Advocating for vulnerable road users
Fellow equestrian and advocate Brenda Reading likes to be informed and in turn, keep her local Member of Parliament informed. When she met to discuss the importance of Vulnerable Road User status for equestrians in Transport Legislation, the response from her representative wasn’t entirely positive and forthcoming. However what happened next is to be applauded.
Waitaki MP Miles Anderson wrote in his official capacity to the transport authority – Waka Kotahi - and asked for a response around the following issues raised.
What is the position of Waka Kotahi New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) regarding horse riders on the road and status as Vulnerable Road Users?
What is the requirement to become a VRU under NZTA to enable us to support our constituents.
The response from NZTA, Acting Director of Regional Relationships, Ian Duncan confirmed:
Vulnerable Road User (VRU) is not a term used or defined in transport legislation
The Minister of Transport has the final say on recognising horse riders as VRU through rule changes.
Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is meeting its obligations towards all transport system users, including horse riders, within the parameters of existing legislation and policy direction.
The Government Policy Statement on Land Transport (GPS) 2024, and the Minister of Transport’s Annual Letter of Expectations sets NZTAs funding priorities.
Horses are allowed on roads, including berms and verges.
The New Zealand Road Code provides guidance about sharing the road with other road users.
NZTA will publish vehicle and horse rider safety content when and where appropriate, taking into consideration other priorities.
Read your story about sharing the road with horses - why aren't we taught how here
