Shallow waters at Thornton entrance

Soundings recorded at the Rangitāiki River mouth indicate reduced depths and boaties are advised to take caution using the Thornton entrance.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council carried out depth soundings yesterday for the harbour entrance to confirm water depths.

Regional Council Harbourmaster - Eastern,Brian Spakesaid the channel across the Thornton bar lies in the direction of the big Raurimu at a bearing of 353 degrees true.

"There is very little margin for error as the eastern and western sand spits extend to the margins of this channel where the depths reduce considerably and even dry out at the bottom of most tides," Mr Spake said.

Mr Spake reinforced the current three hour restriction to navigation each side of low tide.

"This is particularly relevant during new moon tides from 27 September 2011 until 4 October 2011 when tides could fall to very low levels."

For further information contact Bay of Plenty Regional Council Harbourmaster - Eastern, Brian Spake on 029 368 9415 or for further media information please contact Senior Communications Advisor, Carol Nichols on 0800 884 881 ext 8150 or 027 508 6053.