Hundreds of motorcyclists are riding in a mass protest across Auckland’s Harbour Bridge today as an advocacy group plans legal action against rising ACC levies.
Motorcycle Advocacy Group New Zealand (MAGNZ) spokesman Richard Tohu said at least 400 riders were expected to join the on-road demonstration, with some coming from outside Auckland.
Protesters joined a rally at Onepoto Domain on Auckland’s North Shore from 11am before the protest ride began at 12.30pm across the Auckland Harbour Bridge.
A video showed hundreds of leathered-up protesters riding into Auckland’s CBD after crossing the bridge, many honking their horns and carrying protest flags.
“There are way more than 400 bikes here at the domain today,” one rider wrote on Facebook.
Congestion has remained minimal during the protest ride.
Motorcyclists are unhappy big-bike registration costs are increasing to about $816 from July – up from $540 in 2025 – with another hike next year to $960.
“Support rides” are also planned in other parts of the country.
Tohu insisted that the safety of the riders and the public is paramount, with protesters told to keep it “disciplined and lawful”. The group has also been in regular contact with police.
Police have confirmed they will be present, while NZTA and Auckland Council will be monitoring the impact on the city’s road network.
MAGNZ to launch representative action lawsuit
MAGNZ will be using today’s protest to ask motorcycle owners to join a representative action, New Zealand’s version of class action, against ACC’s levy hikes.
The group is also seeking a court order to stop the next levy increase on July 1.
Tohu called the levy increases “unlawful” and “unfair”, with the main point of contention being around whether “motorcycle engine size is a lawful and evidence-based way to risk-rate riders under the ACC Act”.
Stewart McRobie, ACC deputy chief executive corporate and finance, told the Herald levy rates are considered every three years in consultation with stakeholders, and have been approved by Cabinet.
“Engine capacity provides a consistent and practical way to group motorcycles that show materially different cost profiles, in line with the Accident Compensation Act’s requirement to set motor vehicle levies based on risk.”
Tohu said questions around refunds will have to be asked if the court rules in its favour, but the main goal is to challenge the lawfulness of the levy hikes.
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