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HATEA LOOP (Huarahi o te Whai) 2016
JEWEL OFTHE CITY REPORT
VISION, MISSION
AND VALUESVisionTo be a vibrant, attractive and thriving District by developing sustainable lifestyles based around our unique environment; the envy of New Zealand and recognised worldwide.
MissionCreating the ultimate living environment.
ValuesThe Vision for our District and the Mission for our organisation are underpinned by Whangarei District Council’s commitment to the fundamental core values of:
• Communication
• Customer first
• Innovation and excellence
• Valuing employees and partnerships
• Visionary leadership.
TirohangaKa kitea to ihi, te ataahuatanga kia anga mua tonu nga mahi i roto i to tatou rohe. Kia pumau tonu te ahurei o te taiao. Ka ahua pühaehae te titiro mai o te ao whanui ki Aotearoa
ArongaAuaha mutunga kore o te ao türoa
WariuNga tirohanga mo to tatou rohe, me nga aronga mo to tatou roopu whakariterite, na te roopu tautoko kaupapa. Te Kaunihera a rohe o Whangarei. Kia noho here ki nga pu taketake whai wariu
• Whakawhitiwhitinga korero
• Te kai tono i te tuatahi
• Whakatakoto kaupapa hou, whakahirahira
• Wäriütanga o nga kaimahi i roto i te haerenga tahitanga, pera i nga tikanga o te Tiriti o Waitangi
• Tirohanga kaiärahi (nga tirohanga whakamua kaiärahi)
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CONTENTSVision, Mission and Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2Executive Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Overview: Hatea Loop (Huarahi o te Whai) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Methodology. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Findings & Comparisons to the 2015 Report . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Overall Findings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Activity Nodes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Canopy Bridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Town Basin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Playground . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Art Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Hihiaua – Waka and Wave . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Kotuitui Whitinga & Port Road Walkway . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Te Matau ä Pohe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Pohe Island Walkway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Dog Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Family BMX Track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Skate Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Further Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Reference List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
This survey was conducted and the report prepared by Vanamali Joseph, Molly Alford and Holly Cook, members of the 2015 Whangarei District Council’s Youth Advisory Group, with assistance from Penelope Wilson and Community Services Department Staff.
April 2016
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INTRODUCTION
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Huarahi o te Whai – The Hatea Loop, is a 4.2km walkway that takes you on a journey from the Town Basin, around Pohe Island and back through the Canopy Bridge, connecting various activity nodes along the way. Loved by residents and visitors alike, the Hatea Loop is quite literally the ‘Jewel of the City’.
This report is a snapshot capturing the use and opinions of both visitors and residents who passed through this space over an 8-day period from 23 to 30 January 2016. In total, 130 hours were spent on data collection and getting willing residents to complete survey questionnaires. Compared to the 2015 survey data, there has been an overall 15% increase in use, from 7756 to 8964 people counted.
As the findings within the report show, tourists and residents of all ages definitely enjoy and appreciate the accessible walkway and its surrounds. Moreover, responses indicate that users are enthusiastic for the project to continue developing to ensure its ongoing popularity and success.
The issue raised most frequently by respondents to the questionnaire, was the need for an adequate number of seats in shaded areas.
Also of importance to users was the expansion of the Riverside Walkway to make it safer for pedestrians and cyclists because of its proximity to the road. It is significant to note that, in the interim period between the survey being conducted and publication of this report, this problem has been addressed by the opening of a new section of pathway.
This report validates the Hatea Loop as a popular and enjoyable destination and experience for visitors and residents alike. It is a dedicated multi-use connection to a number of recreational opportunities for people of all ages and abilities found close to the CDB of Whangarei City. With continued development, it will certainly retain its title as “The Jewel of the City”.
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OVERVIEW: HATEA LOOP (HUARAHI O TE WHAI)The 4.2km Hatea Loop links William Fraser Memorial Park on Pohe Island to the Town Basin and Hihiaua Peninsula via the Canopy Bridge, Kotuitui Whitinga pedestrian bridge and Te Matau ä Pohe bridge. This accessible route links a number of recreational opportunities in close proximity to Whangarei City. The Loop encourages an active lifestyle and caters for users of all ages and with varying mobility.
