Access Opposition Summary

Quantitative

Does the comment oppose recreational access to the Ngati Koata land?

50 comments were found to be true for the question "Does the comment oppose recreational access to the Ngati Koata land?".

Qualitative

Please provide a summary of the main reasons why submitters oppose the plan to negotiate an access agreement to the Ngati Koata land.

50 comments were used to answer the question "Please provide a summary of the main reasons why submitters oppose the plan to negotiate an access agreement to the Ngati Koata land.".

Response

Based on the analysis of the 493 comments reviewed, where 50 comments were identified as opposing the plan to negotiate an access agreement to the Ngāti Koata land, several key themes and concerns emerge from the submissions:

  1. Economic Impact: Many submitters express concerns about the potential economic loss if long-term recreational access is not secured. They highlight the significant contribution of mountain biking and other recreational activities to the local economy, including tourism, job creation, and the attraction of skilled workers to the region.

  2. Community and Lifestyle: Submitters emphasize the importance of the trails for community well-being and lifestyle. The trails are seen as vital for maintaining a balanced work-life environment and for providing recreational opportunities that enhance physical and mental health.

  3. Loss of World-Class Recreation Facilities: There is a strong sentiment that losing access to these trails would diminish Nelson's reputation as a world-class destination for mountain biking and other outdoor activities. This could lead to a decrease in visitors and new residents who are drawn to the area for its outdoor lifestyle.

  4. Impact on Local Identity and Social Fabric: The trails are viewed as an integral part of the local community’s identity and social fabric. Submitters worry that restricted access could weaken the community bonds formed through shared use of these recreational areas.

  5. Concerns Over Negotiation Delays and Uncertainty: Frustration is evident regarding the perceived slow pace of negotiations and the uncertainty this creates for future access. Submitters urge for a more decisive and swift action to secure long-term access agreements.

  6. Alternative Proposals and Suggestions: Some comments propose alternative solutions such as purchasing the land or enhancing negotiations to ensure that the community does not lose access to these valuable resources.

In summary, the opposition to the plan stems from concerns about significant economic impacts, the degradation of community lifestyle and identity, and the potential loss of Nelson’s status as a premier outdoor recreation destination. There is a strong call for ensuring long-term, secure access to the trails to support the community’s economic and social well-being.


