Marine Parade Coastal Path

We are constructing a new, three-kilometre path along the Marine Parade coastal reserve, providing another way for all to enjoy this amazing part of our coastline.

Update April 2023

Construction is underway, and with 300 metres laid so far, the new pathway is already getting good use. This first section and two new barbeques were opened to the public prior to the Easter long weekend. Running along the coastal reserve between Hopukiore (Mount Drury Reserve) and Oceanbeach Road, the pathway will be completed later this year. The next stage of works will be commencing in the vicinity of the cenotaph the week following Anzac commemorations.

What’s coming

We are building a new path along the coastal reserve between Hopukiore (Mount Drury Reserve) and Oceanbeach Road, to be completed in late 2023. The project aims to enhance access to the beach while also protecting the adjoining sand dunes and natural vegetation.

In response to community feedback on the proposed design, the path will be wide enough for a range of users to safely experience this wonderful environment together: pedestrians, cyclists, users of wheelchairs and mobility devices, skaters and scooter riders.

Made from a mix of concrete and timber surfaces, the path will curve along the grass berm. In some locations it will climb up onto the higher dunes to provide resting spots and views over the moana (ocean) and nearby motu (islands).

With the support from local hapū and project partners Ngāi Tūkairangi and Ngāti Kuku, the path alignment and its construction will respect the natural environment and cultural values of this significant place, and will weave the rich narratives of this area into its design.

Marine Parade coastal path map (21.9mb pdf)

Read up on the details and view plans of the final design in the resources section on this page.

Scenic viewpoint concept illustration

Pathway concept illustration

Other amenities

We are also installing additional amenities at key locations along the new path, including new barbeques and upgraded picnicking and seating areas, as well as a new playground near Te Ngaio Reserve.

This small playground will complement the Te Ngaio Reserve playground on the other side of Marine Parade, with play equipment designed for younger children (under 10).

The playground will sit within the existing grassed area, and will be low in height so it blends in with the dunes. Design elements, to be developed with Ngāi Tūkairangi and Ngāti Kuku, will reflect the rich cultural history of this area.

Next to the playground we will be installing a new electric barbeque, a picnic table and seating.

Te Ngaio Playground Concept (2mb pdf)

What you told us

We asked the community for their views on initial concepts for the proposed path between December 2021 and February 2022. These concepts were prepared working alongside hapū representatives to ensure the cultural integrity of the surrounding area is acknowledged and respected. This area forms part of the long and rich history of Tauranga Moana, so we want to make sure this is given the mana it deserves.

Thanks for your feedback - we received over 370 submissions on the proposal.

Safety, accessibility, connectivity and maintaining the integrity of the sand dunes and ecology were among some of the key themes that came through in the feedback.

Read more about the feedback we received in the resources section on this page.

Frequently asked questions

What are the key elements of the project?

Enhancing the overall experience of the area by improving the ability for pedestrians, cyclists, scooter riders, other multimodal users and disabled members of our community, to travel along the length of the reserve area as well as cross the road and move down to the beach.

The main path will be made up of a mixture of timber and concrete, and will be a minimum of 3.5m wide.

The main path will also, in places, include new seating and look out areas with information display boards.

The whenua (land) and moana (sea) surrounding the area contain a long and rich history for local hapū which must be respected and considered. We have worked closely with hapū representatives to ensure the mana and history of the area are recognised and where appropriate, expressed in the design elements and information.

What's the idea behind this project?

This project centres on creating a formalised beachside route and experience along Marine Parade from the Cenotaph to the Oceanbeach Road roundabout. This is a continuation of the existing Main Beach boardwalk, which was constructed in 1999.

Community consultation over 20 years including for neighbouring projects such as Innovating Streets has affirmed support for an experience in this area that improves access, safety, and overall experience for the community. It is also desirable to protect and enhance the natural environment to ensure it is sustainable on a long-term basis and want to ensure an appropriate range of quality facilities are provided along the reserve.

We want to acknowledge the cultural and historic connections of the reserve in a meaningful and significant manner to enhance the overall experience of the area.

When will the project occur?

Construction got underway in early 2023 and works are anticipated to be complete in late 2023.

Will parking be removed?

Most of the paths and gathering areas will be located within the existing reserve areas. However, in one or two locations a very limited number of carparks will need to be removed to improve pedestrian crossing points.

When will works on the boardwalk start?

Construction got underway in early 2023. The path will be built in sections, starting at the cenotaph, and working towards the playground opposite Te Ngaio Reserve. Construction will then continue from there to the Oceanbeach Road roundabout and we aim to keep any disruption to a minimum during this period.
The path is expected to be complete and ready for the community to enjoy by late 2023.

What to expect while construction is underway:

At times there will be limited access to sections of the beach and facilities (e.g., BBQs) Signs will be in place indicating nearby alternatives.
Some construction noise during working hours. Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.
Temporary parking restrictions along the beach side of Marine Parade at times.

We appreciate your support and patience while these works are carried out and look forward to seeing this long-awaited project come to life.

Future developments

The new path is part of the first stage of enhancement for the reserve. Additional facilities will be added as funding becomes available and demand requires. Additional amenities may include: enhanced protection of the dunes, additional play facilities, additional showers and toilets, information boards, new seating and picnic and BBQ facilities.

Key information

Project type
Parks and Recreation

Status
Underway

Neighbourhood
Mount Maunganui / Arataki

Key dates

Commissioners approve investigation into feasibility, consenting and cost for the project
March 2021
LTP approval
July 2021
Feedback opens
17 December 2021
Feedback closes
31 January 2022
Feedback reviewed
February 2022
Final concept design
March 2022
Lodging resource consent application
July 2022
Detailed design
April to September 2022
Construction begins
Early 2023
Fully completed
Late 2023