commercial providers. North Shore Riding Club is one of the few

adult riding clubs with its own grounds. These however, are not available to non-members.

These clubs can be in direct competition with recreational riders for the same resources, as

there are few facilities which are able to accommodate both a club booking and casual riders

at the same time. Woodhill Sands for example, is a commercial training and competition

facility popular because of it excellent amenities and reasonable prices. At weekends it is

often booked by groups and shows months in advance (making it unavailable to riders not

entered in the event).

Therapeutic riding programmes such as Riding for the Disabled (RDA) sometimes rely on Pony

clubs. The two groups share grounds, facilities, volunteers and even ponies e.g. St Heliers.

Many riders join Pony Club, once they have achieved independent riding and the NZPCA

includes a disability policy to address the special needs of disabled riders, volunteers, and

certification of riders.

FIGURE 8 PONY CLUBS RUN 'OPEN DAYS' FOR ALL RIDERS TO ENJOY FIGURE 9 PONY CLUBS RUN 'OPEN DAYS' FOR ALL RIDERS TO ENJOY



Riding schools also provide horse riding recreation to many Aucklanders. In some cases schools

hire out arenas or other facilities to riders and many riders take their horses to riding schools

to have lessons or school their horses.

FORESTS AND BEACHES

FIGURE 10 USAGE OF FORESTS - SURVEYED RIDERS

WOODHILL FOREST AND WFEP

54% of surveyed riders listed Woodhill as one of their

riding areas, an additional 29% stated that they rode at

Muriwai Beach meaning this area may be providing up to

83% of riders with some equestrian recreation.

The forest covers 12,500 hectares of sand dunes from

South Head in the North to Muriwai in the South.

Riders are willing to regularly travel from all parts of the

region to enjoy this forest, as can be seen by the

locations of registered riders in Figure 8 (WFEP, 2007).

FIGURE 11 WOODHILL REGISTERED

RIDERS BY REGION (SOURCE WFEP)


vR1.2 25

WFEP – ADMINISTRATIVE GROUP AND RECREATION AREA

Woodhill Forest Equestrian Park (WFEP) manages horse riding in Woodhill Forest on behalf of

forest licensee, Hancock Forest Management Ltd. Riders pay an annual registration ($70 fee

pp) plus an initial $20 fee to get a key to

gates.

WFEP is an administrative arm of Auckland

Woodhill Endurance Club (AWEC) and was

formed at a time when Carter Holt Harvey

Forests (CHHF) appeared to be restricting

access for „non-commercial‟ groups like horse

riders and walkers, to increase revenue from

recreational access i.e. in 2005. iv Prior to this

time, horse riders were charged an annual

registration fee, which paid for the

administration time required to centrally

manage recreation users\groups.

WFEP is also the name of a block of the forest,

which roughly runs between Restall Rd and

Rimmer Rd. It has trails for exclusive (or near

exclusive) use by horse riders. WFEP is charged

a monthly rental for this block (believed to be

$750 per month) by Hancock Forest

Management Ltd, and performs all

infrastructure work (trails and improvements).

SHARED AREAS

Outside of this area, trails are shared and some

areas are exclusively set aside for other

recreation groups (and a military training area at the top end of the forest). A trail-bike park

exists near Rimmer Rd, a mountain bike park on Boundary Rd and Treetops Adventure Park

opposite the mountain bike area. 4Track Adventures (ATV tours) operates from Restall Rd,

bordering and in some cases sharing WFEP tracks.

The area south of WFEP to Muriwai (known as „Restall South‟) is used for organised recreation

events such as trail bike races or orienteering. Horse riders and other casual users of the

forest must stay clear of these areas when they are on, although they are poorly signposted

and there is no notification system for walkers.

There are multiple entrances to Woodhill Forest including Wilson Rd, Rimmer Rd, Restall Rd,

and Muriwai (via Okiritoto Stream gate on Coast Rd or directly from the beach via ARC Five

Mile Strip or directly across the dunes further up the beach). This not only helps to distribute

the demand for parking but also allows local riders to ride directly into some (northern)

entrances or at least have shorter journeys with their horses.

FIGURE 12 WFEP MARKED SAND TRAILS, TRAIL

MARKERS AND TRAIL NAME.



Woodhill is widely regarded as the best recreational riding area in the region. It has all-

weather sandy trails, a wide variety of terrain, fallen trees, old stumps and branches provide

jumps for the more adventurous riders and sufficient kilometres of trails to provide riding for

all levels of rider and horse.

In WFEP (Restall Rd) there are:

Well marked trails, many are wide enough for two horses to ride abreast

Signage clearly indicates boundaries and shared tracks. Walking tracks and 4Track

Adventures trails exist in\around WFEP some are off-limits to riders, others are multi-

use.

Few gates for riders to open (1-2 at road crossings). Most can be opened from

horseback, and mounting blocks are provided on both sides for those who are not good

at gates.

Large all weather secure parking (loading\unloading) area with toilet, picnic table,

water trough, tie rails, wash down and rolling pit for horses.

Loop tracks of set distances (10,15, 30km)

Water troughs and tanks are placed throughout the park in addition to the water

troughs that already exist in the forest for cattle grazing.

There is also a separate camping area (The Nursery) that is hired out for groups or

individuals. This allows riders from further afield to enjoy the forest, and clubs or

riding schools can bring riders into a natural setting to ride a variety of terrain.

Outside of WFEP (South of Restall Rd, North

of Rimmer), the riding is still excellent with

many trails and forestry roads. There are

few trail markers, although there are road

signs and older (Carter Holt Harvey) maps of

the forest. All areas outside WFEP are

shared use, and may include areas of

seasonal cattle grazing, so riders need to

ride around fenced blocks or deal with

gates. Generally, parking and other

facilities are more erratic, Muriwai Horse

Park provides for the southern part of the

forest but there is no official parking at the

more remote Wilson Rd entrance.

In effect, Woodhill has provided its own

grading system. Exclusive trails with all mod

cons at WFEP, Muriwai is a little more

independent and the totally self-sufficient can

explore the forest north of Rimmer Rd.

FIGURE 13 WOODHILL FOREST(SHARED ACCESS

GREEN, WFEP BLUE, FIVE MILE STRIP RED) ,

RIVERHEAD ORANGE


vR1.2 27

WAIUKU FOREST

Waiuku Forest, approx 1000ha, owned and

managed by Crown Forests is popular with

riders in South Auckland. It is another sand

dune based pine forest, with beaches on

two sides and the ironsand mine running

through the centre of it.

Recreational use is free, and is managed in

co-ordination with Franklin District Council

and user group representatives.

Waiuku Forest has a single main gate on

Wilson Rd, Waiuku. There are good parking

areas located near each of the many gates

into the forest.

Recreational trails, including a trail linking the

northern and southern parts of the forest, are

both marked (named) and mapped and each gate is assigned a number to help users navigate

the forest. Clear signage is prevalent throughout the forest, users, although there is a

tendency for these to be lists of prohibited activities.

The forest is grazed, so there are water troughs throughout the forest blocks, like Woodhill

this may mean that users need to avoid grazed blocks or negotiate electric fencing and gates.

The iron sand mine has license to clear fell the entire forest, with the exception of 15.9ha.

Waiuku Forest caters for organised recreation events, but casual recreational users are not

barred from the forest when events are on. Franklin District Council provides a booking

system and information about use of and getting to the forest on its website

http://www.franklindistrict.co.nz/FranklinDistrict/SportandRecreation/WaiukuForest/tabid/

343/Default.aspx (Franklin District Council) (Franklin District Council) There are clear

guidelines and processes in place for booking events.

FIGURE 14 WAIUKU FOREST MAIN ENTRANCE



RIVERHEAD FOREST

Riverhead Forest is a 4000 hectare pine plantation owned by Matariki Forests\Rayonier NZ

Ltd. Rayonier have recently begun a voluntary registration system ($50 p.a.).

Registration provides riders with a key to the horse gates at: Escott Road, Robinson Road;

Deacon East Rd (Mill Flat Rd entrances); Longbush Rd (Forestry Rd, Riverhead entrance); Strip

Rd & Barlow Rd (Ararimu Valley Rd entrances),and a map

of the forest.

There is informal parking at Barlow Rd, Strip

Rd, Robinson Rd, and roadside parking near

Mill Flat Rd.

There are numerous roads and tracks to

explore.

Signs exist on most of the roads and

intersections.

Access for recreational use is only available on

the weekends

There are some access points\trails that do not

require a key e.g. Zanders Rd.

Rayonier have begun a programme of improving gates

to limit access by motorbikes and other unauthorised

vehicles, slashing gorse on trails and providing

mounting blocks.

Riverhead is popular with locals, but has no formal

facilities. It is not as popular as nearby Woodhill

because:

it is a clay based forest so non-metalled roads get very muddy (slippery) in winter

the metalled forestry roads are hard on some horses feet and are not suitable for

cantering on

There is quite a lot of gorse on most trails making less used trails quite unpleasant to

ride through

Access is shared with a variety of other users, walkers, dogs, bikes and vehicles

Some riders are concerned about personal safety in this forest. Riders are concerned

about dope growers protecting their plots, and in winter 2007, a local woman and her

dogs inhabited an abandoned vehicle on one of the forest roads continuing the view

that this is a bit of a quirky place to ride.

Riverhead is most suited to slow (walk and trot) road rides, surefooted and independent

horses and riders.

FIGURE 15 RIVERHEAD CAN BE MUDDY IF

YOU GET OFF THE ROADS


vR1.2 29

WHITFORD FOREST

Whitford Forest is very similar to Riverhead in many respects. Owned by Matariki\Rayonier, it

requires a key and permit for horse riding ($50 p.a.). Like Riverhead this pine forest is mainly

clay based trails, however unlike Riverhead there is only one entrance. Whitford Forest

currently has a low percentage of riders in comparison to other forest, mainly due to changes

in ownership and access in recent years (and the lack of information available about access).

BEACHES

Beaches make ideal training tracks for horses that

require fast work, and idyllic locations for more

leisurely rides. The firm footing and salt water is

beneficial for horses recovering from leg injury,

and swimming is great non-weight bearing

exercise.

In addition to the 29% of riders using Muriwai,

there are also riders using Karioitahi, Whitford,

Okura, Kawakawa, Big Bay, Clarks and Mangawhai

beaches.

Trekking operators use beach riding as an almost

irresistible lure for local and overseas riders alike. Horse Treks operate out of Muriwai (2),

Pair, Helensville\South Head (2), and Karioitahi.

KARIOITAHI BEACH

Karioitahi Beach is approx 6 km south west of Waiuku. Franklin District Council allow horse

riding on the beach, with restrictions on certain areas. The horse loading\unloading area is

directly on the beach. A trail into Waiuku Forest exists at the southern end of the beach.

Franklin District Council have erected a great deal of good signage in the area. These explain

a number of „zones‟ at the beach to facilitate safer sharing for all users. This includes a „safe

zone‟ for pedestrians, nearest to the parking area and a 1km zone which extends on either

side of the „safe zone‟ with restrictions on activities. For example: Inside the safe zone,

horses must be walked at all times. Inside the 1km zone horses must stay within 10m of the

surf and be walked during the busy summer period (Labour weekend – March).

FIGURE 16 BEACH RIDING IS ALWAYS

POPULAR



OKURA

10% of surveyed riders visit Okura. „Okura‟ riding area is a tide dependent resource for riders.

The Okura Community centre allows parking of horse floats, and locals or visitor then ride

down the road to the boat ramp. Riders then cross the Okura River channel to ride the

mudflats and beaches as far as Weiti River, Karepiro Bay,

and Stillwater during low tide.

Both Okura and Whitford Beach are controlled by

multiple authorities. In the case of Okura; DOC, Rodney

District Council and North Shore City Council. DOC

because this is a marine reserve, Okura village and the

southern shores are in North Shore City Council area and

the northern shores are in Rodney District Council.

WHITFORD BEACH

Whitford Beach is popular with locals and riders from the

surrounding areas including Totara Park Equestrian Park.

A traditional equestrian area, locals have created

bridlepaths on the surrounding roads (Potts and Clifton

Rds) leading down to the beach. Riding is tide

dependent; only available at low tide on the mudflats.

The allowed riding area is restricted by DOC to avoid

disturbance of the wading bird nests (Oct-Mar). A system of marker

posts is provided to guide riders out past nesting sites. Some

parking is available on wide berms near the entrance to the

reserve.

PRIVATE, COMMERCIAL

29% of riders use private arenas and 35% private farms. Commercial equestrian centres

provide sporting and training facilities; are used by up to 20% of those surveyed.

Survey respondents were not asked to clarify whether the „private‟ facilities they used were

their own, or simply land \ facilities to which they had access. Those who own their own land,

often build their own arena and\or jumping areas if space and finances permit. This solves the

problem of having to travel to find training facilities, but the standard achieved varies with

people‟s circumstances.

Where one land owner has built a good quality arena, they may allow neighbours to also use it

and\or hire it out (hourly fee). Large farm owners may allow hunts to take place on their

property and or allow friends and neighbours to ride across the property. This sort of access is

being eroded, due partly to the reduction in farm sizes (land development) and partly due to

the changes in social contacts from a more mobile (urban) population.

FIGURE 17 WHITFORD BEACH

USES A SYSTEM OF MARKER

POLES TO AVOID NESTING

SITES


vR1.2 31

LOCAL COUNCIL PROVISION OF HORSE RIDING

Local Council provision is generally limited to public reserves with Pony Club or Riding for the

Disabled (RDA) onsite that stipulate access to for non-members. Public bridleways and

proposed or planned facilities are also listed, when that information is available.

RODNEY

Current: Rodney District Council has a bridleways strategy, implementation is yet to begin.

(Rodney District Council, 2007)

Coatesville Reserve, Coatesville-Riverhead Highway Coatesville. Coatesville reserve is

home to Coatesville Pony Club. The reserve is open for public riding and other

recreational activities for most of the year, any riders can use the cross-country course

built on the reserve. Pony Club charges for use of their all weather arena.

Sinclair Park, Kaukapakapa is the home of Kaukapakapa Pony Club. The club controls

seasonal access (closed in winter) but any rider may use the grounds (a flat paddock at

the back of the rugby fields).

Glasgow Park, Waimauku is home to Waimauku Pony Club. All riders are allowed to use

the grounds during the summer, and the club hires out it‟s arena over the winter months.

Glasgow Park is also a dog exercise area.

Future: There are plans to allow equestrian use of a newly purchased 154-hectare site at

Green Rd, Dairy Flat. However, it is currently unclear what form that will take. (Rodney

City Council) (Rodney City Council) Submissions on this site will begin in March 2008.

Rodney District Council has a bridleways strategy, implementation is yet to begin. (Rodney

District Council, 2007)

NORTH SHORE CITY COUNCIL

Current: None, No bridleways, or horse riding strategy.

Future: Planning is in progress for a shared equestrian area at Sanders Reserve, Paremoremo

(North Shore City Council, 2006) (North Shore City Council, 2006)

WAITAKERE CITY COUNCIL

Current: None, No bridleways\horse riding strategy.

Future: No information



AUCKLAND CITY COUNCIL

Current: There is a bridle path through the reserve joining St Heliers to Meadowbank Pony

Club; otherwise there is no provision for horse riding.

Future: no information

MANUKAU

Totara Park (Manukau City Council), (Manukau City Council), Redoubt Rd, Manurewa is a

216 hectare farm park. There are two public bridle paths of about 3kms crossing the

farmland, which are shared with other recreation users in the park. Public parking is

available for a 3-4 horse trucks.

