New Zealand / Hawkes Bay

Hawke's Bay walking track upgrade complete

20:55 pm on 2 December 2018

An upgrade to a historic walking track in the Hawke's Bay is finished and open to the public.

Mokotahi Hill Photo: Supplied / Google Maps

More than 250 steps were added to steeper areas of the Mokotahi Hill in Mahia and the track was widened.

The Queen Elizabeth II National Trust says the old track had deteriorated and was unsafe, especially after wet weather.

The trust's chief executive, Mike Jebson said it's well-used.

"Even with the poor condition of the previous track, there are hundreds and hundreds of people going up Mokotahi Hill all the time, with the track upgrade it will be a great way to take in the sights, I'm in no doubt there'll be lots and lots more people using it now."

Mr Jebson said while widening the track, marine mammal bones, hangi stones and traditional stone cutting were unearthed.

The upgrade cost up to $150,000.