February 2026

We met recently with reps from the land development team to check in and find out the next steps.

• Progress to date has been good with the southern paddock excavation moving at pace
• This will be re-grassed when excavation is finished.
• The sewer access point near the concrete bridge has now been finished and the smell has gone.
• The path that is currently closed will remain so until the excavations are complete. We are able to go in on Sundays to beat back the overgrowth and will be calling for help with this as needed.

• Work will start on the northern paddocks around the end of March.
• The pre-constructed temporary bridge will be installed across the stream at the ford late February/early March. This will be supported on concrete blocks. No planting is planned to be removed – however if there are any safety or visibility issues some vegetation may be trimmed/ removed. A couple of trees will need to be trimmed back on the west entry point to avoid damage and enable a clear view/space for trucks using the bridge.
• At this point there will be no further access crossing the stream at the ford.

• Temporary fencing will be installed so walkers can easily identify ‘no-go’ zones.
• The top higher paddocks adjacent to Heretaunga Park will be available for walking throughout the excavations and will not be touched, so ‘phew’ for big dogs needing to stretch their legs!
• Bart and his team are working hard on the new boardwalk, which will have a second bridge crossing over to the western path. So, a loop walk, albeit a bit less distance, will still be available.
• Signage will go up at each entry point about a week before these changes commence.

SUGGESTED WALK TRAILS

Coming from the north: Entry points from Kiwi St & Perry St (walk in at sharp corner)

Coming from the south: Short walk on the path up to the ford and walk back the same way. Longer walk up the river trail to the track leading to Heretaunga Park, then use the top end of the stream and top paddocks, then back down the river trail.

Please note that the walk down the track through the school grounds is not to be used and walking across the school playing fields is not what the college wants. Sadly, some dog owners are not careful about picking up their dog’s poo, much to the frustration of the grounds staff.

This stage of the development is estimated to complete in late 2026/ early 2027 subject to weather.

A “thank you” to Kevin Braddock for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

18/02/26