Comments

Point ID Name Option_Selected Comment
547.2 Glen Buckley None Hi I wanted to share why it’s crucial to secure long-term recreational access on Ngāti Koata land.
If not secured then Community Assets of around 80% of Nelson’s trails which are on, or accessed through, land owned by Ngāti Koata will be lost. These trails are essential community assets that provide opportunities for outdoor activities like walking, running, and mountain biking which is my passion along with 3000 other nelson mountain biking members.  
Let’s not forget the loss of the tourism draw. These recreational areas are not only valuable to us locals but also attract tourists from around NZ and the world. Nelson’s mountain biking trails are renowned for their diversity, accessibility, and high international standards. They contribute significantly to the local economy, generating millions of dollars in spending and supporting jobs.
Here is a quick web search of what has happened over the past year that used this land:
Mammoth Enduro, Mid-Winter 6hr and Mini-MTB Series, Spring Super D Series and XC Series, And the NZ MTB Rally which attracted riders from around the globe- ( which many return to ride our trails after the event ( petty access to the Sharland forest was closed!! https://www.facebook.com/nelsonmountainbikeclub/photos/a.212814005434665/4934077903308228/?paipv=0&eav=AfaYWCVYNLb-G5Xurk9qgr8lVObmS_QJbUDymzDDkeIJgQkOnDapw4iRFBGYL1iIz7I&_rdr   ). 
It is well known that Ngāti Koata has been managing recreation on this land for years, ensuring that people can enjoy it which must be celebrated. However, this responsibility is a financial burden for them, which must be addressed and reviewed in time. Consideration should be given reviewing how Mountain biking plays a significant role in Rotorua’s economy and how their approach to work together benefits everyone.
I found this online which highlights the benefits.
[ A recent report commissioned by RotoruaNZ assessed the contribution of mountain biking to the Rotorua Lakes Economy. Here are some key findings:
1.       In 2021, $103.4 million was spent in Rotorua by visitors who came solely for mountain biking.
2.       Visitors who mountain biked while staying in Rotorua for other reasons contributed an additional $36.4 million, resulting in a total contribution of $139.8 million to the local economy.
3.       Approximately 1,153 jobs in 2021 could have been supported by mountain bike visitors’ spending, with 853 of those jobs directly related to people whose primary purpose of visiting was to mountain bike.
4.       Despite the impact of Covid-19 border closures, the report suggests that once international visitors return, the total number of people participating in mountain biking in Rotorua could rise from 154,170 in 2021 to 219,956 in 2026, with spending increasing from $139.8 million to $213.4 million2.
Investment in mountain biking infrastructure, such as the Te Pūtake o Tawa Mountain Bike Hub, has not only benefited the local economy but also provided opportunities for private sector investment in previously undeveloped and inaccessible locations for mountain bikers ]
If that isn’t enough of a reason why losing long-term recreational access on Ngāti Koata land doesn’t only disadvantage the outdoor enthusiasts and mountain bikers, it will have a significantly economic loss to the community.
I am honestly at a lose of why this is still being discussed. Why are we not celebrating the beautiful area we get to live and play in how the council / community and Ngāti Koata  have worked together to provide the best place to live in NZ ?
Regards Glen Buckley
773.12 Adam Burwell None
Recreational access to Ngāti Koata whenua - NCC MUST support ensuring access to the largest and arguably most under-utilized resource in Nelson - our amazing biking and walking trails.  We moved here from America for these mountain bike trails and live in the city for the proximity to the trails, our children's schools and our work.  I'm a sustainability consultant downtown, my wife is a GP downtown, our kids go to Hampden, we bike in Codgers/Sharlands across the land in question as a family 2-4x a week, our kids take mountain bike classes after school, our friends come from elsewhere in New Zealand and the world to mountain bike in Nelson. We, American ex-pats, are surrounded by hundreds of similar age professionals both from NZ and abroad that live this lifestyle.  The recreational work and life balance offer of Nelson draws in not only tourists but thousands of working families investing way more in the tax base of this community than Radiata Pine does.  Additionally, as a sustainability professional, I know the carbon life cycle capture benefits and other native flora/fauna benefits are numerous from reinstating native bush vs. continuing to let the soil wash away in mono-crop pine forests. So New Zealand and Nelson specifically stands to gain a lot more from promoting native tree species, continued predator trapping programme, etc. and recreational land use to build a healthier environment and economy. To be brutally honest, I'm not sure if living in Nelson for our family is compatible with a community who doesn't fight to maintain access to around 80% of it's trail system, it's that important.
1314.2 Durand Coldicott None Nelson is recognised as being a world-class mountain biking destination, but we could quickly lose that status without access to Ngāti Koata whenua (land). Our network of trails is globally recognised and hugely important for our community in a broad sense. On a personal level, these trails are a great source of physical and mental wellbeing, and a place i share an enormous amount of time with family and friends. On a professional level, I work in the cycle industry and losing access to local trails would have a large impact on the success of our business. The flow on impact of less access to trails will effect local spend as well as greatly reduced tourism spending. A smaller local trail network work have a large impact on me and many others in the community.
Our trails are hugely important and highly valued in Nelson Tasman for visitors and the local community.
Mountain biking was recently estimated to have potential value of $49m direct spend for our local economy on the basis of full access – and that’s not counting the wider economic benefits such as the many skilled workers who choose to live here beacuse of the quality of the trails!
Nelson Mountain Bike Club members have been working tirelessly for the last 35 years to establish Nelson as a world-class riding destination.
Mountain biking is part of the social fabric of Nelson, it builds community and is part of our identity.
Please do all you can to retain the current trail network.
625.2 Cameron Rust None We travel to Nelson to mountain-bike several times per year. Usually spending a cumulative of about ten days riding over the course of the year.
