Rough weather affects Whanganui backcountry

Date:  20 September 2010

Due to the extreme weather conditions over the weekend many of the facilities in the Whanganui area may have experienced some damage and DOC is advising the public to use extreme caution if in the backcountry this week.

The extent of the damage is not yet known, inspections on tracks and huts will likely take place before the end of the week but it will be early next week before details can be given on the state of the facilities.

The likely damage will be to tracks through excessive rainfall and slips. The tracks are likely to be extremely muddy and boggy with slips and windfall blocking the way in many places.

DOC are advising the public to take safety precautions when out on public conservation land. “If you have any big trips planned in the backcountry over the next few weeks we advise postponing them until the weather lets up and we have a clear idea of the state of the facilities” say’s George Taylor, Visitor Assets Programme Manager.

“Feedback from anyone utilising the area over the next week would be greatly appreciated. More bad weather is forecast for Wednesday and Thursday”.

DOC staff will begin inspections on Friday and continue early next week.

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