Whitford Beach. (Manukau + DOC), Clifton Rd. Tidal mudflats riding only. Restrictions on

access to avoid wading bird disturbance.

Puhinui Reserve is a 199-hectare park occupying the southern end of the Puhinui

peninsula. Auckland Equestrian Events holds New Zealand‟s premier 3-Day event on this

reserve each year, but no recreational access is provided for horse riding. There are

3.5kms of trails for bike riding and substantial equestrian infrastructure.

No bridleways\horse riding strategy.

Future: Proposed bridleway improvements in Clifton Rd area of Whitford

PAPAKURA DISTRICT COUNCIL

Current: None, No bridleways\horse riding strategy.

Future: no information available

FRANKLIN DISTRICT COUNCIL

Current: Karioitahi Beach and Waiuku Forest.

Although Franklin District Council doesn‟t „provide‟ either of these resources, by-laws include

provision for managing Karioitahi beach recreation to include horse riding and Franklin works

in conjunction with Crown Forests and recreation user groups for management of recreation

at Waiuku Forest.

Franklin District Council does not have a bridleways or horse riding strategy.

Future: Karaka Recreation Reserve (13ha) and Kingseat Recreation Reserve (3ha) will develop

management plans; these may include some equestrian component.


vR1.2 33

ARC PROVISION OF HORSE RIDING

RIDER SURVEY RESULTS

Only 50% of riders surveyed have

ever ridden in one of the ARC Parks.

This number is boosted by including

Muriwai.

The 6% result for Pae O Te Rangi is

quite misleading. The percentage

would not be represented in a survey

with a larger sample size, as there

are only 6 riders with current

permits for Pae O Te Rangi.

3 riders stated on their survey that

they ride at Te Henga but only 1 has

a current permit (and key), we must

assume that they ride at Te Henga

(beach\reserve) rather than Pae O

Te Rangi .

Interestingly the vast majority of riders (65% of those surveyed) do not know which parks are

ARC Regional Parks. Many were confused about which parks and reserves belong to various

authorities, for instance Puhinui, Weiti Station, Riverhead Forest and Okura were all

incorrectly identified as ARC parks by riders. Of those who rode at Muriwai, only two knew

that Muriwai is a Regional Park.

ACCESS AND PERMITS

The ARC allows horse riding at a number of its parks. Only Muriwai allows horse riding

without some form of restriction. Permits and\or physical access restrictions are utilised at

each of the other parks, in addition to restrictions on areas open to riders.

Parks requiring permits, (No. permits issued 2008)

No permit required Ranger Contact Required

Hunua 30

Duder 21

Pae O Te Rangi 6

Anawhata 0

Ambury

Awhitu

Whakanewha (Waiheke Island)

Muriwai

Hunua (min 2 days prior)

Whakanewha

Awhitu

FIGURE 18 ARC PARK USAGE - SURVEYED RIDERS



MURIWAI

Muriwai beach is the most popular ARC Park

for horse riding. The beach is shared with

walkers, bathers, picnickers, dogs, surfers,

4 wheel drives, motorbikes, land yachts,

fishers, kite surfers and cyclists and is used

by both recreational riders and local

racehorse trainers (both gallopers and

trotters with carts).

The beach provides approx. 30km of riding

at low tide, but at high tide there is no

beach at all. There are several access

points over the dunes, either onto the Five

Mile Strip or directly into Woodhill Forest.

THE FIVE MILE STRIP AND ARC HORSE PARK

Muriwai Regional Park manages a narrow

strip of land (approx 200 metres wide by

five miles in length) known as the “Five

Mile Strip”. This is located behind the

dunes, north of Okiritoto Stream and

west of Woodhill Forest. Casual riding is

allowed on the beach and in the Five

Mile Strip (no permits and no cost). One

of the most popular features of this

beach and horse park is that is is open

24hrs, enabling early morning and

twilight rides.

The „Horse Park‟ is a parking area

located between the golf course and

Okiritoto Stream. It is well designed for

access by large horse trucks and floats,

accommodating 10-12 large vehicles at a

time.

The Five Mile Strip is accessed directly from the beach at two points. The first is near

Okiritoto Stream mouth on Muriwai beach and the second is at the top of the strip (approx 5

miles up the beach).

FIGURE 19 MAGNIFICENT MURIWAI AT LOW TIDE

FIGURE 20 THE FIVE MILE STRIP, WOODHILL FOREST

ON THE LEFT, ACROSS COAST RD


vR1.2 35

There is a marked loop trail, with minor cross trails that link the two sides of the loop. The

terrain is fairly flat (minor undulations on the dune side) and the trails themselves are sand

based. Trail markers using the away\home system abound. Although finding the entrances to

from the beach can be difficult.

Two trekking operators hold concessions allowing a

large number of people to enjoy the west coast on

horseback.

Facilities:

Horse Park provides a loading and unloading

area for horse trucks and floats, with drive

through access

rolling pit

tie up rails

mounting blocks

horse trail to beach access point

marked trails in „Five Mile Block‟

DUDER REGIONAL PARK

Duder Regional Park is a 148 hectare farm park that provides a single 4.3km scenic farm trail

(Farm Loop track). There is no specific parking for horse transport, but the parking area is

quite large and the long driveway has a wide berm suitable for parking floats or trucks. Riders

are not allowed to canter or gallop their horses. A colour coding system is used to identify

trail use; the farm loop uses red way markers.

A (free) permit is required to ride at Duder.

Horse riding is not available through winter, from end of July to beginning of

November.

2% of surveyed riders have visited Duder Regional Park.

21 horse riding permits have been issued for 2008

In the Regional Parks Management Plan, (Regional Parks Management Plan: Volume 1

Overview and Strategic Directions) (Regional Parks Management Plan: Volume 1

Overview and Strategic Directions) Duder is listed as „no casual riding‟ – „no suitable

locations‟, while mountain biking is allowed on farm tracks.

FIGURE 21 ROLLING PITS ARE THE HORSE

EQUIVALENT OF A HOT SHOWER AFTER

EXERCISE



AWHITU

Despite its somewhat remote location (33km from Waiuku), 11% of respondents had visited

Awhitu. The 115 ha park is popular with those living around the Waiuku region and their

visiting friends. All of the survey respondents who have visited Awhitu Regional Park loved

their experience in this park, although some wanted more trails.

Awhitu provides a horse loading\unloading area and farm park riding. However, 3

different ARC maps give 3 different locations for it.

o The map posted at Awhitu entrance in Jan 2008. It is also located directly

adjacent to areas which are forbidden for riding – Brook Homestead and the

campgrounds.

o The map provided on the current ARC website shows the parking spot is outside

the entrance (locked road) to the campgrounds. This would allow for 1 truck or

float to park.

o The map provided on the previous version of the website (2007) showed the

unloading area on what is now (2008) a native planting area near the

campgrounds.

No permit is required, but the ranger must be contacted prior to riding.

According to the Awhitu Horse Riding Code of Practice (AWHITU: Code of Practice for

Horse-Riding, 2007) (AWHITU: Code of Practice for Horse-Riding, 2007) “Horses can be

ridden throughout the park except: the main car park and picnic area, the

campground, Brook Homestead, the foreshore, any bush areas or the golf course”

According to the Management Plan horse riding “on designated tracks and areas,

excluding beaches; restricted during winter; contact park ranger before entering park”

(Regional Parks Management Plan:Volume 1 Overview and Strategic Direction)

(Regional Parks Management Plan:Volume 1 Overview and Strategic Direction)

HUNUA

The Hunua Ranges covers approx.16,000 hectares and contains the largest block of forest on

the mainland of the Auckland Region(Auckland Regional Council)Region (Auckland Regional

Council) There is a single trail at Mangatawhiri that loops down to the Lower Mangatawhiri

campground and back, providing a couple of hours riding. Since this park is slightly larger than

Woodhill Forest it could be catering to similar numbers of riders. However, the survey failed

to find a single rider who had ridden at Hunua (although there was one at the ARC workshop).

Riders must have a permit (free).

30 permits have been issued for 2008

The loading \ unloading area has no facilities and is located away from the toilets and

information block at Mangatawhiri camping ground. There are toilets at the Lower

Mangatawhiri campground (the half-way point on the loop)

Horse riders must phone the ranger at least 2 days in advance, each time they want to

ride in order to find out the current Watercare Services gate combination. They must

also advise when (date and time) they will be riding (there is no explanation given for

this last requirement).


vR1.2 37

Riders must ship out all manure although the entire area is already thoroughly planted

with exotic plant species i.e. the campground is grassed.

WHAKANEWHA (WAIHEKE ISLAND)

Waiheke Island is traditionally the home of „lifestylers‟ wanting to escape the urban

landscapes of Auckland. This has changed over the years, but horse riding is still very popular

on the island. An active lobby group of local horse riders (Pony Club) exists, and this park has

a number of good horse riding trails. Casual riding is allowed (no permit or requirement to

phone ranger beforehand).

Tie-up rails (hitching rails) are provided in 3 different locations around the park

AMBURY FARM PARK

Ambury Regional Park is split into two areas, the Farm Park in the north and the Pony Club

and RDA on Wellesley Rd. Directional Signage points to the Farm Park entrance and on arrival

there are no obvious signs telling visitors about the pony club or RDA.

Horse riding is limited to the southern end of the park. The park contains one trail of

2.5km (about 20 minutes at a walk)

Although listed on the ARC website as a park available for horse riding, there is confusion

about this even within the ARC. The consensus is that the location of the Mangere Pony Club

and Mangere RDA has led to horse riding appearing on park information. Horses still live in the

Mangere area, and Ambury is the only recreational facility for local riders to access.

Park management goals for the next five years include enhancing recreation by linking to

adjoining recreation areas, improving ease of access, and developing a track system to link

nearby areas (Regional Parks Management Plan:Volume 1 Overview and Strategic Direction).

PAE O TE RANGI

Pae O Te Rangi is a 127 ha Farm Park in the Waitakere

Ranges. Access to this farm requires both a permit ($50pa)

and a key bond ($250) for the gate. All 6 permit holders

live locally in the Te Henga area.

ANAWHATA

Anawhata is a 40ha Farm Park located above Anawhata Beach in the Waitakere Ranges

Regional Park. This park requires a permit ($50p.a.); however, it provides no facilities for

horse riders.



RROOAADDBBLLOOCCKKSS FFOORR HHOORRSSEE RREECCRREEAATTIIOONN

TOP 3 ISSUES FOR RIDERS

1. 98% of surveyed riders reported that dangerous driving near horses is their biggest

concern.

2. 53% of riders had problems finding places to ride, finding out about permits, maps or

other information for planning rides

3. 50% of riders were concerned about the distances they were having to travel to ride

safely

These results reveal that many of the problems that affect riders are interrelated. Dangerous

driver behaviour, lack of bridleways and closure of paper roads and berms are combining with

increased distances to riding areas to push riders into transporting their horses to recreation

areas. As driving to recreation areas (instead of riding) increases, so do costs. Providers need

to allow for more parking, camping, and associated facilities. Increasing financial and time

costs of getting to and from recreation areas are also making horse riding less accessible for a

wide range of people to experience.

FIGURE 22 ISSUES FOR RIDERS SURVEY


vR1.2 39

ROADS, TRANSPORT, PARKING AND BRIDLEWAYS

The rider survey reveals the loss of safe roads (riders‟ traditional free recreation areas) is the

biggest issue for horse riding recreation. As riders lose the ability to ride freely along the

roads, they are looking to public providers to give them more access and facilities.

ROADS AND BERMS

Despite the legal right to ride on the road, the rules for safe vehicle use near horses are

largely ignored by drivers. Upgrading of rural and fringe roads, supports increased speed and

more traffic, but planning for walkers, cyclists or any other users on or

beside roads is often left out. This has been recognised by authorities,

but usually retrospectively, examples include a recent government

strategy for walkers and cyclists “Getting There” (New Zealand

Parliament) focuses on urban planning, the successful “Don‟t burst

their Bubble” campaign in Waimakariri targeted driver attitudes

through education (Land Transport Safety Authority, 2005), and

Franklin District Council‟s “Mind the Gap”.

Some in the survey noted that they are giving up riding on roads, others

are more worried about being involved in a serious crash or had

experienced near misses. Most interviewed riders were aware of horse

related vehicle fatalities from newspapers or horse related websites.

Interviewed riders felt that they were sometimes deliberately targeted

by drivers as a source of fun (for the vehicle passengers). All thought

that they always tried to accommodate drivers

and ensure they were polite to pedestrians,

cyclists, or landowners. Few thought that reporting problems to the

Police or Local Council had any effect.

Issues with roads, traffic and driver behaviour are the same as those

in other parts of the world (British Horse Industry Confederation,

2005). Riding on the berms instead of roads might seem the obvious

solution; however, berms are rapidly disappearing under widened

(improved) roads, being claimed by lifestyle block owners as

extensions of their private property, or being restricted by Council

bylaws.

Interestingly, the converse has occurred in Australia, where the laws were changed in 1995 to

allow riders to use both nature strips and footpaths when roads posed a danger (AUSTROADS,

1995).

FIGURE 23 FRANKLIN

DISTRICT COUNCIL'S

'MIND THE GAP'

SIGNAGE



BRIDLEWAYS & UNFORMED ROADS

One third of surveyed riders were concerned at the lack of bridleways, or links between riding

areas or clubs. Segregated routes and safety features for other road users are usually only

added when accident and death statistics provoke action by authorities. Horse riders consider

not only their own safety but also that of their horse and of the vehicle occupants.

New Zealand data shows that injuries sustained on the roads are lower (3.5%) than in

equivalent countries (Northey, 2003) (Northey, 2003) but this may be due more to the self-

preservation actions of riders than any other factor. Horse riders in the Auckland region are

proactive about their safety. Many wear safety gear, although this is not a legal requirement,

including hi-viz equipment on themselves and their horses.

The only council in the region to have formally adopted a bridleways strategy is Rodney

District Council (Rodney District Council, 2007). Franklin District Council recognised the

demand for bridleways in their “Recreation and Open Space Plan, however, it did not include

any implementation plans (Franklin District Council, 2005).

While New Zealand has few bridleways, unformed roads (paper roads) are keenly sought out

and used by riders. However, access to information about unformed roads, or public access

rights to them is difficult to find. Forests for instance usually have roads running through

them, but access along these roads is controlled by the Forestry companies. Public access

easements may or may not be signposted as required by Crown Forest Licences, research is

somewhat difficult for the public as licences are held by LINZ.

TRANSPORT AND DISTANCES TO SAFE RIDING

The lack of bridleways and safe road riding is increasing the cost and time required for

participation in equestrian recreation and sports. If riders cannot ride on roads safely, and do

not have safe bridleways then they must transport themselves and their horses to sport and

recreation facilities by vehicle.

Not all horse owners have transport for their horses and not all horses are happy about being

transported (although most learn to cope). Live animals are quite different to haul than static

loads. Impatient or frightened horses may kick the walls or cause the entire vehicle to

bounce, play and fights can occur between horses travelling next to one another and all must

keep their balance without the benefit of hands to hang on. The worst nightmare of most

riders, is a horse „going down‟ (losing its balance and falling to the floor) during a journey.

