Government investment in Te Whau coastal pathway welcomed

Jasmax is thrilled with the news that the Government is investing $35 million to significantly extend the Te Whau coastal pathway in west Auckland. Associate Transport Minister Julie Anne Genter made the announcement as part of a $220 million cycleway package.

Genter says the funding forms part of the Government’s post-Covid rebuild infrastructure investment to create jobs.

An artists impression of Te Whau pathway.

Te Whau Pathway, designed by Jasmax and Monk Mackenzie with Stantec in consortium, features 12km of boardwalks and bridges rising above expansive mangroves and tidal flats along the Whau River, connecting the Tasman Sea to the Pacific Ocean. The project is a collaborative partnership between Auckland Council, the Whau and Henderson - Massey local boards, Auckland Transport, Te Kawarau a Maki, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei and the Whau Coastal Walkway Environmental Trust..

“We’re thrilled that detailed design and construction of Te Whau Pathway has been accelerated as part of the post Covid-19 stimulus spending,” says Jasmax Principal, Mike Thomas.  “This project has the opportunity to unlock movement along its length, connecting people with their neighbourhoods and other major pathways in the network.  

“Modelling indicates the Pathway will return $2.50 for every $1 spent so this project represents a strong investment for the city.”

Te Whau connects Auckland’s east and west coasts.

Genter says a lot of New Zealanders want the post-Covid rebuild to create a more sustainable future, and safe cycle projects do that. 

“During lockdown we saw many more families and kids out on their bikes, which shows that when our streets feel safe to cycle people want to ride,” Genter said.

 “Te Whau pathway will provide a safe walking and cycling route for kids getting to school, for commuters, and for recreation.

 “This funding will allow us to extend Te Whau from Olympic Park to Ken Maunder Park, and Laurieston Park to the North Western Cycleway.

When complete the pathway will connect one side of the country to the other via the Manukau and Waitemata harbours, as well as 33 reserves, sports parks, local schools and the communities of Green Bay, New Lynn, Avondale, Kelston, Glendene and Te Atatū.

Construction of Te Whau pathway is expected to create over 100 jobs, while the broader cycling package is expected to create over 1000.