Far North tracks, campground closed due to fears of feral dog packs

Far North tracks, campground closed due to fears of feral dog packs
Photo credit: Getty

Several walking tracks and a campground in the Far North have closed due to fears of packs of 'menacing' feral dogs.

The Department of Conservation (DOC) confirmed up to four packs, around 15 feral dogs, had been sighted by hunters and landowners between Hukatere (90 Mile Beach) and Te Werahi Beach (Te Paki Reserve) in Northland.

As a result, the Twilight Campsite and the trails at Te Werahi Beach Track, Twilight Beach Track, Te Paki Stream Track and Te Werahi Loop Track have been closed.

The track closures.
The track closures. Photo credit: Department of Conservation

"DOC believes there is a safety risk to visitors that walk Te Paki Coastal Track which includes the northernmost section of Te Araroa Trail, recreational hunters, riders, and anyone who may be working in the proximity including DOC staff and have closed the tracks from April 1, 2021," a spokesperson said.

They are hoping to get the situation under control and reopen the tracks in seven days.

"DOC is working closely with local and regional councils, iwi and landowners and urge people to report feral dogs to their local council."

The Cape Reinga lighthouse track is not impacted by the closures and Te Paki Stream and Te Rerenga Wairua/Cape Reinga rest areas will remain open.