Whangarei’s Town Basin is the heart of the city, and offers a peaceful place to eat, have a coffee or take in views of the busy marina. The Town Basin is a major stop for many international yacht voyages, especially during summer. It is a family orientated area and has plenty for tourists and residents to enjoy, not least the shopping and museum opportunities, along with areas to relax and play.
Commercial activities here consist of a number of cafés, restaurants, and local handcraft and souvenir stores,
the Fudge Factory, Clapham’s National Clock Museum, Whangarei Art Museum and the visitor information centre at Te Manawa - The Hub.
William Fraser Memorial Park on Pohe Island is a major recreational hub in Whangarei as it boasts a large area for outdoor sports and pursuits. It lies adjacent to the Hatea River and has significant connections to the water, with the Whangarei Rowing Club and Young Mariners having clubrooms located on Pohe Island. It is also the home of football clubs and to be the home of Whangarei Old Boys Rugby and Sports Club. It is managed by Whangarei District Council as a recreational reserve. A challenge for any development on this site is that landfill operations, which had occurred until November 2005, must be considered.
The major activity nodes surveyed here, along with the walkway, are the Family BMX track, Skate Park and Dog Park.
METHODOLOGYMembers of the Whangarei District Council’s Youth Advisory Group gathered statistical data for this report between Saturday 23 and Saturday 30 January 2016. Over this period the weather was initially extremely hot, and then overcast. The members worked in pairs when counting people and conducting interviews at each activity node.
The 11 activity nodes surveyed by the youth were located on two sides of the Hatea River. On the southern town-side were the Canopy Bridge, Town Basin, playground, Art Park, Hihiaua Peninsula, Kotuitui Whitinga and Port Road walkway. On the northern Pohe Island side was Te Matau ä Pohe, the Pohe Island walkway, Family BMX Track, Skate Park and Dog Park.
The information collected was both quantitative and qualitative. The quantitative data consisted of the time of day that observations took place and the number of people counted at the activity nodes over a one hour period. The qualitative data consisted of information on gender, age group, place of origin and visitation frequency of the people interviewed. This was supplemented with further information on why they had come, what they liked about it and what they would do to make the experience more enjoyable.
Viewed in the context of 2015, there has been a general overall increase in people counted from 7756 to 8964, while the number of people has decreased slightly from 556 to 518.
For the purposes of the number of people counted, the following boundaries around each site were used:
• Canopy Bridge: the bridge itself, between the bordering bollards
• Town Basin: from the corner of Clapham’s National Clock Museum to the bollards on the Canopy Bridge
• Playground: from Reyburn House to the corner of Clapham’s National Clock Museum
• Art Park: from the Riverbank Theatre to Reyburn House
• Hihiaua Peninsula: from the top of the Peninsula to the Riverbank Theatre
• Kotuitui Whitinga and Port Road Walkway: from the Hihiaua entrance to Kotuitui Whitinga to the Te Matau ä Pohe control office
• Te Matau ä Pohe: the bridge itself or its approaches
• Pohe Island Walkway: the concrete path on Pohe Island
• Family BMX Track: the track itself and the immediate grass surroundings
• Skate Park: the actual park and the immediate grass surroundings
• Dog Park: the park itself, inside the fence.
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FINDINGS & COMPARISONS TO THE 2015 REPORTThe principal finding of the survey is that users of the Hatea Loop are resoundingly positive about the impact it has on the city and the opportunities it brings to so many. Like last year’s survey, most of the comments were affirming as well as providing suggestions for further improvements.
The feedback received, and conveyed through this report was very similar to that made last year. The recurring themes were lack of shade, especially over seats, the narrowness of the Riverside section of the Loop (however, this has been subsequently remedied), with the focus generally on safety and convenience.
Improvements made over the year included the installation of exercise equipment on both sides of the river, drinking fountains and public toilets, as well as the completion of the shared path along Riverside Drive in February 2016.
This year, 8964 people were counted using the Hatea Loop over a week, compared to 7756 last year, indicating an overall 15% increase. The use of all surveyed locations increased except the Dog Park and Canopy Bridge, however these decreases can be attributed to the week of surveying being particularly hot and sunny this year. Generally, we observed that, when surveys were
conducted in the heat of the day, few people were using the Loop – recreationally or otherwise.
