Te Taiapa/Goldie Bush tracks temporarily closed

Date:  04 December 2020

DOC is working closely with our treaty partner Te Kawerau ā Maki, to plan this work and mitigate any risks. A date has not been set for the completion of this work.

Acting DOC mainland Operations Manager, Rebecca Rush says, “Alongside our Treaty partner we are committed to protecting kauri in the reserve from this devastating disease and preventing further spread.”

Kauri dieback was first identified as being the cause of kauri deaths in the Auckland region in 2006. Te Taiapa/Goldie Bush, located in the Waitakere ranges, was placed under rāhui by Te Kawerau ā Maki in 2017 to prevent the spread of kauri dieback.

Te Kawerau ā Maki representative Edward Ashby, says DOC and Te Kawerau ā Maki are working together to ensure that the track network at Goldie Bush is fit for purpose to best protect forest health and mitigate the risk of kauri dieback.

“We appreciate the community’s patience and support while we work to ensure tracks are safe for both the ngāhere and the public."

Kauri dieback is a microscopic fungus-like pathogen that’s spread through the movement of contaminated soil and water. People walking through contaminated soil or water can spread the disease on their footwear. 

While the reserve is closed DOC is encouraging those who visit Te Taiapa/Goldie Bush to use other local tracks that have been upgraded to safeguard kauri.

Unauthorised access to the reserve could result in fines or prosecution under the Reserves Act. If you see anyone entering the prohibited areas, we encourage you to call 0800 DOCHOT.

Background information

Alternative tracks can be found on the Auckland Council website. 

Kauri dieback is caused by microscopic spores in soil that infect kauri roots. Kauri dieback can be spread by just a pinhead of soil. But you can help save kauri.

• Clean soil off your footwear and other gear every time you enter or leave an area with native trees, and at every cleaning station.
• Use disinfectant only after you've removed all soil.
• Stay on track and off kauri roots. A kauri’s roots can grow outwards 3 times as far as its branches.
• Spread the word within your networks on how to stop kauri dieback.

Infected trees may not show it – always assume there is kauri dieback. If you're in native bush in the upper North Island, it's likely you'll be near kauri.

More information on Kauri Dieback

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