1 Mar 2019

Cape Kidnappers track to stay closed for another six months

2:36 pm on 1 March 2019

The walk to Cape Kidnappers is likely to remain closed for at least another six months until a thorough risk assessment can be completed.

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Photo: Supplied / Hastings District Council

Two tourists were seriously injured by a massive slip while walking to the cape's gannet colony last month.

RNZ revealed the Conservation Department had identified the potential for slips in the area as an unacceptable risk to the public beforehand.

In a report published in preparation for a Hastings District Council meeting next week, officials have recommended the temporary closure should stay in place until the hazard risk for the whole beach between Clifton and Cape Kidnappers can be assessed.

That will take at least six months.

The closure can only be temporary because a permanent ban would be open to legal challenges.

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