Hidden rail irons in rivers pose serious risk to boaties – public urged to report sightings

Greater Wellington is urging jet boaters and other river users to report sightings of exposed rail irons in Wairarapa rivers – hidden hazards that can cause serious injury or death.

A new reporting system is helping the regional council record and remove historic irons that were previously installed in rivers to manage erosion and debris but have since become buried, dislodged, or shifted over time.

Recent erosion and high river flows have exposed some of these irons, creating significant danger for people using the rivers, says Greater Wellington Flood Operations team leader Hamish Fenwick.

“Rail irons can be almost invisible, especially after floods or periods of high flow,” says Fenwick.

“If a vessel hits one at speed, the consequences can be devastating. We are asking boaties and other recreational river users to report any rail irons you spot through our website so they can be recorded and removed.

“Irons are known to be present in the Ruamāhanga and Waiohine rivers, where jet boating is common. If you come across an iron, we recommend that you stay clear and if it’s safe to do so, take photos. They may appear as metal posts, beams, or fragments protruding from the riverbed or banks.

“Then make a note of its location and visit the ‘Report a rail iron’ page on the Greater Wellington website,” says Fenwick.

“Sharing information and potential risks with the boating community is always a good idea and every report contributes to safer rivers for all recreational users.”