Manukau Mayor Delighted At Passing Of Boy Racer Bill

Manukau mayor Sir Barry Curtis says he is extremely pleased at the passing of the Land Transport Amendment Bill, which gives police greater powers to control illegal street racing.

“I am delighted we will now be able to bring these outlaw drivers under control. In Manukau we’ve had more than our fair share of this plague.

“The racers’ high-speed macho stunts have been dangerous to other drivers, damaging roads, terrifying residents and ruining their sleep. No one should have to live with that.” says Sir Barry.

Illegal street racing also affects businesses such as motels and hotels whose guests are kept awake and disturbed by the noise.

“The Council’s closed off many streets to illegal racing, and the police have done a marvellous job in tackling the problem. But after a quiet period the racers invariably hit the streets again.

“As mayor I have been dealing with a never ending stream of complaints from Manukau residents at their wits end about these idiots and their antics. They all wanted action. But there was nothing we could do - until now.

“Manukau City Council will be working hand in hand with the police to ensure we control this menace.”

Sir Barry says he is full of admiration for Clayton Cosgrove, MP for Waimakariri, whose private member’s bill led to the bill being adopted by the government.

“His determination and tenacity are what’s driven this law change. He came to Manukau last year to see for himself the extent of the problem and that, I am sure, provided even greater motivation to push the legislation through parliament.”

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