The Department of Conservation (DOC) has issued a warning to people undertaking track modifications at the Hikuwai Reserve, Albert Town.

DOC Central Otago operations manager Charlie Sklenar told the Wānaka App the agency was aware of ongoing concerns at the reserve, “including track modifications, unauthorised digging and vegetation damage such as the cutting of kānuka”.

“Any unauthorised digging or damage to vegetation in reserves like Hikuwai is not permitted under the Reserves Act 1977 and can result in enforcement action,” she said.

A regular walker at the Hikuwai Reserve told the Wānaka App they had observed an increase in the extent of “illegal digging” in the area, as well as damage to kanuka.

"The size of the holes/jumps and the cut branches randomly laid have become hazards and are really concerning for the conservation of the reserve," the person said.

The Wānaka App reported on the issue five years ago, after DOC initially raised concerns that random bike jumps and unauthorised bike trails through the Hikuwai Conservation Area were damaging its native kanuka environment.

Read more: DOC disappointed by damage to Hikuwai Reserve

Last week Charlie said DOC was considering whether additional signage or other steps are needed to help discourage the behaviour. 

More vegetation damage - including cutting kanuka - has been observed at the area.

“We will continue to work with a number of community groups in Hikuwai who help to keep spaces safe and enjoyable for everyone while preserving our native flora and fauna.”

She said reports from the community play a vital role in helping DOC respond to such concerns.

“We encourage anyone who sees damage occurring or has information to report it to DOC via 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).”

The Gunn Road bike park at the Hikuwai Reserve was created in collaboration with Bike Wānaka and the Albert Town Community Association to give local children a place to enjoy jumps and trails on their bikes.

Bike Wānaka president Ewan Mackie said the group was “extremely disappointed to see this act of vandalism against our precious native ecosystems”. 

PHOTOS: Supplied