Marine Park Otupaiia Legacy Fund

A place to gather. A place to celebrate. A place for generations to come.

Marine Park Otupaiia, located at the mouth of the Waitara River, is a treasured space for the Waitara community and visitors alike. For generations – long before and since the arrival of Europeans – it has been a place to swim, surf, fish, play, share kai, and connect.

This iconic site, where the Waitara awa meets the sea, holds deep cultural significance. It has long been a hub for mahinga kai, kai sharing and trading, and a gathering place where whānau come together to renew and strengthen relationships.

A visionary upgrade of the Marine Park area is now underway – led by Te Kōwhatu Tū Moana Trust (representing the interests of Manukorihi and Otaraua hapū) in partnership with New Plymouth District Council. The goal: to ensure Marine Park Otupaiia continues to thrive as a place of joy, wellbeing, and connection.

The four-stage redevelopment, when it is complete,  will include volleyball and basketball courts, a pump track, a skate bowl, a playground and water play area, and a redeveloped boat ramp. Soon to be linked with the Coastal Walkway, the park is set to become a vibrant regional destination.

A concept drawing of the water-play area planned for Otupaiia Marine Park in Waitara.

A image of what the planned new youth zone might look like, at Otupaiia Marine Park in Waitara.

What makes this project truly special is how it honours the past while reimagining the future – a contemporary space that celebrates our shared heritage and culture. With the support of the community, Marine Park Otupaiia will remain a very special meeting place for generations to come.

To read more about this project on the NP Partners website click here. 

To see a full list of Project Partners and the Investment summary click here (you can also see image below).