Drivers on Auckland’s Muriwai Beach will have to pay a fee and a gate will be installed after a vote by Auckland Council – but how will the new payment system work?
How do drivers get to Muriwai beach?
A gate will be installed at the entrance from the Coast Rd to the beach and drivers must have a permit applied for and paid to get through the gate.
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Why is this happening?
Auckland Council said a fee-based system would make it possible to recover costs for the permitting process, along with the installation and maintenance of the gate.
Abigail Dougherty / Stuff
Auckland Council aims to implement a fee-based system for beach drivers by summer 2023/2024. (File photo)
Auckland Council Manager Regional Parks Scott De Silva said access to Muriwai was for vehicles caused ongoing concerns about the safety of beach users, impact on the environment and fire risk in the dunes due to driving in and camping.
“It is important to find the right balance to ensure everyone’s safety and fun on the beach. However, we also need to take measures to protect the unique environment of Muriwai and reduce the fire risk.”
What does it cost?
The final fee is yet to be confirmed, but $200 for an annual permit is the amount under discussion so far.
How will it help the environment of Muriwai?
Earlier, a spokesperson for the municipality said paying drivers for a permit would help control the number of vehicles on the beach and help the municipality deal with bad behavior more easily.
“This would help reduce the negative effects on the dunes and the sensitive native flora and fauna of the beach,” the spokesperson said.
“Persons who witness driving in the dunes, or in a dangerous way, can have their permits revoked.”
Auckland Council’s general manager of parks and community facilities, Taryn Crewe, agreed that if a vehicle was seen in the dunes or in a dangerous manner, the entry could be removed.
Simon Maude / Things
Muriwai Beach is one of only two in the Auckland area to allow vehicles onto the beach. (File photo)
Which beaches can I drive my car to in Auckland?
There are only two beaches in the region where people are allowed to drive on the beach. This includes Muriwai Beach to the west and Karioitahi Beach to the south.
How is beach access enforced?
According to Crewe, the gate-based system will provide access via number plate recognition.
The gates will only open to authorized vehicles, with the exception of entry for vehicles that are not allowed.
When will this happen?
Crewe said work is scheduled to be completed by summer 2023/2024.