During one observation period in 2015, 463 people were counted on the Canopy Bridge during the Artisans Fair Markets, whereas this year the maximum was 345 people. At the Dog Park, users interviewed said that most people and their dogs arrived during the cool evenings after work; however, surveys were not conducted at that time. During the sunny days, usage was down, whereas when it was slightly cloudy and cooler, there were more users of the Dog Park.
The number of survey interviews conducted this year was 518, similar to the 556 held last year. During the data collection period, it was often difficult to conduct surveys on the walkway, as many users were exercising and/or were using headphones and it was considered impolite to interrupt. Furthermore, in the heat, few users wanted to stop and talk.
The survey questionnaire included asking participants what facilities they used. The majority of respondents said they used seats, water fountains, and the shops and the cafés at the Town Basin, whilst the exercise equipment was also frequently mentioned. These were also observed to be the most popular facilities used.
Area (Highest hour count)
2015 2016 Change (%)
Canopy Bridge 463 345 -25.5%
Town Basin 575 902 57%
Playground 319 420 31.6%
Art Park 126 217 72%
Hihiaua – Waka and Wave 113 129 14%
Kotuitui Whitinga 180 169 -6%
Te Matau ä Pohe 120 130 8%
Pohe Island Walkway 87 141 62%
Dog Park 33 24 -27%
Family BMX 14 16 14%
Skatepark 32 35 9.3%
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OVERALL FINDINGS
Hourly count per day
Saturday23 January
Sunday24 January
Wednesday27 January
Saturday30 January
1,938
536 992
2,066
1,131
2,301
Tuesday26 January
Friday29 January
Place of origin
NZOther
7%
Europe5%
Northland8.5%
Local77.7%
AsiaPacific1.8%
NorthAmerica
1.3%
Gender
Female
50.3%
Male
49.7%
Age range
Adults
56%
Seniors
17%
Children
19%
Teens
8%
Frequency of visit
Lessoften
21%
Daily
14%
Weekly
53%
Monthly
12%
Hourly average of weekday/weekend
visitors:
Weekend 632Weekday 1199
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ACTIVITY NODES
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CANOPY BRIDGEThe Canopy Bridge is a major part of the Hatea Loop, linking the Town Basin to Riverside Drive. The distinctive peaked canopy makes this an attractive landmark, as well as the wind barrier making it a convenient, sheltered route for residents to walk into the CBD or complete their exercise around the walkway.
The bridge holds many of Whangarei’s events, with its central location and fantastic views. A regular happening is the Artisans Fair Markets which showcases a wide variety of local handcrafts and food. During just one hour of the market, over 345 people visited the bridge. However, the average number of people on the Canopy Bridge without the Market was considerably lower. Both visitors and locals alike commented on the Canopy Bridge’s striking presence at night when it is lit up with changeable coloured lights.
Comments were made by both locals and visitors that the access to parking for the bridge was difficult to understand due to the one-way road system and unclear signage. During the Market, congestion seemed to be a problem with cyclists weaving through people as they stopped outside stalls. Visitors also commented that live music would be a great addition, as well as toilet facilities.
SuggestionsSeats and tables
Toilets
More rubbish bins
More water fountains
Dog water station
ATM for fairs and markets
Link walkway to Mair Park
Night markets
Bigger market
Hourly count per day
345
16896 104
156
65
Sat 23/1AM
Sat 23/1/1PM
Sun 24PM
Wed 27/1PM
Fri 29/1PM
Sat 30/1PM
Gender
Female
63%
Male
37%
Place of origin
Local73%
NorthAmerica
0%
Northland0%
AsiaPacific
0%
Europe12%
NZOther15%
Age range
Adults
74%
Seniors
8%
Children
11%
Teens
7%
Frequency of visit
Lessoften
48%
Daily
12%
Weekly
23%
Monthly
17%
Hourly average of weekday/weekend
visitors:
Weekend 130Weekday 168
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TOWN BASINThe Town Basin was the busiest zone included in our survey, with hundreds of people using the area over an hour. Many families with young children used the cafés and ice cream shop before heading to the playground, so the close proximity of both areas in relation to each other is ideal for families with small children. The area was very busy during the day, however both locals and visitors commented on the lack of evening and nightlife. The restaurants and cafés close early and there is little atmosphere in the evening.
Many visitors from all over the country and the world were surveyed at the Town Basin, many of whom were living on boats moored at the marina waiting out the Pacific cyclone season. They enjoyed the atmosphere and facilities of the area, with the cafés and a supermarket within walking distance. People exercising on the Hatea Loop also enjoyed the Town Basin, with many stopping for a cold drink or ice cream.
