Beach access to Cape Kidnappers has reopened - but the public is being warned they use it at their own risk.

Photo: Supplied / Hastings District Council

The walk to the gannet colony has been closed since 23 January when a massive slip injured two South Korean tourists and swept them out to sea.

The Hastings District Council chief executive To'osavili Nigel Bickle said council officers had recommended against reopening the beach access until the comprehensive risk analysis was completed.

Councillors however voted to allow access again, once all practicable steps were taken to ensure public safety.

Mr Bickle said warning signs were in place, and kaitiaki were stationed near Clifton Campground at low tide to warn people of the dangers.

"At the end of the day we live in a democracy and representatives have made a decision and my job is to give effect to that and I think that what we have done is taken a range of all effects that we can take," he said.

The Department of Conservation reserve will remain closed until the risk analysis is completed in three or four months.