Drivers are also concerned about traffic accidents. Horses are not protected by the same

types of safety equipment standard in passenger vehicles, and are frequently killed in even

minor accidents due to the injuries they sustain (at the time or later if they escape onto the

road).


vR1.2 41

The longer the journey, the greater the potential for something to go wrong in transit (and

the greater the cost, of course). For many horse owners driving a horse truck or vehicle and

float is something they must do, not something they choose to do.

Well travelled horses and riders are not immune to transport issues. Horse riding trails or

facilities are sometimes placed in locations that require a 4WD vehicle for towing. The

requirement for larger and more expensive vehicles drives up both initial purchase and

running costs for owners. Larger (longer) vehicles also mean that the infrastructure costs for

the recreation provider increase, due to larger parking areas and more damage to roads.

The effects for regional infrastructure and recreation areas of increasing horse transport are:

Large horse transport vehicles add to the regions congestion, yet many short journeys

could be ridden if there were safe routes.

Many journeys could be avoided entirely if recreational areas were more widely

available (preferably with linkages between them).

Additional facilities are required at recreation sites: parking, tie ups etc

Increased maintenance of roads from large vehicle usage

Increased carbon emissions and pollution

PARKING

As more riders travel longer

distances to recreation areas,

facilities at the parking area

become more important.

Horse trucks or vehicles with

floats (horse trailers) onboard

are generally large and require

large turning circles. Many

newer owners (or those that

do not travel very often) are

not particularly skilled at

reversing trailers, and find

turning in tight spaces difficult. Those without 4 wheel drive need surfaces with good traction

for towing (and may not be able to cope with steep hills).

Parking and access to horse riding areas is often poorly planned, limited in space or non-

existent. In some cases, this is because the focus has been on providing local riders with

access. In others, the provider either has not understood the requirements of equestrian

visitors or may be using poor access as a means of controlling numbers.

Highly popular areas are already feeling the pinch. Muriwai and WFEP have trouble coping

with the demand during peak times. This is particularly evident if events take place at the

FIGURE 24 HORSE TRUCKS CAN BE LARGE!



same locations used by

recreational riders.v

WFEP recently

increased the number

of tie-ups (hitching

rails) at its parking

area, allowing vehicles

to park closer together

to maximise parking.

Security of vehicles is

important; as riders

may be gone from their

vehicles for several

hours. Survey respondents

mentioned break-ins and

vehicle security concerns, as did those in a recent survey of recreation users at Waiuku Forest

(Wadsworth, 2007).

Parking for horse riders also needs to be considered in the additional context of

loading\unloading of horses. These areas will be where riders prepare their horses for a ride

or return them after a ride and therefore the location where they need the most separation

and understanding from other user groups.

Not only are the physical characteristics of parking and access to recreational areas causing

riders concerns, so are the basics of simply finding places to ride and information on what to

expect when they get there.

LACK OF CAMPING

9% of surveyed riders were interested in having more areas with camping facilities. When

riders go to competitions they often need to allow not just for a long journey but also for

several days stay at the competition venue. Those with several horses will often invest in a

horse truck which includes accommodation onboard (anything from a basic bed through to full

bathroom, kitchen, and sleeping accommodation). Others will use a tent or camp bed in their

float to stay onsite with their horse and reduce costs. Recreational riders, also enjoy doing

this in order to visit remote riding areas.

WFEP includes a campground (paddock and basic bunkhouse) which is booked well in advance

by pony clubs and other riders. This sort of facility allows riders to explore areas with

extensive riding areas at their leisure, staying for a few days, and allowing both rider and

horse to relax after a long journey before taking to the trails. However, this is the only

recreation area that permits camping. Currently recreational riders rely on being able to stay

at friends or acquaintances near to the area they wish to visit.

FIGURE 25 WFEP PARKING IS OFTEN FULL TO OVERFLOWING AT PEAK

TIMES


vR1.2 43

INFORMATION

Lack of information ranks as the second most important issue for riders. 50% of respondents,

who said that they ride at Muriwai, did not know it is an ARC Park. Other respondents

incorrectly identified Puhinui, Weiti station, Woodhill and Riverhead Forests as ARC parks.

FINDING PLACES TO RIDE

Many (52%) do not know how to find out about riding areas

other than by word of mouth. Inevitably relying on riders to

pass information to one another leads to misinformation,

confusion and conflict as riders turn up to ride in the wrong

places, at the wrong times or without permission. Two riders

in the survey reported riding at Te Henga, another at Hunua

yet they did not know how to get a permit. One rider

reported being asked to buy a permit to ride in Te Arai Forest

but she was suspicious of the validity of the request.

Many clubs and private facilities rely on riders physically

finding them (this is also true of many equestrian businesses).

Local riders may learn about them through word of mouth, but

those slightly further afield may only discover them by driving

past or going on a „recce‟ of an area. This is probably a hangover from the days when riders

could ride to local clubs and grounds. As we have already examined, this is becoming more

difficult, and may be creating a downwards spiral of limited use leading to lack of

infrastructure. A good example of this is Riverhead Forest‟s recent changes, these were

discovered by riders turning up at gates to find them locked (or seeing notices announcing

changes to the gates).

One of the problems is that there are so many different providers. The majority of riders in

the survey had no idea how to find information about places to ride. Others, who had been

riding for years, simply keep on doing what they have always done. Current providers could

provide information about related resources in their publications or websites to help ease this

problem. The ARC already does this in a limited way already, by mentioning Woodhill and

Whitford Forests on its horse riding webpage (Auckland Regional Council).

Internet access has also encouraged riders to step into this role, creating websites and blogs

to publish information (Horse Riding in New Zealand - The Great Outdoors). PlayDay is a new

free website providing simple, searchable access to information on physical activity and

sports in the Auckland (Auckland Regional Physical Activity and Sport Trust (ARPASS)). The

PlayDay initiative has some merits, but in its current format it does not contain the kind of

information riders need, and it relies on providers to supply information (something they are

not doing now).

FIGURE 26 PHYSICALLY FINDING

PLACES IS OFTEN THE ONLY

OPTION



MAPS AND TRAIL INFORMATION

Having found somewhere to ride, riders have further problems preparing for their visit.

Providing a good map is important to get riders to recreational parks and facilities, especially

if riders are expected to use specific access points or gates. While most recreation areas

provide a map of the location, important facilities such as toilets, gates, parking areas and

water sources may or may not be included.

The length (expected ride time), terrain and footing of existing trails and parks is usually

missing. A map scale indicator is sometimes included, but not always. The Hunua Regional

Park map for instance does not indicate scale or orientation of the map e.g. is the top of the

map north?

Even basic information about the sort of amenities at a location is often hard to find or not

available at all. Riders need to know what to bring with them, will water be available for

their horses to drink? What times are the areas open? If riders are travelling to a location,

they also need to know about parking: how many can fit in the space provided? Is a 4WD

required?

SIGNAGE

Signage consists of both directional signs (finding the area and

trail markers) and information. It is an important source of

information for those recreational users who arrive at an area,

and for those looking for an area or trail that they have already

been told about.

Other than at WFEP, signage currently provided is is often

poorly written, located in illogical places or simply too small to

be useful. Shared areas or places where different groups may

cross paths are rarely signposted (again WFEP is the exception to

this, having carefully signposted shared use trails or boundaries for

other recreation areas). In some cases the wording is ambiguous to

the point of causing conflict, instead of preventing it. Some, such

as the orange\green trail markers at Muriwai rely on riders having historical knowledge or

familiarity with another riding area (WFEP) to understand what the colour coding means.

FIGURE 27 TRAIL MARKERS

ARE GREAT BUT ONLY IF

YOU KNOW WHAT THE

COLOURS MEAN


vR1.2 45

TRAILBIKES

Motor vehicles on the roads are not the only concern for riders. Trail bikes were specifically

mentioned in 38% of the survey responses and in the Waiuku Recreation Users Survey

(Wadsworth, 2007).

Riders were concerned at the lack of concern

shown by trail bike riders around all other users

of shared areas, and particularly when close to

horses. Many expressed concern that trail bikes

were making the wilder areas less enjoyable i.e.

bike noise, loud stereos and raucous behaviour.

Others stated that they were no longer using

Muriwai because of problems with trail bikes

and ATVs.

Some riders were concerned that trail bikes and

ATVs may be given areas simply because they

had made such a nuisance of themselves that

other user groups stopped going. An event

recognised by experienced recreation managers as

displacement (Schreyer, 1979).

Displacement of horse riders is already occuring.

Surveyed respondents reported that they have ceased using Muriwai Horsepark entirely, or at

the weekends due to conflict with trailbikes. Anecdotally there is a visible difference in usage

of the horsepark year-on-year. Weekend afternoons have the horsepark almost deserted, this

timeperiod co-incides with the greatest number of trailbike and motorised vehicle users.

Riders were also concerned that environmental damage caused by trail bikes, such as the

„moguls‟ created in sand forested areas, would be blamed on horse traffic (who also use the

same routes) and riders may lose yet more valuable riding areas.

SEASONALITY

Lack of all weather\all season riding was an issue for 23% of surveyed riders. Riding

opportunities reliant on grasslands (paddocks) are subject to winter closures. Paddocks and

poorly designed trails are subject to winter pugging or erosion. In winter, this means that

just at the same time as horse owners stop riding in their paddocks, pony clubs and farm

parks are also closing riding access.

To magnify the problem further, winter is when trail bike and motorised events are permitted

in the forests (Woodhill and Riverhead in particular) due to the reduced fire risk from exhaust

sparks, restricting riders from using areas booked for such events. Winter riding opportunities

are therefore extremely limited, concentrating pressure on the remaining providers.

FIGURE 28 TRAIL BIKES USING THE MURIWAI

HORSEPARK



DOGS

The vast majority of dog owners who visit shared access areas are very considerate and have

well socialised and trained dogs. However, the same dog control problems that have seen

recent attacks on humans, also affect horse riders.

Several surveyed riders had experienced direct attacks

on their horses by uncontrolled dogs while at Muriwai.

In December 2000, a horse was seriously attacked by a

dog on Muriwai Beach (Horsetalk), this has been

repeated in 2008 with a dog attack on several horses

from the Muriwai Riding Centre (Bishara, 2008),

however, less serious incidents generally go unreported.

Even a well-intentioned dog can frighten a horse by

suddenly appearing around (or beneath it), or by rushing

at a horse in a dog‟s over enthusiastic greeting. Even

minor incidents can result in serious injuries, when a 5-

600kg animal is involved.

Some dog owners seem oblivious to the dangers that their wandering animal(s) can cause

when around horses. However, horse owners are also guilty of letting their dogs wander

unsupervised in parking areas and have the additional handicap when riding of not being able

to put their dogs on a leash.

COST

Cost is the main reason young people who are interested in, are not currently participating in

equestrian sports. (39%), (SPARC, 2003) 21% of surveyed riders also see costs as an issue,

mainly due to the transport issues previously mentioned.

Free facilities for horse riding by local or regional authorities are rare. While anyone can

walk on footpaths or berms, kick a ball in a local park or ride their bike along roads, horse

riders have large lost their traditional access to free recreational areas through increasing

urbanisation of traditional equestrian areas.

All equestrian facilities that offer arenas or jumping rings charge for use, usually by the hour.

The only exceptions to this are private i.e. using a friendly neighbour or friend‟s arena. Most

cross-country courses are also on a pay-per-use basis, with the exception of the few Pony

Clubs on Council reserves which mandate public access e.g. Waimauku (Glasgow Park) and

Coatesville.

Councils look to large tracts of forested land as recreation providers; reducing the

requirement for investment in recreation infrastructure or policy for those activities e.g.

Rodney, Franklin and Pakakura. However, Forestry Companies are seeing recreation as a way

to diversify income. This is an international trend, Forestry Companies refer to this income

FIGURE 29 NOT ALL HORSES AND

DOGS GET ALONG LIKE THIS


vR1.2 47

stream as „non-wood forest products‟ (Murphy, 2005) (Mannion & Phillips, 2006). This may

mean that high dollar value recreation in the form of motorised events is more likely to gain

access than traditional (individual) recreation, walking, running, cycling and horse riding.

Some riders, from the survey, have problems with annual fee charges. Regular riders might

find a $70 per year registration fee (WFEP) extremely good value, however those who only

ride in that forest once or twice a year have a rather different view. Riders on limited

incomes, particularly retirees, can find annual fees a burden. Riders who only have irregular

access to horses also found the system of annual registration and permits a problem. It means

that they have to apply\receive those permits before being able to ride. The problem is

exacerbated by having to purchase multiple permits from different providers; on top of

competition and training fees.

ISSUES FOR CLUBS

District and regional councils reference pony clubs as their contribution towards horse riding

recreation e.g. Waitakere and North Shore City Council websites, ARC - Ambury Farm Park.

However, pony clubs themselves complain that they have problems with securing or keeping

leases on reserves and parks. This causes a downward spiral for membership, as facilities are

not maintained or improved due to uncertainty of the lease.

Even clubs with a long history on a site, have little security. St Heliers club has been onsite

for 45 years but Club President Phil Creagh reports it is currently under threat of losing its

land due to Treaty settlements. All three Auckland city clubs, St Heliers, Meadowbank and

Ambury have reported problems with leases (licenses) or reduction in grazing.

Amalgamation, closure and movement of

pony clubs into more remote suburban or

rural locations reduces opportunities not just

for able-bodied riders, but also for RDA and

therapeutic programmes associated with

pony clubs.

Those who are determined to continue with

their chosen sport have to incur increasing

monetary and time costs and add to

Auckland‟s traffic congestion as they

commute back and forth to care for their

horse(s) and compete in sports or participate

in recreational activities.



ISSUES FOR CARRIAGE DRIVING AND DISABLED ACCESS

There are no areas provided for (or permitting) carriage driving

in the Auckland Region.

Carriage driving can not automatically be placed in the same

location as horse riding, as it does require different facilities

such as wider gates and tracks. Although this is an activity that

would suit areas with roads or wide tracks (those things not

particularly favoured by riders).

While most other recreational users (walkers etc) will find

carriages more quaint and interesting than annoying, horses

who see their first carriage can be less than enthusiastic.

Fortunately, carriage drivers understand these issues in detail

and are able to provide advice on how to position their

facilities to avoid conflict with other groups.

Disabled riders and many with some loss of strength or

flexibility will find negotiating lots of gates a problem. While

the horse provides these people with mobility and freedom,

getting on and off the horse takes this away. Gates on horse trails

should be easily opened from horseback. Provide good mounting

blocks (with multiple heights) on both sides of gates, for those

that cannot be opened easily.

FIGURE 30 CARRIAGE

DRIVING (WALES FORESTRY

COMMISSION)


vR1.2 49

ISSUES FOR HORSE RIDERS AT ARC PARKS

Having examined in general terms the types of issues that riders face, the next section looks

at the ARC in relation to these problems. It also looks at the specific issues that exist in ARC

Parks which allow horse riding.

POLICY, MANAGEMENT AND OTHER RESTRICTIONS

The ARC vision is to provide “world-class accessible parks, providing a unique range of quality

experiences while preserving the natural essence of the region”. In order to realise this vision

the ARC may need to reconsider a number of current policies and practices that affect park

systems.

The policies from the ARC Management Plan (Regional Parks Management Plan: Volume 1

Overview and Strategic Directions) outline practices of separating and restricting, that leaves

ARC parks underutilised and resented by many recreation groups.

Andy Kulla, a recreation specialist with the USDA Forest Service calls it "Ignore or Restrict: ...

New uses are ignored until they conflict with a traditional established use and then are

managed by prohibition or restriction...” (Kulla, 1991).

