Driveway repairs smooth the way for cemetery visits

It is now easier to visit Tōtara North Cemetery, with repairs to its 350-metre-long driveway newly completed.

The steep driveway provides access to the cemetery, which overlooks Whangaroa Harbour.

The extensive resurfacing work involved levelling the ground, adding new gravel, and packing it all down tightly. Council staff ensured there was space for people to walk or drive along as this took place from Monday 18 to Thursday 21 May.

Hilary Sumpter, Group Manager - Delivery and Operations, says the work will improve access to gravesites for people and vehicles. “This is a much-loved place of reflection and comfort for the community. It is considered sacred, so we want visitors to have the best possible experience.”

To avoid disruption, council teams coordinated their work around weather conditions and funeral arrangements.

Image (right) - a section of the driveway after repairs.

Below - a section of the driveway before resurfacing.