‘Stay out of and off the water’: GDC

CLOSED: Gisborne District Council has closed the inner harbour boat ramp closed due to debris due to debris build-up. Picture by Liam Clayton

Repairs and debris removal are under way as Tairawhiti recovers from the onslaught of ex-tropical Cyclone Hale.

The inner harbour boat ramp will remain closed over the weekend due to safety reasons, Gisborne District Council said on its Facebook page.

“ It's not safe to launch a boat due to the amount of debris on the ramp and in the water.”

A decision will be made on Monday on the status of its closure.

“Our advice is to stay out of and off the water this weekend. No boating, fishing or shellfish gathering in and around beaches and rivers.

The council also advises the public not to come in contact with the water in the city due to the amount of debris and highly diluted wastewater being discharged into the rivers.

“Temporary warning signs are in place at the recreational spots along the river and beaches. We advise no swimming, fishing or gathering shellfish in rivers and beaches until at least five days after the valves are closed and the warning signs are removed.

“The heavy rain also flushes debris and contaminants from rural and urban land into waterways. This takes some time to settle out or flush away.

The council also said Titirangi-Kaiti Hill road and tracks will remain closed for the weekend due to several drop-outs”.

An assessment made by an arborist suggested many trees needed to be removed for safety reason.

Tolaga Bay Wharf also remains closed until further notice.

The council said the wharf was unsafe with barrier repairs and debris removal needed.

“We will update as soon as we know more,” the council said.

Transfer stations reopened today at restricted times — Matawai 2pm-4pm; Tokomaru Bay 11am-1pm; Te Puia Springs 10am-12pm; Te Araroa 10am-12pm.

Normal hours will resume on Monday.