Bikers hand levy petition to MP

Ten bikers turning up at her office did not faze Rangitata MP Jo Goodhew.

After about 400 motorcyclists thundered through Stafford St on Saturday protesting the proposed rise in ACC levies, a petition with 500 signatures was presented to Jo Goodhew on Monday, which she will in turn present to ACC Minister Nick Smith.

Saturday's ride was organised by Timaru Bikers' Rights Organisation of New Zealand president Morris Jones to protest against the proposed rise in levies that could see motorcycle registration fees triple.

Gang members from the Road Knights and Devil's Henchmen put their differences aside to support the protest ride, which saw riders travel from the Port Loop bridge to Wai-iti Rd, Selwyn St, Old North Rd and Washdyke, returning by Stafford St.

Mrs Goodhew said 10 bikers came to her office to hand-deliver the petition.

"I have promised to give it to Nick Smith and was quite disappointed I was not able to be at the ride on Saturday."

ACC is required by law to consult on its proposed levies with submissions being called for.

"We talked for about an hour about their concerns and I urged them to send their views through as submissions as this proposal is only at consultation phase and they should make their views known."

- © Fairfax NZ News