Four people have been arrested, 53 infringement notices were issued and a bike impounded following a mass three-hour bike ride across West Auckland streets.

Waitematā Road Policing Manager acting Inspector Damian Albert said the event, which travelled across Henderson to New Lynn, attracted approximately 120 riders.

He said police monitoring the event were disappointed that a portion of the group failed to comply with road safety messaging and legislation, resulting in the enforcement action.

“These riders showed a complete disregard for others on the road, and we will continue to hold them to account and impound their bikes.

“Police attempted to keep disruption for commuters to a minimum and hope that police enforcement action today sends a strong message about the seriousness of road safety.”

Albert said officers were in a position to take appropriate enforcement action against those who chose not to follow road safety rules or engaged in any other anti-social behaviour along the way.

He encouraged anyone who saw driving or riding of concern to contact police immediately on 111 if it was happening now.

Footage from the ride around West Auckland yesterday showed the cyclists, escorted by police, doing wheelies and crossing the road centre lines.

Youtuber and “bikelife” advocate Kimami Ngaluafe told the Herald he understood people’s safety concerns and said that riders crossing the centre line was not right.

However, he said the organisers, Bikelife Collective NZ’s, goal was to make the culture of riding bikes and doing wheelies safer.

“Even if we don’t do anything about it, these kids are going to continue to go ride bikes in groups elsewhere.”

“We’re actually doing the work. We’re actually encouraging the kids to wear helmets, encouraging safety, but it all takes time.”

A registration form for the event, dubbed Tour De Neighbourhood, asked participants to stay left and wear helmets.

Ngaluafe said he also understood why the group’s aesthetics would intimidate members of the public, although he maintained that the riders had good intentions.

“Seeing a group of 100 young men rolling down the street in balaclavas, that’s already intimidating without crossing the centre lines and the wheelie.”

Getting everyone to bike safely would not happen overnight, but helmet usage had increased significantly, he said.

Although crossing the centre line was not permitted, wheelies were here to stay, he said.

“Wheelies are what make bike life what it is. Right? I mean, if you can’t wheelie, then are you really a bikelifer?”