The Waiuku Walkways Committee presented a thorough run-down for how it will deliver the initial stages of the Waiuku Trails Plan at the most recent Franklin Local Board business meeting.
The committee detailed how it will spend Franklin Local Board’s $300,000 budget allocation with the help of community volunteers and community contractors. Local businesses will provide discounted materials to start laying hard-surface walkways around Waiuku, starting at the Tamakae Reserve.
The development includes clearing up the Awaroa Portage to ensure its protection in recognition of its value to the local community and significance to mana whenua, who are also on the walkways committee.
Local board member and Waiuku local Brendon Crompton says it has been a real pleasure working alongside the committee to put this plan in place.
“The Waiuku community can be proud of the work being put in to deliver what will be a fantastic asset for this area. It’s also an example of how Waiuku is leading the way as an example of an empowered community taking charge of its own outcomes.”
Community feedback needed for trail plan
Franklin Local Board is also in the initial stages of creating a Pukekohe-Paerata Trails Plan and is seeking local knowledge to identify better walking and cycling connections and possible bridle trails around Pukekohe and Paerata.
Council staff have been out in the community and visiting local schools to collect local knowledge.
Franklin Local Board Chair Angela Fulljames says the Waiuku Walkways Committee has set a great standard for community-led delivery and she hopes those living around Pukekohe and Paerata will take the time to offer feedback on their own trail plan.
“Franklin residents take a lot of pride in their local areas, so I look forward to seeing all the input we get on the Pukekohe-Paerata Trails Plan.”
Give your feedback on the Pukekohe-Paerata Trails Plan by 3 August online on the Auckland Council website.
