Derrick Road footpath temporarily closed

A riverside path that links Derrick Road to Johnson Park in Kawakawa has been closed for safety reasons.

The concrete path has been significantly undermined by the Waiomio Stream which was in flood late last week following severe weather that caused flooding and damage throughout the Far North.

At the height of the storm the swollen stream undermined the bank, leaving a large section of the path unsupported. There is now a significant risk that the path will collapse if pedestrians attempt to use it.

Entrances to the path have now been fenced off and it will remain closed until a decision can be made on repairs. Engineers will assess the path in coming days.

The footpath is a popular route for Bay of Islands College students walking between Kawakawa township and the school at the top of Derrick Road. Pedestrians can use an alternative route along State Highway 11 / North Road.

Damage to the footpath was discovered late on Friday. Updates on repairs to the path will be provided on the FNDC website once a decision is made.