SuggestionsShade
More bars and live music/entertainment areas
More teenage attractions
Area people can swim in
Free WiFi and more signage
Water fountains
Better internet access for boat owners – broadcast round Hatea
Café’s open longer – more night life
Hourly count per day
Sat 23/1AM
Sat 23/1PM
Sun 24/1PM
Wed 27/1PM
Fri 29/1PM
Sat 30/1PM
815
129
902
383
690
567
Gender
Female
56%
Male
44%
Place of origin
AsiaPacific
7%
Northland7%
NorthAmerica
4%
Europe10%
NZOther18%
Local54%
Age range
Adults
54%
Seniors
21%
Children
14%
Teens
11%
Frequency of visit
Lessoften
10%
Daily
32%
Weekly
42%
Monthly
16%
Hourly average of weekday/weekend
visitors:
Weekend 536Weekday 603
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PLAYGROUNDThe playground area is a very popular, well utilised facility which attracts families from all around the district.
Its central location, view of the water, and proximity to cafés and supermarkets means that families find it an enjoyable and convenient location to spend time together. Its design creates two zones within the facility: one for older children, the other for younger children, which allows for safe play. The BBQ area was well utilised, and during the hours 4-6pm it was in very high demand. There was also much enthusiasm expressed about the proposed Car Park to Park children’s play water feature planned for near the Canopy Bridge, with many keen to see it go ahead. Playground users appreciated the open area and the views of the water and boats.
A large number of parents discussed improvements being made to the shade available for families when seated. Making the canopy waterproof for all weather play was especially commented on by families who used the facility as an escape from their yachts and wanted space for their children to play.
As mentioned above, the playground is a major attraction as a central and accessible family-friendly area. With close proximity to parking and the bustling cafés and shops of the Town Basin, the playground is in a handy location for a family to gather, play and picnic together or use the barbecue to cook a meal.
The playground is very inclusive, with different areas for set age groups and provides a comfortable environment where children can interact and learn. There is also a liberty swing for children using wheelchairs.
Although the seats allow parents to sit back in comfort and observe their children, there is no shaded area for them to do this, and this is particularly important during the hot months over the summer school holidays when parents often take their children to the playground.
Suggestions More shelter/shade
More water fountains
Expand area for kids – have a challenge course for bigger kids
More toilets
Shade/rain-proof area
Sand pit
Better playground for kids with disabilities, i.e. paint/tactile
Entertainment area
Hourly count per day
420
169 31
237 251 257 241216
Sat 23/1AM
Sun 24/1AM
Sun 24/1PM
Tue 26/1PM
Wed 27/1PM
Fri 29/1AM
Fri 29/1PM
Sat 30/1AM
Gender
Female
58%
Male
42%
Place of origin
AsiaPacific
3%
Northland6%
NorthAmerica
3%
Europe6%
NZOther13%
Local56%
Age range
Adults
50%
Seniors
10%
Children
35%
Teens
5%
Frequency of visit
Lessoften
5%
Daily
7%
Weekly
68%
Monthly
20%
Hourly average of weekday/weekend
visitors:
Weekend 240Weekday 206
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ART PARK The Art Park is another passive recreation zone that many members of the public take full advantage of. There is space for young people to run, lots of seating with stunning views, modern art and a number of interpretive heritage signs which recount much of Whangarei’s early history, both Mäori and European.
The Art Park also hosts the Whangarei Sculpture Symposium every two years. Local and New Zealand artists have created many of the stunning sculptures, which stand within the area and around the Town Basin. The art works attract both locals from the Whangarei community and visitors from out of town. The addition of the picnic area allows families to come and enjoy being immersed in the sculptures.
Visitors and locals alike expressed their excitement at the prospect of mixed-use residential facilities or even a hotel lining this area.
Like the rest of the Loop, shaded seating is needed. There were also suggestions for the path to split to accommodate walkers and cyclists and those wishing to pause along the way to read the information or look at the art works.
