A new camera has been installed above Bay of Plenty’s most dangerous bar - the Kaituna Cut, giving boaties an up-to-date look at the bar conditions.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council Harbourmaster Peter Buell says this is good news for boating safety as crossing a bar is one of the riskiest things you’ll ever do on a boat.

“Bar crossings can be dangerous due to the often shallow water, breaking seas and reduced stability.

“This live feed will help boaties judge the conditions, especially with the current works happening as part of the Kaituna re-diversion project, affecting access to the groyne and fishing platform.”

Not only will the bar be safer, there’s also added convenience, says Harbourmaster Buell.

“Previously the only way to view the conditions was by physically visiting the bar, so people travelling some distances would arrive at the mouth of the Kaituna River and then realise it’s too dangerous to cross. This would sometime lead to some bad decisions”

The idea for the camera has long been in the pipeline for Regional Council and was helped by Trustpower who provided the internet service. You can view the live feed and check out advice on how to safely cross a bar at www.boprc.govt.nz/barcam.

Remember; if in doubt, don’t go out!

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