Wairoa’s beaches are slowly being returned to their pre-Cyclone Gabrielle state.

Clearing of woody debris is being undertaken at Mohaka and Whakamahi beaches and more recently at Māhia with a focus on clearing the Mokotahi boat launching ramp and area.

“Stage one of the clearing has involved stacking the debris into piles above the high tide mark so people can once again enjoy using the beaches,” a council statement said.

“Stage two will see the piles removed, shredded, mulched or whatever method of disposal is suitable for the particular site. Some large logs will also be embedded in the upper beach to provide protection for the birdlife.

“At Māhia, piles of debris are being stacked on the beaches in readiness for removal, and some debris will also be temporarily stacked on Pohutukawa Reserve to reduce the risk of it being washed back into the sea and compromising the boat launch area.

“People are encouraged to help themselves to firewood from the piles. However, they are also reminded to please be careful around the piles of debris, not to light them on fire and for children particularly not to climb on the stacked piles.”

The debris clearing has four focus areas as well as 12 high-priority and 14 medium-priority bridge sites throughout the district.

Wairoa, around Pilot Hill and surrounding area, including Whakamahi, McArdle’s culvert and Ngamotu; Mohaka, around the Mohaka rivermouth, Willowflat and Waikare; Māhia and Opoutama beaches, Mangawhio lagoon, Oraka, Mahanga and Blacks Beach.

The Hawke’s Bay Regional Council project is being assisted by Wairoa District Council and includes liaising with tangata whenua and communities to draw on local knowledge.

People are encouraged to report areas that need debris removed by following the council’s CSR (Customer Service Request) process either online https://www.wairoadc.govt.nz/contact-us/customer-service-request/or by phoning the council on 06 838 7309 or calling into its Queen Street office.

Alternatively, phone Hawke’s Bay Regional Council on 0800 108 838 or visit the regional council website to inform them about an issue or log a job for the council to follow up.