Boat Ramp Open Again For Use As Wall Construction Finishes

Boaties can again use Lake Rotoiti’s Delta Boat Ramp for launching their vessels, with construction of the Ohau Channel Wall completed.

The wall is expected to be officially opened in September, but as contractors have left the site people can again use the ramp to launch their vessels, said Environment Bay of Plenty Lakes Programme Manager Andy Bruere.

Boaties can travel around the wall to get to the main body of the lake from the boat ramp, and are reminded that there are new navigational safety buoys and signs in place and a 5 knot speed restriction. Warning lights on the wall ensure safe navigation at night.

Mr Bruere said the area is being closely monitored to measure the success of the wall, and whether fisheries and birdlife are affected by it or not.

“At the moment the wall has not incorporated any specific design to address fish passage,” said Mr Bruere. “Because it’s not clear if fisheries will be affected, we’ve got a five year monitoring programme in place and we’ll use the results to look at the need for taking any further action. We’re also commissioning work to investigate how to enhance the fisheries as a result of the wall.”

Those using the Delta Boat Ramp will also notice an area in the channel has been marked by buoys to protect birdlife.

“This is another area we’ll be closely monitoring as we are aware of some important birdlife in the area that we want to keep an eye on.”

Mr Bruere said Environment Bay of Plenty was subject to strict resource consent conditions to ensure the environment was not adversely impacted by the wall.

“This includes obtaining expert advice on the monitoring programmes, and cultural advice on the structure. We’re regularly talking with the different organisations involved to ensure we meet these conditions.”

Mr Bruere said the wall has obviously changed the way boaties and other lake users can get into the main body of the lake from the boat ramp, but that they need to remember that maritime rules still apply.

“Most importantly, we thank people for their understanding during the past 12 months when they couldn’t use the ramp. We’re confident the inconvenience was worth it and we’ll see Lake Rotoiti’s water quality improve during the next five years.”

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