People are urged not to ignore track closures after many walks across Otago and Southland were significantly damaged in last week's floods.

The torrential rain caused multiple slips, surface damage] and trees to fall across tracks.

The Department of Conservation warned of multiple closures while the tracks undergo repairs.

Among then was the popular Tunnel Beach walk in Dunedin which had 10 large slips covering the width of the track.

DOC southern South Island director of operations Aaron Fleming urged people to respect the closures.

"Despite the carpark being locked and several barriers and signage saying the track is closed, we are alarmed and disappointed by the number of visitors who are choosing to ignore safety advice and walk the track regardless.

"This is also causing frustration to nearby residents with people choosing to park in the neighbourhood and on private property to walk on the closed track."

He encouraged people to check the DOC website or contact the local DOC visitor centre for the latest information as some tracks were still being assessed.

Track closures:

• Tunnel Beach Short Walk - Closed. Significant damage with at least 10 large slips covering full width of track.
• Taieri River Track - Closed from Taieri Mouth to John Bull Gully - undermined structures, track damage and full track washout near John Bull Gully.
• Picnic Gully Track - Closed - undermined structures and full washout of track sections.
• Danseys Pass Campsite - closed due to damage to the access road.
• Jacks Blowhole Track in the Catlins - Closed. Trees are down over track and there is significant scouring of track surface by flood water.

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