- Hon Shane Jones
The dilapidated and closed Tinopai Wharf on Kaipara Harbour will be replaced with the help of a $1 million grant from the Regional Infrastructure Fund, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says.
"The wharf at Tinopai has been shut because of structural and safety issues for nearly two years. Replacing this important community asset will be good news for local fishers, boaties, and recreational users of the harbour," Mr Jones says.
The $1.3 million wharf replacement project will initially involve demolition of the run-down wharf, which has damaged and decayed piles beyond repair. The new wharf will be built to closely resemble the existing structure and remain within the same footprint.
"The new wharf will be designed to meet modern marine engineering standards and have improved access for boats. But this is not just a nice-to-have for recreational users and people wanting to catch some kai moana - it can also act as a secondary route in case of an emergency or evacuation in the area.
"Tinopai is vulnerable to isolation because it relies on a single road connection, which has been taken out by weather events in the recent past. When that route is disrupted, there is no alternative land access for residents, emergency services or essential supplies," Mr Jones says.
The project will be delivered by Kaipara District Council, which was forced to close the facility in late 2023 because of safety concerns. The new wharf is expected to be operational in 2028, subject to design work being completed and appropriate consents secured.
Along with recreational benefits, the new wharf will offer opportunities for future economic growth in the area such as tourism and fishing ventures on the unique Kaipara Harbour.
