Critically injured cyclist on mend as Tamaki Drive forum looms

The man who was critically injured when a motorist ploughed into a pack of social cyclists on Tamaki Drive is on the mend.

Auckland engineer Greg Paterson is listed as "stable but improving" in Auckland City Hospital, and Pickled Pedallers coach John Carter said he was "up and about".

"I think he's being transferred to rehab later this week."

Mr Carter said the other injured riders - Dave Woods, Kevin Marsh and Steve Lobb, who suffered broken bones and gashes - were still off work and on painkillers.

"I think they will all make a recovery. They are all keen to get back on the bikes I think."

Meanwhile, cyclists and motorists are set to go head-to-head on how best to share Tamaki Drive. The crash has reignited a debate over user rights to the popular waterfront road.

Nearly a month on, the Auckland City Council's transport committee is holding a forum to give road users a chance to air their views. About 30 people - including cyclists, residents, police and bus operators - have been invited to attend next Wednesday morning.

"All I'm trying to do is get the warring parties together," said committee chairman Ken Baguley.

Cycle Action Auckland co-chairwoman Barbara Cuthbert praised the council and welcomed the chance.

"I think it's great they [the council] are acknowledging the whole lot of us, because a lot of us use it."

Police have not charged the 20-year-old female driver who hit the pack of middle-aged cyclists on the morning of September 26.

Constable Paul Sincox, of the Auckland serious crash unit, said they were awaiting the results of a vehicle inspection. He urged witnesses who had come forward but not provided contact details to contact him on (09) 359-3100 or paul.sincox@police.govt.nz.