People in Whanganui are being warned to stay away from one of the areas hardest hit in last month's record flood.
Heavy machinery is being used to clear silt from the Kowhai Park playground and miniature railway. Photo: RNZ / Robin Martin
Heavy machinery is clearing contaminated silt from Kowhai Park, making it unsafe for public use.
The park is well-known locally for its oversized cartoon-style play equipment.
The Whanganui District Council expects the diggers will be in the park for at least another three weeks but says it may be months before it can be reopened.
It said once the silt is cleared away, grass areas will be resown, but at this time of year the grass will take longer to grow.
Kowhai Park on 22 June. Photo: RNZ / Tom Furley