Suggestions More shade/trees
Water fountains
Café on walkway
Kids playground/things for kids to play around with
Exercise place for kids
Remove industrialness
Hourly count per day
Sat 23/1PM
Sun 24/1AM
Sun 24/1PM
Wed 27/1AM
Fri 29/1AM
Fri 29/1PM
Sat 30/1AM
217 145
22
69
107139
149
Gender
Female
58%
Male
42%
Place of origin
AsiaPacific
3%
Northland8%
NorthAmerica
5%
Europe3%
NZOther
6%
Local75%
Age range
Adults
62%
Seniors
20%
Children
10%
Teens
8%
Frequency of visit
Lessoften
6%
Daily
44%
Weekly
37%
Monthly
13%
Hourly average of weekday/weekend
visitors:
Weekend 116Weekday 128
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HIHIAUA – WAKA AND WAVEThe Hihiaua Peninsula projects into the Hatea River and is a significant feature in the Whangarei District’s 4.2 km looped walkway linking the Town Basin to the Te Matau ä Pohe bascule bridge and the Ray Roberts Promenade with the Kotuitui Whitinga bridge.
The imposing sculptural structures of the Waka and Wave situated at the end of the peninsula incorporate heritage and design while providing shade and the ability for public interaction. The impressive stature of the sculptures makes a focal point of the peninsula and there are frequent photos taken and comments made on their presence. Users commented on the tranquil atmosphere of the area, scenic views, and its atmosphere as a safe and visually appealing destination used for exercise, relaxation and play. This area is suitable for all ages and abilities, which was widely appreciated. The majority of local residents visited Hihiaua weekly.
Residents and tourists alike commented on the lack of shaded seating to rest at this location, and encouraged further development of the area by way of planting trees and perhaps creating an area to host events.
As the Loop Walkway is continually being developed, more and more people pass through Hihiaua and admire the ‘Waka and Wave’ art on their routine walks, runs and cycles. We noticed the water fountains were well-used by children, exercisers and their dogs. However, we also noticed that for many this area is bypassed, with people passing through the area on their way to somewhere else without stopping. Many people felt more seating, and especially shaded seating, would make the area more enjoyable to use.
Suggestions Playground for kids – make climbing
Waka Wave more safe
Exercise machines specifically for kids
Pool area/water features
More things for kids to do
Make Okara Park more accessible
Seats in shade
Hourly count per day
Sat 23/1PM
Sun 24/1PM
Tue 26/1PM
Wed 27/1AM
Fri 29/1AM
Fri 29/1PM
Sat 30/1AM
4723 54
129 119
3559
Gender
Female
51%
Male
49%
Place of origin
AsiaPacific
3%
Northland14%
NorthAmerica
3%
Europe3%
NZOther
7%
Local70%
Age range
Adults
54%
Seniors
13%
Children
28%
Teens
5%
Frequency of visit
Lessoften
24%
Daily
3%
Weekly
45%
Monthly
28%
Hourly average of weekday/weekend
visitors:
Weekend 79Weekday 35
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KOTUITUI WHITINGA & PORT ROAD WALKWAYThe Kotuitui Whitinga pedestrian bridge provides a vital link in Whangarei’s recreational space with a well landscaped walkway connecting Port Road to the Town Basin area by means of this stunning walking bridge and the award-winning Te Matau ä Pohe. This area of the Hatea Loop provides a relatively flat walk with great views across the water to Pohe Island, and back onto Hihiaua Peninsula.
Although the footbridge provides a useful connection between the Town Basin section of the Loop, and Te Matau ä Pohe, users suggested that an additional access way to Okara Park would help to further enhance the walkway. It was also suggested that more shade and water fountains would make this section of the track a more pleasant place to walk.
Overall, people though that Kotuitui Whitinga and the Port Road walkway were essential to the Loop, a pleasant area for exercising and made the Loop more complete.
SuggestionsWater fountains
Seating with shade
Playground area for kids
Shortcut to Okara Park
More big trees/planting and green
Hourly count per day
Sat 23/1PM
Sun 24/1AM
Wed 27/1AM
Fri 29/1AM
26
5156
169
Gender
Female
44%
Male
56%
Place of origin
AsiaPacific
3%
Northland14%
NorthAmerica
0%
Europe5%
NZOther
6%
Local72%
Age range
Adults
50%
Seniors
25%
Children
23%
Teens
2%
Frequency of visit
Lessoften
17%
Daily
5%
Weekly
64%
Monthly
14%
Hourly average of weekday/weekend
visitors:
Weekend 54Weekday 97
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TE MATAU Ä POHEThe eye-catching Te Matau ä Pohe bascule bridge caters for both vehicles and pedestrians and connects Riverside Drive with Okara. It provides a more direct route for traffic travelling between Whangarei Heads, Onerahi and southern Whangarei. The award winning design of the bridge is enjoyed by those who see and use it, with people stopping their activities to watch it open.
