18 January 2012

Puketirini Development Begins

Improvement works have began at Puketirini in Huntly, with public access to the reserve and lake restricted while works are underway.

Over half a million dollars is being invested by Waikato District Council and Solid Energy to undertake a major improvement to the reserve’s roads and parking areas.

"Puketirini lake has some of the best quality water in the district. This project aims to improve the facilities at this important water sports venue,” said Waikato District Council Mayor, Allan Sanson.

The project consists of constructing over 11,000m2 of new sealed pavement and associated kerb and channel to form new access ways and car parking at Puketirini. In addition, street lighting, railway themed bollarding, as well as an industrial heritage sculpture are all planned to fit in with the industrial history of Puketirini.

Phase one of the project is expected to be completed in May 2012.

Signs have been erected around Puketirini informing the public of the current works.

Background

Puketirini, formerly known as Weavers Lake and reserve, was an old open cast coal mine off Rotowaro Road.

The reserve is around 95 hectares and the lake itself covers around 40 hectares with a depth of up to 60 metres.

The site is used for a variety of activities throughout the year including, waka ama, waterskiing, swimming, walking, cycling and other forms of exercise and recreation.

Puketirini contains extensive native and exotic plantings, and a network of paths and cycle routes.

The reserve has basic facilities to cater for recreational use, including a boat ramp, jetties, toilets, roads and car parking.

ENDS

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