With a new timber boardwalk in place and vital work to strengthen banks within the reserve now complete, the historic Monmouth Redoubt is ready to welcome visitors to the refreshed site.
The redoubt, located at the Dive Crescent end of The Strand, holds significant cultural and historic importance as the early Māori settlement of Taumatakahawai Pā and as a strategic military fortification built by British forces in 1864 before the Battle of Pukehinahina/ Gate Pā and follow-up conflict at Te Ranga.
A portion of the Monmouth Redoubt reserve has been closed since March for structural reinforcements to be added to the redoubt banks and for failing retaining walls to be replaced, alongside the installation of a new timber boardwalk.
Visitors will experience scenic views of Tauranga Moana and a glimpse of Mauao from a short, shaded nature walk when using the new timber boardwalk on the eastern side of the redoubt. The redoubt connects to Robbins Park and is a short walk to the Cliff Road carpark area.
Te Papa Ward Councillor Rod Taylor says the restored site provides a new perspective in a historic location.
“Many residents have fond memories of visiting the redoubt during their youth, and unfortunately over the years the site has fallen into disrepair,” Rod says.
“It’s great to see the work wrapped up and to have a refreshed outdoor area available to residents and visitors just minutes from the city centre.”
The eastern side of the redoubt before restoration work began.
The new timber boardwalk at Monmouth Redoubt.
Upgrades were identified in a conservation report which involved local hapū Ngāi Tamarāwaho, Ngāti Tapu, and Ngāi Tukairangi, and received input from the Tauranga Historical Society, Heritage NZ and The Elms.
Ngāi Tamarāwaho hapū spokesperson Buddy Mikaere says the upgraded site reflects the importance of the area.
“The history of this land stretches back hundreds of years for Māori, and both Ngāi Tamarāwaho and Ngāti Tapu trace their descent from the Takitimu ancestral waka which is believed to have landed at the shore below the hilltop site,” Buddy says.
“The area is not only important in local history, but also nationally for its connection to the New Zealand Land Wars in 1864. Anyone who visited before work began will be really surprised at the improvements and will hopefully take time to reflect on the shared history of the city.”