The Waimatā River following Boxing Day's record rainfall. Photo: Supplied / Murry Cave
The Gisborne District Council says aerial footage shows little slash has gathered on the region's northern beaches following Boxing Day's record rainfall.
The city's beaches had been closed due to slash and emergency sewer valve releases in the days after the downpour - however, most beaches and rivers have now been declared safe for swimming.
Almost a year ago, a 12-year old boy died on Gisborne's main beach after being hit by a log in the water.
The council's chief scientist Murry Cave was frustrated that the waterways had [https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/537744/gisborne-beaches-covered-in-slash-following-heavy-rain
once again been clogged with slash], and expected the city beaches and northern beaches to be worst affected.
However, a recent drone assessment of beaches at Tolaga and Tokomaru Bays showed them to be relatively free from new slash, while heavy swells had pushed logs gathered at the city beaches out of the water.
"There was little new material at Tolaga Bay and that which had been deposited on the beach was in the far north of the beach away from any areas where swimmers or surfers congregate
"Access points at both Wainui and Okitu beaches were largely clear of woody debris and they were looking great with people enjoying the sandy beaches."
Dr Cave said the only area of concern remaining was at Hanamatua Stream where there was a large pile of logs and woody debris.
Meanwhile, the council said nearly all the beaches and rivers were now safe for swimming after heavy rain and sewer overflow discharges.
However, a warning would remain in place for city rivers and from Waikanae Beach to Midway Beach until at least Friday.
"We advise swimmers to continue to take care and look out for any woody debris."