A draft concept plan for a shared pathway connecting Waihī Beach and Athenree has been released by the Western Bay of Plenty District Council.

The plan includes a 3m wide, 355m boardwalk across Waiau Estuary from Island View to Athenree, connecting further path and boardwalk sections along esplanade reserves to complete the route into Dr North Memorial Reserve and Pohutukawa Drive.

A kayak landing and beach access at Athenree, lookouts for bird watching and fishing, and cultural and ecological connections are also included.

‘Ahi Pātiki’ is the name gifted to the pathway by Te Whānau a Tauwhao hapū, reflecting the historical and spiritual connection of the area to the pātiki (flounder).

This links back to Ngāi Te Rangi rangatira (chief) Hōri Tūpaea, who named the area after his favourite kai (food).

Council is seeking feedback on the plan, before it is submitted to the Bay of Plenty Regional Council for resource consent.

If the application is successful, then the project can go ahead once there is funding to build it.

“This pathway will not only enhance connectivity between the two communities but will also offer a unique experience for residents and visitors to enjoy the beauty of the Waiau Estuary,” said council’s cycleways manager Scott Parker in a statement.

“This is very much a community collaboration project. The construction hasn’t been funded yet, but if there is enough support, we hope to secure this from external sources.”

An artist's concept for the shared pathway. Photo / Western Bay of Plenty District Council

As well as providing a stunning walking and cycle route, the shared pathway is also seen as a potential emergency evacuation route for the community.

It has been a priority in planning documents - including the Waihī Beach Community Plan and the Bay of Plenty Regional Council Land Transport Plan – for many years.

The pathway is also a section of the Walking and Cycling Action Plan long term Tauranga Moana Coastal Cycleway Project.

Council first consulted with the community in late 2021, which showed strong support for the idea.

“Since then, we’ve been working on a draft concept plan with mana whenua and other key stakeholders. Now we are going back to the community to make sure it reflects their values, needs and expectations,” said Parker.

“This is an opportunity for people to help shape a pathway where people can walk, cycle, connect with nature and enjoy for generations to come.”

Council is holding two consultation sessions, for the community to find out more and to give their feedback:

Feedback can also be given online at yourplace.westernbay.govt.nz/ahi-patiki-pathway

Community consultation runs from Wednesday, April 9 until Wednesday, April 30, 5pm.