First sod turned for shared path from Marsden Cove to Ruakākā Retail District

Last weekend, Bream Bay locals held a ceremony to turn the first sod for the long-anticipated shared path connecting Marsden Cove to the Ruakākā retail district. Local residents, business owners, and trail builders gathered to commence the project.

The shared path will provide a safe, scenic, and enjoyable route for pedestrians and cyclists between their homes and local businesses. 

Mana whenua of the area, Patuharakeke, led the ceremony with a karanga calling the assembled people onto the whenua where the sod was to be turned. The local minita blessed the land and the project, saying that while there was no foundation stone as a physical mauri, those assembled would leave their thoughts as the mauri of the project. A carved walking stick was passed from speaker to speaker — many of whom spoke of their connections to the land and their commitment and interest in the project.

Herenga ā Nuku’s Northland Regional Field Advisor, Shaughan Anderson, says the shared path represents the local people’s commitment to fostering a vibrant Bream Bay. It makes it easier for residents and visitors to bike and walk between their communities.

The project is part of the wider Northland Regional Walking and Cycling Project, where Herenga ā Nuku is a leading partner. Anderson has been supporting the project with advice about public access. Now that construction has begun, he looks forward to seeing the path built and local people walking and biking on it.