The Whangamumu, Kauri Grove and Te Toroa Tracks on Cape Brett Peninsula in Pewhairangi/Bay of Islands will be temporarily closed from Friday, April 2, to protect kauri from the threat of kauri dieback disease.
DOC is working closely with with Rāwhiti 3B2 Ahu Whenua Trust to protect kauri in this area. The tracks will be closed until a Kauri Dieback mitigation plan has been put in place.
The popular Cape Brett Track from Oke Bay to Cape Brett will remain open.
DOC Pewharangi/Bay of Islands operations manager Bronwyn Bauer-Hunt says DOC, working alongside Rawhiti 3B2 Ahu Whenua Trust, is committed to protecting kauri.
“We appreciate the community’s patience and support while we work to ensure kauri are safe.
Rawhiti 3B2 Trust spokesperson Andre Witehera says they are working collaboratively to manage this issue.
"3B2 Ahu Whenua Trust supports all efforts in safeguarding the mauri of this taonga, and we are working in partnership with the conservation agencies to have a mitigation plan in place to prevent the spread of this devastating disease.”
Kauri dieback is a microscopic fungus-like pathogen that spreads through the movement of contaminated soil and water. People walking through contaminated soil or water can spread the disease on their footwear.
DOC is encouraging those who visit the area to use other tracks while the reserve is closed. Information on other open tracks can be found on the Whanagamumu track webpage and Cape Brett Track webpage.
Unauthorised access to the reserve could result in fines or prosecution under the Reserves Act. If you see anyone entering the prohibited areas, we encourage you to call 0800 DOCHOT.
