Dunedin drift trikers seek respect

A group of misunderstood daredevils want Dunedin residents to get their drift.

Dunedin Drift Triking member Luke Millard said the sport had been getting a ''bad rap'' despite its riders priding themselves on sharing roads safely with motorists.

''We're not breaking any laws.''

The riders stayed in their lane and kept to the speed limit, Mr Millard said.

Safety measures included having cars leading and trailing the pack with hazard lights flashing.

Riders wore gloves and full-face helmets.

''Because when you come off it does hurt ... we all have our boo boos. I've skinned my back end,'' Mr Millard said.

In April, the Dunedin riders hosted Slide Christchurch members, who drove their trikes down Baldwin St.

A video of the feat had gained nearly 1.3million views on YouTube.

''Their video went crazy after we took them up there,'' Mr Millard said.

The video attracted some negative comments, some deeming the stunt as dangerous.

Mr Millard said he hoped the video would not tarnish the Dunedin riders' reputation and attract police attention.

''That's not what we are after.

The Dunedin group's founder, Simon Little, said members wanted to keep their activities legitimate.

Baldwin St was ''a bucket list'' ride, and riders needed to pick a road to match their skill level, he said.

''It can be dodgy if you jump on and hope for the best.''

The club had 11 members, aged between 18 and 31, and included two female riders.

An entry level trike cost about $100 and modified trikes cost about $2000.

Southern district road policing manager Inspector Tania Baron said drift trike users had to operate safely and responsibly, and follow the road rules.

''Police's general focus is on driver behaviour, which is assessed on a case-by-case basis and judged on the circumstances at the time.

''If people are using these trikes safely and appropriately, without causing nuisance or offence to the public, then police are unlikely to have an issue.

''However, if road users witness risky or dangerous behaviour on the roads, they are encouraged to contact police immediately so it can be followed up.''