Lake Rotoaira Forest - Temporary Restricted Access from 1 April 2023
As you’re aware, Cyclone Gabrielle caused significant damage within some parts of Lake Rotoaira Forest and the forests were closed due to increased hazards in the forests.
While salvage operations continue NZFM, in conjunction with the Lake Rotoaira Forest Trust, also continues work to access and make the forests safe for owners to access.
Restricted access for permit holders will be available from 1 April 2023 for access Monday to Friday, 4pm -8pm and weekends, 7am-8pm. Part access will remain restricted for safety reasons.
Everyone who accesses the forest is required to renew their access fob key, at which time you’ll be asked to read and sign that you understand the new risks in the forest and new access conditions that are required - including information on what gates will be accessible to owners. New access conditions are include:
Permit holders are not to enter wind damaged stands. The stands we know are damaged can be seen here.
Do not park near wind damaged trees or on roads adjacent to wind damaged stands.
Be aware that some weekend and night work, including trucking, may still be taking place in and around the forest.
If you come across a road blocked by fallen trees, DO NOT attempt to clear roads using a chainsaw as the trees may be under tension and cause injury. Instead - note the road name, approximate location, and report to NZFM here.
From Wednesday, 29 March 2023, owners will be able to visit the NZFM office in Turangi or the Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board office in Taupō to update their fob keys and confirm their agreement to the above conditions of entry. You will also be provided with a map clarifying which areas of Lake Rotoaira Forest are available for owner access.
The situation in the forest remains quite fluid as the cyclone response continues to develop and the extent of salvage work increases. This could potentially require changes to the owner access arrangements over upcoming months. Updates will continue to be posted here and the Lake Rotoaira Forest Trust website here.