[Grant Newton]

Note from DoC ……..
===============================================

Important notice to visitors

Rimutaka Forest Park
Catchpool and Orongorongo Valleys

Flood Damage Update

Significant flood damage of 30th and 31st March 2005 occurred in the Catchpool and Orongorongo Valleys, affecting visitor facilities and access.

?Previous information identified a gravel dam created in the upper reaches of the Orongorongo Valley, creating a blockage around which the river continues to flow.
?This blockage how now cleared and there is no longer backed up water in the upper valley.

The following information remains valid:

?Road access in the main Catchpool Valley has now been restored, and toilets are again operating, and the campground is now open again for use.
?Most tracks are open from the top carpark via a marked but unbridged river crossing.
?Due to track damage and the loss of bridges, this access is only suitable to fit and able trampers and will become impassable in times of heavy rain, so caution must be exercised.

?A route has been marked through to the Orongorongo Valley, which involves stream crossings,
?Four of the five DOC booked huts are now again open for use.
?The course of the Orongorongo River has changed, and locations for crossing need to be carefully chosen.

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