With Lake Taupo Forest closed, New Zealand Forest Managers (NZFM) says in the passing weeks since Cyclone Gabrielle, it is starting to understand the impacts it has had on our forests and lands, and on next steps to take.
NZFM is prioritising minimising health and safety risks to the general public. It has had all stand adjacent to public roads assessed, and is removing those deemed high risk – which are mainly in the Rangipō area. Priority is also being given to clearing powerline corridors to speed up electricity reconnections.
“We are very aware that many owners want to get back onto the lands. The Trust and NZFM continue to work toward making at least some parts of the lands safe for owner access, please keep an eye on our website for updates,” says NZFM.
The extent of damage to Lake Taupō forest is still being finalised but appears likely to be around 4,000 ha, mainly in the southern half of the forest and mainly in the older stands. This will have significant implications on the Trust’s business for some years to come.
Work is starting on the salvage of the fallen trees. More harvesting and trucking capacity will be needed over the next year or longer. All contractors will have to meet stringent health and safety and environmental protection standards, and owners will get priority for this work.
