New Plymouth Coastal Walkway, Coastal promenade in New Plymouth District, New Zealand.
The New Plymouth Coastal Walkway is a paved path along the Tasman Sea, running from Port Taranaki to Bell Block Beach in New Zealand. It crosses several bridges and is open to both walkers and cyclists along its full length.
The Coastal Walkway was built in 1999 as a 7-kilometre foreshoreway, together with the Wind Wand. A joint programme by NPDC and NZTA to encourage active transport led to a 3-kilometre extension to Bell Block in 2010. In 2014 it reached Tiromoana Crescent, bringing the length to 12.7 kilometres, and in 2016 the Mangati Pathway linked it to SH3.
The Te Rewa Rewa Bridge stands out along the path with its curved white arches, said to echo the shape of a wave or a whale's back. This design reflects a connection to the Māori culture of the Taranaki region that visitors can see and feel as they cross it.
There are several access points along the route, many with nearby parking and restrooms. Mobility scooters are available to borrow on site, so the path works well for people who cannot walk the full distance.
From certain points along the path, it is possible to spot dolphins swimming just off the coast in the Tasman Sea. Seabirds are also common overhead, which can turn a walk into an unexpected encounter with local wildlife.
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