Whakatāne’s new commercial boat harbour is one step closer to construction.
Whakatāne’s new commercial boat harbour is one step closer to construction with the formalisation of a partnership between Te Rāhui Lands Trust, Whakatāne District Council, Ngāti Awa Group Holdings, the Crown via Kānoa – Regional Economic Development & Investment Unit, and agreement from landowners to progress the development.
The project will create the equivalent of at least 30 full time jobs during its construction, and longer term is expected to create upwards of 600 of new jobs and flow-on economic benefits for Whakatāne. As part of the project, areas of wetland will be restored and improvements made for public and recreational use of the Wairaka area, where boats are currently berthed.
Te Rāhui Lands Trust Chairman Brian Simpson says the project will restore the connections and mauri of the river for future generations, and enable key outcomes for the Trust to be achieved.
Mayor of Whakatāne Judy Turner says,“Council has long supported the development of a new boat harbour to further unlock opportunities in our local marine and tourism sectors, and to drive wider economic, social and environmental benefits.
“The project forms a key part of our District’s economic development strategy, which is further magnified by our need to respond to Covid and its impacts. This unique partnership represents a new and exciting way of delivering core infrastructure into our region.”
Project Director Phil Wardale confirms that the project has gained approval to utilise the Fast-Track consenting pathway, which enables a more streamlined consent approval process, designed to support New Zealand’s recovery from the economic and social impacts of COVID-19.
Community engagement will be ongoing as the project moves through the consenting process. Subject to receipt of consents, construction is expected to begin the second half of 2022.
Project Contact: Phil Wardale | phil@terahui.nz |+64 21 667445