Part of the appeal is the terrain, it's notoriously difficult and renown for it's gradient. Part of this has meant that it has almost become almost a niche area for hardcore riders and with the explosion of e-bikes, has allowed riders of more varying fitness levels to access trails. 
If anything, Nelson needs more trail area, it is desperately short of climbing trails. The majority of the climbs are up fire or logging roads which have gradients that are only for the very fit or those on e-bikes. To lose access to such a vast area will be a virtual death knell. There need to be more blue and green climbing and descending trails. 10% gradient climbs for an hour followed by a grade 5 or 6 descent is only ever going to appeal to a small portion of riders. 
We already get warned we stay about choosing our dinner options early otherwise the outlets will close. Nelson has a Tauranga like retired feel to it already. I can't imagine what it would be like if the mountain bikers stop coming. Rotorua trails don't cost anything and most weekends it feels like half of Auckland descends on the trails. That is what Nelson should be emulating. Get riders coming from all over the country.
1157.9 Rosa Hart None 1. Grant long term access from Ngati Koata for recreational users. This includes, biking, walking, running, hunting and perhaps motocross if it is safe to do so.
2. Cancel any future culling on Ngati Koata land. Why should ratepayers pay for pest control on private land that we may in the future not have access to? We should not be paying for this anyway as it is on private land and the ratepayers reap no benefit. It is not working, the animals will keep pouring in from Sharlands and beyond and taking out small amounts each season will provide premium breeding for the animals the move in. Look at how they manage herds up north - you are doing a great job of creating a healthy herd environment. You would be better off creating publicly accessed hunting blocks in Ngati Koata, managed in a similar way to the Molesworth Station.
3. If you want to wast ratepayer money on the culling please do it in the off season in the middle of winter, not in May when everyone is still out and about.
4. Communicate with Ngati Koata and come to a resolution, do not be held ransom every year and have to bribe them with ratepayers money to keep access open to assets (trails) that the ratepayers have funded and made.
1298.2 Jack Greenaway None The importance of the Nelson City Council securing long term recreational access with Ngāti Koata to ensure we keep the best mountain bike trials in Aotearoa alive. The club has all the information on their website which I know the council is aware of so I wont repeat it.
I've spent all 21 years of my life in Nelson and been riding for around half that time. I've seen the trails grow and develop and the community it has created from all events and just having a place to ride. The opinion on nelson shared by many people from around my age is that this is predominantly an old person town, having minimal attractions that hold us down to living here, which is why we leave. I have been amazed by the increase in younger riders I now see on the trails and at races. To lose our trails would mean our tamariki would lose a major social aspect to their lives and lose the best hobby there is, if the council is serious about making this town more appealing to younger people and retaining them the trails must stay. The shared opinion of the people I'm surrounded with is the trials and our jobs and are the main/only thing keeping us in the grey old town. You can't let these beautiful sculpted trails just get overgrown with broom and gorse, there will be tears.
Jack
1349.2 Jo Field None Priortise negotiating a long-term access plan with Ngati Koata.  The negotiation have been going too long and needs to have more emphasis to a conclusion.
We moved to Nelson partially for the MTB riding on offer.  To loose access to these existing trails on Koata land would make Nelson a far less desirable place to live.  Friends and family from overseas and within NZ recognise the trails as world class and the NMBC members/volunteers have provided the time and the results are obvious.
Aside from the obvious that riding is pushed by councils and governments for healthy lifestyle and wellbeing, it also creates a connection and economy for the community both directly and indirectly.  Again, without the numerous trails available the variety would wane and so would interest.  Nelson region eclipses Tasman and Marlborough regions for MTB trails.
It is well known throughout NZ that the economic benefits from supporting (both central government and local councils) MTB trails, and trails in general, is substantial.  I understand that the potential value suggested by the NMBC is approx. $49M direct spend into the local economy.  I have supported and advocated MTB trails in Tasmania, Tasman and Marlborough regions and have a sound understanding of the economic benefits to community/regions.
519.10 Michelle Hart None Why is securing access to Ngati Koata land not a priority? How many residents use this land for recreational use? This land makes up 80% of Nelson’s trails - used for running, walking and biking and built and maintained by the Nelson MTB Club. Access is essential, the trails are a huge unrecognized asset to Nelson, the main reason why some live in the city, also essential for postive health and mental health outcomes in the comminity. Already a huge loss was the walters bluff walk/bike along the top ridge, for bike commuters and walkers in the Nelson, Atawhai area.
Also a huge un-utilised drawcard for tourisim which has the potential to re-vitalise a dyding cbd. Google ‘What is Whistler known for’ mountain biking & hiking in the summer, what is Boulder (Colorado) known for - stellar food, arts and outdoor activities, biking being a main drawcard. If we loose access to this land and 80% of our trails Nelson will die a bit more…
Which brings me to ask why is there not more focus on revitalising out city with a more outdoor focus? More focus on the outdoor pursuits, the marine pursuits less on the arts and crafts as a tourisim drawcard.
934.10 Shane Hart None We urgently need the council to work harder to grant long term access for recreational use on Ngāti Koata land. This should be top priority for many reasons.
Having trails on private land that can be shut in the blink of an eye is not great for the local economy and well being of the community. Why should we expect tourists to book holidays here to ride, run, walk if they don’t know if the trails are going to be open or shut?
Why did our best trails and resources go from being publicly accessed to be sold to a small minority that can shut everyone out at a whim? Why is not more being done to grant long term access for the whole community? Why is more not being done to grant access so we can drive tourists to the area, invest in local development and boost our local economy?

