Waverley Town Belt Stage 2 – Opening Blessing

A blessing was held on Tuesday 15 September at the Waverley Town Belt on Chester Street, marking the completion of Stage 2 of pathway works.

The blessing acknowledged the whenua and significance of the area, bringing together members of the Waverley Co-Design Group, iwi representatives, community members and South Taranaki District Council, forming part of a wider programme of town revitalisation projects being delivered across South Taranaki.

The completed works include a new shared-use pathway, improved access, walkway formation, and bridge approach improvements. The pathway continues the development of the Town Belt track, creating stronger recreational connections through the reserve.

The project was identified by the Waverley Co-Design Group in 2025 as a priority, with a focus on urban reforestation and strengthening connections through the Town Belt.

As part of the reforestation work, the project team was joined by Waitōtara School students on 25 August to plant native trees, helping restore biodiversity and create a greener space for the community.

Community Development Advisor Fran Levings said the project had been a great one to work on together.

“It’s been great to work together to create connected spaces for our communities as part of the Town Revitalisation projects. The Town Belt is already a wonderful space, and as the trees mature and become established, they will add even more to the character, amenity and enjoyment of the area for the community.”

The pathway and planting work together to support recreation, wellbeing, biodiversity, and connection to the natural environment, building on the Town Belt improvements already completed.