As the bridge connects the Town Basin and Pohe Island, its pedestrian zone is busy at almost all hours of the day. There were very few complaints about the bridge, but many people would like to see more trees in the grassy area next to the bridge on Riverside Drive.
A suggestion was made that a footpath be laid in the grass area immediately off the bridge, as it is common for people to cut across the grass, making an unpleasant mess over winter. But the general perception expressed is that Te Matau ä Pohe was essential to the Loop .
SuggestionsMore shaded areas with seating
More playgrounds near Riverside Drive
Hourly count per day
Sat 23/1PM
Sun 24/1AM
Sun 24/1PM
Tue 26/1AM
Fri 29/1AM
Sat 30/1PM
41
130
27
53
72
50
Gender
Female
62%
Male
38%
Place of origin
NorthAmerica
0%
AsiaPacific
0%
Europe9%
Northland6%
NZOther
3%
Local82%
Age range
Adults
56%
Seniors
25%
Children
15%
Teens
4%
Frequency of visit
Lessoften
12%
Daily
3%
Weekly
70%
Monthly
15%
Hourly average of weekday/weekend
visitors:
Weekend 62Weekday 62
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POHE ISLAND WALKWAYThe Pohe Island Walkway has become increasingly popular since its development began, with a maximum count of 141 people per hour over our survey period. It was great to see the new exercise equipment being used and appreciated. Feedback on the exercise equipment was very positive with many people with children suggesting further child-friendly equipment in order to give children the opportunity to exercise alongside adults and to feel included.
Most walkway users said they would like to see more trees and shaded seating around this area, as walking in the exposed sun was quite uncomfortable, especially during the heat of the day.
SuggestionsPlayground on Riverside Drive
More trees/shade
Signs about picking up after dogs
More bins
Hourly count per day
Sat 23/1AM
Sun 24/1AM
Sun 24/1PM
Tue 26/1AM
Fri 29/1AM
Fri 29/1PM
42
123
26
141
116
31
Gender
Female
63%
Male
37%
Place of origin
NorthAmerica
0%
AsiaPacific
0%
Europe0%
Northland12%
NZOther
3%
Local85%
Age range
Adults
56%
Seniors
19%
Children
22%
Teens
3%
Frequency of visit
Lessoften
18%
Daily
4%
Weekly
68%
Monthly
10%
Hourly average of weekday/weekend
visitors:
Weekend 96Weekday 64
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DOG PARKSince the Dog Agility Park was opened on Pohe Island in 2008, there have been more and more dog owners taking advantage of this facility. It provides a big, open space for dogs to run around off a leash and has many features for dogs and their owners to enjoy, such as the bath, tables and benches.
We noticed that many people using the park allow their dogs to run free before or after their exercise on the Loop Walkway, where their dogs must be on a leash at all times. It also provides an opportunity for dogs and their owners to socialise.
Although the Park will be getting a shaded area similar to the new area in the Art Park, the dog owners who use the facility still believe that more shade will be needed to make this area more enjoyable, especially in the hotter months. Shade is something needed by the dogs and their owners, and the Park users would appreciate it if more shade was provided.
SuggestionsMore shade
Shelter
Better drainage
Shipping container shade
Big trough and new shelter
Hedge to separate from road
Lights for night
Make bigger
Hourly count per day
Sat 23/1AM
Sun 24/1PM
Tue 26/1PM
Fri 29/1PM
9
24
16
7
Gender
Female
47%
Male
53%
Place of origin
NorthAmerica
0%
AsiaPacific
0%
Europe0%
Northland0%
NZOther
0%
Local100%
Age range
Adults
73%
Seniors
9%
Children
16%
Teens
2%
Frequency of visit
Lessoften
2%
Daily
2%
Weekly
89%
Monthly
7%
Hourly average of weekday/weekend
visitors:
Weekend 12Weekday 17
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FAMILY BMX TRACKThe Family BMX Track is a great facility that caters to riders of all abilities and ages, with its spacious layout and easy flow. The facility is very popular with young families as it is a convenient child-safe environment with great connection to the water and Loop Walkway.
