TECT Park open for some activities

TECT Park will partially open next Tuesday 28 April to enable people to get out and enjoy the outdoors once again – but only certain activities will be available.

Following the guidelines set under Alert Level Three by Sport NZ and Recreation Aotearoa, together with the Prime Minister’s advice, Western Bay District and Tauranga City councils have agreed there are facilities for passive recreation that can reopen at the park.

Park Manager Bill Wheeler says there will be some conditions as to what people can do, but the tracks will open for mountain biking, horse riding and walking. There will be a strict one-way only policy on the trails with signage making this clear to users.

After a month of being cooped up indoors or within small family environments, Bill says people will be itching to stretch their legs and enjoy the great environment the park offers.

“The Park Ranger will be on site to make sure everyone is able to enjoy their visit responsibly and to answer any questions people may have.

“We are so lucky to have this place to escape to at this very unusual time for all of us. I simply ask that people respect the rules and adhere to the restrictions that are in place under Level Three.

“People must understand that this is not business as usual at the park – there are expectations for responsible behaviour and if this does not happen, people will be asked to leave.”

While the Park’s resident clubs may not be able to resume their activities until at least Level Two, Bill suggests members should contact their club committees for advice.

Motorcycle tracks will remain closed due to the higher risk of injury and putting strain on emergency services.

Toilets will also be closed and parking at the Arrival Hub will be limited due to social distancing requirements. Plenty of signage will be around the park reminding people to maintain physical distancing.

Adrenalin Forest will not be in action until Level Three restrictions are lifted.

The park will be open daily from Tuesday 28 April (8:00am to 5:30pm).