Piha Local Track Update

We have received the following update from Auckland Couincul Principle Ranger, Dave Markham.

Kia ora

 I wanted to provide an update in terms of progress relating to re-establishing the connection to the Tasman Lookout Track from the southern end of Piha Beach. We received sufficient geotechnical information that has enabled the project team to make an informed decision around if we could find a suitable new alignment. The good news is that a new entrance is possible at an entry point more seaward than the previous one and we can navigate around further instability points that were either evident after the 2023 storm events or found by the geotechnical experts.  From a parks perspective we are supportive of the alignment proposed by engineers as the visual impact will be minimal and visitor safety is improved given all tide access to The Gap would be re-established, a concern if the present sand accretion phase changes.

 The next stage will be an application for resource consent. We have already identified the funding required as part of the parks capital work programme so once consent is obtained our project team can engage suitable contractors to deliver the work.

 Expect further communications on this work to come from Grant Jennings who is the project manager. Below I have included two images, one reflects how we anticipate the start of the new track will look, the other reflects the alignment we are looking to take.

 Would you be able to share this update on how progress is tracking with your members?

 Lion Rock / Te Piha

 The geotechnical instabilities and archaeology mean that there are significant challenges to re-establishing public access. We are presently focussing our time and effort to other tracks in the Piha area so we can get a greater extent of tracks open for you. In the meantime, we are hearing reports of persons going beyond the current closure point. As I’m sure your members will appreciate it is a site where people have had serious injuries (or worse) and that the storm damage and infrastructure not maintained beyond the closure point creates further risk. As a response we will be looking to install what we hope will be a more effective barrier. The image below provides an indication of what it is likely to look like, we’ve tried to keep it looking fairly natural in the environment, it’s an important place after all.

 Laird Thomson

 We are finalising the detail on how we could re-establish the track connection to North Piha. Expect some further commentary in the near future from our project manager Grant Jennings.

Thanks

Dave

  Dave Markham | Principal Ranger - Regional Parks West

Community Directorate

Auckland Council