Why are we spending $100’s of thousands of dollars every year to get out of town pest cullers to control animals on public & private land, up Codgers, Sharlands, Fringed hill? All of the funds go out of town and do not contribute to the local economy. Why can we not arrange a local system or use local resources like the Deerstalkers Club, or ballot the area into blocks during the quiet season and allow local private hunters in.
757.7 Zoe King None Nelson City Council should prioritize long-term negotiations with Ngāti Koata for access to their land. Nelson is renowned as a world-class mountain biking destination, but without guaranteed trail access, people will no longer visit Nelson to ride. My family moved from Sydney to Nelson for the mountain biking and lifestyle. We have lived here for over 9years, purchasing a home and contribute greatly to the local region.
Our trails hold immense value in Nelson Tasman, both for visitors and the local community. If you read the latest Berl report you will see that mountain biking was estimated to contribute a direct spend of $49 million to our local economy, assuming full access. This figure doesn’t even account for broader economic benefits, such as attracting skilled workers who choose to reside here due to the trail quality.
The local Nelson Mountain Bike Club have tirelessly worked to establish Nelson as a premier riding destination, holding well organised world class events. Mountain biking is woven into the social fabric of our community—it fosters connections, builds community, and forms part of our identity. Moreover, it plays a crucial role in our health and well-being, keeping us connected as a community.
The council must secure long term access to Ngāti Koata’s land as a priority.
580.3 Ben Pearson None MOUNTAIN BIKING (MTB) IN NELSON

