In some devastating news, the iconic Coromandel Cathedral Cove has been closed to the public after the detrimental effects of Cyclone Gabrielle.
After the recent extreme weather events, people are being advised to avoid the Cove, with one Department of Conservation ranger warning that “life depends on it”.
Due to slides and debris in the region, the attraction will likely be closed for some time.
Department of Conservation's Matt Flynn told 1News: "The main damage has been caused obviously by constant rain," adding that the damage has been non-stop.
"We've just had one event after the other here.”
The most damaged feature of the local attraction is the stairs that lead down to the Cove.
Matt continued to say that some parts of the stairs are “significantly damaged or completely destroyed”.
It’s incredibly sad for many of us who loved visiting the beautiful location, however, we are glad that safety is a top priority in this case.
The Department of Conservation said they experienced “30 people walking on the beach who had walked down active slip faces”, and their team are now having to turn people away due to the risks involved.
So, what are the risks?
Flynn explained: “With this type of geology is, the rock will fall days, weeks later during the drying process."
A rāhui to separate Cathedral Cove from the public is in place as of now, so keep yourself safe.
