The long-standing issue of Wellsford’s hazardous cobblestone brick footpath is finally being addressed, with the first stages of concrete replacement now completed along Rodney Street. Following years of community advocacy, lobbying, business petitions, and local board advocacy many years ago, finally some progress has been made for Wellsford residents, visitors and tourists.

Originally installed during the era of the Rodney District Council (close to 10 years ago), the yellow clay pavers have drawn frequent criticism from locals for their slippery surface, particularly in wet weather. Over the years, numerous incidents involving trips, slips and falls were reported by residents, business owners, and visitors alike — some resulting in serious injury. Despite early efforts by the Ratepayers Association and past community representatives, requests for their removal had repeatedly stalled.

The slippery old bricks marked for replacement

Community groups such as Support Your Local Wellsford and Wellsford Plus continued to advocate on the issue, submitting petitions, visual presentations, and supporting materials to Auckland Transport (AT) and the Rodney Local Board. These efforts, coupled with ongoing public complaints submitted through official council channels, kept the matter on the agenda.

In late 2023, a significant breakthrough occurred when the Rodney Local Board allocated funding from Wellsford’s transport targeted rate to initiate the paver replacement. Auckland Transport subsequently revised its previous position — which had previously concluded the pavers were within acceptable safety standards — and committed to a multi-year replacement programme.

The first section, located outside the Gull station, has been replaced due to damage caused by heavy vehicle parking. Further replacement is now underway in prioritised sections including areas near Mobil, the Post Shop and Hospice.

The remaining sequence of upgrades includes Carpark Lane, the SPCA and Caffe Cozy, Superette, Super Liquor, McDonald’s, Caltex and Drummers. The Rodney Street path and nearby footbridge project also came in under budget, freeing up an additional $92,000 to accelerate the works.

Despite this progress, the opposite side of the street remains untouched, prompting fresh calls for continued investment to complete the project. Community leaders are urging Auckland Transport and elected representatives to allocate further funding so the entire footpath network can be made safer for all users — particularly the elderly, children, and those with mobility concerns.

The community is hopeful that with ongoing support, the full footpath replacement can be completed sooner rather than later.