No wake zone at Okawa Bay to prevent damage to properties

Okawa Bay. Photo/File

A "no wake zone" has been established in Okawa Bay to stop waves impacting homes along the lake edge.

The temporary no wake zone, which is in place until 8am Monday, was put in place by the Bay of Plenty harbourmaster Peter Buell because of the high water level of the lake.

It means boats, jetskis or any other motor powered vessels can not travel at speeds that create a wake in the area.

"Because there are a number of properties exposed to the high water levels we hope this will reduce the risk of water being washed further onto their properties," Mr Buell said.

Levels in Lake Rotorua and Rotoiti are decreasing. The Okere Gates have been fully open for two weeks and remain open today.

A number of regional council staff members were involved in the response to the weather Cyclone Debbie brought to the region.

The regional council has put rock armouring and toe loading in several at-risk areas and these have now stabilised. River and stop bank inspections by council staff continue.

Most Eastern Bay rivers have returned to below warning levels and the Rangitaiki is receding.

Floodwaters continue to come through the breach on College Road in Edgecumbe and this is forecast to continue until Saturday.

Regional council flood manager Peter Blackwood said as waters lowered the council will be able to better assess the breach.

"We may be able to fill the gap as a temporary measure late this afternoon."