The first section of one of Auckland's biggest walking and cycling paths is now open, giving communities better access to a sports field and green spaces on the Unitec Campus.

Transport Minister Simon Bridges and Auckland Mayor Phil Goff opened the first 570 metres of the Waterview Shared Path on Friday 28 July.

Joining Mt Albert and Waterview

The walking and cycling route follows Te Auaunga (Oakley Creek) between the suburbs of Mt Albert and Waterview.  The first section runs between Great North Road at Waterview across the 90-metre-long Alford Street Bridge and into the Unitec campus.

When completed later this year the 2.5km long path, which is designed for walkers and cyclists of all ages and abilities, will connect people to local parks, sports grounds and the Unitec Campus.

It will also join with other shared paths that are part of the Government's Urban Cycleway Programme.

The Government, through the NZ Transport Agency, together with Auckland Transport and the Albert Eden Local Board have contributed funding for the project, which is being built by the Well Connected Alliance as part of the $1.4 billion Waterview Connection.

Giving us choice on how we get around

Mayor Phil Goff says, "14.2km of cycling facilities were delivered by Auckland Council, AT and the Transport Agency across Auckland last year and there's more on the way.

“These paths deliver Aucklanders real choice when it comes to how they get around their city, and I'm proud that yet another link in the Auckland walking and cycling network is open for business. The Waterview Shared Path is great for the surrounding communities and a win for Auckland."

Celebration for the neighbourhood

Albert-Eden Local Board Member and Waterview resident, Margi Watson, says, "Since 2006, the local community have worked hard to get this bridge built as part of the project, so today is celebration day for the neighbourhood.

“It will connect people to places whilst protecting the unique landscape of Te Auaunga. Huge thanks go to the community who were the driving force behind making this a priority for the neighbourhood and the region. "

The rest of the Waterview Shared Path is on track to be opened late winter/early spring.