The main reasons listed in Management Plans for restricting horse riding access are “conflict

with other park users”, “protection of livestock” and “protection of the park environment”.

So we shall examine these in relation to best practice management examples and studies.

MANAGING CONFLICTS

ARC management policies list "conflict with other users" as a major reason for not allowing

horse riding and other recreation in parks. However there is no evidence available to this

review, and little evidence on the ground, to show that planners understand what the

potential conflicts are, how to mitigate them, if conflicts are occurring (being monitored), or

what level of conflict is deemed acceptable.

In his 1994 study on trail conflicts, Moore pointed out "Even single-use trails must

accommodate very different styles of a single activity. A pedestrians-only trail, for example,

might be used by hikers, backpackers, trail runners, bird watchers,etc., and conflict can and

does occur among any and all of these trail users." (Moore, 1994).

The same can be said for any group of users. Not all horse riders, mountain bikers or

picnickers will behave in the same way when using an area. If potential conflict between

users is a valid reason for banning a recreational group from parks, then there is a case for

banning all users.



Banning or severely restricting recreational users is an approach that parks and recreation

areas have used for many years, however the increased need for recreation areas and

research into conflict during recreational activities has created a change in best practice

principles.

PERCEPTION, EDUCATION AND CONFLICT MANAGEMENT

It is important to understand what causes conflict between recreation users, as well as how

common it is. Actual hostility or space invasion is extremely rare. Schneider‟s study of an

urban wilderness area found that just 11.8% of respondents experienced conflict.

Intrusiveness (perceived space invasion) frequently appears in trail conflict studies. The

unpredictable movement of other users or their relative speed can cause conflict, but so can

environmental factors like poor signage, poor maintenance of trails and paths, crowding or

litter (The Countryside Agency Research Notes series, 2001) (Schneider, 2000).

These studies are supported by the local research performed at Waiuku Forest. Despite a

wide variety of activities sharing the forest, 64% of users reported „no problems‟. Of the

people who did report problems (conflict) environmental issues such as „rubbish‟ (15%), ‟the

corrugated road‟ (7%) and „lack of maps‟ (6%) rated more highly than „people problems‟ at

just 5% (Wadsworth, 2007).

Conflicts are often matters more of perception rather than reality, and a proactive approach

can usually solve those that are real. People‟s recollections of how many people they met on

a trail and any conflict increases over time. Their perceptions of conflict are generally much

higher than that actually experienced (The Countryside Agency Research Notes series, 2001)

(Kelley, Providing appropriate recreational opportunities for all trail users) .

Moore and Scott found if the trail users had participated in other activities over the past year,

they were more positive towards those activities. (Moore, 1994)

SHARED USE

Segregating groups does not always bring harmony, it breeds suspicion and competition.

Recreational groups are pitted against one another for access or resources constantly,

encouraging conflict.

The case for creating and maintaining areas of segregated usage is usually that each group

has activities that are not safe or desirable to perform amongst others, such as jumping or

galloping in the case of horses, advanced or speedy mountain bike riding or even throwing a

ball in the case of pedestrians. However, these activities do not need to drive an entire

policy direction, nor practical interpretation of that policy.

The biggest concern is usually the danger of horses being scared by other trail users, and vice-

versa. Accidents happen for a variety of reasons, including inconsiderate or ignorant

behaviour from others, inexperienced riders or horses, and sometimes a combination of

factors. The actual number of incidents involving horses and others are rare.


vR1.2 51

ARC park management plans advocate the view, that horse riders should be kept in total

isolation from all others (“avoid contact entirely” is the wording used), and therefore horse

riding is only acceptable on open farmland or road-like trails. The policy does not allow for

any „middle ground‟, by suggesting that all contact between

any groups is to be avoided.

“Combined-use tracks are only provided where they are of a

suitable width and visibility to safely accommodate horse

riders, bike riders and other park users. The areas where

these activities are allowed are generally more open,

farmed areas which provide a suitable amount of space for

horse and bike riders and other park users to avoid contact

with each other…" (Regional Parks Managment Plan)

Providing separate trails and areas for different users groups

has many drawbacks. It can be expensive, cause

resentment, be difficult to enforce, it also limits

opportunities for communication and cooperation among

users. By restricting horse riders to open farmland settings,

it reduces opportunities for riders to enjoy a variety of

settings. The policy encourages further restrictions, such as

the „no cantering‟ rules in Codes of Practice (although the

actual purpose of the rule is likely to be „avoid injuring or

frightening other users‟).

There are many reasons in support of a generally open trail system:

It accommodates the needs of the most users, and disperses use. It helps to build a trail community with mutual respect. A multiple use system is most cost effective, and enforcement is simplified. It facilitates peer regulation to deal with irresponsible users.

(Kelley, Providing appropriate recreational opportunities for all trail users)

An example already exists at the southern end of Woodhill Forest. Families with young

children, dog walkers, horse riders, mountain bikers and runners amicably share trails, which

can be narrow, winding, and with limited visibility. These users understand that the areas

closest to the car park are most likely to be used by others, and expect shared use. Faster

activities adjust their behaviour in preparation of meeting slower and more unpredictable

traffic (dogs, children on bikes, groups of people enjoying hunting for pinecones). Activities

such as horses jumping down lanes of logs may be separated from families walking with young

children by as little as 2m, but without conflict because of the abundance of trails. A simple

acknowledgement (a wave, smile or „hello‟) between activities is all that is required to

ensure harmony.

Good shared use areas use the same principles. Greatest care for others, best visibility and

slowest speeds are to be used by all groups when closest to the access points. Families and

many casual walkers will tend to only use areas up to 30 minutes from the car park. Once

outside this zone, tracks can become narrower, more challenging and types of use will drop.

FIGURE 31 SHARED USE TRAILS

CREATE MUTUAL RESPECT



“In the San Francisco Bay Area, China Camp State Park is very close to large population

centers. Its multiple use trails are four to five feet wide, become narrower as vegetation

fills in, and accommodate horses and bikes very well. In the backcountry, any trail wide and

tall enough for a horse, can also accommodate a bike.” (Kelley, Bikes and Horses:A Case for

Sharing, 1998)

Freedom, in particular freedom of choice is essential for high-quality outdoor recreation

experiences. Multiple-use trail managers must be sensitive to this and avoid restriction or

manipulation whenever possible (Moore, 1994). Stankey, and Lucas advocate using the least

intrusive measures possible (whether physical or managerial) that will still achieve area

objectives, this is referred to as the “minimum tool rule” (Stankey, Lucas, & Hendee).

Segregation of groups and closure of trails are deemed extremely restrictive and to be used

sparingly, if at all according to this protocol.

Additionally, while some horse riders want or need some degree of separation (for instance,

novice or nervous riders, novice horses and riders with children) others would prefer to be

allowed to travel along with other users. In particular, there are numbers of riding women

with cycling partners, and parents who do not ride but would like to be able to walk and

supervise (or lead on a rein) younger children. Under current policies this is difficult or

impossible because of restrictions on these activities. Restrictions are also placed on

numbers of riders (3 usually) that affect the ability of a family to ride together, of

supervisors\teachers to take out younger riders and nervous horses\riders to be taken out in

safety.

Providing more trails, greater variety and terrain options will disperse users and does more to

reduce conflict than applying arbitrary restrictions (Moore, 1994). (Moore, 1994). There are

many best practice and technical guidelines for creating trails for multiple uses (including

disabled access); a list is included at the end of this document. All agree

that there are common, simple design elements that create safe shared-

use trails and recreation areas.

These elements include such things as:

Prefer natural trail surface if soils are appropriate. Avoid sharp

gravel.

Design for shared use (equestrian use) up front, even if it doesn‟t

happen immediately

Signage, signage, signage!

Consult with user groups

“Tracks will only be designated as suitable for horse riding and mountain biking where

consulting has been undertaken with key park users and stakeholders” - (Regional Parks

Managment Plan)

Although the policy supports segregation, in practice Muriwai horse riders must share the

parking area. Segregation of parking, or more specifically the loading and unloading area for

horses is a good safety policy. Horses going into and out of floats and trucks are often in a

heightened state of excitement\anxiety and need space around the loading area to ensure

safety (of others). Horse owners are aware of this, but the general public may not understand


vR1.2 53

that a horse can leap or rush out of a truck or float, rear or resist loading in a spectacular

manner. Avoid allowing shared parking, drive-through access and walking through a

loading\unloading area without appropriate warnings.

Providing appropriate separation and sharing requires consultation with riders to understand

the issues. ARC Policy outlines this but it is unclear if horse riders are involved, in practice.

“Tracks will only be designated as suitable for horse riding and mountain biking where

consulting has been undertaken with key park users and stakeholders” - (Regional Parks

Managment Plan)

The best trails and facilities are designed in consultation with the groups they are to be used

by (O'Dell) (Kelley, Providing appropriate recreational opportunities for all trail users).

Expecting park staff or administrators to understand all the needs and desires of multiple

recreational user groups is both unfair and unrealistic. Recreational groups are more than

willing to offer their views, and in the vast majority of cases put physical work, time and

materials into making a trail or facility.

HORSES AND THE ENVIRONMENT

Protecting the Park environment should also include the impact of not having direct access to

recreational areas i.e. walkers, cyclists and horse riders having to use cars and trucks to get

to a recreation area. This also creates a knock-on effect, having to provide parking for all

these vehicles at the recreational area, using resources that could be put to better effect by

creating linking recreational trails (Williams, 1998).

The primary focus for current ARC policies that restrict recreational use of parks for

environmental reasons are the direct environmental factors of erosion, and weeds spread

through horse manure.

MANURE HAPPENS - WEED SPREAD

Both DOC and the ARC mention the

potential spread of exotic weeds in horse

manure as a reason for restricting horse

riding, or at least for creating rules for

riders .

While there is no doubt that horse manure

makes a good medium for seeds to

propagate in, there is sufficient evidence to

suggest that horse riding on trails or in

parks is no more a threat to native flora

than walkers or other activities. FIGURE 32 EXOTIC WEED SPECIES AT HUNUA



In two studies in which weed seeds were purposely fed to horses only 10-12% were recovered,

and of those just 25% germinated. Combining both rates, weed seeds fed to horses produce

only 9% viable seeds (Doll, Becker, & Katovich), (Dominican Univeristy of California).

A more realistic study on the horse trails of the Eastern United States studied not just manure

but also the seeds carried in the dirt in a horse‟s feet. Less than 1% of the plots established

on the horse trail contained live plants at the end of the first growing season, and no live

plants were observed in the plots at the end of the second growing season (Gower, 2006).

These results were similar to an earlier study of Australian trails by Whinam and Comfort

(Comfort & Whinam, 1996).

Of course, results will vary depending on the weeds and conditions involved, but ecological

devastation from horse borne weeds seems unlikely. The practical evidence supports this

conclusion. Muriwai Horse Park should be overrun with weeds, after years of manure

application. However, observation shows that it has the same plant species as anywhere else

in the area, including native grasses that are unknown in most horse paddocks.

Where exotic weeds are truly undesirable (sensitive areas), restrictions that focus on hay not

manure will be most successful. Meadow hay is indeed full of seeds, but riders can be asked

to either not bring hay at all or bring lurcerne only (which does not have seed heads). When

visiting a farm park, it seems particularly strange to ask riders to ship out manure (when the

entire farm is covered in sheep or cattle manure).

USER AVERSION AND HEALTH CONCERNS

Those unused to farm animals view manure in much the same manner as dog faeces.

However, carnivore and herbivore excretions are like chalk and cheese. Human health is not

affected by contact with horse manure; even falling face first into a fresh pile of manure is

extremely unlikely to make a person ill. The chemical constituents of horse manure are not

toxic to humans. Horse guts do not contain significant levels of the two waterborne pathogens

of greatest concern to human health risk, Cryptosporidium or Giardia, neither do they contain

significant amounts of the bacteria E. coli 0157:H7 or Salmonella (Quinn, 1998). When

considering recreation near human water sources such as dams, horses are safer to allow than

humans!

Horse manure is 70% water and quickly decomposes; often birds will pick apart fresh

droppings in a matter of minutes leaving what looks like a scattering of mown grass. Most

riders understand urbanites aversion to manure, and will generally make every effort to

ensure it does not litter public areas. However, there is no practical way to scoop up or

remove horse manure while riding or leading a horse.

For areas which expect large amounts of horse manure, such as busy loading and unloading

areas, properly constructed compost bins (chicken wire will do) for manure will heat the pile

to temperatures that kill all weed seeds. The compost is then a valuable, clean and free

material for propagating or raising native seedlings or other plants for the park or botanic

gardens. Showing correct composting methods is also a useful educational facet for visitors,

and riders alike.


vR1.2 55

In the future biodigesters may make horse manure a valuable resource for providing power to

parks. It would also be a useful addition to composting toilets, if those are ever introduced

as a better alternative to the current „long drops‟ at some parks (or even conventional toilets

that waste a lot of water).

PROTECTION OF LIVESTOCK

Farm parks, or perhaps more accurately parks that use grazing to manage their grassed areas,

are a barrier for many recreational user groups. These large open farmed parks appear to be

ideal for many recreational user groups, but issues around stock management (lambing, gates

and access, disturbance of stock) take precedence over recreational use i.e. restrictions

including denial of access are placed on recreation due to „stock disturbance‟ not the other

way around.

When considering horse riding and stock, remember that horses were used on farms before

mechanised farm vehicles. In general herbivores recognise fellow herbivores and find them

less threatening than predators (humans). Elsewhere in the world, farmers and ranchers are

returning to using horses to reduce stress in their livestock (to produce better meat) (Squires,

2006) (Capture and Handling:Motorbikes or Horses) (ACC, 2002). Horse riders in Woodhill can

easily approach wild fallow deer and pigs, who are regularly hunted and generally timid of

humans.

The farm business unit themselves find “The riding of horses in parks is compatible with

other recreational use and can be managed appropriately in countryside parks.” Importantly

they also recognise that “ Users will need a good off loading/parking area to down load their

horses and to park vehicles and horse trailers. There would also be a requirement for

hitching rails and toilets and water. Dung around this area should be removed by the horse

owner.” And “ Horse trails need to be clearly identified on maps and through signage”

(Wadams, 2008). The issues already outlined at current farm parks shows that there is a

disconnect between practice and policy (or intention), for horse riding recreation areas.

HORSES AND EROSION

The majority of recreation users are concerned about their impact on the environment. Horse

riders are aware of the impact their horses can have; they must manage this impact on a daily

basis in their own paddocks, farm races and gateways. Restricting horse traffic to paddocks

and open farmland may have the opposite effect of intended, grasses do not stand up as well

to heavy traffic as more heavily vegetated areas.



The amount of erosion caused by horse traffic is a complex question. It will depend on the

number of horses, their size, whether the horses wear shoes or are barefoot, the type of

track and what other users share it. Horses may loosen hillside soils and initiate erosion on

poorly designed or mismanaged trails. They tend to destabilize hilly/sandy/mucky trails, but

may maintain permeability of level or hard

surfaces (Williams, 1998).

Continued erosion is not directly related to

the level of horse use. Rather the initial

use in an area often has the worst impact

and after that continued use has relatively

low impact (Williams, 1998).

Good trail design is vital for sensitive or

erosion prone areas. When trails are not

well maintained, allowing horse riders to

spread out can mitigate the problem

(Blocksdorf). Providing more horse riding

areas will also help to distribute the load

of horses on any one area.

