FAQs

This is a community collaboration project, and while the construction is not yet funded, we hope to secure the necessary funding from both Council (through the 2027-2037 Long Term Plan process) and external sources. We are hopeful that the community will get right behind these fundraising efforts.

At this stage, we do not have a precise cost estimate. Now that resource consent has been granted, the next stage of the project is to prepare a preliminary design, including cost estimates. Estimates from a few years ago suggested the project would cost between $2 million and $3 million but we anticipate that this figure will have increased significantly since then.

External funding is expected to come from grants, donations from benefactors, and charitable organisations. The draft 2027-2037 Long Term Plan may include a proposal for Council to provide some of the detailed design and construction funding.  

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).

Community feedback gathered in April and May showed strong support for the proposed pathway, with 70 percent of the 277 submissions backing the concept plan and others providing suggestions for improvement.

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 and other reports associated with the resource consent application here. 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.

Resource consent was granted on 14 August 2026. However, funding has not yet been secured for the detailed design and construction of the path, so there is currently no confirmed timeframe for when construction will begin. Funding will need to be secured before the project can progress to construction, with the community expected to play an active role in fundraising efforts.

Community support is crucial to help raise funds, now that resource consent has been granted. If you would like to help with that, please let us know!

The concept design was 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.  As required by the resource consent conditions, the detailed design is expected to align with the concept design as closely as possible.

• 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.