The need to upgrade one of Auckland’s largest dams has meant the temporary closure of a small part of the Cossey Massey Loop Track in the Hunua Range Regional Parkland.

ARC Parks and Recreation Committee chairman Bill Burrill says visitors to the park can still walk most of the popular track but will need to allow for a detour because the part of the track which crosses Cossey’s Creek is closed.

“The closure is a safety measure because, while we want to minimise any inconvenience to park visitors, safety must our number one priority,” Cr Burrill says

“Watercare Services Limited needs to maintain low reservoir levels in Cossey’s Dam to carry out the upgrade. To do that they may need to release water into the creek, especially after heavy rainfall, causing a sudden increase in the creek’s water levels.”

“Cossey’s Dam itself is safe, as is the Cossey Massey Loop Track with its alternative route to avoid the stream crossing clearly signposted for those who wish to walk it.”

Cr Burrill says Cossey’s Dam is a vital part of Auckland’s water supply system and Watercare Services has taken advice from international experts that the upgrade is necessary within the next 18 months.

“It’s an important project but equally important is the welfare of our park visitors. I would encourage visitors to continue to come to the Hunua Range Regional Parkland and experience the unique flora and fauna of the Auckland region’s largest remaining area of native bush.”

The park includes a network of many walking tracks to suit varying fitness levels, a stunning array of lookout spots and some superb picnic areas.

Cr Burrill says up to date information on the Cossey’s Dam project and any effect on tracks will be displayed for visitors at the park Information Centre in Lockwood Rd and on the noticeboard near Hunua Falls.

The ARC’s Parksline on 303-1530 also has the latest information on Hunua Range Regional Parkland as well as information on any of the councils 21 other regional parks.

For further information please call:

Bill Burrill
Chairman, ARC Parks and Recreation Committee
Phone 366-2000 ext 8179
Mobile 021 978 139
Home 263-8071

Or

Simon Roche
ARC Communications
Phone 366-2000 ext 8100
Mobile 021 656 380

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