A new bridge crossing the Kopurererua Stream a short distance from the Faulkner Street kiosk was lowered into place by crane this week.

The bridge provides public access to an eight hectare island created when the stream's meandering path across the valley was restored as part of the K Valley project.

The new bridge gives island access.

The span is expected to be one for public use in about a week, once the ramps have been completed.

The bridge is designed as a pedestrian and cycling-friendly, and the glulam wooden structure fits in well with the other assets that have been developed – particularly the wooden walkways, says a TCC spokesperson.

An official opening event is expected early to mid-May as a way of beginning stage two of the project, which involves clearing the island area of plant and animal pests ready for replanting in native trees and plants.

The replanting will be done over three public planting days to be held before the end of the year.

The planting project is led by the Rotary Centennial Trust as part of its ongoing commitment to the restoration project in K Valley.

So far that's eight years and more than $700,000 of value to the project.

The first planting day is usually May 27 coinciding with Arbour Day and World Environment Day.

Longer term plans for the island are to have grassed areas walking trails and make it a place for people to exercise, have picnics and where school and other groups can learn about the natural environment, says Tauranga City Council partnership manager Frank Begley.

It's hoped the island will become a place filled with birdlife and the surrounding streams filled with fish and other aquatic life, says Frank.

Kopurererua Valley is a 300 hectare block of low lying rural land situated between residential neighbourhoods in Tauranga. Running from Judea in the north to Tauriko in the south, it's bordered by the neighbourhoods of Te Reti, Gate Pa, Greerton, Westridge and Cambridge Heights.

For many years Kopurererua Valley was inhabited by the people of Ngai Tamarawaho. Remains of pa and other archaeological sites are located throughout the valley.

In terms of New Zealand history, the valley is important.

During the mid 1800s, it was the staging point and retreat path for two significant battles between Maori and British Colonial forces – the Battle of Gate Pa and the Battle of Te Ranga.

More recently the valley has suffered major environmental degradation through farmland development.

Attempts had been made to drain the swampy valley floor and its streams had been altered, leaving a legacy of drainage canals and straightened water courses which carry silt and debris directly into Tauranga Harbour.