Closures will be in place on Mauao next week when restoration works are scheduled to take place.

Te Uru Karaka, a historic Pā site near Te Ara Motukauri track (4WD track) on the Pilot Bay side of Mauao, is home to ancient karaka trees and archaeological sites, says a statement from Tauranga City Council.

"Currently, large pine and macrocarpa trees visible from the track are threatening these sites which they share the land with.

"In order to preserve this area, the trees will be lifted out by helicopter.

"This means no wood will be cut down onto the site and the culturally significant karaka trees growing under the pine and macrocarpa trees, will be preserved."

Council says this work has been prioritised in line with the 2018 Mauao Historic Reserve Management Plan, which specifies that exotic trees are to be progressively removed from Mauao given its status as a special ecological area.

In order for these works to take place and to maintain public safety, some closures will be needed.

• Full closure of Mauao - from 5am Tuesday, July 5, until 5pm Thursday, July 7, 2022.
• Pilot Bay boat ramp and car park closure - from 7am Monday, July 4, until 5pm Tuesday, July 12, 2022.

Access to the maunga (mountain) from Pilot Bay will be open from Friday, July 8, says council.

"These closures may finish earlier depending on progress of works.

"While these closures take place, it provides an opportunity for the community to try out and explore some of the other fantastic walking tracks we have available across the city. Learn more about the walkways on our website.

"During this time, please access Tauranga harbour by other boat ramps. Find a list of alternative, local boat ramps on our website."