Click the image above to view slideshow

The Tauranga City Council has confirmed that the Moturiki and Mauao base track will re-open at 12.30pm.

The tracks were closed following 5m swells around the Mount this morning.

Whitewash conditions seen from Mount Main Beach. Photos: Tracy Hardy.

"There has been some minor damage to the base track surface. No major damage, but please be aware that the track surface is loose in some areas," says Tauranga City Council communications advisor Marcel Currin.

"Once the tracks re-open, we're asking people to stick to the tracks, especially along Moturiki.

"Security guards will patrol Moturiki until the end of the day to offer friendly reminders for people to stay on the track."

Earlier:

A combination of high tide and big surf has seen council close the Mount base track this morning, based on advice from police and surf lifesavers.

The waves are currently reaching the tracks, making them unsafe, says a statement from the Tauranga City Council.

The Mount base track is closed this morning.

At 9am, maximum wave height at A-beacon is 4m and high tide is at 9.49am.

'Access to Moturiki Island/Leisure Island is closed. Big swells and high tides mean water surges between the island and the shore making access unsafe.

'The tracks are expected to be re-opened at low tide, about 12.30pm.”

Other tracks up Mauao remain open in the meantime.

'We thank the public in advance for respecting this closure – any questions please contact Council on 07 577 7000.”