Work begins this week at Hopukiore (Mount Drury) Reserve to improve pedestrian safety and protect the site’s historic and cultural significance.

Tauranga City Council has confirmed upgrades to the reserve’s perimeter pathway and caves will take place throughout June, with completion expected by July.

Contractors will build a missing section of the pathway along Pacific Ave, completing a full loop around the base of the reserve.

On the Maunganui Rd side, a timber boardwalk will replace sections of the steep and narrow path to improve access and safety.

Deputy Mayor and Mauao/Mount Maunganui Ward Councillor Jen Scoular said the project will benefit everyone who uses the space.

“Hopukiore is a special part of Mount Maunganui and is a popular space for our community to connect, exercise and play,” Scoular said.

“These upgrades will ensure everyone in our community can move safely around the reserve and the historic caves are preserved for everyone to appreciate.”

Council will also install barriers to protect the caves, which are recognised for their archaeological and cultural significance.

The project will result in the removal of two car parks along the Pacific Ave side of the reserve, leaving 10 remaining. Some of the reclaimed space may still accommodate motorcycle parking.

Council will close 12 car parks along Pacific Ave during construction, and the summit track entry from Maunganui Rd will also be closed temporarily.

To manage safety, pedestrian detours will be in place, directing foot traffic to the opposite side of Pacific Ave and Maunganui Rd.

Stop/go traffic management will also operate at times on Pacific Ave and May St to allow safe movement of construction vehicles and materials.

Scoular said the works build on other accessibility initiatives already in place around the Mount North area.

“The wider area offers several accessible features including an all-terrain wheelchair, beach wheelchairs, an accessible changing facility and beach access mats along Marine Parade,” Scoular said.

“The pathway upgrades, together with these facilities, will make it easier for more people to access and enjoy the area.”

The improvements form part of a broader plan for Hopukiore Reserve, which includes an upgrade of the play area.

Council launched its ‘Love, Wish, Wonder’ campaign in December 2024 to gather feedback on the future design of the play space.