New Zealand Conservation Minister Eugenie Sage has announced that the Department of Conservation (DOC) will close 21 tracks across kauri land to help prevent the spread of kauri dieback. Source: Timberbiz
An additional 10 tracks will also be partially closed and the open sections upgraded to eliminate wet and muddy sections of track and better protect the roots of kauri trees.
“As there is currently no proven cure for kauri dieback, the best way to protect our kauri is to slow and stop the disease from spreading,” Minister Sage said.
“The Department is closing or partially closing tracks in Kaitaia, the Kauri Coast, Whangarei, on Aotea/Great Barrier Island, in Hauraki, Waikato, and Tauranga. The track closures are permanent and will be monitored.
“I appreciate some people may be disappointed by the closure of a favourite track but I strongly encourage everyone do the right thing and respect the track closures to reduce the risk to kauri forests.”
The decision was made after public consultation, and the majority of public submissions favoured closure.
DOC has closed tracks in the past to prevent the spread of kauri dieback.
“Closures may be reconsidered in the future if additional science and other information provide certainty that public access would not cause any risk to kauri,” Minister Sage said.
“Although protecting kauri is the key focus, the Department did consider the need to maintain recreation opportunities and there are still many walking and tramping options available in nearby areas.”
In consultation with local communities and iwi, DOC is continuing work to establish next steps for the remaining tracks on kauri land that have not yet been upgraded. This will include their upgrade, closure or partial closure.
