Awaroa/Godley Head campsite temporarily closed
Archived content: This media release was accurate on the date of publication.
Introduction
The campsite at Awaroa/Godley Head has temporarily been closed to the public after preliminary test results revealed asbestos at levels above health guidelines in some areas of the site.Date: 01 April 2021
The popular Godley Head loop track and historic gun emplacements will remain open to the public. The main car park and toilet before the campsite will also remain open.
DOC Mahaanui Operations Manager Andy Thompson says DOC is taking a cautious approach by shutting the campsite and main building compound area until test results are finalised and the risk to the public is better understood.
“I realise this will be disappointing for those planning to stay at Awaroa/Godley Head over Easter weekend, but DOC puts the health and safety of its visitors first, so has decided to temporarily close the campsite. We are sorry for any inconvenience this causes people.
“Gates into this area will be locked and the hazard will be sign posted. We recommend people use the Godley Head Loop Track to access the gun emplacements.”
Security cameras throughout the site will remain in operation.
Those who were booked to stay at the campsite are being informed and will be given a full refund.
The asbestos was discovered when testing some roadways through the campsite while preparing for upcoming resealing work.
Coal ash and coal tar contamination at a level that could be a risk to human health was also found in some sealed sections of the roads.
DOC will be doing further testing across the wider campsite as soon as possible.
Contact
For media enquiries contact:
Email: media@doc.govt.nz
