Western Ruahines storm weathered
Date: 18 August 2008
If you are planning a trip into the Ruahine Forest Park, be prepared for track damage, obstacles and possible delays. Fallen trees, wind-throw and other problems caused by recent storm events are inevitable.
Stephen Robson from the Department of Conservation (DOC) says it is likely that most of the tracks in the Ruahine ranges suffered some form of damage during the storm, but it is unknown what the extent of the damage is. Every effort will be made to restore the tracks but this work will be carried out along with DOC's usual workload, as resources and nature allows. The work will be prioritised according to the amount of use the track gets and the severity of the damage. "It may take a while, but we will get to it when we can" says Mr Robson.
Damaged sleep out
Access has been cleared to Kawhatau Base where an out building, used as a sleep out, was crushed by a fallen beech tree and damaged beyond repair. The track to the cableway has been cleared to ensure a safe river crossing. Takapari Road, the top part of the track to Centre Creek and Diggers Hut Track has been cleared, as well as Oroua car park to Alice Nash Memorial Heritage Lodge. Rangiwahia and Kelly Knight tracks are open but care is needed and access is only recommended for people experienced in the backcountry. Purity Hut track has about 25 beech trees down but a route through is hoped to be cleared this week. Snow levels are also down to the park boundary which will slow progress even further.
In the meantime, it is strongly recommended that Ruahine Forest Park visitors contact DOC to check the status of the tracks they wish to use before they venture in. If you come across a fallen tree or other debris blocking a track, please do not attempt to navigate around it unless you are an experienced back-country tramper with appropriate gear. As Mr Robson commented, "the last thing we want is inexperienced trampers wandering around the Ruahines trying to find their way back onto the tracks".
DOC is keeping a record of track status. If you come across any damage, please call +64 6 350 9700 or email felliott@doc.govt.nz to report it, giving details of the location and the type of damage.