The Te Whau Pathway project is an ambitious programme to create a shared walking and cycling pathway connecting the Manukau and Waitematā Harbours along the Whau Estuary. The project plans to build new pathways and connect existing ones to create a 15 km walkway stretching from Green Bay to Te Atatū.
The first stages have been built at Olympic Park, Ken Maunder Park, Archibald Park, McLeod Park, Roberts Field, and a pontoon at Archibald Park.
Construction of the next section of the new pathway has now begun, extending from Bridge Avenue in Te Atatū South and connecting to Roberts Road. This will be completed in mid-2026. It’s an exciting milestone in a project that has been many years in the planning.
Various funders are supporting the construction, including central government, Auckland Council, Auckland Transport and the Henderson-Massey and Whau Local Boards.
The Whau Coastal Walkway Environmental Trust is an essential partner in this multi-agency project. According to the trust’s chairperson, Tony Miguel, the Te Whau Pathway will deliver a range of social, economic, environmental and health benefits.
He says the environmental trust oversees various programmes to raise awareness and encourage the community to get involved. ‘We hold community planting days, school holiday arts events, tree planting, paddle days on the water, bike events to promote bike riding, plus much more,’ reports Tony.
Furthermore, the Whau Coastal Walkway Environmental Trust also oversees community water quality testing at 32 sites in and around the Whau Estuary. The data collected helps the trust monitor pathogens and heavy metals and report on any issues to the local boards and community.
The Whau Coastal Walkway Environmental Trust approached the Your West Support Fund for help with water-quality testing and community events to connect locals with the project.
Funding of $10,000 has been used on several exciting local events, including a very successful waka ama voyage involving students from Kelston Intermediate School. Under the guidance of the Waitākere Outrigger Canoe Club, the students took off from Te Atatū Boating Club and paddled along the Whau River. For many students, it was their first experience of crewing a waka, and much fun was had by all.
‘The trip was the best experience I had in 2023,’ declared Anay, one enthusiastic participant.
According to Tony, the Your West Support Fund has helped leverage investment from other funders and agencies, including in-kind donations.
‘It’s helped us to move forward in reaching local communities and getting them involved in this important project,’ Tony advises.
Plenty of exciting opportunities exist to make a difference in the coming months. Keep an eye on Facebook for all the latest updates.
