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Sections of several tracks across Pirongia Forest Park in Waikato may remain closed for several weeks as the Department of Conservation continues post-storm safety assessments.
The maunga was struck by intense rainfall on February 13-14, with flooding and damage reported across parts of the track network and associated infrastructure. Waipā District, where the forest park is located, remained under a State of Emergency until February 28.
DOC Waikato operations manager Niwha Jones says most post-storm assessments have now been completed, with sections of the Tirohanga and Hihikiwi tracks still to be checked due to road access restrictions.
“Early findings show several tracks appear to be less affected by the weather event, with mainly surface flooding, debris and treefall to address,” says Niwha.
“Once our safety checks are completed, minor remediation work is expected to enable us to reopen some routes to the Kaniwhaniwha Campsite and Pahautea Hut, including the Ruapane Track and sections of the Tirohanga Track.
“We’re hopeful we can reopen those to the public in the next few weeks.”
Other parts of the network have sustained more significant damage. The Bell Track, Mahaukura Track, Mangakara Nature Walk and Tahuanui Track have been severely impacted, with slips, damaged structures and sections of track washed away.
These areas will require detailed geotechnical assessment and logistical planning, and are likely to remain closed for an extended period. Some repairs will be undertaken by DOC staff, with specialist contractors and machinery engaged where required.
Niwha says public safety remains the priority.
“Public safety is the number one priority for DOC, and we want to make the right decisions and include the whakaaro of our hapū.
“Where tracks are closed, we are urging the public to respect those closures and explore other locations around the district.”
Updates on track status are available on the DOC website, where alerts are posted for closures, detours and other relevant information.
