Rotorua police to crack down on illegal dirt bike riders

Thursday 10 July 2025 · 4 outlets · 4 reports · updated Fri 11 Jul 2025, 11:26am

In this story Rotorua Police, Phil Gillbanks

Rotorua police are planning a crackdown on illegal dirt bike riders following numerous reports of damage to parks and recreational areas. Acting area commander Inspector Phil Gillbanks warned that the activity could lead to injuries or fatalities. Recent incidents include an assault on an elderly person and a rider hitting a lamppost.

How they headlined it

16h

Thu 3:52pm5:22pm7:21pmFri 11:26am

1. NZ HeraldThu 10 Jul 2025, 3:52pm

   Rotorua police to crack down on illegal dirt bike riders amid surge in park damage (opens in new tab)

2. Otago Daily TimesThu 10 Jul 2025, 5:22pm

   ‘Stop this madness’: Crackdown on illegal dirt bikers (opens in new tab)

3. 1NewsThu 10 Jul 2025, 7:21pm

   'Stop this madness': Police promise crackdown on illegal dirt bikers (opens in new tab)

4. RNZFri 11 Jul 2025, 11:26am

   Police promise crackdown on illegal dirt bikers amid fears of fatalities in Rotorua (opens in new tab)