The Tupua Horo Nuku project involves the construction of a 4.4 km walking and cycling path between Ngāu Matau (Point Howard) and Eastbourne. This will be placed on top of the new seawall being built along the corridor to improve the resilience of Marine Drive by providing protection against storms and waves, along with coastal erosion.
The path will provide a safer route for those walking and cycling in the area while encouraging active modes of transport which will help reduce congestion, improve health and better connect local communities between the bays.
The name Tupua Horo Nuku evokes the narrative of the Tupua (spiritual phenomena) called Ngake, one of the two creators of Wellington Harbour in traditional Māori narrative. The name was gifted to the project by Te Atiawa Taranaki Whānui, as part of the partnership between iwi and Hutt City Council.
Tonkin + Taylor’s ecology team has been tasked with reducing the overall disturbance from the project, advising on the maintenance and enhancement of ecological values in the Eastern Bays, and providing measures to minimise harm during construction and encourage biodiversity following construction.
The project will be delivered on behalf of Hutt City Council by Te Ara Tupua Alliance. Hutt City Council is working in partnership with iwi mana whenua – Taranaki Whānui ki te Upoko o te Ika, and Ngāti Toa Rangatira. This partnership operates through the Mana Whenua Steering Group.
