Residents and visitors alike can once again take in the beauty of Raglan’s harbour from the Putoetoe Walkway after upgrades and final safety improvements have been completed, reopening in time for Matariki. The extensive safety improvements include widening the footpath with balustrade above the seawall and strengthening the seawall itself.
The upgrades to the walkway were split into two projects – the northern Wi Neera section and the southern Putoetoe section.
The northern section was completed in September last year and also included repairs to the seawall, and widening the footpath with balustrade, as well as a new water main.
The completion of both sections concludes the upgrades and safety improvements for the entire walkway that runs from the backpackers at the end of Wi Neera Street to the small jetty at the bottom of Bow Street.
The Wi Neera section recently won an award at the New Zealand Concrete Construction Awards 2025 for excellence in concrete for the community.
The southern end of the project started late last year, with the design and consenting completed at the start of 2025. In February, the construction of the project began, and despite the complex tidal environment, was completed on time and on budget.
Waikato District Councillor Lisa Thomson said she was “delighted” with the walkway and the benefit it would bring the community and Raglan’s many visitors.
“Fantastic, it’s opened just in time for everyone to enjoy this with their whaanau over the Matariki long weekend. A lot of work went into structural improvements of the seawall and ensuring this walkway is safe to use. Thank you to everyone involved.”
Waikato District Council would like to thank all stakeholders, whose who support was invaluable to delivering this section of the walkway.
