Funding for new footpaths in Otāne and Pōrangahau could be lost

A project to construct much-needed new footpaths in Otāne and Pōrangahau is currently on hold as Waka Kotahi - NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) awaits approval from the new Government to release funding. 

In December 2022, Council was selected by NZTA to receive up to $4 million for the construction of new walking and cycling paths for Otāne and Porangahau as part of the Transport Choices programme. This funding would address long-held community safety concerns by enabling Council to deliver nearly 6km of paths in Otāne and 470m of paths, the only safe walking connection to the local school, in Pōrangahau. 

NZTA have advised that all future funding commitments through the Climate Emergency Response Fund have been put on hold, including Transport Choices projects, with future investment decisions resting directly with the new Ministers of Transport and Finance.   

The pause in the funding is deeply frustrating for residents of Otāne and Pōrangahau. Despite years of local feedback, advocacy and hard work, both communities may lose this opportunity to access safer walking and cycling options in their neighbourhood.

“I share the incredible frustration of our communities in Otāne and Pōrangahau that this central government funding has been paused,” says Central Hawke’s Bay Mayor Alex Walker.  “Not only would these footpaths meet long-held community aspirations for safer streets for everyone, and especially tamariki, it is just common sense to deliver an asset that will support communities for decades to come”. 

Council planned to commence work in early June 2024. Before the funding pause, community engagement for the two towns was underway, design options were nearly complete, and local contractors were being sourced. If the funding is withdrawn, new footpaths on this new footpaths on this scale could never be achieved for these communities, simply due to affordability. 

“Amongst all of the funding priorities for this new Government, it just makes sense to continue funding safer ways to get to school, work and play for communities like ours,” says Mayor Walker.  “We remain optimistic that Ministers will come to share our view once they have a chance to examine more closely the long-term benefits of investing in safer, healthier transport options.” 

For more information on the Transport Choices programme, head to www.chbdc.govt.nz/our-district/projects/transport-choices/. 

Plans  

• Otāne footpath plans (subject to Government funding) 
• Pōrangahau footpath plans (subject to Government funding). 

15 December 2023

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