The Department of Conservation is closing 10 tracks in the Bay of Islands to prevent further spread of the kauri dieback disease.
A large Kauri tree on the side of the road on the way to one of the many track entrances to the Waitakere Forest. Photo: RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly
DOC said after consultation with Treaty Partners, a decision was made to close certain high-risk tracks to protect the local trees.
It said there were still plenty of alternative walks and tramps in the district.
The department is urging the public to respect the closures and not access the tracks.
The Mangahorehore Track, Onekura Track, Pukekohe Stream Track, Upper Waipapa River Track, Walnut Track, Waihoanga Gorge Kauri Walk, and Takapau Track will be closed in Puketi Forest.
The Omahuta Kauri Sanctuary Walk will be closed in Omahuta Forest.
In Russell-Ngaiotonga Forest, Kauri Grove Walk and Twin Bole Kauri Walk will be shut.
Puketi Kauri Forest signage. Photo: Google Maps
