"This event shows just how severe weather conditions can be in Tongariro National Park and walkers need to be aware how quickly the weather can change," DOC conservation services manager Paul Carr said.
On the Ketetahi side of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, it was likely the ponded water broke through the dam during the night and washed large boulders and logs down the old path created by the 2012 Te Maari lahar.
"It never ceases to amaze me the damage that can be done as a result of extremely heavy rain and wind," Mr Carr said.
Walkers were asked to take extra care when passing through these two areas.
However the two new bridges, built after the 2012 eruption of Te Maari, have been covered with rocks and logs and DOC suspected it would be several days before these were cleared.
A diversion was created temporarily around the two bridges and walkers were asked to follow the indicated route through to the Ketetahi carpark.
Staff will be working over the remainder of the week to have the track repaired in time for the weekend. Photo / Supplied via DoC
Department of conservation services ranger Benjamin Scrimgeour hoped the track would be running again over the next few days.
Staff would be working over the remainder of the week to have the track repaired in time for the upcoming weekend.
