Tangata whenua, together with Tauranga City Council elected members, yesterday led a blessing on the banks of the Wairākei Stream, to mark the beginning of a landscape enhancement plan.
The Wairākei Landscape Plan involves upgrading and enhancing the landscape along the 10km Wairākei Stream corridor from Pacific View Road in Papamoa to the Te Tumu boundary, including Taylor Reserve.
Deputy Mayor Kelvin Clout said it was an honour to be involved in the ceremony, which recognised tangata whenua relationships with the Wairākei Stream.
“This plan recognises the significance that the area has for tangata whenua, and provides for structures, cultural art and traditional practices in the reserve following extensive consultation with local iwi and hapu, and the wider community,” Mr Clout said.
The works will include landscaping, new footpaths, boardwalks and bridges, signage and park furniture – and around 500,000 new plants.
“These works will allow the reserve to become a truly multifunctional space, integral to the fabric of the Papamoa community,” Mr Clout said.
Over the last decade, the council’s investment in dual shared walking and cycling pathways has also helped the Wairākei Reserve grow into a valuable recreation and commuter route.
Mr Clout said caring for the stream for future generations was paramount to the project’s success.
“This blessing is an acknowledgement of the cultural significance of the site and the importance of protecting our waterways.”
Mr Clout said the first stage of the Wairākei Landscape Plan was expected to be completed in 2021.
"I want to thank all of the staff who have already made significant contributions in terms of their time, commitment and expertise to get us to this stage," Mr Clout said.
“I look forward to seeing the plan come to fruition.”