The designs developed in partnership with mana whenua have been laser-cut into the corten steel panels. Photo / Kelly O’Hara
The panels also include gated access for maintenance and rubbish removal.
Law said it was hoped removing public access to the caves would protect them from littering and vandalism and reduce antisocial behaviour in the area.
The caves have long-standing cultural importance, with Hopukiore having been a site for tā moko (traditional tattooing), with kiore (native rat) teeth and bones used as tools.
Following the Battle of Hopukiore in 1820, its caves were used for burials, and the site remains a wāhi tapu (sacred place).
The corten steel panels sealing the caves also include gated access for maintenance and rubbish removal. Photo / Kelly O’Hara
In the 1840s, the 40-metre high Hopukiore was used by British troops as a military base. The 80th Regiment occupied the hill from 1842 to 1843. In 1852, Commander Byron Drury, after surveying the Bay of Plenty aboard HMS Pandora, was recognised by naming it Mount Drury.
More recently, a man lived in one of the caves for two years.
“The cave protection was not specifically implemented as a response to homelessness, although mana whenua did express a desire for the caves to be protected for this reason as well,” Law said.
“The request to seal the caves predates the period when people were living in them.”
Law said safety concerns related to landslides or rocky slopes were not a factor in the decision.
“Council has been working on a range of improvements at Hopukiore and has been actively engaging with mana whenua, Heritage New Zealand and the accessibility community.”
The original total budget for the pathway and cave works was about $400,000, with representatives of Ngāti Kuku and Ngāi Tukairangi hapū consulted on the upgrade.
The Hopukiore caves were once used for burials and are regarded as a sacred place. Photo / Kelly O’Hara
As part of the improvements, a missing section of pathway along Pacific Ave had been completed, creating a continuous loop around the base of the reserve, and requiring the removal of two of the 12 car parks. On the Maunganui Rd side, a timber boardwalk had replaced sections of steep and narrow path, improving accessibility.
The footpath upgrades were completed mid-2025 and the cave sealing was finished last month.
Law said engagement on the project had also informed plans to upgrade the existing playground, with a strong focus on inclusivity.
“The timing of construction will be aligned with the plans for reopening Mauao, which will need to be staged, and it must be based on safety evidence,” Law said.