Work has started on a new 3.2km pathway that will connect Hawera to Waihi Beach.
It will be known as the Ohawe Beach-Waihi Beach Coastal Trail.
Ohawe Beach is accessed by turning left into Ohawe Road from Surf Highway 45 - 5 kilometres west of Hawera - or from the other end, turn west into Denby Rd at Hawera. The descent to Waihi Beach is via a steep gravel track from the carpark at the end of Denby Rd.
South Taranaki District Council group manager of engineering services, Brent Manning, said the pathway was the first in a three-year programme by the council and will "enhance recreational and lifestyle opportunities across the district".
The new pathway will run from the edge of Hawera, off South Rd, along Denby Rd to Waihi Beach reserve, he said.