Milestone celebrated with bypass opening
16 Aug 2021, 9:15 AM
Transport Minister Michael Wood and Ngati Maniapoto kaitiaki Ngatai Rauputu celebrate a significant milestone at the official opening of the Awakino Tunnel Bypass today.
The special occasion was a fitting tribute to the years of planning, construction and guardianship that went into ensuring the multi-million dollar project was completed.
Of note, a rest area near the bypass has also been developed, which includes a nature walk to the now-closed tunnel. Along the path, storyboards have been placed which tell the history of the area.
Two majestic pou were also unveiled by Ngati Maniapoto to mark the official opening of the new Awakino Tunnel Bypass. Aorangi sits on the northern side of Awakino, while Herangi sits on the southern side.
Like the mountain ranges they are named after, the carved pou stand as kaitiaki. They welcome those travelling inland and farewell those heading out to the coast.
