FAQs

This is a community collaboration project, and while the construction is not yet funded, we hope to secure the necessary funding from external sources, providing there is enough community support. We are hopeful that the community will get right behind these fundraising efforts.

At this stage, we do not have a precise cost estimate, as we have not yet reached the detailed design phase. However, estimates from a few years ago suggested the project would cost between $2 million and $3 million. We anticipate that this figure will have increased since then.

The majority of the funding is expected to come from external sources, including grants, donations from benefactors, and charitable organisations. Currently, the Council's budget is allocated only for the preparation and submission of the resource consent application.

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).

Watch Reon Tuanau of Ōtāwhiwhi Marae explain the significance of the name. [INSERT VIDEO LINK]

The environment and cultural history of the whenua is important to us so we’ve taken into consideration landscape and ecological impacts, utilising existing ‘gaps’ in the mangroves on the eastern side of the estuary and situating the path with a backdrop of pōhutukawa on the western side. This will ensure the least invasive approach to marine life and sunlight for plants adjacent to the path. 

Yes, the route was adjusted after an archaeological and cultural assessment in July 2022, resulting in the slight shift from the original ‘preferred route 4’, (which was running the full length of Dr North Memorial Reserve), to a slightly different route beside the Dr North Memorial Reserve inlet before finishing at Pohutukawa Drive. This change was necessary to better accommodate the area's cultural and historical significance at Dr North Memorial Reserve. 

The assessment ensured the pathway respects these important elements while still providing a practical and accessible route for users.  The draft concept design shows how we intend to work around the Pōhutukawa trees around Dr North Memorial Reserve headland as any pruning could adversely affect the health and appearance of some of these trees.  

The boardwalk across the Waiau Estuary is elevated to allow small boats such as kayaks & dinghies to pass under the structure itself - including high tide.  Unfortunately, sail-craft will not be able to access the Waiau Stream upstream of the new path. Due to its location at the head of the estuary, the path should have minimal impact on recreational sailing. 

The pathway’s design carefully considers environmental factors, which are considered in the Environmental Effects Assessment report (which we will add to this site as soon as it’s available). The height of the boardwalk helps protect the natural water flow and minimises disruption to the estuary’s ecosystem. The route avoids the wetland and associated wildlife further upstream.  

We're committed to protecting the Waiau Estuary during all stages of this project. Key measures include:

• Minimising construction impacts through careful design and materials.
• Ongoing consultation with Tangata Whenua and environmental experts to address concerns and preserve the estuary’s natural beauty.

The path is not being constructed yet because there is no funding and resource consent has not yet been obtained. The resource consent process could take several month, and following that we will need to source funding.

Community support is crucial at this stage to help Council successfully obtain resource consent. Positive feedback and input during this round of public consultation will demonstrate the need for the project and help shape the final design to align with community expectations.

The draft concept design has been developed to be both sympathetic to the landscape and natural environment while showcasing the beauty of the Waiau Estuary. This balance ensures that the path enhances accessibility without compromising the area’s natural values.

• Enhancing connectivity between Waihī Beach and Athenree for residents and visitors.
• Providing a safe, accessible path for walking, cycling, and mobility scooters.
• Supporting healthy lifestyles and sustainable transport options.
• Promoting environmental awareness, cultural awareness and access to the Waiau Estuary.

This round of consultation provides an opportunity for the community to review and provide feedback on the draft concept design. Your input is vital to ensure the project aligns with community needs, environmental considerations, and design expectations.

You can join the kōrero in the following ways:

• Online, wānanga ipurangi - You can complete our online feedback form below.
• Hard copy, pepa mārō - Drop your feedback off at any of our Library and Service Centres or to the main Council office at Barkes Corner.
• In person, ā kanohi - Join us on Thursday 24 April, 3.30pm - 5.30pm at Dr North Memorial Reserve, Pōhutukawa Dr, Athenree or Saturday 26 April, 8.30am - 12.30pm at the Waihī Beach Farmers Market.
• Email, īmēra - yourplace@westernbay.govt.nz
• Or post, mēra - Send your feedback to: Ahi Pātiki Pathway, Western Bay of Plenty District Council, Private Bag 12803, Tauranga Mail Centre, Tauranga 3143.

Consultation closes at on Wednesday 30 April 2025.

All feedback will be carefully reviewed and considered as part of the decision-making process. Updates to the concept design may be made based on public input before finalising the plans and applying for resource consent.