DOC keen to discuss Taronui

Department of Conservation Northland Conservator Chris Jenkins is backing a renewed attempt to develop public access to the Taronui coastline, near Kerikeri.

Submissions are required for the Far North District Council to table the long-running project which was sidelined four years ago.

Whangarei based Mr Jenkins recently visited Taronui and says it is an outstanding asset.

He said last week, "It is recognised that Kerikeri does not have satisfactory access to the coastline which is ironic and sad. The Department of Conservation administers the Taronui coastal reserve and a road which appears to be legal access. On the surface my feeling is we need to open up that access and we are looking at a serious attempt to do so. We need to re-engage with affected parties."

Mr. Jenkins says he has raised the issue with Far North Mayor Yvonne Sharp and FNDC chief executive Clive Manley and says the "issue is on the table".