Auckland councillors bombarded by emails in support of the e-scooter company Lime say it's a tactic other lobbyists have tried, such as in the 1080 debate.
The council suspended Lime's licence on Friday until it can provide more evidence that it's fixed a dangerous software glitch.
Dunedin was quick to follow in Auckland's move and withdrew Lime e-scooters with immediate effect also on Friday.
The Auckland council is concerned about the safety of the scooters' brakes, with 30 people from all over New Zealand injured when wheels have randomly locked up.
Since the suspension Lime has been using its app to encourage users to send a pre-written email of support for it to the mayor and councillors. As of last night, almost 4000 had been sent.
Users in Dunedin are also being encouraged people to send an automatic email to Dunedin City Council with the subject line "I support Lime in Dunedin".
"Together, Dunedin riders have made over 145,000 trips. Many of these would have replaced a car trip, easing pressure on our roads. Lime also improves access to many parts of the city not serviced by public transport and encourages people outside to explore our city" the message on the Lime app reads.
Auckland councillor, Penny Hulse, said she was surprised by the tactic, because councillors already appreciated there was support.
"I don't think that this is necessarily the right arena yet for the `save the scooter' campaign. I don't think that's necessarily in jeopardy.
"It's more let's make scooters safe and let's prove they can be safe."
North Shore Councillor Richard Hills took to Twitter yesterday complaining his inbox had been filled with more than 2000 emails.
He said the suspension was not from lack of support, but because of the defect. He was also concerned that important emails on other topics might be overlooked.
The council has given Lime until Monday to provide more information and meet certain conditions.
Decision over scooters in Christchurch
The temporary suspension of Auckland's e-scooter trial may help decide the future of Lime scooters in Christchurch.
Councillors there will receive a report on Thursday about the city's own Lime trial. They will then decide whether to extend the company's licence to operate.
The report has already been written but new information from Auckland will also be discussed by councillors.
- additional reporting NZME
