19 March 2025
When does the new process become active?
The new automated gate process is active from Wednesday 19 March.
What is the new process?
Please note - There is no overnight parking or camping allowed at the Lake Ōkataina scenic reserve.
If the PINs fail to open the gate call Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council Contact Centre, 0800 884 880 or enquire at Lakes Lodge Ōkataina.
Is there any time limit before the PINs expire?
The first PIN must be used at the automated gate within two hours of being issued at The Wash Place.
How do I open the gate?
Use the first four-digit PIN provided to open the gate. It is important to have your trailer positioned ready for launch in front of the gate before inputting the PIN number.
There are vehicle sensors in place to ensure the gate doesn’t close during launching but as soon as the vehicle exits the boat ramp, the gate will automatically close. A camera has been installed at the boat ramp to monitor activity.
The second four-digit PIN provided should be used for boat retrieval only.
Can I use the PINs more than once?
No. The PINs provided are unique. The first PIN supplied can only be used for one boat entry and the second PIN provided can only be used for exit.
Is there mobile reception at the boat ramp?
There is full mobile reception for most service providers.
What happens if the code doesn’t work?
If the PIN provided fails to open the gate call Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council Contact Centre, 0800 884 880 or enquire at Lakes Lodge Ōkataina. Access can be granted either manually or remotely if the necessary requirements have been completed.
Do I need to do the Bay of Plenty Regional Council certification as well?
No. Completion of the online form at The Wash Place also satisfies the terms of the Regional Pest Management Plan rule 7.
Is the CAN being changed and how?
Yes, the CAN is being updated on 19 March to reflect the process to use once the automatic gate is operating.
How is the new process different to the current process?
Previously, lake users either showed a video of their wash process or their online form in person at the boat ramp to gain access. All other requirements remain the same.
