In a proactive step to prioritise the safety and well-being of visitors, the Department of Conservation has announced the closure of a 60-metre section of the Hongi Hika track at Hongi Hika Recreation Reserve in Kerikeri.
This decision comes after the poisoning of approximately large 50 eucalyptus trees in the area, posing potential risks to the public with falling debris.
“Our top priority is the safety of everyone who visits this stunning reserve,” says DOC operations manager Pē“whairangi/Bay of Islands Bronwyn Bauer-Hunt.
“We are closing the affected section of the track immediately while we assess and plan our next steps.”
DOC staff are exploring various options in collaboration with hapū, Heritage New Zealand, and other stakeholders.
The proposed alternatives being considered involve felling the trees and removing them, felling them and managing the debris on the ground, or potentially letting the trees naturally fall – although this latter option is unlikely.
“We remain open to all possibilities at this stage, and transparency and consultation with our valued partners will be at the core of our decision-making,” says Bronwyn.
“We aren’t ruling anything out at this stage and our priority is to close the track to protect visitors to the area. The track area that will be closed will have minimal impact on visitors to the area with an alternate route available to loop people around the trees.”
DOC staff have identified a person of interest who is assisting them with enquiries into the matter.
