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1

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”.

5

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

8

ACTIVITY NODES

9

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


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%


visitors:


10

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


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%


visitors:


11

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


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%


visitors:


12

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


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%


visitors:


13

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


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%


visitors:


14

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


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%


visitors:


15

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


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%


visitors:


16

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


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%


visitors:


17

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


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%


visitors:


18

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


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%


visitors:


19

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


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%


visitors:


20

FURTHER INFORMATION

21

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

22


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

23


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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