Next iWay section about to open

A 9km pathway from Hastings City to Clive is the fourth to be constructed as part of the iWay walking and cycling network and will be opened next month.

The path begins on-road near the Hastings CBD and then moves off-road at the Hawke's Bay Showgrounds. A suspension bridge carries walkers and cyclists across the Karamu Stream before passing through the industrial area of Whakatu.

It then follows the banks of the Clive River before emerging on the outskirts of Clive.

Following a short ride along State Highway 2, cyclists can make their way onto the great coastal paths which wind around the edge of Hawke Bay and on to the wine-growing areas of the region.

Deputy Mayor Cynthia Bowers said the official opening of the Hastings to Clive pathway followed on from the opening of the Havelock Rd pathway, where hundreds of people turned out for the "Tour de iWay".

The latest pathway to Clive is "one of the most picturesque rides on our iWay network", she said.

"The path takes you past features of the district that you may never see from a car and the landscape along the Clive River is simply stunning.

"The new suspension bridge across the Karamu Stream has become a real talking point amongst walkers and cyclists who use this pathway."

The pathway provided a safe passage for people to cycle to work in Hastings from Clive or Whakatu.

The official opening of the Hastings to Clive pathway will be held on Sunday, October 7, at the Hawke's Bay Showgrounds in Hastings, where the Farmers Market will be open.

Hastings Mayor Lawrence Yule will lead the opening ceremony at the showgrounds at 10.30am.