The $27 million Akaroa Wharf rebuild is on track for 2027, with construction set to start early next year.
A condition assessment carried out on the wharf in late 2018 found the structure was reaching the end of its useful life, and ongoing repair and maintenance were not economical.
The council consulted with the community about the issue in late 2021 and early 2022, before ultimately deciding to rebuild on the existing site.
Resource consent applications for the wharf’s construction were submitted earlier this month.
Council regional parks manager Paul Devlin said the council was hoping for the consent hearing to be held early next year, so the rebuild could begin soon after.
The project is expected to be complete by mid 2027.
Banks Peninsula Community Board chairperson Lyn Leslie said the community understands the need for a new wharf, but were still waiting on more information about the project.
A public meeting will be hosted in Akaroa tomorrow.
Devlin said the meeting will cover the design, timing, construction impacts, and the resource consent process.
“We are dedicated to ensuring the new wharf meets the community's needs and continues to be a valued and iconic part of Akaroa. The public meeting will be a great opportunity for the community to hear firsthand about the rebuild and ask any questions.”
To keep disruption low, most of the work will be done from a long flat-bottomed boat, which will travel between the wharf and Akaroa boat ramp.
The main contractor laydown area will be at the Akaroa Recreation Grounds near the town entrance.
This area has been designed so that events, such as youth cricket will still be able to be held and will be expanded as the project expands so that only required space is used.
Devlin said minor structural upgrades to the buildings will be made so they can stand on their own before the wharf is fully removed.
“To minimise risk of damage to the buildings during the rebuild and to ensure access for construction equipment, the new wharf will be set back approximately two metres back from the buildings.”
