Work to reopen Queens Park ongoing; user care still urged

Arborists continue to clean up storm damaged trees in Invercargill’s Queens Park. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
Arborists continue to clean up storm damaged trees in Invercargill’s Queens Park. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
Arborists continue to clean up storm damage at Invercargill’s award-winning Queens Park.

Parts of the park had been closed since a wind storm in October caused widespread damage. Two sections reopened late last year following extensive remediation work.

Invercargill City Council parks and recreation manager Caroline Rain said in a statement a lot of work was still needed to make the closed areas safe.

"We love to see people returning to enjoy Queens Park, but parts of it are still off-limits."

Closed sections included half of the golf course, the northern end of Coronation Ave and the George St track near Southland Boys’ High School.

Storm damage on the George St track at Queens Park.
Storm damage on the George St track at Queens Park.
Barriers and warning tape were in place indicating restricted and unsafe areas.

It would be several weeks before the council could consider reopening those sections, Ms Rain said.

"These are active worksites where heavy machinery is in use and leaning trees and hanging branches are a real hazard.

"It’s important that people respect the barriers in place.

"The safety of our visitors is paramount — we don’t want anyone getting hurt."

ODT GRAPHIC
ODT GRAPHIC
Other parks and walkways in Invercargill remained closed following the storm, including some of the mountain bike trails at Sandy Point, parts of Otepuni Gardens and the Roger Sutton Boardwalk at the estuary.

People would need to alter their regular routes in those areas to avoid the closed sections and be mindful of their surroundings, especially near trees, Ms Rain said

"The tree cover has dramatically changed in places.

"More high winds or bad weather hitting these trees could cause fresh damage and new hazards."

Despite the closures, most of the parks in Invercargill that had been affected by the storm were now open, she said.

"I encourage everyone to get out and make the most of the wonderful public spaces that are open ..."

— Allied Media