An ambitious draft strategy for the future of the Whāingaroa Harbour will kick off with improvements to the wharf.
The work, including construction of a new pontoon, an eastern walkway, kayak ramp and balustrade was given an official blessing by kaumatua Atutahi Riki in an early morning ceremony.
The maintenance work, beginning Monday, August 15, includes repairing some areas of concrete and steel that have worn away over time on the underside of the wharf.
Waikato District Council project delivery community projects team leader Reuben Rink says there will be little disruption throughout the project, with public access available at all times.
The new pontoon, which is awaiting resource consent, is scheduled to start early September providing short term mooring for boats to unload, alleviating queues at the wharf.
Lead designers Beca expect the walkway, kayak ramp and piles complete before Christmas. The pontoon itself will be built off-site, then brought to the site by truck and lifted by crane into position early in the new year.
The balustrade design will take inspiration from the walking bridge and local artist Simon Te Wheoro will create panels that acknowledge the ‘fruits of the harbour’.
The draft strategy also includes actions to improve the health of the harbour, improve walking, cycling and boating connections, address parking issues at the wharf, enhance the Te Akau boat ramp and limit commercialisation of the harbour, among other things.
Council expects to finalise the plan by late September 2022.
Janine Jackson