Suggestions were made for seating areas, with picnic tables for families using the facility to eat at, or for parents to sit while supervising their children on the track. However, residents did comment that the area was well maintained and friendly.
The Family BMX Track was scarcely used during the period of surveying, however this can probably be attributed to scorching temperatures – in particular, the very high temperatures on 23 January meant that the entire Loop was deserted while people sheltered.
SuggestionsMore shaded areas/trees
Water fountains
Clean up BMX path – make smoother
Hourly count per day
Sat 23/1AM
Sun 24/1AM
Sun 24/1PM
Tue 26/1AM
Fri 29/1AM
1
16
8
11
14
Gender
Female
26%
Male
74%
Place of origin
NorthAmerica
0%
AsiaPacific
0%
Europe0%
Northland8%
NZOther
4%
Local88%
Age range
Adults
30%
Seniors
0%
Children
42%
Teens
28%
Frequency of visit
Lessoften100%
Daily
0%
Weekly
0%
Monthly
0%
Hourly average of weekday/weekend
visitors:
Weekend 11Weekday 10
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SKATE PARKAlong Riverside Drive, and connected to the Loop, is Whangarei’s largest skate park. Its popularity with skaters, scooter riders and bike riders, combined with its central location and easy access, makes it a very busy facility well utilised by skate boarders of all ages.
Local skate boarders expressed some frustration at being asked for suggestions when many of the suggestions put forward over the past two years had made little difference to the area.
Suggestions included lights to enable evening/night riding as, often during the summer, it was too hot to skate during the day; general maintenance to damaged areas; better drainage; and a serious look at future expansion with a resultant growth in the sport of skating.
SuggestionsLess water/
better drainage on concrete
Seating for spectators
Seating + tables for adults/supervisors
More ramps, expand it
Overhang over steps
Lights for night/evenings
Vertical ramp
More jumps
Better water facility
More concrete
Shade
Smoother
Indoor skating areas/expand
Café by bmx – watch kids and have a nice coffee
Adult jungle gym
Hourly count per day
Sat 23/1AM
Sat 23/1PM
Sun 24/1PM
Fri 29/1AM
Tue 26/1PM
Fri 29/1PM
16
25 2427
21
35
Gender
Female
5%
Male
95%
Place of origin
NorthAmerica
0%
AsiaPacific
0%
Northland7%
NZOther
3%
Europe0%
Local90%
Age range
Adults
18%
Seniors
1%
Children
32%
Teens
49%
Frequency of visit
Lessoften
12%
Daily
42%
Weekly
46%
Monthly
0%
Hourly average of weekday/weekend
visitors:
Weekend 28Weekday 22
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FURTHER INFORMATION
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REFERENCE LISTWhangarei District Council, William Fraser Memorial Park on Pohe Island Reserve Management Plan - 2013
Whangarei District Council’s Visitors Guide 2015
Whangarei District Council’s Site
Whangarei District Council Town Basin Redevelopment Link
Whangarei District Council Hihiaua Precinct Plan 2014
Whangarei District Council LTP 2015-25
WDC Youth Advisory Group, Jewel of the City Report 2014, 2015.
APPENDIXReview of Council’s response to suggestions made during 2015 survey.The following table was compiled by WDC Community Services Department to record Council’s improvements to the Hatea Loop in the context of suggestions received from members of the public in the 2015 report.
The table is correct as at April 2016.
Zone Suggestion C/N/P - Completed, Not proposed, Planned
Comments
Canopy Bridge
Toilets for shop keepers to use close to the Artisans Fair Markets
N Market organisers arrange with Marina use of nearby toilets
Seats & Tables N Provided as part of events
Toilets N Three public toilets within walking distance recently upgraded (additional toilets as part of Carpark to Park project)
More bins N Usually provided as part of event
Closer/more water fountains N Already several in vicinity
Improved road access – getting to parking only one way. Parking on road confusing
P Configuration to change as part of Carpark to Park project
ATM for fairs and markets N Was supplied in the past and removed due to lack of use. Organisers have Eftpos and cash facility on market days.
