Clarks Beach to Waiau Pa School Path

Update

Route Confirmed for the Clarks Beach to Waiau Pā Path

At its May 2026 business meeting, the Franklin Local Board endorsed the northern side of Clarks Beach Road as the preferred alignment for the Clarks Beach to Waiau Pā Path. This decision allows the project to progress to scheme design and detailed design.

This endorsement follows a feasibility assessment that evaluated both the northern and southern sides of Clarks Beach Road.

• Feasibility Report (see Project Documents below)
• Concept Designs (see Project Documents below)
  • Option 1 – Northern alignment
  • Option 2 – Southern alignment

About the Project 

• A roughly 3.4 kilometre path is proposed along Clarks Beach Road that will connect Clarks Beach to Waiau Pa.

Current Stage

• We are currently in the investigation stage in this project.
  • Consultants have been engaged to investigate the feasibility and design of the proposed path.
  • Early public engagement is underway and will determine the next steps for this project
• Any further updates or photos will be posted here.
• Auckland Transport footpath upgrade: AT is delivering a small footpath upgrade outside Waiau Pā Domain, planned for construction in July 2026. More information is available here: https://at.govt.nz/projects-and-initiatives/clarks-beach-road-footpath-upgrades

Why It Matters

• This project is in response to community feedback that there is no present footpath between Waiau Pa School and Clarks Beach.
• Waiau Pa School is the only local school that serves Clarks Beach. As a result, many parents rely on buses or cars to get their children to school.