Police warn they will take action against those who plan to join informal bike rides across Auckland.

Several of these rides have been organised across parts of Counties Manukau and Auckland City for weekends in May, including this weekend.

Inspector Dave Christoffersen, from Counties Manukau Police, said the events will be monitored and appropriate action will be taken against participants who don’t follow road safety rules or engage in anti-social behaviour.

“Where we can do so immediately we will, otherwise this will be through follow-up inquiries,” he said.

“Riders need to consider their behaviour and the risk they are posing to themselves and others.”

He said police are concerned little regard will be shown for anyone else on the road by riders.

Police plan to monitor informal bicycle rides this weekend and throughout May.

“Previous events have seen riders all over the road, blocking cars, doing wheelies and in some instances intimidating members of the public.”

Christoffersen asked all involved to take these warnings seriously and encouraged organisers to help those in their groups to follow the rules and to keep themselves and others safe.

Police have asked everyone involved to wear a helmet, when in a group ride in single file and stick to the left-hand side of the road. Riders are also being reminded the road rules apply to them the same as to a motorist.