11 May 2005

Waiheke historic reserve at Stony Batter closed

Stony Batter Historic Reserve on Waiheke Island is closed to the public until further notice due to the foot-and-mouth alert on the island.

The historic reserve at the eastern end of Waiheke is being closed as a precaution as it is located within farmland.

Department of Conservation Auckland Area Manager Beau Fraser said the reserve would be closed in support of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry’s foot-and-mouth contingency operation on the island.

“Access to Stony Batter is through farmland at Man O’ War Station and we want to avoid any unnecessary public traffic through this area in light of the current foot-and-mouth scare on Waiheke.”

Mr Fraser said the reserve would remain closed until MAF gave Waiheke the “all clear” and completed its operation on the island.

Signs closing the reserve will be put up at the wharf at Matiatia Bay and the public entrance to Stony Batter Historic Reserve off Man O’ War Bay Road.

ENDS.

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