I'd like  Nelson City Council to prioritize negotiating a long-term access plan with Ngāti Koata. I understand these have been ongoing for a while.


Nelson has a great reputation internationally for MTB.  We ran tourist accommodation for a number of years with many MTB visitors.  Reduction in close-proximity tracks will impact this.




We moved to Nelson due to the MTB facilities and access.  I know others have too.  It's rare to have so much so close.
 
Mountain biking was recently estimated to have potential value of $49m direct spend for our local economy on the basis of full access - and that's not counting the wider economic benefits such as the many skilled workers who choose to live here because of the quality of the trails!


Nelson Mountain Bike Club members have been working tirelessly for the last 35 years to establish Nelson as a world-class riding destination.


Mountain biking is part of the social fabric of Nelson, it builds community and is part of our identity.


Mountain biking is important for our health and wellbeing and helps us be more connected as a community.
937.3 Tony Mifsud None The long term access plan with Ngāti Koata has been on the NCC agenda for so long with minimal progress. This is a major issue for the Nelson region residents as it has become a real cause for concert that a major part of the regions recreational access could end at the discretion of the ladowner at anytime. I moved to NZ from the UK to be in Nelson and the number one driver for me was the fantastic recreational opportunities that we had here, these have already been sorely eroded by the mismanaged forestry programme which has seen the loss of many great recreational areas for little if any financial benefit to the local taxpayers, this along side the threat of no access across Ngati Kouata land would, for many many people, mean the loss of the main reason they settled in the area in the first place and would negate any reason for staying in the region and I for one would need to reconsider my medium term plan and make a decision if I stay in Nelson or not. Please bring this to the front of the Council's agenda during this term so that we can all continue to enjoy the best of what Nelson has to offer without this uncertainty hanging over us.
608.4 Shaun Graham None Priority should be given to the negotiation of a long-term access plan with Ngāti Koata in regards to access to their land for recreational use by mountain bikers, walkers and other users.  Negotiations have been going on since December 2020 with no resolution as yet.  Without this resolution there is large uncertainty for the future of access to these areas.  If access to these areas is lost there will be a massive loss to the Nelson region.  Mountain biking alone was recently estimated to bring in $49millon direct spend in the Nelson region each year.  Without access to this land and with that most of the trails this will drop considerably and Nelson will lose its world class mountain biking reputation and all the benefits that come with it.  With no certainty to access to this land it is very hard to get funding to invest in areas such as increasing the trails and recreation areas and as a by product less business's will exist to supply the need.  We need to support the work that has gone on by the community over decades to continue growing it into the future.
1395.4 Peter O'Regan None I would like to see Council work with Ngati Koata to insure long term use for everyone of the land surrounding nelson. One of the greatest assets of Nelson is the vast array of both mountain bike trails and walking trails right on our doorstep. To me, that is what makes this such an amazing place to live. 
The Nelson Mountain bike do a great job of managing and maintaining the trail network. I see so many people of all ages enjoying the trails. Everyone is super friendly and positive and its just a great scene to be a part of. I want to see this continue and to grow as more people travel to Nelson for the riding here and many will want to move here. Not many places have the trails so close to town.
Its also great that we can walk our dogs or take them riding with us in so many places. I know my dog really appreciates walking on different trails.
So to lose access to the Ngati Koata land would be absolutely devastating to so many Nelsonians. I just hope that never happens. All the best.
797.1 Annie Garland None Prioritising a long-term access plan with Ngāti Koata. There are some of the worlds most amazing mountainbiking trails through their land and if access is lost we lose those trails and all the massive benifits that they bring to the Nelson community. 
The trails are an amazing resource that bring visitors to Nelson to get a taste of the world-class riding. It also helps bring skilled workers to the region as people want to live in locations where trails like this are easily accessable. I personally chose to live in Nelson because of the trails access and quality.
The Nelson Mountainbiking community is really quite exceptional. For most of us it keeps us connected with the community and connected with each other. when you have a group this size that all share the same passion it really is amazing.
If access was lost, then Nelson would no longer be the home i chose to live in. I work as a Nurse so as tyere is work everywhere for me, i choose the locations i live in for tye lifestyle.
1306.10 Josh Tansey None Negotiate long-term access with Ngati Koata for recreational trails. Alternatively, purchase Ngati Koata land to ensure long term access.
Some action on this front would be appreciated. It has become abundantly clear that NCC is the only party that has power to do this (NMTBC dont have the funds or say), but continue to be inactive in this space. The alternative is to start approving and putting plans in place for further trails on NCC owned land - the Cable Bay Adventure Park shows that people are willing to volunteer to build and maintain trails, but the issue is that NCC won't allow this to happen on their land, despite indications from the ratepayers that this is what they want.
If something doesnt change on the current trails front, Nelson mountain biking (and recreation generally) will die a slow death as Ngati Koata restrict access and NCC don't provide an alternative - this is particularly imminent with Sharlands set to be harvested in the coming years as the trees mature.
