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Generous Gift at Puhoi
Puhoi property owner, Maureen Brophy, is gifting her river esplanade to help form a new Te Araroa walkway. Her contribution of land will comprise approximately 700 metres of track and is a significant link in the proposed Puhoi to Wenderholm project.
Maureen grew up in Puhoi and has very fond memories and strong ties with the local community. Although she has lived in Whakatane for 38 years, she is keen to be kept abreast of local developments.
She said: “I think Te Araroa is a wonderful idea – it’s something I really believe in. As well, Puhoi is a lovely village and this walkway will eventually become a great asset.”
Te Araroa’s Fiona Mackenzie said that developing any track is like doing a very difficult jigsaw.
“Maureen’s donation is a significant piece of the puzzle and really pushes things along. Generosity like this is so heartening to everyone involved with Te Araroa and brings our vision of a Cape Reinga to Bluff route so much closer.”
Fiona did note that this project will still take some time to come to fruition.
“The Northern Gateway Alliance built a path for us from the SH1 jetty to just past the new tunnels and there is already a large amount of public river esplanade; however, we have yet to negotiate access through a few more properties with riparian rights. Also, Transit’s plans for SH1 may have an impact at some stage. Good things do take time.”
When it is developed, the Puhoi to Wenderholm project promises to add to the growing list of Puhoi attractions. Because of its proximity to urban areas, it’s proposed that the walkway will eventually be built to a standard suitable for walkers, pushchairs, and bicycles if feasible.
“In addition to our through-hikers, we believe many others will take advantage of kayaking the river and walking or biking back. It will make a really enjoyable outing for families and tourists.”
The very generous Maureen Brophy.
