Brand new tree-top walk opens on Auckland's North Shore

A new 60m long and 18m high bridge through a canopy of kauri trees attracted more than 5000 people as it opened in Auckland's Northcote today.

Kaipātiki Local Board chairperson John Gillon said a lot of money had been invested into upgrading tracks at local reserves to prevent the spread of kauri dieback disease.

"Here, we've taken the opportunity to invest a bit more and create a step-free route from Kauri Glen Rd to Tui Glen Rd."

Removing foot traffic from the floor of the bush is all in aid of keeping kauri dieback disease out of the reserve, he said.

"This new track keeps people well up away from the roots and it's the ultimate protection for them."

Kauri dieback is caused by a soil borne pathogen that infects the tree through its roots, damaging the tissues that carry nutrients and water.

Auckland Council said kauri dieback is "probably increasing" across the region but that it is doing so "at a slower rate than expected".

"That is because of people caring and the infrastructure we've put in place," said plant pathogens advisor Sarah Killick.

Visitors described the new bridge as "awesome", "magnificent", "magic", and "very spiritual".

"It's incredible," one woman said.

"You know how the birds feel when they're out there."

The $2m project had been in the works for about six years with half of the funding coming from a targeted rate.

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