Security increased at Mana Road Bridge

Concern for swimmers and boaties in the Mana Road Bridge area of the Porirua Harbour has prompted the Wellington Regional Harbour Master to further increase monitoring and security in the area.

Over the summer Greater Wellington Regional Council’s harbour rangers regularly visit the site and this year a security firm has been contracted to patrol and monitor activities in the area.

Harbour Master Mike Pryce says that every year in hot weather swimmers come to the area to cool off.

"Some take to diving into Porirua Harbour from the Mana Road bridge, then swimming downstream and coming ashore via the Porirua City Council boat launching area, others picnic or swim in the boat launching areas unaware that it is often difficult for boaties to see them or to manoeuvre boats in tidal currents. It's an extremely dangerous situation," says Captain Mike Pryce.

A number of agencies have responsibilities in this area. The beach, above high tide mark and boat ramp area is under the control of Porirua City Council while Greater Wellington Regional Council has responsibility for the area below the high tide mark where navigational and safety bylaws apply. The Mana Road bridge is owned and operated by New Zealand Transport Agency.

"There are so many risks present in this area and concern for both boaties and swimmers is high so the Regional Council has contracted additional help to manage the situation. Ultimately though it is up to individuals to make sure they are not putting themselves and others in danger," says Captain Pryce.

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