February 20, 2018
Council changes track on kauri rahui
Auckland Council is set to make a recommendation for the Waitakere Ranges to be closed to the public in a bid to counter the spread of kauri die back.
The council had earlier refused to back a rahui imposed by mana whenau iwi Te Kawerau a Maki on the ranges, but it did close some trracks.
But a full council meeting today was presented with overwhelming evidence its current approach was not working.
The disease is transmitted in soil, so walkers and cylists can spread it along tracks or take it into other forests.
Likely steps include stepping up enforcement and penalties, fencing and signage to mak it clear why people should not go on tracks, closing carparks and having security guards to make sure people adhere to the rules.
Restrictions could also be extended to the Hunua Ranges to the south of the city, which at the moment is healthy.
If accepted, the changes are to be set in place by May 1.
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