People are being asked to stay clear of a pine forest area in the hills just north-west of Whangamata.

The Thames-Coromandel District Council says for the next four months Matariki Forests will be harvesting trees in an area located between Watts and Dalton roads.

Over the next four months Matiriki Forests will be harvesting trees from an area between Watts and Dalton roads, just north of Whangamata. Photo: TCDC

'If you ride your bike, walk your dog, hunt or run in this area please use an alternative route while the tree harvesting is taking place,” asks council.

'Our council leases the land from the Crown and we've contracted Matiriki Forests to carry out the harvesting.”

Signs have now been placed on Pa, Watts and Dalton roads to let the public know that access to the area is temporarily restricted. The restriction is in place 24/7 while the logging is taking place.

Banners, felled logs and gates will be blocking road access so for your own safety please don't cross these, adds council.

For more information contact Rayonier Matariki Forests on 07-927-2400 or via their website at: www.matarikiforests.co.nz