Trampers told to stay away from Canterbury tracks

File photo / Dean Purcell

Trampers are being advised to keep clear of Canterbury tracks and visitor facilities until they have been checked over by the Department of Conservation (DOC) following the weekend's 7.1 magnitude earthquake.

There was concern fallen debris and damaged structures could pose a risk and DOC staff were inspecting the affected areas, acting southern general manager of operations Mike Slater said.

The Pinnacles Hut track, the Staveley Lime Kiln near Mount Somers and the Otukaikino Reserve north of Christchurch are closed to the public because of structural damage.

"There's a lot of country to check but we're out there now, and we will provide updates as soon as we receive reports," Mr Slater said.

- NZPA