Walkway Closure Requests Under Action

Investigations are being made into the closure of two walkways at Kaitaia following concerns expressed by two schools at incidents of inappropriate behaviour and intimidation.

Both Kaitaia College and Pompallier Catholic School have made representations through the Northern Community Board to have the walkways closed off as a result of incidents involving fights, drunken behaviour, verbal abuse, drug use, graffiti, discarded condoms, litter and broken glass resulting from the actions of groups loitering in the walkways.

The board took the concerns of the local residents and the schools to the Far North District Council last month (August) with a recommendation that the process begin towards the closing of the walkways. The move has also been supported by Kaitaia police.

One walkway links Redan Road and the second Masfen Terrace and Dominion Road.

The council is now investigating the processes/options available under the Local Government Act to "stop and close" the tracks.

"The council is working on it but it is not going to be resolved overnight. There may need to be a consultation process, in particular with adjoining residents, and decisions made on the possible disposal of the land before we can give effect to what the schools are asking," board chair Fiona King said today.

"I realise the delay may be frustrating for those with concerns to see these walkways closed as soon as possible. But there are legal processes the council has to go through," she said.