Auckland's "SeaPath" moves another step closer

Cyclists and enthusiastic walkers get to have a good look at the New Zealand Transport Agency’s proposed route for the Auckland SeaPath this week. A series of show and tell events kicks off on the North Shore, giving the public their first opportunity to see the plans up close.

The 3km route runs alongside the Northern Motorway between Esmonde Road, Takapuna and Northcote Point and connects with the future SkyPath annexed to the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

The SkyPath observation deck.  Image credit - Reset Urban Design.

NZTA has committed $31 million to SeaPath. It says during community consultation in 2016, more than 2,600 people provided feedback, with over 95% indicating support for the walking and cycling link.

SeaPath may be delivered in two stages; the first stage from Onewa Rd to Esmonde Rd and connecting with the existing Northcote Safe Cycle Route, NZTA director of regional relationships Steve Mutton said. The second stage would connect Onewa Rd to the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

NZTA says the landward option is proposed for its connectivity, cost and environmental benefits and has been carried forward into a Detailed Business Case, which is due for completion by the end of this year.

Prposed route for "SeaPath".

A Detailed Business Case for the consented SkyPath - a walking and cycling path across the harbour bridge - is due to be completed in the first half of next year.

“Once the business cases are complete, we expect to have greater certainty around the design, construction and opening timeframes for each project,” Mutton says. “The Transport Agency is thrilled to be leading the SkyPath and SeaPath projects. They are key pieces in Auckland’s wider walking and cycling network and getting more people cycling is a key priority for the Government and the agency.

“Seapath will be a key component of the walking and cycling network on Auckland’s North Shore. It will improve community transport links and provide safe access to the natural environment for commuting and recreation.”

Aucklanders are invited to comment on the proposed SeaPath route at a series of pop-up engagement events in Northcote and Birkenhead. The feedback will help inform the Detailed Business Case.

Events are:

●      Wednesday 15 August, 7am-9am, Akoranga Bus Station

●      Wednesday 15 August, 11am-1pm, AUT North Campus

●      Saturday 18 August, 9am-10:30am, Northcote Town Centre

●      Saturday 18 August, 11:30am-1pm, Highbury Town Centre

●      Saturday 18 August, 2pm-3:30pm, Beach Haven Town Centre

●      Tuesday 21 August, 7pm-9pm, Queen Street, Northcote

The Auckland Harbour Bridge - photo taken cityside, looking back to the North Shore.  The SkyPath is planned for this side of the bridge.