Horowhenua District Council wants to provide an update on where things are at with the Waikawa Beach accessway, given the amount of discussion and commentary recently.
As previously shared, the Department of Conservation (DOC) has declined Council’s application for an easement over the existing accessway at 47–49 Manga Pirau Street. Elected Members have been briefed on the current situation, including the community groups’ positions and the wider implications for the pedestrian bridge replacement.
Council’s intention is to challenge the decision by submitting a request for reconsideration. We have received initial legal advice and are awaiting further advice to help shape that request and address DOC’s reasons for declining the application. DOC has granted an extension until 30 September 2026 for Council to submit its request.
We have also submitted an Official Information Act request to DOC to better understand the information considered and how it informed the decision. That response is still outstanding.
Council appreciates this has been a long and frustrating process, and that there are different views across the community. Council remains committed to working through this carefully, with regard to both community access and protection of the environment. We will keep the groups informed as next steps are confirmed and expect to provide a broader community update next month, once we have a clearer understanding of the way forward.
In the meantime, please continue to respect the environment and one another. Follow the signage in place, stay out of the dunes and planted areas, and keep discussions constructive and respectful.