Heritage cycleway on the cards

A proposed new cycleway from Lake Ngā Roto to Pirongia has the potential to showcase some of Waipā’s most important natural and historical attractions.

The potential new cycling connection is highlighted in Waipā District Council’s draft Long-Term Plan as the second stage of a bigger 21.4km cycling route. Work on stage one of the route, from Te Awamutu to Lake Ngā Roto, is already underway with Council actively working to secure agreements with landowners.

Three potential routes for the second stage are identified in the draft Long-Term Plan, now open for public comment. Council’s preferred route has more path off-road than the other two options. It would generally see cyclists riding 13.1 kilometres from Lake Ngā Roto, along Sing Road, Paterangi Road, Mackay Acccess Road, Waiare Road, Bird Road and across the Mangapiko Stream into Pirongia.

Along the way, cyclists would have views of Mt Pirongia and the Waiari Pa, also passing the military memorial on Bird Road. The cycleway would connect to Pirongia close to the entrance of Mātakitaki Pa.

Group manager, service delivery Dawn Inglis said the proposed route ticks a number of criteria, including the opportunity for Waipā to show cultural and heritage sites. It would help connect two key Waipā communities and provide health and social wellbeing benefits Waipā people say are important.

If the route goes ahead, most of it would be on a purpose-built cycle path on publicly-owned road reserve. However, just under 4km of the proposed route would need to cross private property – and that work with landowners is only just beginning.

“We would have to negotiate access to that privately-owned land and we have only had very preliminary discussions with a couple of landowners. So there is a lot of work to do in the space but we’re hopeful of being able to reach solutions that work for everyone,” Inglis said.

The estimated cost of the stage two cycling connection between Lake Ngā Roto and Pironiga is $4.3 million. To lessen the burden on ratepayers, Council is anticipating around $3.2 million would need to be raised privately.

“There are definitely some challenges ahead but we think this is a proposal worth pursuing. We’re certainly keen to hear feedback from the community about what people think. We are already working alongside a committed and passionate stakeholder group and that makes a big difference.”

Feedback on Council’s draft Long-Term Plan closes on April 27. To make a comment on the proposed cycleway or on other proposals being considered by Council, go to www.whatsnextwaipa.co.nz