Bikers descend on Parl to protest ACC hikes

Motor bikes of all sizes arrive at Wellington's Westpac Stadium as the riders set to protest the...
Motor bikes of all sizes arrive at Wellington's Westpac Stadium as the riders set to protest the ACC levies increase for motocyclists. Photo by NZPA
Almost 5000 bikers are descending on Parliament to protest against a proposed hike in ACC levies.

One of the protest organisers Brent Hutchison told a gathering of around 500 bikers that 2500 of their colleagues were currently jamming State Highway 1 from Paremata to Wellington and another 1500 were coming down State Highway 2 from the Hutt Valley.

"We own the motorway, which is right since we paid for it," Mr Hutchison said.

The bikers were mainly parking at Westpac Stadium and walking from there.

Mr Hutchison accused the Government of "raping and pillaging" ACC.

A group of 12 bikers were set to meet ACC Minister Nick Smith around 12.30pm, he said.

Mr Hutchison said bikers had an alternative to ACC levy hikes to put to Dr Smith, but would not say what those ideas were.

Several regional protest rallies were held around the country at the weekend.

Bikers wore signs declaring themselves "easy targets" for proposed ACC changes, while suggesting others may be picked off later.

Under the new scheme, the cost of registering a moped would rise $58.97 to $257.58. All motorcycles currently cost $252.69 but from 2010/11 those from 125cc-600cc would rise to $511.43 while those over 600cc will be $745.77.

The Government says the hikes are necessary to cover a blow-out in ACC costs.

 

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