Horse traffic can be useful for maintaining

firebreaks and seldom-used trails.

(Williams, 1998). Riders can also be useful

for checking trails after storms, finding

lost walkers or trailblazing new routes in

remote areas. While hooves loosen soil,

feet will compact it so combining use of

trails can be beneficial.

Unlike walkers, horse riders rarely stop to

touch flora or fauna. The ARC Codes of

Practice specifically ban horses grazing

(presumably to preserve native plants?), riders usually actively discourage their horses from

feeding while being ridden, and are cautious about letting horses eat anything that they do

not recognise (or know for sure won‟t lead to vet bills later on).

Horse traffic can be useful for maintaining firebreaks and seldom-used trails (Williams, 1998).

Riders can also be useful for checking trails after storms, finding lost walkers or trailblazing

new routes in remote areas.

FIGURE 33 Even Well Used Horse Trails Can

Have Little Impact (WFEP Native Trail)


vR1.2 57

GETTING INFORMATION FROM THE ARC

“It is important that people are aware of where these activities may be undertaken and that

where they are allowed, suitable facilities are available” - (Regional Parks Managment Plan)

Getting Information from the ARC about horse riding in its parks can be complicated and

often frustrating. The ARC website3 contains out of date or limited information about horse

riding, and there is no central place for riders to get information. Despite having a call

centre, queries, permits and maps are provided by the rangers for each region.

Although many riders have internet access and like to use the web, the ARC permit system

does not allow rangers to keep email addresses with permit holder‟s details (Robinson, 2007).

Several riders who had held permits to ride at Pae O Te Rangi complained that they had not

been notified when the permit system changed from combination lock to bonded key.

ARC WEBSITE

Riders are confused by the way that parks list and administer riding opportunities.

The use of the wording such as „casual use‟ and „permit‟ are very confusing. Some

parks allow riding (on a casual basis) if riders obtain a permit (register their details

with the ranger). However, these parks are marked as „no riding on a casual basis‟.

At Hunua, there is no riding „on a casual basis‟ at all, riders must obtain a permit and

also phone the ranger before each ride.

The wide variety of ways that horse riding is managed is confusing. Parks may require

any or all of the following:

o A Free Permit

o A $50 Annual Fee Permit (Pae O Te Rangi and Anawhata)

o A Key Bond (Pae O Te Rangi only)

o Contacting the Ranger prior to ride, to arrange access (up to 2 days

beforehand)

o No Permit

o No Contact

3 The ARC Website was updated during the process of compiling and reviewing this document. Release version 1.1 of this document has been updated to take this into account, however it should be recognised that the survey, workshop and riders perceptions of the ARC will be based on the previous version of the website (which existed for years)



o Time Restriction

o Seasonal Restriction

o Ad-hoc Restriction (pest eradication programme or other reason)

Examples:

Pae O Te Rangi requires a paid permit and key,

Awhitu does not require a permit but you must contact the Ranger

beforehand (to find out where the unloading area is)

Hunua requires a free permit and ranger contact to get the gate

combination.

PERMITS AND COMMUNICATION

The current system of providing access to some parks by permit is ineffective and

inconsistent. Other providers use permits (registration of users) to enhance communications,

improve infrastructure and provide safety and access mechanisms for users.

When users pay for access to a recreation area (or any service) they expect to receive

something in return for that payment. Both Riverhead and WFEP send out regular emails to

those who have registered, about current forest activities. In return for their annual

registration fee WFEP riders receive exclusive access to a block of the forest, well planned

parking, weekly communication about events and forestry operations in the forest and a

security service. Each rider receives a tag to attach to their horse‟s saddle or bridle

identifying any loose animal so that search teams can find the unfortunate rider (or return

the horse). Riders feel an ownership of the forest and volunteer to search for the lost or

injured in the case of emergencies. There is also a camaraderie built up between adjoining

activities, as they must understand each other and work together in emergencies.

Rather than fostering a community of willing volunteers the parks permit system seems to be

simply another mechanism to keep recreational users under control, or at arm‟s length. When

„free permits‟ are used this is particularly bemusing; although riders are always grateful for

free riding access.

The ARC permit itself consists of little more than a registration number for riders to

remember, this does not provide riders or other park users with any identifying feature that

these are permitted riders. The first contact for the rider may therefore be a conflict with

another user, a demand to know whether they are allowed to be there.

Rider registration (permits) would be better used by the parks as a means of understanding

demand and communicating with recreational users. The most effective means is via an email

mailing list that would allow registered riders to be kept up to date with park information and

also be involved in general park news such as planting days or volunteers etc Those without

email still need to be included in communications, however WFEP dropped any printed

communications quite some time ago now and riders have coped well.


vR1.2 59

Permits could be issued to cover any regional park, and access mechanisms made more

consistent throughout the parks. Having different permits for each park is inefficient and

reduces the freedom of riders recreation. If access points are via a third party such as

Hancock‟s or Watercare services, the ARC could negotiate a new access agreement, move the

problem trail, or move the parking area if the problem point is a vehicle gate. Restriction by

obstacle is still restriction. Including user groups in trail design, as per ARC policy could

alleviate such obstacles as riders have a better idea of what they can\cannot ride over or

around than non-riding park rangers.

TERMINOLOGY

Adding to the confusion is the difference between „permit‟ the noun, and „permit‟ the verb.

On the website parks may be listed as “permitted”, or “not permitted”. A rider having just

learned that permits are available to bypass the „no casual riding‟ problem may well wonder

if this refers to getting a permit.

Example: “A permit is required for Horse riding in the Waitakere Ranges. Horse riding only

permitted before 10am and after 4pm.” - Piha (Activities Search Results)

As a reader this leaves two questions.

1. The ARC may consider Piha Beach to be part of the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park,

but do riders? So do they need a permit? Or is this a general statement that if they ride

off into the ranges they will need a permit (like riding in Woodhill requires

registration, but Muriwai doesn‟t)

2. Does „only permitted before..‟ mean that permits are only required if you are riding in

those hours? Or that riding is only allowed in those hours…

EVENTS

Example: “Horse riding is permitted on several northern Regional Parks. On Tawharanui and

Shakespear Regional Parks casual riding is not permitted but organised events will be

considered on application …” (Auckland Regional Council) (Auckland Regional Council) *Old

ARC Website version

An application form for events is not available from the call centre (Cordeiro, 2007)

Rangers advise that there are no clear criteria for approving events.

Many parks have policies on numbers of riders in a group, that would disallow events

e.g. max 3!

No events have ever been held.



SIGNAGE

ARC policy is concerned about conflicts between user groups(Regional Parks Managment

Plan)groups (Regional Parks Managment Plan) and understands that setting user expectation is

helpful in mitigating conflict, however little is done in practical terms.

“Restricting horse riding and mountain biking to certain areas and making these restrictions

known can assist in managing conflict between users because people have clear expectations

as to where they may meet a horse or mountain bike and can choose to go elsewhere”

(Regional Parks Managment Plan).

While the policy discusses clear expectations, on the ground there is little evidence that this

policy has been put into practice. Good signage in horse riding areas is rare, signage that

alerts or informs other users (walkers or anyone else) about horse riders is practically non-

existant. Accessible park design also includes those users with limited English skills.

Providing information, including signage, in multiple formats that clearly indicates permitted

trail users and rules.

The exceptions are often small and directed only at the horse riders e.g. „no horses beyond

this point‟ signs on the Muriwai horse access trail. Other users are somehow meant to

understand from this type of notice both that horses are allowed (somewhere) and how to

avoid conflict.

Information kiosks (boards) are available at most parks, but only at main „nodes‟. This is

often away from where horse riders are directed to go. Best practice design and planning

guides stress the importance of providing good information in any locations that users

frequent, but particularly at „trailheads‟ (parking areas or meeting points), boundaries and

crossing points (places where different recreation types may cross paths).

PARK SPECIFIC PROBLEMS

MURIWAI, FIVE MILE STRIP

Unfortunately, because this beach park is so popular it also has a number of problems. Most

could be addressed quite easily by adopting best practice principles, including carrying out

the list of recommendations made for the area in a previous report on Muriwai Park (Boffa

Miskell Limited, for Auckland Regional Council, 2003).

Muriwai Regional Park sits in an unenviable position in the ARC‟s portfolio. It is undoubtedly

one of the most spectacular parks, especially at low tide on a clear sunny day. However, one

of the biggest problems when discussing Muriwai is deciding „who owns this park?‟

When presenting survey results it is hard to know whether to include Muriwai as a public road

or beach, as part of Woodhill Forest or as an ARC Park. When surveyed, half the riders at


vR1.2 61

Muriwai do not think that they have visited an ARC Park. Other users of the park have the

same uncertainty.

There is an ARC Regional Park sign at the top of Coast Road, but there are few other features

to define this area as a regional park (something that was mentioned in the Boffa Miskell

Report of 2003 (Boffa Miskell Limited, 2003). The beach is a public road (albeit unformed) in

Rodney District, used by horses, pedestrians, kite surfers and vehicles of all descriptions.

Woodhill Forest belongs to Hancock Forests, and the ARC controls the Regional Park which

extends from Maori Bay to the Five Mile Strip.

With few natural boundaries between the areas, and little signage, visitors are somewhat

confused about what activities are allowed, and which authorities manage the area. Park

Rangers are in the unfortunate position of trying to control groups of people, who may or may

not be within their jurisdiction to control i.e. speed

limits, road rules, poachers or trespassers in the Forest.

It certainly does not engender the sort of behaviour one

might expect in a Regional Park.

Horse riders too are caught in the crossfire. Riding on the

beach is free, as is riding in the Five Mile Strip, but

crossing Coast Rd into Woodhill Forest is trespassing.

Riders arriving at Muriwai have no way of knowing this, as

there is no signage at the Horse Park explaining the

boundaries between ARC Park and Woodhill Forest. The

signage which does exist, is posted by Hancock Forests

and further confuses rather than clarifying the issue

because of its wording. Cyclists which are allowed on

Coast Rd (according to the ARC website) are apparently banned by Hancock‟s signage.

Walkers receive no information, or notification of forest activities.

Muriwai is a beach with extreme tides. At low tide riders are free to enter the Five Mile Strip

via the beach. However during full and especially during Spring and King Tides or after a

storm, this is not an option. The Five Mile Strip is therefore a tide dependent recreation

resource for riders. Riders only way in or out at full tide is via Okiritoto Stream Gate on Coast

Rd, an access point controlled by Hancock Forests. However, Coast Rd itself is part of the

area managed by the ARC. Coast Rd is mentioned both for horse riding and mountain biking

in the Regional Parks Management Plan (Regional Parks Managment Plan).

Parking

Public parking sometimes overflows into the Horse Park. Recent signage at the front of

the Horse Park has made this worse by stating that the Horse Park is a shared parking

area. In peak times, the Horse Park is full to overflowing. Horse transport is not

allowed to park in other areas (there are 3 other public carparking areas nearby) and

trail bikes or other traffic use this as a thoroughfare to the beach.

The parking area is used by other park users to walk to and from the beach. This can

include inappropriate behaviour - dogs and children running in and around horses,

FIGURE 34 HANCOCK‟S SIGNAGE



walking down the horse access path to the beach with large or „scary‟ objects (kites,

flapping towels or blankets) that

cause problems for horses on this

narrow alleyway.

Signage

Shared areas must have signage for

all user groups to understand the

needs of others. Generally, signage

is applied to horse riders only, even

when safety issues exist.e.g. public

parking near Muriwai Horse Park.

Signs are small, Code of Practice is

outside the horse park, facing

outwards (instead of in the horse

park where horse riders are and can

see it). Too small\detailed to be

read while driving in.

Damage

Vandalism and overnight activities. Burned out cars are sometimes dumped in the

horsepark, the horse rolling pit is used as a fire pit or party area (glass, cans and other

items often have to be removed before allowing horses in), the toilets are frequently

vandalised.

Racehorses sharing the Horse Park tend to destroy the tie-ups

Vehicles

Trail bikes access the dunes, Five Mile Strip and Woodhill Forest

Dangerous vehicle behaviour. Both Coast Road and Muriwai beach traffic frequently

exceeds legal and sensible speed limits.

Access Trail design

Dune changes overrun wire fences making them dangerous for horses (hidden in the

dunes or broken).

Access trails onto the beach are created without considering the „horse‟ factor.

Horses are plains animals, creating narrow trails with limited visibility as an access

point to busy shared areas is designing for trouble.


vR1.2 63

Example: The latest access point

for horses onto the beach has been

moved south to a cutting between

dunes. Other trails such as the

original horse access path, and the

trail over the dunes at the top end

of the Five Mile Block have not

created a large cutting through the

dunes, so this is a problem of

placement (in an existing dip

between higher dunes) rather than

an inevitable consequence of dune

based trails.

The wire fence has already been

overrun near the entrance\exit on

this trail. This is the area where the

2008 dog attack took place, the dog

having had the opportunity to stalk

through the grass to it‟s victims.

AMBURY

There does not appear to be anywhere for visitors to bring their vehicles to visit the

park and ride, nor any bridleways for local riders to get to the park to enjoy riding on

the farm or trail

No signage (for horse riders or indicating horse use to other users)

ANAWHATA

No parking, no facilities, nowhere to turn-around


10km access Rd, gravel, windy and in some parts only wide enough for 1 way traffic

(esp for a vehicle towing a float or truck)

No trails

AWHITU


No facilities for riders, the horse unloading\loading area seems to be constantly

moving.

FIGURE 35 PLACEMENT OF TRAILS IS IMPORTANT. THE

NEW HORSE ACCESS TRAIL AT MURIWAI



DUDER

Access

Locals need either to ride down North Rd (100kph speed zone) or have agreement with

private landowners in order to visit. There are no bridleways in the area to link Duder

to any other riding areas such as Whitford Forest or the Beachlands-Maraetai Pony

Club.

There is no parking\loading area or facilities (water, tie ups, manure bins)

Horse riding is allowed by permit only. The park is located in an area with strong

equestrian traditions.

Permits are seasonal; moutainbikes and other visitors are allowed during winter or

lambing season.

Future

The Duder Concept plan does not allow for float or horse truck parking. The planned

„avenue of cabbage trees‟ would take away the ability to park floats or trucks down

the grassed verge of the driveway (Isthmus Group, 2005). It is unclear how horse riders

are expected to access this park.

PAE O TE RANGI

Limited parking - at most 2 parking spaces, and this would still require floats or trucks

to reverse onto the road (or reverse into the parking spaces from the road)

Key Bond \ Access restrictions (locked main gate)


vR1.2 65

BBEESSTT PPRRAACCTTIICCEE

PROVIDING INFORMATION

Riders want to know where they can ride, when, what they need to do to prepare and what

behaviour is expected when they get there. Use Plain English (Oxford Dictionaries) for all

publications, and test on user groups for readability and functionality (Keller, 2004).

DATABASES AND THE INTERNET

The internet provides organisations with the means to rapidly distribute information to large

(and increasing) numbers of people. It allows people to find what they want, and

organisations to update information rapidly with few costs.

Great websites are easy to navigate, allowing for various levels of user from the technically

savvy to those with fewer skills or access. They provide maps, photos and documents users

need (Codes of Practice or instructions) and include include self-service mechanisms for

permits or making bookings.

When a single provider is involved, a simple website format can give users everything they

need to know. Crychan Forest‟s website gives information on the trail length, what the

colour coded trail markers mean and what to expect on the trail. It also tells riders what

facilities are available, including whether mobile phones will be able to reach emergency

services if needed (Horse Riding - Horse and Walking Routes).

