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Coastal Walkway

A STUNNING STROLL BESIDE THE TASMAN SEA

Award-winning

The award-winning Coastal Walkway is a 7km path that forms an expansive sea-edge promenade stretching almost the entire length of the city.

Ideal for walking, running, cycling or skating, or simply enjoying the view of the dramatic west coast, the walkway connects popular recreational areas and the CBD to the sea.

The walkway runs from the Waiwhakaiho River mouth to the east to Port Taranaki to the west, with numerous pedestrian access points dotted along the way. It consists mostly of a paved pathway, with a gravel section at the Waiwhakaiho end.

What can you see along the way?

From the east, walk alongside the New Plymouth Golf Club and the Fitzroy Motor Camp, and visit surf beaches at Fitzroy and East End - all the time watching the ever-changing sea. Leave the walkway and meander up the Te Henui Walkway, or take a break at one of the picnic tables at the East End playground.

A family enjoys a stroll on the walkway. Approaching the central section of the walkway see New Plymouth District's iconic Wind Wand, a number of interesting stone carvings and pieces of public art or access the central business district - home to the award-winning and innovative heritage and information centre Puke Ariki and the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery.

Heading west, the walkway winds past the Todd Energy Aquatic Centre, Kawaroa Park and playground then heads to the marina at the port and Ngamotu Beach - a safe swimming beach for the family. Return to top

Are dogs allowed on the walkway?

Dogs are allowed on the walkway but must be on a leash. During daylight savings, dogs are banned from Fitzroy and East End beaches and foreshore between 9am and 6pm daily. Dogs are banned from Ngamotu Beach and Reserve and all Council playgrounds year-round.

Read our Dog Control Bylaw for more information about where dogs are allowed in the district.

Walkway design

The Coastal Walkway has been designed to suit the greater coastal landscape. The design uses robust and simple materials with strong lines and textures to stand up to, and reflect upon, the character of the west coast.

The promenade is designed without an edge, to accentuate the sense of being on the edge of the sea, while the curved seawall and location of the path provide protection from the waves. The seawall is also punctured by finger piers, which are designed for people to view and enjoy the open coastline.

Coastal Walkway extension

Awards

LivCom Awards 2008 - Natural Section of the Environmentally Sustainable Projects Award (gold).
Gemini Cycle Friendly Awards 2008 - Best Cycle Facility Project Award (Coastal Pathway).
NZ Institute of Landscape Architects - George Malcolm Award 2006.
International Federation of Landscape Architects - Eastern Region Awards 2005.
NZ Institute of Landscape Architects - Gold Award 2003.
New Zealand Recreation Association - Outstanding Project Award 2003.
NZ Institute of Architects - Resene Award for Architecture: Public Amenities, Foreshore Toilets 2002.
Creative NZ, Creative Places Award - Judge's Citation 2002.

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Mobility scooters

Thanks to a generous donation by TSB Bank, mobility scooters are available from the Todd Energy Aquatic Centre for use on the Coastal Walkway.

The scooters are free to use between 8am and midday and from 1pm to 5pm, and are available every day except Christmas Day. A bond, such as car keys, is required and it's best to book ahead. For enquiries and bookings please contact us.

History of the walkway

Work on the Coastal Walkway began in 1999 and formed part of a larger revival of the lower section of the city. Enhancements continue to be made, and an extension to the walkway eastward to Bell Block is planned, due for completion in 2010.

We endorse smokefree parks, playgrounds, sport grounds and walkways.