26 Nov 2024

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Christchurch City Council has revealed a first look at the next stage of work to develop Takapūneke Reserve near Akaroa.

The focus will be the creation of two takarangi – a double spiral pathway that will also serve as a discovery trail – and a network of paths through the Reserve, with aspects of the design based on the harakeke (flax) abundant in the area.

Another centrepiece will be the installation of a second pou, joining the one unveiled on Matariki 2022.

The work is part of a development  plan, created jointly by Christchurch City Council and Ōnuku Rūnanga, which looks to acknowledge the cultural and historical importance of the site, which was the scene of a massacre in 1830.

“The collaboration between Ōnuku and the Council has been invaluable in terms of creating a development plan so rich in meaning,” says Ōnuku Rūnanga Chair Rik Tainui.

“Together, we’ve been able to create an organic design that brings the best out of the natural landscape and the history of this tapu site. It’s a real synthesis of technical expertise and a deep connection with the whenua – and the designs show that it’s going to be a truly special destination for people from all over Aotearoa, not just locally.”

The narrative of harakeke is all through the design, from the timber deck with its weaved patterns, to the furniture, with several different seats inspired by the seed pod and flower stem of the harakeke.

Council Head of Parks Rupert Bool says Takapūneke is rich in natural beauty as well as history, which makes it a perfect place for reflection.

“Both takarangi will include places for rest and reflection, with plenty of seating and a shelter with a coloured resin roof section bound with harakeke.

“We’re also planting 22,000 natives, so keep an eye out for some community planting days over winter 2025.

“We’re scheduled to start work on this second phase in January, and it should be finished by Matariki 2025, but the whole development is a 10-year project.”

With $21 million confirmed for the development plan in last year’s Long Term Plan 2024–2034, design is now underway for future phases, which will include a new car park, entrance, asphalt pathway, toilet, signage and interpretation, and further restoration of the whenua

Takapūneke sits between Akaroa and Ōnuku in Akaroa Harbour and was an important centre for trade between Ngāi Tahu and European settlers. Following the massacre, the area became tapu.

The events prompted the British intervention in New Zealand that ultimately led to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

In 2002 the reserve was registered as Wāhi Tapu (a place of outstanding historical and cultural heritage values).