Sections of East Harbour Regional Park, including Parangarahu Lakes and Baring Head/Ōrua-pouanui, are temporarily closed daily from 1pm to 9pm due to extreme fire risk. Greater Wellington has urged visitors to avoid these areas as the danger of wildfire remains high.
The Ridge Track in Baring Head/Ōrua-pouanui is fully closed until further notice, while parts of Parangarahu Lakes with limited escape options remain off-limits. Visitors are advised to follow all signage.
Greater Wellington Eastern Parks team leader Ricky Clarkson said the closures are a precautionary measure to protect public safety.
“The fire danger levels have risen to red, indicating an extremely high risk of wildfire. To ensure the safety of people and our staff, we are temporarily closing the park areas until the risk has lowered,” Clarkson said.
He urged people to consider visiting parks where the fire risk is lower and to remain aware of their location and exit routes when in any regional park.
Greater Wellington continues to monitor wildfire risks across all parks, and visitors are reminded to call 111 and request ‘Fire’ if they see smoke or flames.
For updates on park access and safety tips, visit Greater Wellington’s website: https://www.gw.govt.nz/parks/wildfires-in-regional-parks/