More than 600 people a day are expected to use a 6km cycle and walkway from Kamo to central Whangarei when it opens next year.
Transport Minister Simon Bridges yesterday turned the first sod for the $6.6 million cycle/walkway near Whangarei Boys' High School.
"When it's finished the Kamo Shared Path is expected to be used by 600 people a day. It will also benefit the wider Whangarei and Northland economy, making it easier for tourists to get around and access tourist destinations," Mr Bridges said.
The path is funded by a $2m government investment through the Urban Cycleways Fund, $2.4m from the National Land Transport Fund and $2.2m from Whangarei District Council.
Whangarei Mayor Sheryl Mai said the project will deliver a 6km off-road shared path for use by cyclists and pedestrians that is expected to attract more than 600 people a day.