Hi All,

Whether it is maintaining, improving and initiating a new, river access is an ongoing topic of conversation with regards to the Tongariro. 

The dynamic nature of the river means that following material weather events, access to the river changes. Following this years earlier flood events, you will have noticed material changes in the lower part of the river.

At our most recent Advocates meeting it was raised that there was easier access to the Log Pool from the left bank due to gravel movements at the side stream exit ahead of the Island.

Subsequently, Richard Kemp raised this point at the latest Taupo Fishery Advisory Committee (TFAC) meeting. It was suggested that a track down the Log Pool island would enable easier use of this part of the river. DOC liked the idea and have actioned their plan quickly. Following a reconaissance trip, a team of five were deployed to establish a track of around 300m down the Log Pool island. The below screen shot has stars to mark and two ends of the newly established track.

Access to this section of the left bank comes via the Kohineheke Reserve on Te Rangitautahanga Road. Parking is on the formed gravel park site and the track is an easy stroll down stream for a few hundred meters to the point where the river splits before the top of the Log Pool Island. An easy shallow crossing above the side stream opens up this excellent piece of the river for users. 

Also raised at the TFAC meeting was the potential for the upkeep of tracks DOC had cut to enable the cross sectional river survey to be completed. These access points can be found in the Wakato Regional Councils (WRC) 2024 Annual Works Plan, or easily observed river side, as perpendicular tracks to the river, with survey sticks as markers. As I understand there are 15 of these tracks cut at intervals down the river. DOC were receptive to this idea and would like further guidence on which in particular would be prioritised. Richard has stated one on the Major Jones below the wire on the right bank would be useful to be maintained. If you see one that you think should be maintained, please send through the location- ideally a GPS mark and we will present to DOC.

Also of note, following an Advocates members question around the Birch Pool carkpark being closed off when the Trout Centre is closed, DOC have acted and the gates have been re-positioned and the carpark is now accessinle 24/7.

All in all, well done to DOC for deploying resources in an accurrate and efficient way. It is great to see forums like the Advocates and TFAC engaging and affecting useful change for the River and its users.