29 August 2025
An update on the long-envisioned Taruheru River Shared Pathway was presented to the Operations Committee on Tuesday 26 August 2025.
The pathway, which has been part of planning conversations since the 1960s and consistently featured in Council’s long-term plans since 2009, is designed to provide a safe, accessible route for people walking and cycling along the Taruheru River corridor. Almost half of Gisborne’s population live within a five-minute bike ride of the river, highlighting its potential as a key active transport route.
Since signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Tapuwae Tairāwhiti Trails in June 2024, Council and the Trust have partnered closely to advance the project. A steering group — including Council staff and Tairāwhiti Trails representatives — has been reviewing design and feasibility work, gathering usage data and preparing a supplementary business case to better capture the community, cultural and environmental benefits of the project.
Michèle Frey, Council’s Director of Liveable Communities, says the new approach strengthens the project’s case for delivery.
“We’ve refined the business case to put real emphasis on wider benefits — from safer travel and healthier lifestyles to telling stories of the awa and connecting neighbourhoods along the river.”
Recent user data shows strong demand for active transport routes in Gisborne. The Oneroa Walkway alone records an average of almost 1,000 daily users, while the Taruheru Pathway outside Mitre 10 is already averaging around 380 trips per day.
“What we’re seeing is that when safe, accessible routes are provided, people use them” says Mrs Frey. “The Taruheru River Shared Pathway has the potential to transform how we move around Gisborne, reducing emissions, boosting wellbeing and delivering a transport option that works for all ages and abilities.”
Councillors will take part in a workshop later this year to consider two refined route options before wider community consultation begins. A final supplementary business case is expected to go to Council for adoption in early 2026.