Popular Eltham Pathway Improvements Complete

Improvements have been completed to create a safer pathway in Soldiers Park, Eltham says South Taranaki District Council (STDC) community development advisor Hayley Old.

The popular pathway was completed by in 2021 and provides a loop track through established and new plantings and includes beautiful views of the Mangawharawhara Stream (Scuffle Stream), waterfall and across Soldiers Park.

Recently the Council made improvements to the pathway with contractors Eltham Construction, which include installing steps on the hill behind the swimming pool, retaining work along the pathway and fencing off the area by the falls.

The 800 m track can be accessed from several entrance points to enable full accessibility, and to avoid the steps and steep incline areas if desired.

Local iwi Ngati Ruanui and Nga Ruahine have gifted the walkway a new name “Te Wahiawa Humarie o Mangawharawhara” which roughly translates to “The Peaceful Dell of Mangawharawhara.”.

Eltham-Kāponga Community Board Chairperson, Karen Cave said, “the improvements have made the pathway much safer for all and adds to the growing number of sites and activities Eltham has to offer.”