Three Waters Services (Drinking water, Wastewater and Stormwater)
There is no disruption to Whakatāne District water supplies, waste water services and storm water management. We do want to remind you that you cannot flush wipes instead please tidily dispose them in a separate plastic bag.
Public amenities
All public toilets and playgrounds are closed in the Whakatāne district until further notice.
Cemetery and crematorium
The cemetery and crematorium will be operational for burials and cremations, which must all be arranged through a funeral director. Only one whānau member is allowed to facilitate arrangements including paperwork. This will be done using strict social distancing measures. All funeral directors are being encouraged to carry out burials and cremations as quickly as possible and at the nearest cemetery or burial ground as defined by law.The chapel is closed to the public until further notice.
Solid Waste management – Rubbish and Recycling
Whakatāne refuse station is closed with no public access until further notice. Normal kerbside rubbish and green waste services are to continue however recycling will not. Yellow lidded bins may be put out on your normal recycling days however, the contents will be taken to the landfill. Glass bottles will not be collected until further notice.
Hunting and Fishing
Hunting and fishing is not permitted until further notice. This is done to minimise the strain on emergency services during this state of emergency. All boat ramps in the Bay of Plenty are now closed until further notice. Boat ramps are closed to recreational fishers, but will facilitate dredging of the Whakatāne rivermouth and commercial fishing activities.
Recreational walks
Recreational walks are permitted however you cannot drive to a location to do so. Make sure to keep a distance of 2m from those that are not a part of your self isolation group.
Campgrounds and Freedom Camping sites
All campgrounds and freedom camping sites are closed to the public until further notice. A site has been set up at The Hub for all freedom campers to self isolate. Portaloos and rubbish bins have been provided. International visitors should in the first instance contact their consulates/embassies.
Emergency Management
New Zealand has been declared a State of Emergency. Civil Defence functions have been activated and the organisation is supporting the Ministry of Health as the lead agency for the pandemic response. Staff with Civil Defence responsibilities remain on standby to respond to any other emergencies that may occur during this period.
