- Hon Shane Jones
The restoration and development of Piriharakeke, the river loop at Foxton, will be supported by a grant of up to $3 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says.
“Piriharakeke is a waterway of deep significance to local hapū of Ngāti Raukawa and the wider Foxton community,” Mr Jones says.
“Historically, Piriharakeke was an important mahinga kai where Māori gathered food and, later, a key transport corridor supporting the Port of Foxton.
“Over the past century, changes to the wider Manawatū River system have contributed to the decline of the river loop, degrading its environmental health and limiting community use.”
Proposed works to enhance the health of Piriharakeke include new walkways, jetties and boardwalks, improved access to the river, native planting, dredging, and other environmental improvements.
“This investment will help restore the health of the river, reconnect people with the awa, and create further opportunities for recreation, tourism and Māori enterprise while building on years of local effort to revitalise this important community asset,” Mr Jones says.
The project forms Phase 3 of a broader programme of Crown-supported investment in Foxton’s revitalisation over the past 10 years.
It will be delivered through a partnership involving Save Our River Trust, Ngāti Raukawa, Horowhenua District Council and other local stakeholders. Save Our River Trust will continue to play a governance role, while Horowhenua District Council will lead project delivery.
“By supporting the next phase of this project, we are helping restore a treasured local asset and leave lasting benefits for future generations,” Mr Jones says
