Martin Henderson Joins Cyclists in Matakana Protest for Safer Roads and Coastal Trail

Martin Henderson Joins Cyclists in Matakana Protest for Safer Roads and Coastal Trail

Martin Henderson Joins Cyclists in Matakana Protest for Safer Roads and Coastal Trail

In a bold and unique demonstration, Netflix star Martin Henderson, along with nearly 50 local cyclists, took to the roads of Matakana in New Zealand this past Saturday morning to protest against the rising tensions between cyclists and motorists. The protest, which was aptly named “Cycle Against Cyclists,” was aimed at highlighting the safety risks cyclists face when sharing the roads with vehicles, and it sent a clear message to drivers: support the Coastal Trail, and help get cyclists off the roads.

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For those who might recognize Martin Henderson, he’s no stranger to the spotlight. Known for his roles in hit shows like Shortland Street , Grey’s Anatomy , and Virgin River , Henderson joined the protest in a bid to raise awareness for a cause close to his heart. The group’s unconventional protest involved cyclists blocking traffic on purpose, making it clear that their goal was not to disrupt but to advocate for safer roadways. The protest started at Wrights Rd and ended at Matakana Wharf Reserve, drawing attention from both passersby and supporters who honked in agreement with the cause.

The crux of this protest was simple but urgent. Cyclists and motorists alike have long shared narrow and sometimes treacherous roads in the Matakana region, leading to frequent road-rage incidents and unsafe conditions for cyclists. With the goal of alleviating these issues, the group is rallying for the completion of the Coastal Trail, a dedicated off-road cycling path that will stretch from PÅ«hoi to Mangawhai. The trail is designed to provide cyclists with a safer route, away from busy roadways, and aims to improve the overall safety for both cyclists and motorists.

Fundraising manager for the Coastal Trail, Meg Eriksen, shared the rising concern over the shared use of roads, noting that Matakana’s roads have become increasingly dangerous for cyclists, especially as the area has grown in popularity among both tourists and locals. Eriksen highlighted that cyclists are significantly more likely to be injured or killed on the roads, especially on rural roads like those in Matakana. The protest was designed not only to vent frustrations but also to bring about positive change, encouraging the community to rally behind the Coastal Trail project.

With the Coastal Trail project already underway, additional funds are needed to complete it. Supporters believe that, once finished, this trail will provide a safe and scenic route that can protect cyclists, decrease road tensions, and ultimately create a safer environment for all road users. By joining the protest, Martin Henderson and the other cyclists were hoping to remind the public and motorists of the importance of this initiative, urging them to contribute to the cause and help turn this dream into reality.

The protest was not just about the frustrations cyclists face but about finding common ground between cyclists and motorists. As Eriksen pointed out, the ultimate goal is to make sure both groups have a safer, more enjoyable experience on the roads, and the Coastal Trail stands as the solution that both parties can agree on. Similar trails across New Zealand, like the Otago Central Rail Trail and the Hauraki Rail Trail, have proven successful, and organizers are hopeful that the Coastal Trail will follow in their footsteps, creating a much-needed safe space for cyclists while improving road safety for everyone.

So, as Martin Henderson and the group of cyclists rolled through Matakana, their message was clear: it’s time for the community to come together and support the completion of the Coastal Trail. This initiative is more than just about getting cyclists off the road; it's about ensuring the future safety and prosperity of the region. The path to a safer Matakana starts with the completion of the Coastal Trail, and everyone has a part to play in making that happen.

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