Waihī Beach Forest Loop Trail construction to stop during winter

Construction of the final forest section of the Waihī Beach loop trail is on hold over winter and access remains closed for safety reasons.

In addition, the existing upper trail to the south-west of the Trig Trail summit area will be closed until August as the neighbouring property owner undertakes forestry harvesting operations and is using the reserve for access.

The public are asked to not venture beyond barriers and signage for safety reasons due to tree felling and other hazards at both sites. Site security staff are in attendance during logging operations.

The Trig Trail and the dam loop trail remains open.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council and Waihī Beach Cycle Trails Community Trust have been working together to extend the loop trail sections to complete the full loop in 2021. The loop trail completion will redevelop the former water supply reserve into an experience of walking and cycle trails in Waihī Beach.

Council’s Reserves and Facilities Projects and Assets Manager, Scott Parker says good progress has been made on extending the forest trail network with a new connection to the dam loop trail but asks for the public’s patience while the project pauses for the winter season.

“We aim to restart works in late spring to complete the full loop trail circuit which will add a continuation of the community’s desire for off road and dedicated trails and shared pathways,” says Scott.