DOC urges recreational visitors caution at Castlepoint
Date: 22 February 2008
The Department of Conservation urges caution to recreational users of the Castlepoint area following a recent storm.
The area around the lighthouse was subjected to fierce winds and ocean swells in early February and subsequently rocks have shifted, making some areas unstable.
DOC staff have been out to assess the danger and have clearly identified some areas that should be avoided.
“We estimate that Castlepoint receives more than 100,000 visitors per year so ensuring that everyone is safe and happy is our first concern,” says visitor assets programme manager Garry Foster.
“The warning is precautionary so that people are aware that the area is exposed to strong weather elements and should always remember to be cautious when climbing up around the lighthouse area.”
The main area to be vigilant of is the limestone outcrops below the lighthouse.
“Fishermen are known to use the area and we want to be certain that they are safe. We have also noted that some sand has been scoured out from underneath the causeway and there is a higher than normal drop under this structure at the moment”.
If any potential hazards are identified please ring 0800 DOCHOTline (0800 36 24 68) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. ENDS