Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
A safe walking and cycling link between Wellington and Lower Hutt is now a step closer.
An official opening ceremony was held today (Monday, 16 October), to mark the completion of the Pito-One to Melling section of Te Ara Tupua. Waka Kotahi and Fulton Hogan project teams, local Hutt City councillors, local representatives, the cycling community and iwi attended the event.
The new 3.5-kilometre route is the northernmost of the three sections that make up Te Ara Tupua. It provides a separated cycle path with shared connections linking the Petone train station to the Hutt River Trail.
Pito-one to Melling shared pathway.
It will link to the Ngā Ūranga to Pito-One shared pathway once that section of Te Ara Tupua is completed in 2026, and it will also connect with future walking and cycling infrastructure built as part of Te Wai Takamori o Te Awa Kairangi / the RiverLink project.
Jetesh Bhula, Waka Kotahi Regional Manager Infrastructure Delivery, says completing the shared path is a milestone moment.
“It is a huge achievement for Te Ara Tupua and a fantastic asset for the community. It highlights our commitment to creating a safe and attractive connection between the two cities.
“Te Ara Tupua will play an essential part in creating sustainable transport options, reducing carbon emissions, and easing the pressure on our transport network. It will be great to see people using this route every day – regardless of if it’s for work or recreation,” Mr Bhula says.
The Pito-One to Melling cycleway is a safe alternative to cycling on State Highway 2 for those who commute. It also makes it easier and safer for people to get around the Hutt Valley.
The project is funded through the National Land Transport Fund (NLTF) and Urban Cycleways Fund by Waka Kotahi, with a contribution from the Hutt City Council.
Additional information
Key features of Pito-One to Melling include:
- new rail underpasses and shared path connections
- a well-marked route through the Petone train station car park
- a cycle bypass for southbound cyclists at the Dowse Interchange
- better connections to the Hutt River Trail/wider cycling network.
More details about the project can be found on the Waka Kotahi website:
Te Ara Tupua – Pito-one to Melling
