"I understand the reaction from a Maori point of view, I agree that it was to be concerned about, but what happens is people are too quick on social media to jump to a conclusion.
"Somebody puts up an outraged post and, without really thinking about it, people say it sounds awful, agree with it and like it or share it. It just takes off without people thinking there may be another side to this or looking at the bigger picture."
Mr Trubridge argued the new track, while carved into the previously-bare eastern slope of Te Mata Peak, would join a number of paths already well-established on the Hawke's Bay landmark.
"There are so many tracks up there, how on earth can we get upset about one more? People who were against the track were talking about the sacred status of the mountain, that it was like open heart surgery, but it's got a road up to the top for Christ's sake.
"I think the point is it's an amenity for the community and it's long since lost the sacredness of mountains that are inaccessible. It's a place that anyone can drive up to and do whatever they like."
From a design standpoint, he didn't see anything wrong with the look of the new track.
"I can't get upset about another track. I think it's good, it opens up more walks. As long as the iwi have had proper consultation and been part of the process I think it's a good idea."
Mr Trubridge said the public should give the track a chance, with consultation and debate, before any changes were made.
"I think it would be silly to rip it out straight away. Give it time, let's think about it, let's have some debate in the community and talk to the iwi for whom this is a special place, a special maunga.
"If they [iwi] really are against it then I think we have to listen to that but we need to stop for a little bit and give it time to have a debate about it. That's the problem; there hasn't been a debate, it's just been emotional reaction."
