Strong wind and rain that is forecast for Saturday 18 April has forced the postponement of the community event celebrating the opening of Tupua Horo Nuku.

The event will now take place on Sunday 19 April from 10am-2pm.

However, the Tā i te Kawa Ceremony (dawn blessing), led by esteemed Te Āti Awa rangatira Kura Moeahu with iwi rōpū Puharikiriki, will still be held on Saturday 18 April starting at 6am. It’s scheduled to include Waka Ama on the harbour and Te Whakakāinga Ahi (lighting of the fire).

Activities at the community event on Sunday include:

• Artwork installations created with local artists and the community
• A stamp trail with a memento and optional prize draw
• Free bike fix ups with Free Ride
• eBike experiences with Melo Yelo and Wildfinder
• Local history displays with Eastbourne Historical Society
• Children’s activities including face painting and nature play
• Food trucks and local eateries
• Community support and CPR training with Wellington Free Ambulance (to be confirmed).

Tupua Horo Nuku is a 4.4km shared path and seawall along Marine Drive, connecting Ngau Matau/Point Howard and Eastbourne. It strengthens a vital coastal route while creating a safer space for pedestrians and cyclists.

The project was delivered in partnership with Mana Whenua (Taranaki Whānui ki te Upoko o te Ika, and Ngāti Toa Rangatira), central Government, NZ Transport Agency and Te Ara Tupua Alliance, and funded by the and marks a major milestone for Lower Hutt and the Eastern Bays.

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