Petone to Ngauranga pathway reaches halfway stage
As the $312 million shared path and seawall, between Petone and Ngauranga, approaches the halfway stage, dog owners are being reminded to keep their pets on a lead.
Known as The Ngā Ūranga ki Pito-One section of Te Ara Tupua, the project will provide better resilience for transport links between Wellington and Lower Hutt, as well as new walking and cycling facilities.
But the project has had a significant impact on kororā/little blue penguin habitat.
With the breeding season approaching, an area of artificial coastline at the Petone end of the project has been created to provide increased nesting opportunities.
It will also provide protection from construction and dogs for kororā and other wildlife, regional manager of infrastructure delivery Jetesh Bhula says.
“This year, there has been a number of wildlife deaths due to dog attacks.”
It is important that people keep their dogs on a lead and under control in the area, he said.
“Please be a responsible dog owner and be aware of your obligations as a dog owner ... and ensure our furry family members are not injuring, endangering or causing distress to protected wildlife.”
Last year, the death of three kororā killed during the construction project led to a temporary halt on work and an investigation by the Department of Conservation.
With good weather during the past few months, progress on the development has been good.
The first of six vertical seawalls alongside State Highway 2 is now in place, with work continuing to complete the next section.
The seawalls are being built on areas of the coastline with gravel beaches.
“We took this approach to avoid impacting gravel beaches which provide important habitats, and to minimise disruptions to wildlife.”
Once the seawalls have been completed, ecologists will relocate seaweed and natural beach materials like small rocks.