Hautapu River Parks officially opened

The project is a collaborative effort between the Friends of Taihape Charitable Society, Ngāti Tamakōpiri, the Rangitīkei Environment Group, and the Rangitīkei District Council. Collectively, they have worked on restoring the natural beauty of the area between Papakai and Memorial parks, and improving its accessibility for the community and tourists.

The bridge that was opened at the official unveliing is called the Ōtūpae Station Swingbridge - Te Pou o Ōtūpae, symbolising the support provided by Ōtūpae and the Williams family.

Historically, Papakai Park was a hive of summer activity in Taihape, but over the years the park and the surrounding trails had deteriorated. Plans to revitalise the park were set in motion eight years ago, with a restoration project officially launched in 2019. The central bridge at Papakai Park is complete. With fundraising, the collective hope is to have all 5 bridges open in March 2026, adjoining a total of 12kms of walking trails for people to enjoy.

Located just a 2 minute drive from State Highway 1, the park is home to vibrant podocarp forests (which are critically endangered in New Zealand) and includes trees such as mature Totara, Matai, and Kahikatea (New Zealand's tallest native tree)

Kuia Byford had the honour of cutting the ribbon to open the Ōtūpae Station Swingbridge - Te Pou o Ōtūpae. From left to right; Joe Byford, Matthew Thomas; Kuia Byford; Cr Piki Te Ora Hiroa; Donald Tantrum, and Mayor Andy Watson