Entry credits: Panuku Auckland Development
Te Ara Awataha is the name gifted by Mana Whenua for a 1.5km green corridor project that will link Northcote’s existing parks, town centre, schools and homes. The project includes regenerating the Awataha Stream and the creation of a shared walking and cycling path, native riparian planting and play destinations.
Physical delivery of Te Ara Awataha began in March 2020 following a blessing by Mana Whenua at Jessie Tonar Scout Reserve.
Eke Panuku Development Auckland, Auckland Council’s Healthy Waters Department and Kāinga Ora – Homes and Communities are jointly leading the project, with support from Kaipātiki Project. The three project delivery partners are leading the restoration in partnership with Mana Whenua, wider Auckland Council whānau, the Kaipātiki Local Board, local schools, Northcote Business Association, a Community Reference Group and community volunteers.
A focus of the project is to bring life back to the Awataha Stream. Early work has involved boosting the mauri of the stream, improving water quality, and allowing the green corridor to be a habitat for microbes, birds, insects and tuna (eels) once more.
Te Ara Awataha is a key project that will regenerate a degraded natural taonga and provide environmental benefits to a growing urban population.