Link walkway to Mair Park C Completed via Ewing Road
Night markets N As per demand through event organisers
Market too small P Literally depends on market forces
Cycle hire C Loop de Loop cycle hire new to Town Basin (by playground)
Ice cream C Available within the Town Basin shops
Town Basin More trees/shade N Not planned for this area
More bars P Tenancy changes occurring – expect more night life
Live music/entertainment areas C Buskers do perform – opportunities always explored
Better parking P Review underway
Free WiFi N Not planned
Water fountains N Sufficient in vicinity
Designated walk/bike lanes N Existing walkway is a shared space
Parking for boat owners C Parking by permit already in place with Marina Trust
More signage P Walkway signage and Town Basin upgrades in place
Café’s close too early – no night life P Tenancy changes occurring – expect more night life
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Zone Suggestion C/N/P - Completed, Not proposed, Planned
Comments
Play Ground More shelter/shade N Playground under shade sail -parents able to get shade from that
More water fountains N Already water fountains near by
Dedicated cycle/walking lanes – segregation for safety N Shared space
Expand area for kids – have a challenge course for ‘bigger kids’
P Proposed for Pohe island
Not enough toilets N Toilets close to playground
Sand pit N Not planned
Better playground for kids with disabilities ie paint/tactile N Not at this site – but possibly at another location – there is a Liberty Swing
Seated shading for parents N Not planned
More cafés N Several cafés in close proximity
Entertainment area N Not planned
Art Park More shade/trees C Trees planted need time to grow
Water fountains P Proposed
Toilets N Not planned
Cleaner river P Dredging proposed
Café on walkway P Proposed
Kids playground/things for kids to play around with N Playground close by
Remove ‘industrialness’ N Privately owned land outside Council control
Hihiaua Playground for kids – make climbing Waka & Wave more safe
N Primarily artwork
Exercise machines specifically for kids N Not planned
Pool area/water features P Proposed as part of Carpark to Park project
More things for kids too do P Plans to further activate the space considered
Make Okara Park more accessible P Walkway planned for 2017
Seats in shade P Considered
Kotuitui Whitinga
Clean the mud – it stinks in the river P Dredging planned – nature of mangrove habitat
Water fountains P Planned
Seating with shade P Planned
Playground area for kids N Town Basin playground nearby
Shortcut to Okara Park P Planned for 2017
More big trees/planting and green N Trees planted – need to grow
Te Matau ä Pohe
Grass area on entrance to bridge where everyone cuts – make it a path
P Planned
More shaded areas with seating P Future cafe may provide shaded seating
Link to Onerahi P Cycleway under construction
More playground near riverside C Playgrounds Riverside park and Town Basin
Pohe Island Walkway
Fence between path/boat yard/road – kids go on unsafe areas
C New pathway completed
Footpath too narrow near Riverside Park – bottleneck C As above
Playground on Riverside Drive N There is a playing area on Riverside Park
More trees/shade N Clay cap that can not be pierced
Signs about picking up after dogs C There are signs, bags and bins
More bins/less rubbish N Evidence shows - more bins more rubbish
Dog Park Less sun/more shade P Underway
Improve drainage N Not planned
Shipping container for shade N Too hot in sun
Big trough and new shelter C Completed
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Zone Suggestion C/N/P - Completed, Not proposed, Planned
Comments
Small dogs go through fence N Control of dogs owners’ responsibility
Night lights N Not planned
Hedge to separate from road P
Park enlarged N
Family BMX Clean up BMX path – make smoother P Under way
More shaded areas P Trees planned
Water fountains C Completed
Skate park Less water/better drainage on concrete P For all comments re the Skate Park, an extensive review and upgrade of the area is proposed
Actually do something – we’ve complained for years and nothing has improved
- As above – this depends on budget
Seating for spectators
Seating and tables for adults/supervisors
More ramps and jumps, overhang over steps, vertical ramp, smoother surface, expand it – due to increased population, lots of people using it leads to frequent collisions
Better water fountain
Shade
Under cover skating area
Adult jungle gym P Proposed by BMX track
Café by BMX – watch kids and have a nice coffee P Coffee cart proposed
Lights for night/evenings N Not planned – night skating very noisy for residents
Private Bag 9023, Whangarei 0148, New Zealand
Forum North Building, Rust Avenue, Whangarei
Ruakaka Service Centre, Takutai Place, Ruakaka
P: +64 9 430 4200 | F: +64 9 438 7632
E: [email protected] | W: www.wdc.govt.nz
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