Community thoughts wanted on Athenree shared path proposal

Council is exploring a new, shared walkway and cycleway connecting Athenree to Waihī Beach, and wants to hear what you think of the proposal.

For many years there has been a community desire to connect Waihī Beach to Athenree with a shared pathway and remains one of the priority projects within the Waihī Beach Community Plan. Western Bay of Plenty District Council is now in the early stages of planning a shared use path across the northern end of the Waiau Estuary.

The proposed path includes a 2.5 metre wide boardwalk, 380 metres long across the estuary from Island View, connecting to a 440 metre long surfaced path through Dr North Reserve to Pōhutukawa drive. The design will be mobility scooter and wheelchair friendly with an elevated section over the Waiau Estuary channel to allow small boats to pass under.

Council’s Reserves and Facilities Projects and Assets Manager Scott Parker says, “We’re investigating a minimally invasive path design that protects our estuarine environment, and the historical and cultural heritage of the area.

“We have funding to design the path and prepare for the resource consent application, but need to gauge community support before we go any further.”

“We’re lucky to have some really beautiful trails around Athenree and Waihī Beach, but a shared path across the estuary would be something special. Visitors and residents would be able to experience the estuary environment, from a new angle.

“People would be able to walk between communities within an hour, adding to the liveliness of the area without creating congestion from cars and parking.”

Council is keen to hear what the Athenree, Bowentown and Waihī Beach communities think about the proposal to inform project planning and the resource consent application process.

To find out more about the proposal and share your thoughts

• Visit our website and fill out the survey www.haveyoursay.westernbay.govt.nz/athenree-shared-path
• Attend the drop in information session on Wednesday 20 October, 4-6pm at Athenree Hot Springs and Holiday Park. More information sessions will follow, register on the website above to be notified when new sessions are added.
• Fill out a feedback postcard at either Waihī Beach Library or The Centre – Pātuki Manawa, Katikati.

Council’s long-term strategy is to have a trail from Ōmokoroa to Katikati and onto Waihi, eventually connecting our District to other regions. Funding for the planning phase of this project is shared between Council and the Waihī Beach Community Board.