By Louise Ternouth
Mahurangi Regional Park north of Auckland has gained almost 100 hectares of land, more than doubling the existing size of the park, after a new council purchase.
Barges transporting mussels into the Mahurangi Harbour. Photo: RNZ / Joanna MacKenzie
The $12 million purchase will mean public road access to the bays, inlets and ridged peninsula of the Mahurangi harbour as well as, for the first time, land access to the existing park on the peninsula.
The John and Margaret Turnball Trusts put up nearly half of the purchase, with the rest bought by council.
Auckland Council owns and manages twenty-seven regional parks, totalling more than forty-thousand hectares.
Mayor Phil Goff said with the city expanding each year the council will prioritise investing in more open space for Aucklanders to enjoy.
"I'm really proud that the council has made this investment, in fact in the coming year probably we will be spending close to $50 million on new public parks and spaces."
Opportunities for the new park include many outdoor activities and camping or bach accommodation.
Auckland Council general manager of parks, sport and recreation Mace Ward said the new land would reap benefits.
"Great places for recreation, picnics and family time, walking opportunities throughout the park, opportunities for conservation, significant protection of what's iconic landscapes for North Island."
Basic infrastructure like toilets and fencing will need to be installed before the park can be opened to the public.
Auckland Council parks, arts, culture and events committee chair Alf Filipiana said park acquisition of this scale is not often seen, given the price tag of quality land that meets the council's criteria.
"The benefits this property offers, in terms of recreational opportunities and protecting open space, made it a high priority for acquisition."
The privately owned parkland included two quaint houses Big Bay Bach and Vine House, the previous owners used the land for their own camping, and outdoor activities.
Trustee Chris Gambrill told RNZ, "they are delighted that contributions from the trusts are going towards ensuring that this beautiful slice of the Mahurangi is protected for future generations."
Aucklanders can begin visiting the land by boat or kayak, but road access isn't expected to be running till the end of this year.
Basic infrastructure like toilets and fencing will need to be installed before the park can be opened to the public.
No dates for an official public opening have been confirmed.