798.7 Krystina Healey-Furniss None yes. Please consider coming to a reasonable agreement with Ngati Koata in regards to the accessibilty to mountain bike/walking trails in the Codgers, Sharlands and Maitai areas. The mountain bike club committee memebers have been working tirelessly for 30+ years to maintain a world class standard of riding trails not only for Nelson/Tasman but for visitors to NZ. Without these trails, Nelson will become more of a slum than it already feels like its heading. I don’t see any new improvements to this city that entice tourists to the area but without any decent riding trails (not only riding though remeber, people walk these trails too!) i feel as if Nelson will become a ghost town while Richmond grows and flourishes. I understand MTB is not the only attraction bringing people together here, however we are known for our sunshine hours and our love of the outdoors and what will be here to encourage that perspective in the future with this proposal?
622.5 James Dawson None Nelson is recognised as being a world-class mountain biking destination, but we could quickly lose that status without long term access to Ngāti Koata land. I believe NCC should be prioritising the negotiation of a long-term aacess plan with Ngati Koata. Mountain biking was recently estimated to have potential value of $49m direct spend for our local economy on the basis of full access – and that’s not counting the wider economic benefits such as the many skilled workers who choose to live here because of the quality of the trails. Mountain biking is part of the fabric of Nelson, it's part of our identity and is important part of many residents' health and wellbeing. A quick glance at the cars in Nelson car parks and on Nelson's roads will show how important a part it is of Nelson life, just by observing the number of bike racks there are, often for 4,5 or even 6 bikes.
196.2 Susan Harbinson None Part of the reason that we moved to Nelson is as a family we love Mountain biking.  There are a wide variety of trails, and my 3 children can now all ride to a high level because of the wide variety of tracks.  We respect the iwi land and are very grateful that the different tribes allow this.  It would be a travesty if this access was denied.  Nelson would lose it’s world class reputation in the mountain biking world.  Our children would be denied the opportunity to have access to the more advanced trails, and be less able to compete in National competitions.  Mountain bikers would stop coming to Nelson.  The area would lose a lot of money secondary to this.  I would also like to mention please move forward with all the bike initiatives so that Nelsonians are the healthiest and happiest residents that they can be.
207.5 Dene Gavin None I am concerned about the long-term access to Ngati Koata land for mountain biking, and it is important to me that the access continues. I moved to Nelson for live and work 10 years ago largely due to the recreational opportunities, including access for mountain biking, provides from a personal wellbeing point of view, together the with the ability to spend time outdoors as a family. 
I am a local business owner, attracting good talent to the Nelson is crucial for the economic growth of the region.  Every year when we interview graduates there is a large number that want to come to Nelson for the mountain biking. Nelson's ability to attract talent includes its unique landscape and outdoor lifestyle, mountain biking is a crucial part of this.  
If access to the trails located on Ngati Koata land is lost Nelson mountain biking will no longer be the world class destination it currently is.
181.7 Tayla Carson None Recreational access to Ngati Koata whenua
Recreational access to this land is extremely important to the community. These areas are significant and have a huge amount of positive effects for the community. The social wellbeing of the community is dependent on ongoing access to these areas. The flow on economic benefits of mountain biking in these areas are significant and generate a lot of income for Nelson. These trails are world class and if this land is taken away from recreational use, it would be a significant loss. Easements need to be established and prevent Tasman Pine from closing access. This is important and needs to be prioritized by Council. There are 3000 members of the NMTBC, and this affects them all. This is 1000x more important than a sports turf or art hub (in terms of people directly impacted). 
1409.9 Taylor Brooker None For the thousands of locals and visitors like myself who enjoy the amazing mountain bike trails in the Nelson area, I urge you as council to please secure long term access to Ngāti Koata whenua land. To lose 80% of our trails would be hugely disappointing. If long term access is not secured I would imagine that far fewer visitors would come to nelson, because there would simply be nothing exciting worth riding. Not to mention the $49m that is bought into local economy from mountain biking. Once long term access is secured I also suggest that the fringed hill gondola be revisited. Myself and many people I know have discussed how great the gondola would be for bringing in many more mountain bikers and sightseers into the region, plus the massive boost to local economy.
1293.8 Matt Ayloff None Have council fund money needed to keep mountain biking going in Nelson. The track that are not on Council land needvto be held onto as to keep Nelson the mtb mecca it us. Our ability to have a world enduro here was a great start in Showing Nelson to the world. Although stopped by covid, we have the tracks and facilities to hold another in the future.
I currently train mtb riders that are onnthe world enduro circuit and without locsl track this eoukdbe be possible.  
Mtb riding is also key to alot of peoples well being and exercise needs. We are so lucky to have 3000 club members and growing. 
it would be money well spent if the council helped the club hold on to tracks on Ngati Kotata land.
280.8 Irene Firestone None Please continue with urgency in your negotiations with Ngāti Koata whenua re land access and long term access.   We have an amazing resource of cycling trails and they are a huge asset to our community, whether for family recreation, mental health being in the outdoors and healthy family activities.  These trails and Nerlson reputation for riding brings huge income and resources to Nelson, it would be sad and a huge negative impact to our community health and economy to see this space reduced - if anything we need to keep growing it.  Please for your local and extended community make this happen and save all our trails and enablel us to build more.  We are so lucky to have what we have in the trails around Nelson and the space we can use.
