Taylor Reserve, formally known as Wairākei (meaning translucent waters), is of significant value to mana whenua and the local community. The focus of the design is on a natural coastal theme in keeping with the local area and representing the values of importance to mana whenua and the community.
Community consultation update
In 2024, we asked the community for their thoughts on how they used the reserve and their ideas for improvements in the future. After reviewing the feedback, we have updated our concept plans and we’re in the process of finalising the design and planning with our contractors.
Refined plans include improving access to the beach, as well as installing paths and a barbeque with shelter.
The project will be completed in stages to limit impacts on the community over the peak summer season.
Cultural recognition elements are scheduled to be installed in 2026. We also hope to widen the road and add a footpath subject to budget availability. Planting will be completed in stages throughout these works.
Through feedback, we heard that a small playground was not wanted in this space. As a result, we are planning a larger playground at Simpson Reserve. Find out more about the Simpson Reserve project.
Full summary of feedback from the community consultation (658kb pdf)
Background
This reserve is the former outlet of the Wairākei Stream (before the headwaters were diverted and the farmland was drained in the 1920’s–1950’s). The reserve is of high significance to multiple iwi for many reasons. In more recent times the mouth of the Wairākei Stream became the new boundary between Tauranga Moana iwi and Te Arawa iwi once peace was made following the musket wars of 1835-1845. In 1865 it became the confiscation boundary line for Tauranga Moana iwi.
Taylor Reserve is named after the Taylor Family who created the Taylor, Motiti and Karewa subdivisions in the 1950’s-1960’s.
Resource consent conditions for stormwater discharge to the Wairākei Stream include requirements for cultural recognition within Taylor Reserve, and the development of a supporting landscape plan. Implementation of cultural recognition and the associated landscape plan is required by December 2025.
Engagement with the community on planned upgrades for this reserve was undertaken in 2017. The upgrade was then placed on hold shortly after.
Project scope
The final design will be subject to budget, but could include the following:
- A concrete footpath that connects each side of the reserve to the public toilets. This will improve accessibility for the reserve.
- Widening of the car park driveway to allow two-way traffic, and installing a footpath.
- Planting the existing low-lying area in the south-eastern corner of the reserve. This is the last remnant of the Wairākei Stream within Taylor Reserve which used to flow out to the ocean in this location. We intend to plant natives that are happy with damp feet. Note that we are not creating a wetland, and no earthworks are proposed for this area.
- The creation of an accessible lookout so that people with mobility issues can view the ocean.
- Cultural elements that recognise the cultural significance of this place.
- Provision of a BBQ and some shade.
- Improvements to the eastern and western beach accessways including a blue accessibility mat at the beach access near the carpark.
- Planting of dune species and other coastal amenity species between the concrete footpath and the sand dunes.
- Plant a small number of trees to provide shade within the reserve.
Taylors Reserve - Draft concept plan (7mb pdf)