Date:  09 March 2022

Department of Conservation (DOC) Wairarapa Operations Manager, Kathy Houkamau, says the slip is unstable and unsafe to pass.

“We know it is disappointing for mountain bikers and other users of the cycle trail, but public safety is our first priority,” says Kathy. “We strongly recommend against clambering over the slip or going along the beach underneath it, as there is a very real danger of boulders and rocks falling.”

This section of the Remutaka Cycle Trail is on rugged coastline and exposed to extreme weather. Slips are an ongoing issue, with the last one occurring in 2020.

As a result of this recent slip, DOC staff have been unable to assess the Wild Coast Track west of the slip since recent weather events. Damage to the track may have occurred elsewhere that we are not yet aware of.

The track will remain closed while DOC, geotechnical consultants, and a local earthworks operator work together to establish a plan for reopening it.

Avid cyclists can continue to use the trail between the Hutt Valley, over the Remutaka Incline and down to Corner Creek, as well as from the mouth of the Ōrongorongo River, around Turakirae Head, and along the coast to the south of the slip. However, DOC is urging users of the trail to stay well away from the area where the rocks have fallen over the track.

“This slip is hazardous, so please respect the restriction while it is in place,” says Kathy.

Updated 8^th June 2023 – track remains closed.

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