Last updated July 2026
The London Street Shared Pathway is a sealed concrete shared pathway along London Street in the Springvale area of Whanganui. It provides an off-road route for cyclists and pedestrians between the Splash Centre and Great North Road. The pathway was constructed in two stages to improve safety for families, school students and local residents travelling through this busy suburban corridor. Stage one runs from the Splash Centre to Fergusson Street as a 3m-wide concrete path. Stage two completed the final 100-metre section from Fergusson Street to Great North Road in early 2021, including a retaining wall. The route forms part of Whanganui’s growing network of shared pathways and connects directly with the Te Tuaiwi shared pathway.
Practical Information
| Route | Splash Centre / Springvale area to Great North Road along London Street |
| Surface | Sealed concrete shared pathway (3m wide on stage one) |
| Difficulty | Easy — urban, mostly flat |
| Users | Cyclists, pedestrians, families, school students |
| Connects to | Splash Centre, Springvale Bike Park, Te Tuaiwi shared pathway, schools along the corridor |
| Cost | Free to use |
| Facilities | Toilets, changing rooms and café at the Splash Centre (southern end) |
About the London Street Shared Pathway
London Street carries significant traffic as a main suburban arterial and part of State Highway 3 in places. The shared pathway was built to separate cyclists and pedestrians from motor vehicles, creating a safer environment especially during school travel times. Official council records confirm the staged construction approach, with stage one finished prior to 2020 and stage two completed by early 2021.
The pathway directly serves the Splash Centre at 220 London Street in Springvale Park and the adjacent Springvale Bike Park. Families can combine a visit to the aquatic centre with cycling or skills practice at the bike park. The route also links into the wider urban shared pathway system, including the Te Tuaiwi route that continues through the central city toward the Whanganui River.
Funding came from Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency’s Urban Cycleways Fund, the National Land Transport Fund and Whanganui District Council. The project forms part of ongoing efforts to expand safe active transport options across the city.
Access and Connections
The pathway is open at all times with no gates or restrictions. It runs alongside London Street and provides straightforward access points at the Splash Centre end and at Great North Road. From the northern end, users can continue via connections toward the city centre and other shared pathways. The route is suitable for everyday commuting and recreational rides by all ages.
Where to Learn More
Whanganui District Council — Cycling and Shared Pathways: official overview of the city’s shared pathway network and maps.
Whanganui District Council — London Street Shared Pathway Completion: details on the staged construction and project purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the London Street Shared Pathway run?
It runs along London Street from the Splash Centre in Springvale to Great North Road, completing the link to the bottom of St John’s Hill.
Is the pathway suitable for children and families?
Yes. It was specifically designed to provide a safe, separated route for children cycling to school and families travelling to the Splash Centre and Springvale Bike Park.
What is the surface and width?
The main section is a 3m-wide sealed concrete shared pathway. The final short section includes a concrete retaining wall for stability.
Does it connect to other pathways?
Yes. At the northern end it joins the Te Tuaiwi shared pathway, which continues through the central city toward the river and other routes.
Is the pathway free?
Yes. Use of the shared pathway is free. Entry fees apply only for Splash Centre pool facilities.
When was the pathway completed?
Stage one (Splash Centre to Fergusson Street) was completed before 2020. Stage two (Fergusson Street to Great North Road) was finished in early 2021.
Are there any restrictions or closures?
The pathway is open daily with no reported permanent closures. Temporary traffic management may occur during nearby road works.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.