Surfers cause safety concerns at harbour entrance

The Bay of Plenty Regional Council has raised concerns over the activities of surfers using the Whakatane Harbour entrance.

The current conditions at the Whakatane Harbour entrance are encouraging surfers to position themselves across the whole width of the bar.

Surfers are reminded that even if the bar status has been deemed unworkable by the Harbourmaster, larger commercial vessels may continue to operate.

Yesterday a large passenger vessel was forced to take evasive action due to a number of surfers blocking its passage.

There are serious ramifications for anyone who, through their actions, place any vessel and/or its occupants in any danger.

While current bar conditions are appealing to surfers they need to be aware that they are surfing in a harbour entrance where vessels may still be operating.