The Tūpuna Maunga o Tāmaki Makaurau Authority is delighted that the tihi (summit) of Maungawhau / Mt Eden will be vehicle-free from Wednesday 20 January 2016. This implements the authority’s April 2015 decision which applies to all motor vehicles, including motorbikes and scooters.

Tūpuna Maunga Authority Chair Paul Majurey says this widely supported outcome respects the spiritual and cultural significance of the tihi to mana whenua as well as community aspirations reflected in the 2007 Maungawhau / Mt Eden Management Plan.

The 2007 plan resulted in the removal of heavy vehicles from the tihi in 2011, which achieved a safer environment for people through significantly less congestion.

“For mana whenua, the tihi of Maungawhau has always been a place to be treated with respect and reverence. The taonga is loved by all visitors as a place for quiet reflection and connection,” Mr Majurey says.

“Motor vehicle restriction on the tihi of Maungawhau was signalled many years ago as a key measure to protect this taonga, and to reflect the mana whenua and community aspirations of their living connections with this taonga. It is very pleasing to have reached this point.”

Limited mobility access

Council staff have worked closely with disability organisations on the arrangements for access by people with limited mobility.

From Wednesday 20 January, people who have limited mobility and are unable to walk to the tihi, or the driver for someone with limited mobility, can obtain a keypad access code to lower the bollards at the entrance to the summit road and drive to the tihi in their own vehicle.

Visitors will be able to obtain an access code on the day of their visit by calling Auckland Council on 09 379 1340 and providing their total mobility scheme or mobility parking permit number.

Pedestrians and cyclists on pedal bicycles will continue to have unrestricted use of the summit road, observing the 20km speed limit and pedestrian safety.