Waihī Beach–Athenree Shared Pathway Plan Opens for Community Feedback

Western Bay of Plenty District Council has released a draft concept plan for a shared pathway linking Waihī Beach and Athenree, and is inviting the community to have their say before a resource consent application is lodged with Bay of Plenty Regional Council. The route features a 3-metre-wide, 355-metre-long boardwalk across the Waiau Estuary from Island View to Athenree, with further path and boardwalk sections connecting through esplanade reserves to Dr North Memorial Reserve and Pōhutukawa Drive.

The design also includes a kayak landing and beach access at Athenree, lookout points for birdwatching and fishing, and cultural and ecological connections. The pathway has been gifted the name 'Ahi Pātiki' by Te Whānau a Tauwhao hapū, reflecting the area's historical and spiritual connection to the pātiki (flounder) and its association with Ngāi Te Rangi rangatira Hōri Tūpaea.

Council first consulted with the community in late 2021, which showed strong support for the idea. The pathway also forms part of the long-term Tauranga Moana Coastal Cycleway Project. Cycleways manager Scott Parker described it as a community collaboration that would enhance connectivity between the two townships while offering residents and visitors a unique way to experience the beauty of the Waiau Estuary.

Two in-person consultation sessions are planned: Thursday 24 April from 3.30–5.30pm at Dr North Memorial Reserve in Athenree, and Saturday 26 April from 8.30am–12.30pm at the Waihī Beach Farmers Market at Waihī Beach Primary School. Feedback can also be submitted online at westernbay.govt.nz/ahi-patiki-pathway. The consultation period closes on Wednesday 30 April at 5pm.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).