Unusually high swells have forced the closure of Mount Maunganui's Leisure Island and Mauao's base track this afternoon – a result of the ongoing conditions generated by Cyclone Pam.
An earlier statement from Tauranga City Council advised that the Mount base track remained open, but was subject to regular checks with regard to the public's safety.
The unusually high swell is due to Cyclone Pam, which is currently passing the Bay of Plenty. Photos: Bruce Barnard.
But in the last five minutes, TCC communication adviser Marcel Currin has confirmed Mauao's base track is now closed until further notice.
Local Mount Maunganui surfer Shaun Boucher says he's never seen anything like the conditions currently hitting the Bay of Plenty coastline.
'It's nothing like I've ever seen before,” admits Shaun in an interview with Stuff. 'It's awesome to check these big waves out.
'We surf, but nothing like this size. Today I would not get out there – you'd be risking your life for sure.
'It's incredible to watch – especially with the off-shore winds – but it's pretty crazy.”
Crowds gather to watch the waves at Mount Maunganui.
8 comments
Base track
Posted on 16-03-2015 14:08 | By YOGI BEAR
That will need another birthday bash clean up I guess as the waves are going to be unforgiving.
Personal Safety
Posted on 16-03-2015 18:03 | By Kaimai
Absolutely spectacular show at the beach.Thanks to Tauranga City Council for your concerns about my safety and wellbeing. I'm quite capable of making an informed decision as to whether to proceed to the Blowhole and or around the Mount Base track - park rangers should be advisors, not policemen.
Media
Posted on 16-03-2015 21:31 | By Capt_Kaveman
need to chat to the older folk like myself as ive seen many big swells here that would leave your jaw on the floor, eg the 2nd photo how do you think that bank ended up so step where the people are standing? quite sometime ago ive seen the odd wave make it over the grass onto the road by the now twin towers
Common Sense
Posted on 17-03-2015 08:01 | By The author of this comment has been removed.
Once again the authorities rule over us. Someone with half a brain would know not to venture onto those walking tracks. Surely a sign saying "enter at your own risk" ie you need saving - you pay is preferable.
Well Kaimai you may
Posted on 17-03-2015 10:42 | By earlybird
be capable of making such a decision but many are not hence the sensible decision to close the beach. I've seen people misjudge their run and get knocked off their feet. Better to be safe than sorry.
@kaimai
Posted on 17-03-2015 12:37 | By Bop man
And you would prob be the first to jump up and down when something happens and the council and done nothing.
Rena debris?
Posted on 17-03-2015 15:24 | By Mackka
It will be interesting to hear what - if anything, has been washed ashore from the wreck of the Rena.
Personal Responsibility
Posted on 17-03-2015 18:34 | By Kaimai
No Bopman and Earlybed I wouldn't be the first to to jump up and down, or otherwise get upset - I feel sorry for the poor Tauranga City ratepayer footing the bill, I feel sorry for the person that does go walking /rock hopping assuming that such activities are safe when there is no one there to advise otherwise and does get injured. I feel sorry for the loss of common sense in our society.
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