Western Bay of Plenty District Council is building a new shared pathway at MacMillan Reserve in Katikati to make it easier to use all year round.

Work began this week and was expected to take about a month to complete – depending on the weather, the council said.

The 2.5m wide, aggregate pathway would be built between the eastern ends of Pukakura Rd and Beach Rd.

“This will provide a more reliable, all-weather surface for people walking and cycling through the reserve,” the council said.

A map showing where the new pathway will be built between the eastern ends of Pukakura and Beach roads. Image / Western Bay of Plenty District Council

Currently, the reserve is an unformed grass esplanade.

“While it’s a popular route connecting Tamawhariua Reserve through to Beach Rd, it can become muddy and difficult to use in wet conditions,” the council said.

During the work, the reserve area northwest of the carpark and boat ramp would be temporarily closed and fenced off for safety.

The council said the carpark and boat ramp at the eastern end of Beach Rd would remain open during the works, with traffic management in place.

“We know this route is well used by locals and visitors, and these improvements will make it more accessible and enjoyable in all conditions.”

Find out more about the project at: https://yourplace.westernbay.govt.nz/macmillan-reserve-shared-pathway