1209.2 Nina McIntosh None Making sure that all the mtb tracks around codgers and the maitai remain available, and negotiate with Ngāti Koata about the future of nelson mountain bike club acess to land on which the tracks are on. These trails are really important to our community, and thousands of locals ride here everyday. Mountain biking is a massive tourist attraction in nelson, and not securing guarenteed acsess could drive away many locals and tourists from the area. Mountain biking is a very social sport with a stong sence of comradery, we host many races, festivals and other events that attract people from all over NZ and the world. Many Without guarenteed acsess, we would lose many world class incredible tracks that many of our locals depend on.
617.10 Zoe Trolove None Please prioritize the long term recreational land access agreement with Ngāti Koata. These mountain biking tracks are an incredible resource for the recreational and tourism industry of Nelson and many people including myself come to nelson just for these tracks. To loose them would not only impact the people who regularly use the land for recreational purposes but it would also impact the large number of businesses in nelson that either rely or are benefitted by the mountain biking industry. Tourism is now Aotearoa Zealand's largest industry so to not prioritize and potentially loose a massive asset to Nelson's tourism industry it would severely impact not only the people using the land but also the entirety of the Nelson district and its economy.
1281.10 Hannah Greenhough None I ask that NCC prioritises a long-term access plan with Ngāti Koata to ensure that recreational access to this land and the world class trails already on it remains. Nelson is known around NZ (and the world) to be somewhere to come if you enjoy being on trails, especially for mountain bikers and runners. Losing access to this land would hugely impact adventure tourism in Nelson, and would be a major loss to the residents of Nelson who use these trails on a regular basis. The economic value of these trails has not been truly realised yet, and with further development over the coming years, they will make Nelson top of the list for many people around NZ and the world.
1237.1 Shannon Hewetson None Hey, I am a top National MTB racer who has raced at Venues throughout Australia and New Zealand. Nelson is one of the most amazing riding destinations with a good global reputation for our mixture of tracks, amazing sight scenery, super central hub to the city beaches and fantastic pool of great riders coming out of the area putting Nelson on the map around the country and World. 
It would be a massive blow to the community to loose such a big amount of tracks that have been volunteer built over many years in the region.
Please please take careful consideration into this out come that will impact thousands of locals! It would be very upsetting if the importance of this iz over looked! 
Thank you
279.2 Kynan Bazley None Access to Mountain biking tracks.
It's essential that access to tracks is retained through a comprehensive access agreement with Ngai Koata. 
I returned to NZ with my family in 2021 and chose Nelson specifically because it's a great place to live. One of the key things that makes it a great place to live is mountain biking. Without the track network we would not have moved here, and would likely move to where there is a good track network should the current access be closed. As a doctor, I would also be taking my professional skills and services with me. 
Please make sure access is retained for the future!
Thanks,
Dr Kynan Bazley
342.6 Tara Jackson None I would like to request that NCC prioritise negotiating a long-term access plan with Ngāti Koata, to ensure that we do not lose access to our incredible range of trails here in Nelson.
Our trails are hugely important and highly valued in Nelson Tasman for visitors and the local community. As both a trail runner and a mountain biker, i get to see the vast array of Nelsonians, and visitors that use these trails.
Our adventures on the trails keep us stay healthy, connect us, help us value and appreciate the land, and bring people from near and far to visit. 
To lose this would be devastating.
802.1 Kieran Bennett None As a keen mountain biker, securing long term access to trails on Ngati Koata land is very important to me. I moved back to Nelson from Christchurch and the world class mountain biking was a big draw card for that. I started riding in Nelson 30 years ago and have seen it develop into one of the most diverse and incredible riding destinations in the world, Nelson is now mentioned in the same breath as Rotorua and Queenstown when it comes to riding destinations.
However if we lose access to that land, all of that work and effort will be lost and we will no longer be a distination for mountain biking
1245.9 Shane Price None i would like to say that we need to work hard to keep access to Ngāti Koata whenua land. This is a place where a large number of the community use to walk run and ride for me this is a place to get away up into the hills and ride world class mountain bike trails. this is something that helps with mental health for alot of peole its there release there time to clear there head and just enjoy what this city has to offer. If this was to be taken away it would be a huge loss to nelson.
340.10 Oscar Slack None mountain biking is extremely important to young communitie of mountain bikers and the trails allow them to do outdoor activities it gives us something to do and keeps us off our devices. The nelson mountain bike club has done an excellent job of building a strong mountain biking community, with some of the best trails in New Zealand it would be a big detriment to close these trails. People over the world come to ride and race these trails and It would be a shame to see these trails gone and i know a lot of people would feel the same.
73.2 James Cameron None We need continued access to Koata land to access the mountain biking, walking and running trails.  I and my family use these trails multiple times a week and it is one of the significant drawcards to the region.  If this were to go I would seriously consider leaving Nelson. I am an anaesthetist at the hospital and a number of my medical colleagues are in the same use category and would feel similarly.  I use Codgers, Maitai Fringed Hill and Sharlands areas.  Thanks for your consideration
