Community support for Alexandra Riverside Project gains momentum:
News
Manuherekia group collaborates with riverside trust, Council and Aukaha
The Alexandra Riverside Park Trust, Central Otago District Council and Aukaha representing Te Rūnanga o Moeraki, Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka ki Puketeraki and Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou mana whenua in Central Otago have added another community partner to support the riverside project.
The project seeks to rejuvenate the heart of Alexandra, creating a deeper connection to the rivers and enhancing the central business district (CBD) with pathways that draw people to the riverside.
The Waiora Manuherekia Project (Waiora Manuherekia), part of the Manuherekia Catchment Group, has come on board. The Waiora Manuherekia is committed to helping create a thriving community with a sustainable, healthy and balanced environment.
Waiora Manuherekia is funding the removal of select willow trees on the banks of the Manuherekia this week, to further open up the view to the convergence of the Manuherekia River and its connection with the Clutha-Mata Au River.
In addition, the group will be developing a walking and cycling track between Centennial Park, aka ‘Linger and Die’ and riverside project. The Waiora donation of funds will create greater connectivity between the riverside project and existing tracks and trail networks alongside the Manuherekia River. The contribution of Waiora Manuherekia aligns with the project’s shared goals of Kaitiakitaka or environmental guardianship and Whakawhanaukataka, the value of maintaining and nurturing positive relationships through shared experiences and community connections.
Clare Hadley, Project Executive, Waiora Manuherekia said, “We’re excited to be part of this project that will make our community more accessible and enjoyable. Waiora Manuherekia is excited to partner with the Alexandra Riverside Park Trust and the Central Otago District Council on this project and their work around the Manuherekia, which align closely with the values of our group."
“This initiative is a true testament to the power of community collaboration,” Alexandra Riverside Park Trust chair Rory McLellan said.
Work on the project is on track with water pipes now installed for the toilets in the plaza, which are currently in storage in Alexandra and ready to be placed once the foundation work is complete.
For the Christmas period, 20 December to 6 January, Lower Tarbert Road will be fully open to allow easy access to the Warehouse carpark. This project is on schedule to be completed in early 2025.
For more information or to get involved, please visit Alexandra Riverside Project | Let’s Talk Central Otago.