Supporters speak out about Te Mata Peak track developments

Grape grower and concerned citizen Xan Harding is disappointed that the new Te Mata Peak track is going to be removed. Photo / File

The controversy surrounding the partially-completed walking track on the eastern slopes of Te Mata Peak has those in favour voicing their disappointment at the latest and final decision.

So far, more than 10,448 people have signed a petition created by Waimarama resident Bex McNeur to save the track - one which Ms McNeur believes will continue to grow.

Grape grower and concerned citizen Xan Harding is "disappointed" that it has come to the removal of the track.

"I am somewhat frustrated that there is also talk at the same time about an alternative track which seems like a duplication to me so I am quite disappointed that it has come to that.

"But I understand that it is Craggy Range's prerogative to make that decision and they have to make the judgment calls and I have to respect their decision essentially."

Mr Harding hoped the track could be accommodated, as both the community and iwi could get benefits from the track.

"It seems a little bit silly if it was to happen by building one and removing the other."

Mr Harding believes that the focus should be on "whether we can have a fantastic asset such as the track" and talk around the fact that it "wasn't communicated better within the council" is merely a "sideshow".

"Hindsight is a wonderful thing and it could have been done better. I think there is fault on a number of sides and the council should accept some degree of responsibility.

"If I had my way I would still like to see the track be accommodated and I am happy to put my $1000 that I pledged towards it because I think it such a worthwhile community facility that could have been built upon whether through other tacking other aspects onto it whether its biodiversity, cultural education or tourism or a combination of those things."

Similarly, retired businessman Lou Klinkhamer said he is 110 per cent against the new track being removed and believes the "overwhelming" support indicates that it should not go.

"You can see there has been an overwhelming majority of 3672 more people wanting it to stay than wanting it to go. There are more than 10,123 people who have voted for it to stay and only about 6488 people have voted for it to be removed, so that in itself tells you the public feelings.

"It's on private land. Once you own private land, why should a minority of people tell you what you can and can't do on your own land.

He doesn't blame anybody, but in fact "praises" Craggy Range Winery chief executive Michael Wilding for "doing it in the first place".

"The Hawke's Bay industry depends very much on tourism and this is already on Lonely Planet as a thing to do on Te Mata Peak. It is a mighty tourist attraction. We should promote it rather than kick it in the teeth."