318.3 Maddi Harrop None so many people love to bike and it helps with peoples fitness ans wellbeing wnd the trails are world class and i think we need to make a big effort to work with ngati koata for a long term plan to still let mountain biking happen on there land, and if the trails fet closed then people WILL move away and that means the shops will die because of the lack of people, keep the Trails its people lifes and theres a whole community f people who love this sport ans you can not just tskw that away
581.3 Louise Kelly None it is important to me that the nelson city council comes up with a long term agreement in order to continue to acess the recreational access we currently have to Ngati Koata whenua in the Maitai valley area. As a mountian biker it is important to me and this what makes me call nelson home as i am able to ride in many different areas and trails that have been built over years. It would be a huge loss to the nelson region to see this land closed to public access
1437.10 Erica Clapp None i would like council to prioritise long term access to trails on Ngati Koata land. Nelson is a world class biking destination and losing access to these trails would be detrimental tk our town. I moved here 3 years ago because of the immediate access to trails and losinf acces would force me to reconsider my location. Mountain biking is part of our social fabric and contributes greatly to our sense of comminity. I request seriohs consideration be paid to maintaining access to Ngati Koata land.
919.10 libby slack None Negotiate a long term access with Ngati Koata so we can still ride all teh trails. Mounting biking generates a lot of money for the local region. NCC needs to look at Rotorua and implement their plan. Beautiful, well maintained forests and trails, international mtb events that generate millions of dollars in spending, provide free recreational facilities for all ages to enjoy. Give everyone something to do. Its so important that we continue with this access!
1119.8 Josh Roberts None please please please maintain access to Nelson's world-classountain bike trails that are so close to the city and are some of the most accessible trails anywhere in the world from.a central city location. These are part of the reason that people want to live in central Nelson so reducing the number of trails will be another reason for people to move away from the city. This is a growth industry and we know Nelson needs as many of these as possible to help keep it vibrant.
1137.3 Thomas Jacob None hallo team, as long im in new zealand its always a big part of my year to come to nelson and ride all the amazing mtb trails.its famous all over the world and rcutting that back would be such a massive impakt on nelson and the mtb world.i hope there is a good solution to keep nelson and the mtb comunity united big and strong and growing in the future.
1065.2 Alex Roberton None access to Ngati Koata land and the trails within it are what brought me to Nelson in the first place, having met my partner here and settling long term I have seen the incredible impact of mountain biking in my life as well as those around me. If this is taken from the largest cycling club in New Zealand it would be an embarrassing oversight on behalf of the council.
220.10 Danyon Hutt None Would be amazing to keep and provide a long term access plan to all the current mountain biking around the nelson region. Nelson is renowned for its mountain biking and out doors and im sure alot of people choose to live here and travel here for that reason, if access is removed or limited it could cause huge backlash. Would love to see it continue to grow vs reduce.
620.10 John Sexton None Negotiate and agree on a way forward to ensure that the public, mountain Bikeing and other can maintain access to the existing recreational infrasturcture on Ngati Koata owned and Tasman Pine managed land.
The loss if this will have a significant impact on the recreatinal appeal of nelson as a destination.
379.10 Will Slack None uphold the status of access to the surrounding iwi owned land for recreation. The loss of this will be a major blow for the development of our young community and the ability to keep Nelson active. Encourage the growth of community groups snd commercial operators to establish nelson as a destination among other towns in the South Island
192.3 Brad Beddek None Why does the council prioritize forestry in our reserves where the majority of the profits go offshore and what profit does come locally is only shared by a select few.  Especially when adventure tourism has been proven to be far more beneficial for the region on all levels. Please prioritize the Ngati Koata long term access agreement.
392.2 diane varey None I am concerned that access to recreational mountain biking (and walking trails) would be lost without cooperation with Ngati Koata. this is a vital recreational, economic and health (benefits of exercise) resource that would be a huge loss if we were not to continue to have access.
1077.6 Matt Lawrey None Negotiate a long-term recreational access agreement over Ngāti Koata whenua. Without this access, our city’s recreational and tourism opportunities will be significantly reduced. I’m kind of stunned this hasn’t been sorted already.
365.8 Margeaux Pittar None Keep the mountain bike tracks! Nelson has such a good oppertunity to make a global name for itself. Its already some of the best riding aeound, and would be such a loss to the community if these trails were lost.
300.10 Lucy Allan None maintaining access to the codgers recreation areas is so important for the city’s growth and tourist attraction overtime. Nelson mountain biking attracts thousands each year, limiting access to these areas would have a significant financial and socioeconomic impact.
1181.10 Shane Joyce None Ensure that the mountain bike network stays in place as it is a key tourist attraction, it is a key resource used by young people keeping them healthier - without the tracks the alternative options for youth is much worse.

Category: Recreational access to Ngati Koata whenua

Issue

A significant network of recreation trails has been developed over many years on Ngāti Koata whenua (land), providing important walking, running and mountain biking opportunities for residents and visitors to Nelson. Ngāti Koata supports recreation occurring on its whenua, providing a long-term agreement is reached in relation to public access. 
Council is proposing to negotiate a long-term recreational access agreement over Ngāti Koata whenua (this agreement would not involve purchasing any land at this time). Areas being considered are Codgers “Koata Park”, the Coppermine Triangle (an area where the Coppermine Trail passes through Ngāti Koata whenua), Fringed Hill Road, Matai Face and part of the Sharlands area.