The Pleasant Flat campsite. Photo: Department of ConservationOccupants of a Department of Conservation campsite near Haast are being evacuated due to the threat of falling trees. Senior ranger Annette Grieve confirmed police from Haast had requested the department close the Pleasant Flat Campsite beside State Highway 6, 45km east of Haast, due to high winds and the risk of branches coming down. She said police were on site and were waiting for DoC staff from Haast to arrive with closure tape and signage. Ms Grieve said police were also concerned at the remoteness of the site if “anything happened” as the road between Pleasant Flat Campsite and Makarora was currently closed.

Source: Otago Daily Times December 04, 2019 03:33 UTC