The Trans Canada Trail “Find a Trail near you” website uses a clickable map to show where

the trail goes, and which sections are available for various types of activity (The Trans Canada

Trail).

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources, (Michigan.gov) provides basic information

park information for all activities, an online permitting system and a searchable database.

Searchable databases can help users to find a trail or park that suits their activity or in a part

of the country, they want. They can also assist the provider to improve services, and monitor

conflict by recording feedback via email or online surveys.

The U.S. National Recreation Trails Database (NRT) includes information about the type of

activities, accessibility, surface, fees, contacts, operation (opening times), trail length and

facilities. A potential user can plan and prepare for a trip or search for a local trail with their

desired features. Recreation.gov the US Federal recreation website includes the ability to

book campgrounds or tours online (E.GOV).



In New Zealand, the Department of Conservation has an excellent website for recreational

users (Department of Conservation). It provides everything that recreational users need to

find, plan and prepare for recreation on DOC land. The DOC website also includes weather

and safety information, including pest eradication operations.

SIGNAGE!

Experienced recreation managers use signage to reduce

conflict, while users retain freedom (Moore, 1994). Signage is

often more effective than information provided with permits

or before the visitor arrives at a recreation area. Not only is

the user given the information they need, at the time they

need to know it, but the writer must simplify the message to

fit on a sign. Icons, and Graphics are often more effective

than wordy lists. Pictures (icons and graphics) are also more

easily understood by those with limited reading or English

skills.

Directional signs include signs to find the park (and the horse

parking area) and trail signs. Signs must be easy to read

from a distance, and stand out from the background.

Educate!Educate! Signs don‟t have to be about rules.

Educate people who may enter a horse

loading\unloading area about basic horse

safety i.e. “keep it calm in here” or “ask

the horse owner before approaching a

horse”.

Trail markers must be explained. Is it a

simple „home\away‟ colour system, or are

different trails or trail types marked with

different colours?

Location is important. Signage and

information posts (with more detailed

information) are

only useful if they

are located where they will be seen. If horse riders are in

segregated parking areas, their information must be located there

too!

If the area is shared, all users need to understand all others needs.

If there is a shared trail, ensure that all understand who they may

meet on the trail, who gives way to who and what sort of things to

FIGURE 36, 35 CLEAR SIGNAGE IS

IMPORTANT


vR1.2 67

do i.e. slow down, make sure others see\hear you approaching, smile and be friendly, be

respectful of others (O'Dell) (Moore, 1994).

Include reviews of signage in regular feedback or surveys. Can a visitor unfamiliar with the

park find toilets, parking etc? Importantly are shared areas appropriately signed? Retail

operators use the „mystery shopper‟ approach to ensuring best performance (Mystery Shopper

) (Mystery Shopper Providers Association)and this could easily be adapted to parks to provide

useful feedback on signage and other infrastructure that affect park visitor experiences.

CODES OF PRACTICE

Audience and purpose are the most important elements to define for any document. (Keller,

2004). (Keller, 2004). Codes or Practice address behavioural issues, park or trail ettiquette

and are not to be confused with directions or instructions for using specific infrastructure e.g.

“Use authorised parking areas only”, rather than “Parking is at Mangatangi Hill Rd”. Provide

specific instructions for each park separately along with maps, planning information and

directions.

Creating a single Code of Practice for all user groups is easier to maintain and creates a

common understanding between groups. It also creates the expectation of sharing and

relieves the suspicion that „other groups‟ are receiving better treatment (Phillip Gray and

Associates, 2000). Tread Lightly is a U.S. based organisation (originally created by the US

Forest Service) that publishes information for recreational groups. They write codes of

practice for recreation types like horse riding, mountain biking and motor sports, but each

contains similar themes (Tread Lightly!).

User group involvement is vital to ensure that they are practical and achieve the result the

provider wants (Moore, 1994) (O'Dell). For instance, protocols have been developed by cyclists

in collaboration with equestrians help to educate cyclists on how to relate to horses (Kelley,

Bikes and Horses:A Case for Sharing, 1998).

Use plain English and positive language; positive language is more likely to create positive

behaviour. Use graphics and encourage groups to co-operate with one another because they

are all using the same code (Keller, 2004). Rayonier provide a simple, yet comprehensive

pamphlet for all forest users in New Zealand and Tasmania (Rayonier). This type of code fits

well with Stankey and Lucas‟ „minimum tool rule‟, the tone encourages compliance and

cooperation from all user groups.



TRAILS

Consider 5km a minimum for equestrian recreation. Longer trails must give riders the option

to return to the starting point at a variety of places (without simply turning around and

retracing their steps). When considering trail length, or riding area to be allowed include the

distance riders will travel to the park as a factor. Small parks or trails will only appeal to

local riders. Where riders are travelling a distance, the riding area must be sufficient to

offset the cost\time of travel. Unlike, other park visitors horse riders cannot enjoy multiple

stops on the way to or from a park as part of their outing.

Natural surfaces are preferred but suitability of footing, trail or environment protection must

be given high priority. Refer to Additional Resources for Recreation Managers in the

Appendices for Trail planning, design, building and maintenance guides.

Trails for novice \ nervous riders and young horses need to be wide enough to allow 2 horses

to ride abreast. It is important that a more experienced(calmer) horse is able to shield and

control a more inexperienced or nervous one. Younger horses learn to be calm by observing

the behaviour of their mentors(older horses). Rules need to permit groups of such horses and

riders to ride together, the current maximum number is usually set at just 3.

Provide passing areas on narrower trails, even when trails are designed to have traffic going

in one direction.

FACILITIES FOR HORSE RECREATION AREAS

ARC Policy sets out that where riding

access is allowed, facilities should be

provided (Regional Parks Managment

Plan). However, in practice facilities for

horse riders are rare. What would horse

riders like to enjoy? The answer is

probably as wide ranging as the number of

riders, but there are common elements

that make great riding areas and trails.

Some riders surveyed would like to see

authorities provide an equestrian park in

Auckland, such as the Horse Lovers Park in

Phoenix Arizona (City of Phoenix, 2007) or

the „Centre of Excellence‟ proposed in the

South Australian Recreation And Sport

Horse Strategy (Phillip Gray and

Associates, 2000).

While many see this as ideal, lack of support for horse riding to date has reduced most riders

expectations to far more modest goals, like having access to local trails and bridle paths.

FIGURE 37 MULTI-USE RECREATION TRAIL WITH

INFORMATION SPOT, PICNIC TABLE, BIKE STAND &

TOILET (SOLAR POWERED) – COEUR D‟LANE TRAIL (USA)


vR1.2 69

Riding in their local area, without having to travel long distances is something that many

riders only dream of, even though they live in „horsey‟ areas

When trails or riding areas are provided, consider the following amenities:

Getting there and Getting Around

Parking – preferably a flat, all weather, large parking pad capable of taking several

large horse trucks without the need to backup\3-point turn. Allow extra room for

loading and unloading and for tying up horses. For safety, segregate horse parking

(unloading\loading areas) from general public usage. This may be physical or signage

(it may be desirable to allow public usage when no riders are there, but this will be

hard to control). Segregation does not need to be total isolation.

Access – bumping along rutted access roads to get to a nice parking area will not

attract users. If the access is terrible, consider moving the parking – riders would

rather ride a bad road than drive it, so don‟t waste money on upgrading roads if it can

be better spent elsewhere. Consider this a trail extension! Alternately allow camping,

so that a more arduous journey is worthwhile.

Information spots. Maps, trail information, ranger station phone numbers, park

information, codes of practice, etc. must all be located at the loading area or the trail

entrance – places where riders can see them.

For Horses

Water – to drink (troughs) and cool down (washdown). Horses need water to drink,

and lots of it after a long ride. They also suffer from heat, so a wash down (hose pipe)

is extremely desirable especially if there is no shade at the loading area.

Tie Ups (hitching rails). Loading areas and any stop off points (a halfway point, rest

stop or place of interest) include tie ups of some sort. This can be as simple as a rope

strung between two trees (known as a high picket line) or a more formal tie rail. If

coloured baling twine is not acceptable, provide natural twine at tie up areas.

Rolling pits for horses. Dumping a truckload of sand near the loading area for the

horses to use after a ride is a much appreciated amenity. To make best use of

resources, consider building a large pen or corral with a deep sand base. This will

serve as overnight pen for campers and rolling pit in one.

Shade. If possible don‟t place horse parking\hitching areas in the only treeless place

for miles.

For Riders

Mounting blocks. It‟s bad for the horse‟s back, and impossible for some riders to get

on from the ground. If there are gates along the way, make sure there is something at

each one (on both sides) to help riders remount.

Toilets and manure bins (if manure is to be composted). Much is made of manure, but

riders have to go too and human waste is much more toxic than horse manure.

Provide toilets near loading areas if you don‟t want horses left on their own. Consider



introducing composting toilet systems instead of long drops, as a better option for

environmental protection.

Allow for groups of riders. Many horses and riders are not comfortable going out on

their own. In addition social or club rides permit horses and riders to have a day out

with friends.

To Reduce Conflict \ For Shared Areas

Multiple entrances to trails. This disperses riders and is particularly important on

shared trails. All may join up a few metres or a few hundred metres down the trail

but it reduces conflict and environmental impact at the trail start point.

Picnic areas. Riders are humans too, they like to have a nice cup of tea or a chat after

a ride just like walkers and other park visitors. Creating common picnic areas in a

buffer zone between parking areas, is a good use of resources and lets park visitors get

to know one another, resolving conflicts before they occur. Horses can be safely tied

and left if they are within sight.

For more remote visitors \ remote locations

Pens or corrals. For greater safety consider providing pens or corrals for horses at

some car parks. These are vital if allowing riders to camp at some locations. Farm

parks often have stockyards already.

Camping. Camping with horses is popular and provides riders with an opportunity to

visit distant recreation trails or parks. Where extensive trail systems are provided (as

could be in Hunua) this gives riders the opportunity to spend several days riding

different trails and also enables them to appreciate the environment. Camping does

not need to include grazing.


vR1.2 71

EXAMPLES

There are many great examples of horse riding (and driving) recreation areas and trails from

around the world. Shared trails are on the increase internationally. Trails (bridleways) are

being used to provide recreation, increase tourism and as feeder routes for commuters. A

study by the Chicago Department of Transport found that cycle commuting only increased

significantly when recreational feeder routes were established.

Great recreation trails for horse riders are often developed as private-public partnerships, use

volunteers to help develop facilities and city, local or central government authorities are

keen to include educational aspects in facilities they create. Providing points of interest along

the way and starting trails from public equestrian facilities (arenas and other training,

competition or event facilities) is also popular.

The best examples from around the world recognise that it is a combination of freedom,

facilities and trails that combine to make a great equestrian experience. In areas of limited

space, trails that criss-cross one another or loop back and forth are created to maximise

recreation potential.

CRYCHAN FOREST

Crychan Trails is a partnership between the Crychan Forest Association

and Forestry Commission Wales. They provide trails for horse-riding,

carriage driving, walking and cycling. Trails are colour coded and can

be ridden separately or joined up to form larger loops and rides.

The forest provides four car parks with picnic areas, and corrals as well as excellent trail

maps and pre-ride information (Crychan Forest Association). Crychan Forest is one of many

recreation areas and bridleways in Wales, encouraged as part of the country‟s eco and

adventure tourism initiatives. www.crychanforest.org.uk

THE TRANS CANADIAN TRAIL

An 18,000 kilometre recreational corridor winding its way through every Province and

territory, linking 800 communities along its route. When completed, this will be the longest

trail of its kind in the world, connecting all regions. The Trail accommodates five core

activities: walking, cycling, horseback riding, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Some

sections of the trail also accommodate trail bikes and ATVs.

Amongst the reasons given for this immense project are that it is a stimulus for local

economies e.g. bed and breakfasts and support services (The Trans Canada Trail: FAQ).

www.tctrail.ca

http://www.crychanforest.org.uk/



HORSE LOVERS PARK & REACH 11 RECREATION AREA, PHOENIX ARIZONA

Phoenix is a city of about the same size as

Auckland (1.5 million people). Reach 11

Recreation Area is a 1500 acre park that is

currently being extended to include a major sports

complex. The recreation area is approximately 7

miles long and less than 1/2 mile wide. It

currently includes an equestrian centre, hiking and

riding trails, and wildlife/nature desert areas. The

City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department

provides a variety of programs for people of all ages

and ability levels.

There are approximately 18 miles of inter-

connected multi-use recreational trails in the

Reach 11 Recreation Area, with multiple access points from the nearby city of Phoenix. Trails

are multi-use; foot, bicycle and horseback.

Arizona Horse Lovers Park is a 90-acre equestrian park, providing one of the entry points to

the trail system. It is a public facility available for private hire or events 7 days a week,

evening use is free for the public. The facility consists of four large equestrian arenas,

ranging from 360' x 180' to 250' x 104' in size. The arenas include lighting, seats and public

address system for events. The Park also offers a lighted practice paddock, water troughs,

wash racks, tie stations, cattle pens, and picnic tables (City of Phoenix, 2007).

Recreation users can register, and use an online booking system to hire facilities or register

for events or classes that are provided at the park.

phoenix.gov/PARKS/phxequct.html

FIGURE 38 REACH 11 EMPHASISES

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES


vR1.2 73

RREECCOOMMMMEENNDDAATTIIOONNSS

There are three major topics that need to be addressed to improve service to horse riders by

the ARC: Communication, Infrastructure including signage, and trails (in current parks and

new opportunities.

COMMUNICATION

Improving the current standard of communication to horse riders will make an immediate

positive impact.

Have a grading system for trails\areas - based on length, difficulty and shared use so

that all users can choose where they want to go\use. (Similar to Wellington Regional

Council) Consult with recreation groups when setting the criteria for these standards.

Provide this information in planning documents (website and pamphlets) and onsite.

Create relationships with recreation groups (riders). The ARC already has the Park

Volunteers programme, it just needs to communicate these with recreation groups.

Rider involvement in park activities is another way to create bonds between different

recreation groups and prevent conflict.

WEBSITE AND EMAIL COMMUNICATION

The recent update to the ARC Website has improved website information for horse

riders enormously, however there are still gaps in the information particularly when it

comes to planning information.

Make sure that the information on the website and all printed documents are

consistent and contain current information.

Create links to other providers, e.g. WFEP or (Franklin Council) Waiuku Forest

PERMITS AND EVENT BOOKING

Simplify the permit systems.

o Examine whether permits are needed at all! If they are:

Simplify the number of permutations that may apply to horse riders e.g.

permit or no permit, eradicate or reduce ranger contact (this is a

restriction)

Have a single permit to cover all parks



Provide riders with some value in return for registering for permits. For

instance, receiving emails with updated gate combinations or park

changes (instead of each rider having to ring the ranger), allowing

registered riders to „bring a friend‟ (something that is commonly

allowed by Forestry Companies), notifications of new access areas.

o Create a single touch-point information service; having to contact Rangers

directly implies that the call centre is ineffective i.e. why post a call centre

number instead of simply directing them to the appropriate ranger station?

o Create a booking service for events. Have clear criteria openly available for

events that will be allowed, and then allow them!

CODES OF PRACTICE

Consider a shared general Code of Practice for „parks‟ in general. This will help to

engender co-operation between groups and focus the writer on common behaviours

that apply to all park visitors.

