The four-month-long upgrade to Otumuheke Hot Stream in Taupō's Spa Park is complete.  

The area now has terraced seating, a viewing platform, changing rooms and toilets, a new bridge and story boards outlining the cultural significance of the area.

Four ceremonial pou [posts] stand at the entrance.  At the opening, four ribbons, each representing one of the major stakeholders in the project, were stretched between the pou and cut to officially mark the area open.

Taupō mayor David Trewavas said the upgrade had addressed erosion, safety and ecological issues, as well as making the site more visually appealing.

"The project has been a real partnership, with landowners Patuiwi Maori Reserve Trust, Tūwharetoa Maori Trust Board, Department of Conservation, Taupō District Council, Taupō Police and Waikato Regional Council all working together.

"Funding came from the Taupō District Council and the [government's] Regional Mid-Sized Tourism Facilities Grant Fund. The Craters of the Moon Trust contributed to the new bridge." 

Patuiwi Māori Reserve Trust chairman Matiu Heperi Northcroft said the respect for cultural awareness throughout the project had restored Otumuheke's cultural integrity and the project was something everyone could be proud of.

"It also provides confidence and confirmation in knowing that the Taupō and Ngāti Tῡwharetoa community can come together in collaboration, and openly and meaningfully choose to amicably acknowledge and respect each other's culture in good faith for a common purpose.

"The world has now become our oyster to go forward positively from here, and again achieve in collaboration, historic milestones for the better good, and in the best interests of all."

Source: Stuff.co.nz