DOC staff on the West Coast are urging locals and visitors to exercise care when out naturing, after severe weather has damaged many sites in the region.
Owen Kilgour, DOC West Coast Regional Operations Director, says teams are still out assessing and clearing where they can.
"There's lots of damage out there," says Owen. "Luckily it seems like most of the damage is from things like windthrown trees, but we also have the odd slip or slump which visitors need to be cautious of.
"The teams are pulling out all the stops to get repairs completed and tracks open as soon as possible; rangers are checking on visitor facilities across the region as access and weather allows.
"If you intend to get into nature once the weather passes, make sure you check the DOC website before heading out so you know what's open or closed."
Sites temporarily closed include:
- Hokitika Gorge Walk
- Ross Goldfield Water Race Walkway
- The Point Elizabeth Walkway between the Point Elizabeth Lookout and Rapahoe
- Velenski Walk at Moana
- Arnold Dam Walk
- Pike29 Track
- Tatare Tunnel Walk
Owen says the teams are working to quickly assess other sites for damage.
"If there are no updates or alerts on the website, visitors are urged to exercise caution and be prepared to turn back if necessary. If you see any other issues, you can call 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468) to report it."
"The next couple of weeks are going to be very big for the teams on the chainsaws, getting everything back in shape," says Owen. "We're grateful for everyone's patience as we work through everything, and hope to see you out naturing again soon."
