“We understand how many people would be upset by this comment,” the spokesperson said in a statement.
Police had been monitoring the Tour De Hoods rides, making four arrests, issuing 53 infringements and impounding a bike during the West Auckland outing on May 10.
Around 250 riders took part in last Sunday’s Tour De Hoods, which began in Onehunga. Photo / Dean Purcell
Inspector Wayne Kitcher said last week that some individual behaviour was the problem at the rides.
“We don’t consider them to be a gang … The rides themselves are not illegal. What’s illegal are the activities of some of the individuals who take part in the rides,” Kitcher said.
The final Tour De Hoods ride took place today, with riders travelling from Glen Innes in East Auckland to the central city.
The four consecutive weekly bicycle rides in different sections of the city attracted hundreds of riders.
Around 250 people took part in last Sunday’s central event, which began in Onehunga.
Organiser Kimami Ngaluafe told the Herald the rides created community and a sense of freedom, especially for troubled youth from rough upbringings.
He said the rides were a success.
“The main goal with going to these different neighbourhoods was to bring these neighbourhoods together and these communities together just through riding bikes.
“So I’m pretty happy with what we have achieved so far,” Ngaluafe said on Wednesday.
The ex-officer’s Facebook profile had been deleted following the backlash.