16 May 2024
Media: Rotorua Daily Post
Topic: Death at Sulphur Point
Enquiry
*NOTE: this enquiry is a follow-up to yesterday’s enquiry relating to the death of a man at Motutara (Sulphur Point) reserve
wondering if the council could offer another quote for me.
I was talking to Percy yesterday, who does the meals for the homeless, and he knew this chap who died and knew that he'd frequent the area regularly, have a few cans and enjoy the warmth.
He said it was the same spot where James Taikato died four years ago from hyrdogen sulphide poisoning.
I've seen the coroner's story Maryana did on this last year, that mentions the council and the work it did to get the signage up to scratch swiftly.
Can you please comment on what else the council does to try and keep the homeless/rough sleepers out of the area?
Do you still send the patrols down there?
Is there anything else you can do? Can you trespass them?
Does the council have any concerns or warning messages about people hopping in these types of hotpools as the weather gets colder?
Response
From Group Manager Community and District Development Jean-Paul Gaston:
Community safety is a key priority for council and our Safe City Guardians regularly patrol our inner city geothermal parks and reserves.
Part of recent work completed in the Sulphur Point area, which has included new walkways and bridges, has also included additional and replacement fencing, including in the area where the death occurred. The pathway running past this area is fenced on both sides and there is signage warning people to stay on the path and of the specific risks of geothermal features.
We would urge anyone who sees people within fenced areas or pools in parks and reserves to contact council immediately on 07 348 4199.
Regarding rough sleepers: If our Guardians come across people sleeping rough they advise about the dangers associated with our active geothermal areas and offer to help connect them to support services.
People found camping in public parks and reserves that are not designated for this can be trespassed but that’s a last resort. If advised they could be trespassed most leave of their own accord but some will still eventually return.