Visitors to Pouto Point can now enjoy a freshly sealed carpark, complete with parking for boat trailers and improved pedestrian access to the wharf and beach.

Kaipara District Council Mayor Craig Jepson welcomed the completion of the carpark and footpath connections, saying the upgrade was an essential addition for the growing visitor scene in Pouto.

"I love Pouto. This place is a real gem for locals and tourists alike," says Mayor Jepson.

"With the new carpark, getting to the Point and checking out the new wharf is now safer and easier. We’re grateful for the grant from the Tourism Infrastructure Fund which has paid for part of the project—it’s helping our community grow in a way that keeps Pouto special for generations to come.”

The 60-metre-long Pouto wharf opened in June last year to great fanfare, quickly becoming a popular destination for fishing, sightseeing, and boating. The newly sealed carpark means that visitors, including those towing boat trailers, have a safe and convenient place to park. The area is also improved for the many cyclists who visit Pouto.

WM Construction were the contractors for construction. The carpark upgrade was part-funded with reserve contributions and roading, and a $124,000 grant from the central Government's Tourism Infrastructure Fund (TIF).

About the Tourism Infrastructure Fund:

The central Government Tourism Infrastructure Fund (TIF) provides up to $25 million annually to develop tourism-related infrastructure that supports regions facing pressure from tourism growth and in need of assistance — such as areas with high visitor numbers but small ratepayer bases.

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