Rates spent on track only for privileged few

I am so disappointed with the Western Springs Forest Loop Track. It is so steep that it can only be accessed by a privileged few.

I have walked it nearly every day for three weeks as the steep stairs are good for a cardiovascular workout. I have only seen one other person using it in that time.

This track cost Waitematā Local Board an additional $158,000 (if my memory serves me well) on top of the $2,000,000 out of our rates for the destruction of a 100-year-old forest along with 15,000 natives and a significant ecological area.

I would have chosen the amazing regenerating native forest under those gentle giant pines, full of bird song and to have spent this money on adding specimen natives, over this exercise track any day.
Considering it was touted as wheelchair accessible in the 'Have Your Say' is incredibly deceptive.

Linda Hill (pensioner who sat on the digger to save this forest)