Work is to start this week on a new shared path and pedestrian bridge crossing Waihī Beach’s Two Mile Creek and connecting Wilson Rd and Edinburgh St.

A boardwalk from the Wilson Rd car park will lead to the bridge, which will then continue as a shared concrete path for walking and cycling on the other side, Western Bay of Plenty District Council said.

The path will feature a kōwhaiwhai pattern depicting the mangōpare (hammerhead shark) - a symbol of strength and determination.

The design, gifted by Te Whānau a Tauwhao, was selected from the wharenui at Otawhiwhi Marare, and will be sandblasted into the concrete path.

Acknowledging mana whenua and their connection to the area, the same kōwhaiwhai was gifted to Waihī Beach’s new library and service centre, Te Ara Mātauranga, which was recently opened.

The land next to the shared path will remain in gravel for the time being, so it can be used for overflow public car parking.

“This new connection will make it simpler and more enjoyable to get around Waihī Beach without needing to jump in the car. It’s a great addition for both locals and visitors,” says council’s cycleways manager Scott Parker.

“We’re grateful to Te Whānau a Tauwhao for sharing this kōwhaiwhai with the community. It’s a meaningful addition to the path and a way for everyone to walk with a deeper sense of place.”

Initiated by the Waihī Beach Community Board, the project is included in the community board’s Waihī Beach Town Centre Plan, reflecting a commitment to better access and making the town more pedestrian and cycle friendly.

It is being funded through the council’s Waihī Beach Structure Plan.

Work is expected to start this week and be finished by mid-September, depending on the weather.

During this time, part of the Wilson Rd car park will be closed.

“There will be some noise and vibration while the piling is being done, but we’re doing everything we can to keep disruption to a minimum – all work will take place during daylight hours, and we’ll be keeping locals updated as things progress."

Updates on the project can be found at yourplace.westernbay.govt.nz/Wilson-rd-link-bridge