Ohakune Old Coach Road cycle way reopens under caution
Archived content: This media release was accurate on the date of publication.
Introduction
After initially closing the Ohakune Old Coach Road following the storm on October 15, the Department of Conservation has reopened the trail in time for the Labour Weekend.Date: 25 October 2013
After initially closing the Ohakune Old Coach Road cycle way for assessment and repairs following the storm on October 15, the Department of Conservation has managed to put in place temporary repairs and reopen the trail in time for the Labour Weekend.
The ramps into the Taonui and Haeremaere rivers, where the bridges were washed away, have been repaired to a basic standard, but riders must use real caution in regards to the river crossings.
Both rivers on the track will require crossing in water up to knee deep on an adult. The Haeremaere River is the smaller of the two and the flow is a lot slower than the Taonui, but both these crossings are not suitable for unaided crossing by young children or the elderly, and should not be attempted by anyone when there has been a period of sustained rain.
The ford that crosses the Makotuku River is also currently blocked and the water now runs over the ford at a depth of approximately 150 mm so the riders from the Horopito end are going to get wet feet as well.
There will be temporary signage in place in regards to the track from October 25 advising of the updated track status. Weather and workloads-permitting the department intends to have the bridges reinstated by the end of November.
Related link
Contact
Dave Lumley
Conservation Services Manager Whakapapa
Email: dlumley@doc.govt.nz
DDI: +64 7 384 7135
Mobile: +64 27 474 6332