Specific codes (for horse riding, mountain biking etc) can then address common

themes from their own perspective.

When creating information specific for a park, consider whether to target a specific

group or can be a shared document that all users will see. Creating a shared

document will make administrators more conscious of the number of rules they are

creating (keep to Stankey‟s „minimum tool‟ rule) and also let‟s users see what each

group is expected to do i.e. everyone has responsibilities.

Use positive information. List where riders may ride and what facilities they can use,

rather than only listing restrictions or exceptions.

Make rules and codes of practice that are easy to comply with (do not restrict riders

from safe practice!)

Test information on user groups before including in an authorised publication. (Best

practice for communications of any sort)


vR1.2 75

Improving Current Infrastructure

Consider implementing a scheme similar to the “mystery shopper‟ programmes. Volunteers

visit Regional Parks and provide feedback on their experience based on pre-set criteria

appropriate to a park environment. The purpose is to provide „fresh eyes‟ on Park

infrastructure and ideas for improvements. Use feedback in combination with greater

planning interaction with user groups, to ensure that infrastructure is suitable for all park

users.

SIGNAGE, SIGNAGE, SIGNAGE!

Directional signs to horse parks are either too small or non-existant. Horse transport is

large and hard to stop or slow down, therefore good bold directional signs are important.

Signage must be clear, simple and in placed where riders will see it! Signage for horse

riders needs to be in or at least near the assigned loading\unloading area.

The ARC Parks often have excellent information posts, but not at horse parks. If horse

riders cannot park anywhere else and are forbidden from leaving their horses alone,

putting signs, maps or any other information at campsites, ranger offices or at the park

entrance is of little value.

Shared areas must be clearly indicated, this reduces conflict because users know who to

expect on the trail.

Trail markers. Tell people what they mean and if possible use a consistent system in all

parks. Include trail length (expected ride time), as per trails for walkers.

Marker poles may be more appropriate than wire fences when making trails across the

dunes

TRAILS (RECREATION AREAS)

Trail Length – Consider long trails in bigger

parks (min 5km), allow for novice users (and

walkers) by providing „loops‟ back to the

start.

Provide variety. Riding along road sized

tracks or open farmland is not everyone‟s

ideal. Add interest to horse riding trails with

log and obstacles, but always provide an

alternate route around them.

Allow for social riding (groups of more than 3

riders!).

Don‟t assume an “all or nothing” for sharing

trails or areas. FIGURE 39 ADD INTEREST ON TRAILS



Shared bridleways can

provide a win-win for

providers and riders.

o Use sharing and segregation to modify behaviour appropriately and ensure best

use of resources.

o Segregate for safety and to avoid conflict, but recognise that this may only be

required for sections of a trail or a specific area, rather than an entire park.

o Use shared trails, particularly where resources are limited and set expectations

accordingly (signage!)

o Many horse riders want shared use trails to enable them to involve their non-

riding partners or family in their recreation. Female riders may have cycle

riding partners, allow non-riding parents to lead their youngsters on ponies

from foot.

FACILITIES

Water, shade, toilets and picnic tables at loading\unloading areas will increase

enjoyment of the trails.

Make gates easy to open from horseback and\or provide mounting blocks on both sides

of gates if riders must dismount.

Tie-ups (hitching rails)

Rolling pits are easy to create and much appreciated

ACCESS & PARKING

Ensure parking areas are large enough to provide for riders vehicles (including turning

around), and that there is sufficient room to unload\load horses securely.

Ensure parking is adequately signed to ensure that horse trucks and floats can easily

find the area (and don‟t cause problems for other park users if they block roads).

Work with Local Councils to provide bridleways into and between existing resources.

Shared bridleways can provide a win-win for providers and riders. Riders get better

recreation, Councils have better distribution of use, don‟t have to provide parking and

reduce road usage and carbon emissions for the future.


vR1.2 77

MURIWAI

Implement the improvements already outlined in the Muriwai Regional Park Design

Concept (Boffa Miskell Limited, for Auckland Regional Council, 2003) (Boffa Miskell

Limited, for Auckland Regional Council, 2003)

o Enhance / signal an entry to the Okiritoto Stream area and Five Mile Strip. o Investigate provision of a greater level of ARC management and presence in

these areas to help with security and deter current vandalism problems. o Improve management of the existing horse park and car park amenities.

Improve signage for all user groups.

o Educate on correct etiquette around horses,

o Move the code of conduct sign into the horse park or replace with an

information post with maps, code of conduct, tide timetable and information

on registering to ride in Woodhill Forest. Remove items from the Code of

Practice that don‟t apply, or remedy e.g. “Please use the feaces bin

provided..” – there are no manure bins at Muriwai.

o Ask the public not to park in the horsepark, or allow horse trailers to park

where they like. If there is to be no segregation of horses from other park

users make this work both ways (since this implies that safety during loading \

unloading of horses is not a concern) as other park users already have 3 other

parking spots nearby.

o Educate! An educational sign about the history of the area, and why dune

management is so important. Understanding the issues will increase likelihood

of compliance.

Provide drinking water for horses

Improve management of the wire fencing used across the dunes. These are frequently

broken (by the weight of the shifting dunes), leaving hanging or looped wire which is

extremely dangerous for horses (and riders). Marker poles for trails (as used at

trotting tracks and by DOC) may be a safer alternative, and will require less

maintenance.

Consider greater interaction with WFEP\Hancocks, perhaps taking over management of

recreation in Woodhill Forest.

Consider a second entrance to the Five Mile Block, for high tide access. Okiritoto

Stream is supposed to be part of a public access easement into the forest, but this

appears to have been stopped without the required notices posted (Crown Forest

Licence NA100A/7, 1993).

Better signage of beach entrances to the Five Mile Block.

HUNUA

More trails, longer trails! This is a large park and includes a number of roads and

tracks that would be suitable for horse riding.

Consider bridle trails feeding into the trail system from surrounding areas.

There is a paper road near Hunua Falls, investigate if it is suitable for trail riding.

The current parking area has no facilities at all, adding a tie rail, toilet, information

post, picnic table would help to create a more welcoming place.



Consider moving the parking area –the watercare services gate is an annoying obstacle

(particularly since the lock combination changes). Mangatwhiri campsite has a large

amount of land and riders could then ride around the road to the trail start, avoiding

the vehicle gate (and increasing the distance of this trail).

Add camping, either at Mangatawhiri campsite or lower Mangatawhiri (even if it is only

seasonal) to allow riders to enjoy the area for a few days at a time. This would require

facilities such as pens, water, manure bins and a booking system.

Signage!! There is no signage to show drivers where the horse parking area is, although

trail signage is good.

Tie ups and water at the parking area

DUDER

Signage to indicate that this is a shared area

Parking, loading\unloading area

Work with local councils and landowners to provide a bridle path feeder system

into\out of the park area and perhaps link to other local resources, such as Whitford

forest, pony clubs or local beaches

Allow horse riding to the end of the peninsular

PAE O TE RANGI

Reconsider the key bond. $250 is excessive. If gates are really such a problem change

combinations more often (as per Hunua), but find the root cause instead of punishing

registered users.

Extend horse riding trails to allow Waitakere riders to get to Muriwai and\or clubs in

Henderson Valley\Laingholm\Karekare beach

ANAWHATA

Ensure that any rider wanting a permit to Anawhata has visited the park and knows

about the 10km winding gravel road to get there.

Provide a better parking area, vehicle turn-around and toilet that riders can use.

This park requires a $50 permit and a long tortuous journey. Investigate whether

camping might be a possibility for horse riders. There are already paddocks and cattle

pens.

Map or trail indicators (there are some steep slopes that many riders would prefer to

avoid).


vR1.2 79

New Opportunities

Several ARC Parks do not allow horse riding that have potential to do so. There are no

Northern Parks which currently allow horse riding, and this area of the region also has few

other resources for horse riders.

Shakespeare and Scandretts. Both these parks are open to mountain bikers and list „no

locations‟ as the reason for no horse riding, probably because of the current policies of

segregating horse riding and other activities.

Waharau – already has campgrounds, stockyards and grazing paddocks. This park

backs into Hunua and could provide a way to distribute riders in the Hunua area trails.

Whakatiwai – already has stockyards and grazing paddocks. This park backs into Hunua

and could provide a way to distribute riders in the Hunua area trails.

Tapapakanga - already has multi-use trails, camping and stock facilities

Tawharanui – already has farm outbuildings (hay shed, stockyards, woolshed).

Importantly there are no other horse riding recreation areas in the Northern section of

the region currently. Tawharanui allows camping and the covered stockyards offer

potential for horse riders to camp with their horses.

Hamlins Hill – inner city pony clubs (Ambury, St Heliers, Meadowbank) are desperate

for open spaces to enjoy riding, and may require relocating if they lose current leases.

Hamlins Hill could retain its „city in the country‟ atmosphere but swap some cattle for

ponies or alternately just provide bridletrails.

Landfill sites - Redvale Landfill is still operational but has an equestrian cross-country

course and has already been used for events. Information about use of this site is

extremely hard to find, despite a large directional sign on SH17 pointing to “Redvale

Equestrian Park”.

Future:

Atiu Farm Park - As well as the farm park itself, there is a wonderful opportunity to create a

great bridle trail into this park from the south (Muriwai\Woodhill).

CARRIAGE DRIVING

Potential sites include:

Forests – Riverhead @ Watercare

Services, Hunua along park roads and

wide tracks, Woodhill

Ambury Farm Park

Atiu Farm Park

Wenderholm

FIGURE 40(RIGHT) CARRIAGE DRIVING IN

CRYCHAN FOREST, WALES



SUPPORTING TRAIL SYSTEMS - BRIDLEWAYS

Lack of bridleways (single or multi-use trails) in the Auckland region should be considered a

major problem for both recreation and car-less commuting. Overseas experience shows that

recreational routes act as feeder systems into commuter cycle routes, and create the

expectation of being able to travel without using a car. Roading development in New Zealand

is plagued by lack of planning for non-motorised transport, cutting off pedestrians, cyclists

and others from making simple journeys and making recreation less accessible.

Under the ARPASS initiative, the ARC, local councils and sporting bodies with support from

recreational users, private and commercial providers could create world-class multi-use trails

on either side of the Auckland isthmus. Great multi-use trails (bridleways\greenways) bring

economic opportunities to surrounding areas through eco-tourism, as well as providing

recreation opportunities for cyclists, horse riding and walkers. A chain of support

infrastructure, such as accommodation waypoints, baggage and people transfer services,

could be developed along the lines of the many bridleways in the United Kingdom, the Otago

Central Rail Trail (Otago Central Rail Trail), or the more extensive Canadian Trail (The Trans

Canada Trail).

Kaipara Trail

A trail running from Muriwai (or perhaps even Waitakere using the „Long Trail‟), through

existing trails and roads in Woodhill Forest and up the west of the Kaipara Harbour to Atiu

Farm Park (via Helensville). Feeder routes could include links to vineyards and recreation

areas, such as Riverhead Forest.

Waikato Trail

A similar trail system could be developed to follow the banks of the Waikato River and\or Te

Araroa. Recreation groups have already started some discussions on developing a trail from

Waiuku Forest south. Great trails can provide the impetus to create local linkages to local

recreation sites and places of interest (vineyards, pubs, historic places, scenic routes).

Support from local and regional authorities is required to develop these sorts of

opportunities.


vR1.2 81

FFIINNDDIINNGGSS

SPARC participation figures estimate 23,000 regular riders in the Auckland Region, with

78,000 people participating in equestrian activities at some point during each year. Almost all

riders are using roads for recreational riding, but are faced with an increasingly dangerous

environment. Forestry companies are providing the largest amount of off road recreation for

horse riders. Most of these are trying to extend revenue streams by charging for recreational

use.

Many riders pay to use pony club grounds and facilities, but these traditional clubs are facing

problems with leases and being physically cut off from the surrounding rider base. Riders

face increasing costs as they have to travel greater distances, and as providers increase

charges. Bridleways are acknowledged as desirable by local councils but little if anything has

been implemented.

Horse riding is largely prohibited by local and regional authorities in parks and reserves. It is

viewed as an activity that must be segregated from all other users, although practice

overseas is to provide shared recreation whenever possible. ARC Policy is often quite different

from management practice in the parks. In particular, signage for recreation groups (other

than walkers) is often poor.

Communication generally is poor, riders do not understand what opportunities are currently

out there, nor do they understand which authority owns which facility. There is a failure to

engage horse-riding communities in trail and facility development, and rules are sometimes

put in place that alienate riders or worse are unsafe practice.

Internationally recreation areas and trails are available to equestrians as part of an integrated

approach to recreation and education. Multi-use and shared use trails are built as a way to

increase economic development in areas along the trails, to connect existing recreation areas

and to make best use of recreation spending for all user groups.



CCOONNCCLLUUSSIIOONNSS

Local and regional authorities are not meeting demand for horse-riding recreation, and

traditional providers are facing increasing problems. Riders expect the Regional authority to

provide recreation in regional parks, and to support regional strategies for multi-use trails or

bridleways which link existing facilities. Regional and local authorities ignore or restrict horse

riding on the basis of conflict with other users. However, they do little in practical terms to

understand or mitigate conflict through their management of recreation areas. Studies and

overseas experience shows that greater use of shared infrastructure leads to greater harmony

and understanding between the groups using parks, and better utilisation of resources.

Developing areas and trails does require input from recreation groups to understand special

requirements, but often does not require any greater resources than for walkers. Most

importantly recreational riders need the ARC to improve communication to them about where

they can ride, and how they can work together to improve recreational opportunities in the

region.


vR1.2 83

FFUURRTTHHEERR RREESSEEAARRCCHH

Rider Numbers.

Figures from SPARC are extrapolated from relatively small sample groups. The survey

performed as part of this research was limited by tight timelines. Better research is required

in order to quantify demand.

Permits.

A number of questions exist in relation to the current practice of requiring horse riders to

apply for permits in ARC parks. Examine why the current permit system is used. What

objective is it trying to reach and is it working? If permitting is a valuable system, why is it

only used in some parks? What additional value is it adding over parks which do not have

permits? A registration system for riders can be a valuable system for communicating to

riders, but the current system does not store email addresses, can this functionality be

added?.

Parks and Recreation Areas

Lack of information about parks and recreation areas will mean that this review is limited in

exploring all opportunities. Northern areas of the region, in particular are largely left out of

this review because it is hard to find information on providers and opportunities there.



