Whakatāne District Council will be undertaking a removal of built-up sand on the spit adjacent to the Whakatāne River mouth from this Wednesday, 8 May to Friday, 10 May 2024 (weather dependent) between the hours of 7am and 5pm. This work is to lower the sand fuse to comply with Bay of Plenty Regional Council flood preparedness requirements. Heavy machinery will be operating between the Ōpihi Spit and Turuturu Roimata (Statue Rock) and the public are advised to keep clear of this area during this time.