Waipa carpark upgrade set to begin

Landscape sketch of finished Waipa carpark. SUPPLIED

Work to upgrade Rotorua's mountain bike carpark at Waipa is due to start next week.

The carpark will receive a full upgrade during the next four months, starting Monday, including new kerbing, sealing and landscaping.

Rotorua Lakes Council has committed to a 10-year revitalisation plan for Waipa in the Long-term Plan adopted in June 2015. The plan allows for funding of $1.08 million to be spent on the area during the next 10 years.

The carpark that is adjacent to the new toilet facilities will be closed from Monday until early October while the improvement work is underway but users will be able to park in the first paddock off Waipa Mill Rd, an area normally used for overflow parking or as an events space.

Mountain Bike Rotorua's rental service and café will also move to the paddock for the duration of the carpark closure.

People will still be able to access the toilet and shower facilities.

The former Waipa Village site, on the opposite side of the road, has been made available by Red Stag for managed overflow parking for events scheduled during this time.

Council sports and recreation manager, Rob Pitketheley, said the upgraded carpark would meet the needs of all forest users.

"Rotorua is known for its world class mountain bike tracks and outdoor activities. They attract thousands of locals and domestic and international visitors each year. Ensuring our open spaces provide the appropriate level of service is a top priority for council.

"The current gravel carpark is functional but dust becomes a significant issue at times and ongoing maintenance is required to keep the gravel surface up to standard. A sealed carpark will require less maintenance and will meet the high standard that our world class trails deserve," he said.

Landscaping is planned for around the carpark.