AAppppeennddiicceess

SURVEY RESPONDENTS

1. Jane Horwood for Coatesville PC 2. Penny Dunthorne for Greenhithe

PC 3. Jan Stradwick for Kaukapakapa PC 4. Dianna Cooney for Mangere PC 5. Denise Parker for North Shore PC 6. Annette Leigh for Redhills PC 7. Chris Cooper for Rosedale PC 8. Phil Creigh for St Heliers PC 9. Sarah Cooper for Te Atatu PC 10. Marian Galvin for Manukau PC

District (Manurewa, Clevedon, Beachlands-Maraetai, Papatoetoe and Totara Park pony clubs)

11. Adrienne Priestly, Helensville 12. Angela Lloyd, Papakura 13. Annette Leigh, Waitakere 14. Annlouise Bates, Remuera 15. Bernadette Heibner, Whenuapai 16. Candace Bagnall, Henderson 17. Caroline sayle, Muriwai 18. Chris Taylor , Kaukapakapa 19. Colleen Brogan, Helensville 20. Deanna Holst, Pukekohe 21. Denise Bancroft, Coatesville 22. Elke Haag, Taupaki

23. Gaynor & Kayley Cornick, Waiuku 24. Heather Batkin, Pukekohe 25. Helena Leane, Helensville 26. Jane Warby-Cox, Papakura 27. Judy Field, Silverdale 28. Julie Whiu, Westgate 29. Kaa-Sandra Chee, St Heliers 30. Kathryn McKenzie, Henderson 31. Katy Jones, Waiuku 32. Katy McLuckie, Newmarket 33. Kelly Watson, Albany 34. Lynn Copplestone, Drury 35. Lynette Herbke, 36. Marlo West, St Johns 37. Nichola Bushnell, Helensville 38. Pam Farrer, Beachhaven 39. Sarah Comrie, Greenhithe 40. Sophie Knight, Waiuku 41. Stefanie Cridge, Henderson 42. Stella Ashley, Kaiwaka 43. Sue Coleman, Waitakere 44. Sue and Catherine Gibson, KKK 45. Vicky Cox, Kumeu 46. Vicki Kenny, West Harbour 47. Wendy Simpson, Mangawhai 48. Vickie Lawson, Warkworth


vR1.2 67

Survey

The following questions were used for the rider survey:

1. Where are you currently riding?

Think about the places you currently ride and list them, include:

information on what sort of riding you do at each location.

If you are listing local places\venues, consider including addresses so that we

can map out popular riding areas.

Also include whether you have to pay to use these places

What sort of facilities are you using at each place e.g. arenas, marked or

unmarked trails (how many kms)

2. What are your biggest issues?

3. Have you ever ridden in an ARC Park?

If yes -

which one(s)?

how did you find out about riding in ARC parks? Do you think it is easy to find

out about riding in ARC Parks?

Did you have to get a permit? If so what did you think of the process?

what did you think of the facilities? what improvements could be made?

If no, why not

4. What sort of recreational facilities do you think the ARC could provide for horse riding?

5. Any other comments:



PONY CLUBS

Riding facilities are listed if known.

1. Ahuroa – operates from private farmland near Warkworth

2. Albertland SH16 Hoteo

3. Beachlands-Maraetai Pony Club & Adult Riding Group.

Whitford Maraetai Road, and operates on 6.5 acres of land leased from Manukau

City Council. The clubs facilities include 2 all weather arenas, covered yards and

wash areas, cross-country course (Intro, Pre Training Levels)

4. Clevedon Pony Club, Clevedon A&P Showgrounds ,Monument Road, Clevedon.

Leased from Manukau City Council. Pony Club + Auckland Dressage Group, 80x90m all

weather dressage arena.

5. Coatesville Pony Club, Coatesville Reserve. Coatesville-Riverhead Highway

45 x 60 metre all weather arena, a large water complex, fantastic professionally built

show jumping equipment, and cross country jumps from Pre Intro through to Open.

6. Greenhithe Pony Club Orwell Cre Greenhithe Auckland

(Pre-Intro to Open) cross country course and a floodlight all weather dressage

arena.

7. Hakaru Pony Club Settlement Road in Kaiwaka

cross country course, all weather 60 x 35m arena programme for riders without

horses

8. Henderson Valley Pony Club Inc 201 A Henderson Valley Rd Henderson

Leased from Waitakere City Council. All weather arena. equestrian scheme for

children who do not own a horse. Riding for the Disabled group.

9. Huapai Pony Club. Operates from Kumeu A&P showgrounds

10. Mangere Pony Club Wellesley Rd Mangere Bridge Auckland

2 large sand arenas, show jumping facilities and a fantastic cross country course,

grounds for hire, riding across Ambury Farm Park

11. Manurewa Pony Club Inc 81 Sykes Rd Manurewa Auckland Palmers Road, Clendon.

Land leased from the Manukau City Council. The club has limited grazing, all

weather arena, show jumping fences.

12. Massey Pony Club Glen Rd Massey Auckland

x-country including open level, all weather arena, facilities for hire

13. Meadowbank Pony Club Inc 333 St Johns Rd Meadowbank Auckland


vR1.2 69

110 acres with 90 acres of it used for grazing through the season. Track to St.

Heliers Pony Club. 2 all weather Dressage arenas, a large showjumping arena and

cross country course

14. Papatoetoe Pony 132 Flat Bush School Road, RD, Papatoetoe.

All weather arena, cross country courses (Intro – Open) The club owns its own

land, 28 acres, 18-20 grazers.

15. Pointsway Pony Club Inc 1424 Alfriston Rd Alfriston Auckland

16. St Heliers Bay Pony Club Kepa Rd Orakei Auckland

2 arenas, jumping facility, cross country course, 80 acres

17. Te Atatu Pony Club (Inc) 465 Te Atatu Rd Te Atatu Peninsula Auckland

18. Waiheke Island Pony Club Tahatai Rd Blackpool Auckland

19. Whenuapai Pony Club

20. Whitford Pony Club Whitford Hwy Whitford Auckland.

Cross country course

21. Totara Park Pony Club, RDA (Totara Park Riding for the Disabled) (Totara Park Riding

for the Disabled) and Adult Riding Club.

TPEC lease 30 acres from the Manukau City Council. Outdoor arena which is available

for hire and access to Totara Park reserve.

22. Wainui Pony Club operates from privately owned farmland Wainui Rd

RIDING FOR THE DISABLED (NZRDA)

Totara Park RDA - Operates from TPEC(Totara Park Equestrian Centre) with Pony Club

Eastern Suburbs

Mangere RDA - Ambury Park

Henderson RDA - operates with Henderson Valley Pony Club

Greenhithe RDA – operates with Greenhithe Pony Club

North Shore RDA – operates with North Shore Pony Club\Riding Club

Drury RDA



ADDITIONAL RESOURCES FOR RECREATION MANAGERS

New Zealand is certainly not the first in the world to provide equestrian recreation, or have

to manage recreation areas for multiple use. There are many excellent resources available

that outline best practice for managing public access, visitor safety and sports events.

The Greenways Handbook provides guidance for practitioners to help to plan and

create traffic-free and off road routes (Greenways) to meet the needs of walkers,

cyclists and or horse riders. Local authority officers, in particular those with a remit

for transport, health, recreation, rights of way or tourism, are encouraged to use the

approach to greenway design set out in this guidance. (Natural England) (Natural

England)

Managing Public Access: A guide for land managers (Countryside Agency) (Countryside

Agency)

Sport and Challenge events in the countryside – Guidelines for organisers.

www.nationaltrail.co.uk/penninebridleway/pdfs/event_guidelines.pdf

Managing visitor safety in the countryside – principles and practice. (2002) Visitor

Safety in the Countryside Group. www.vscg.co.uk

Management for People – National Trust for Scotland, Forestry Commission Scotland,

Fife Council (2004). www.snh.org.uk

American Trails provides a considerable number of resources and recommendations for

trail builders and recreation managers.

http://www.americantrails.org/resources/index.html

GATES, STRUCTURES AND TRAIL DESIGN GUIDES

The US Forest service developed

drawings for gates that meet the

accessibility requirements for

wheelchairs, horses, or both, but

restrict motorized vehicle access. The

new gates can help the Forest Service

fulfill its policy of universal design,

providing access to public lands for all

people. (US Forest Service, 2007) (US

Forest Service, 2007)

Gaps, Gates and Stiles (2001). BS

5709:2001. Available from British

Standards Institute www.bsi-

global.com

Designing Shared-Use Trails to Include Equestrian, Anne M. O’Dell

Natural Surface Trails by Design: Physical and Human Design Essentials of Sustainable,

Enjoyable Trails, Troy Scott Parker

Trails for the Twenty-First Century: Planning, Design, and Management Manual for

Multi-Use Trails, Second Edtion, Charles A. Flink, Kristine Olka, and Robert M. Searns

FIGURE 41 EXAMPLE OF A HORSE FRIENDLY FOREST GATE

WITH WHEELCHAIR ACCESS US FOREST SERVICE

http://www.nationaltrail.co.uk/penninebridleway/pdfs/event_guidelines.pdf

http://www.vscg.co.uk/

http://www.snh.org.uk/

http://www.americantrails.org/resources/index.html


vR1.2 71

The High Picket Line, Steve Guymon, Bridgerland Back Country Horsemen

Designing Sidewalks and Trails for Access, Part II of II: Best Practices Design Guide

(Chapters 12-19 Recreation Trail Design, Planning and Maintenance) – US Dept of

Transportation, Federal Highway Administration.

Manuals and Guides for Trail Design, Construction, Maintenance, and Operation, and

for Signs – US Dept of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration

http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/rectrails/manuals.htm

Trail Construction and Maintenance Notebook, 2004 Edition US Dept of Transportation,

Federal Highway Administration

http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/fspubs/00232839/toc.htm

http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/rectrails/manuals.htm



MOORE‟S 12 PRINCIPLES FOR MINIMIZING CONFLICT

From: CONFLICTS ON MULTIPLE-USE TRAILS: Synthesis of the Literature and State of the

Practice. Moore, 1994

Sponsored by The Federal Highway Administration and The National Recreational Trails Advisory Committee

The existing literature and practice were synthesized into the following 12 principles for minimizing conflicts on multiple-use trails. Adherence to these principles should help improve sharing and cooperation on multiple-use trails.

1. Recognize Conflict as Goal Interference -- Do not treat conflict as an inherent incompatibility among different trail activities, but goal interference attributed to another's behavior.

2. Provide Adequate Trail Opportunities -- Offer adequate trail mileage and provide opportunities for a variety of trail experiences. This will help reduce congestion and allow users to choose the conditions that are best suited to the experiences they desire.

3. Minimize Number of Contacts in Problem Areas -- Each contact among trail users (as well as contact with evidence of others) has the potential to result in conflict. So, as a general rule, reduce the number of user contacts whenever possible. This is especially true in congested areas and at trailheads. Disperse use and provide separate trails where necessary after careful consideration of the additional environmental impact and lost opportunities for positive interactions this may cause.

4. Involve Users as Early as Possible -- Identify the present and likely future users of each trail and involve them in the process of avoiding and resolving conflicts as early as possible, preferably before conflicts occur. For proposed trails, possible conflicts and their solutions should be addressed during the planning and design stage with the involvement of prospective users. New and emerging uses should be anticipated and addressed as early as possible with the involvement of participants. Likewise, existing and developing conflicts on present trails need to be faced quickly and addressed with the participation of those affected.

5. Understand User Needs -- Determine the motivations, desired experiences, norms, setting preferences, and other needs of the present and likely future users of each trail. This "customer" information is critical for anticipating and managing conflicts.

6. Identify the Actual Sources of Conflict -- Help users to identify the specific tangible causes of any conflicts they are experiencing. In other words, get beyond emotions and stereotypes as quickly as possible, and get to the roots of any problems that exist.

7. Work with Affected Users -- Work with all parties involved to reach mutually agreeable solutions to these specific issues. Users who are not involved as part of the solution are more likely to be part of the problem now and in the future.

8. Promote Trail Etiquette -- Minimize the possibility that any particular trail contact will result in conflict by actively and aggressively promoting responsible trail behavior. Use existing educational materials or modify them to better meet local needs. Target these educational efforts, get the information into users' hands as early as possible, and present it in interesting and understandable ways (Roggenbuck and Ham 1986).

9. Encourage Positive Interaction Among Different Users -- Trail users are usually not as different from one another as they believe. Providing positive interactions both on and off the trail will help break down barriers and stereotypes, and build understanding, good will, and cooperation. This can be accomplished through a variety of strategies such as sponsoring "user swaps," joint trail-building or maintenance projects, filming trail-sharing videos, and forming Trail Advisory Councils.


vR1.2 73

10. Favor "Light-Handed Management" -- Use the most "light-handed approaches" that will achieve area objectives. This is essential in order to provide the freedom of choice and natural environments that are so important to trail-based recreation. Intrusive design and coercive management are not compatible with high-quality trail experiences.

11. Plan and Act Locally -- Whenever possible, address issues regarding multiple-use trails at the local level. This allows greater sensitivity to local needs and provides better flexibility for addressing difficult issues on a case-by-case basis. Local action also facilitates involvement of the people who will be most affected by the decisions and most able to assist in their successful implementation.

12. Monitor Progress -- Monitor the ongoing effectiveness of the decisions made and programs implemented. Conscious, deliberate monitoring is the only way to determine if conflicts are indeed being reduced and what changes in programs might be needed. This is only possible within the context of clearly understood and agreed upon objectives for each trail area.



EXAMPLE CODES OF PRACTICE

All trail users are responsible for watching and listening for others. Traveling on the right side

of the trail removes indecision about the proper side on which to pass. Always ask for and get

permission if you must pass on the left. Slow down significantly and use caution at curves and

junctions. Surprises are not safe - it doesn't matter what you are riding.

Yield to a horse and rider. Be sure the horse has seen and heard you; give the horse adequate

room to pass.

A hiker should call out a friendly hello and request that s/he would like to pass. The horse

rider may need to pull over, to provide the safest position to the hiker. If the rider has his

horse under control, proceed; if not, allow the rider to move his horse beyond you.

Motorized recreation vehicles can usually be heard coming, and the horse rider may be well

out of the way. If not, please shut off the motor and allow the rider to get a distance beyond

you before starting up. Turn off engines any time a horse appears nervous. Ask the rider what

you can do to help.

Bicycles are quiet and not heard by horse or rider. Speak out so the horse hears a human

voice. It may be necessary for the bicyclist to remain stopped, allowing the horse and rider

the opportunity to get out of the way, before proceeding.

Promote a positive relationship with a friendly greeting. Calm, pleasant conversations

reassure the animal that all is ok.

A horse rider may choose to move his horse on without stopping. This is not a lack of courtesy

but a decision on how best to control the animal. Or the rider may request that you continue

past. Ask the rider to advise you.

- Code of Practice New Hampshire Trails Bureau (New Hampshire Trails Bureau) (New

Hampshire Trails Bureau)


vR1.2 75

-

FIGURE 42 CODE OF CONDUCT WALES FORESTRY COMMISSION



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vR1.2 83

Notes

i Pony Club contact lists are available from the Pony Club official website www.nzpca.org.nz ii Forums used to publicise questionnaire were

– Trademe community (www.trademe.co.nz), – lifestyleblock forums (www.lifestyleblock.co.nz), – horsetalk board (www.nzhorses.co.nz) and – horsetalk forums (www.horsetalk.co.nz).

iii SPARCs participation surveys vary in timescale depending on age group. Young people are asked if they have participated in the last 2 weeks, while adults are asked for participation in the last 4 weeks. iv It is unclear whether they Forestry Companies have a right to charge for recreational access, under their Crown lease. Although walkers may retain the right to recreation in Crown lease forests, the practical impediments placed on them by the Forest licensee can mean that effective access is restricted. For example: DOC Conservation areas in Woodhill have been effectively cut off from walkers by the changes to parking areas near Restall Rd. Walkers must now park at Bike Parks parking although the two groups have little in common, and access to the native areas are considerably further away. v Auckland Woodhill Endurance Club (AWEC) currently manages the Woodhill Forest through an organisation called Woodhill Forest Equestrian Park (WFEP). They hold events in the horse only area, as opposed to hiring the shared area of the forest at South Restall (as other clubs have to)

http://www.nzpca.org.nz/

http://www.trademe.co.nz/

http://www.lifestyleblock.co.nz/

http://www.nzhorses.co.nz/