Paihia to Opua Coastal Track – Boardwalk and Bridge
Project location
Te Haumi Inlet, Bay of Islands
Client
Far North District Council
Services provided by Frame Group
Detailed Design and Engineering
Consents Management
Construction Management
Frame Group worked with Far North District Council to deliver a major upgrade of the Paihia to Opua Coastal Walkway, one of the most scenic and popular public tracks in the Bay of Islands. The project included a full replacement of marine boardwalks, steps and bridges across sensitive mangrove environments, and was delivered in stages to align with funding availability and minimise public disruption.
The upgraded infrastructure now offers safer, more accessible walking connections with wheelchair-compatible kerbs, wider paths and improved sightlines. Frame Group led the full project lifecycle from design to construction, working with council and contractors to ensure durability, sustainability and long-term cost effectiveness.
Boardwalk alignment was optimised to reduce environmental disturbance and construction costs, including reusing existing foundations and applying prefabrication methods. Special attention was paid to kerb detailing, timber finishes and bridge curvature to achieve a seamless and attractive finish. The result is a highly resilient and visually appealing track that supports tourism, community access and long-term maintenance outcomes.
