What does every motorcyclist riding in the Coromandel region need for their bike?  A handy map of the location which doubles as a visor cloth of course.

New Zealand Police Road Policing Group in the Coromandel have teamed up with the local Road Safety Co-ordinator from Eastern Waikato councils to distribute a limited supply of the cloths. 

Developed alongside ACC, these cloths also give the local council and NZ Transport Agency state highway phone number in a bid to encourage motorcyclists to report any issues they come across on their ride.

Strategic Traffic Unit Sergeant and Officer in Charge Jim Corbett says while the Coromandel has some of the best riding in the world, police really don’t want any more crashes in the region. 

“Motorcycles are over represented in New Zealand for fatal and serious crashes. 

“They account for 15 per cent of all road deaths, 10 per cent of all road injuries and are 20 per cent of ACC’s claims, yet motorcyclists account for less than 3 per cent of road users.”

Jim appreciates that riding in the Coromandel can be challenging for new or inexperienced riders.

“Our roads push rider’s concentration and skill level to the limit in some spots, so they may not be appropriate for all riders.  Do your homework and make the safe choice for you.”

East Waikato Road Safety Co-ordinator Ingrid Le Fevre explains the polishing cloth has been developed with motorcyclists in mind and features contact numbers, riding tips and what to look out for, plus a map and information for the Rideforever website on it. 

Ingrid says they really want to encourage motorcyclists to upskill as more than a third of fatal crashes are caused by riders losing control of their bike. 

“Our Coromandel roads can have anything on them from loose gravel, cows, diesel spills, campervans and boats being towed you never know what is around the windy corners.

“Nearly three-quarters of fatal motorcycle crashes happen on the open road and often on bends, our roads are amazing to ride and wearing good protective gear helps keep you safe. 

“Why not give your rider the gift of experience this year and get them some rider training.”

If you’re travelling to the Coromandel this summer and want the chance to win a limited edition polishing cloth keep an eye on the ’Safer Coromandel’ Facebook and Instagram pages.