Track upgrade nears completion

The Acland Falls track in Peel Forest is well on the way to getting a complete makeover. Department of Conservation ranger Carl Jones said work on the track was three-quarters done. The section of the track from Rangitata Gorge Rd to the falls has been given new timber steps and boardwalks. Similar work on the section from the junction with Allans track to Te Wanahu Flat should be finished by the end of the month. Improvements to the Waihi Gorge campsite are nearly complete. A new visitor information and registration kiosk has been built, stormwater channels and culverts have been formed, and the steep hill section of the road has been sealed to provide safer and easier access for vehicles. Work remains to be done on improving access to the lower toilet and filtering the water supply. New carparks and stormwater drainage have been built at Te Wanahu Flat picnic area, but DOC

Dry walk: The Acland Falls track has new steps and a boardwalk, enabling people to approach the falls without having to get their feet wet. Photo: SUPPLIED
is waiting for the ground to dry out before resurfacing. Planned work on the Kahikatea walking track in Talbot Forest was put on hold after the tenders received were too high. The work will be put out for tender again next year.