Ōtara stopbank upgrade

The Ōtara stopbank upgrade will improve flood defences (stopbanks and floodwalls) along the left bank of the Ōtara River, from Ford Street to Princess Street in Ōpōtiki.

Why are we doing this?

Flooding is the most common natural hazard in Aotearoa, with a major flood event occurring on average every eight months. As the climate changes, communities across New Zealand need to adapt to meet the challenges of a rising sea level and more frequent, more significant rain events that may cause flooding.

Regular asset performance reviews of our flood defences help to ensure they are in good condition so they can perform when we need them most. A recent review of this section of the Ōtara River identified the need to upgrade these defences.

This project is one of the many we have underway across the rohe to manage, maintain and improve our flood protection network (worth more than $400m).

Maintaining access to the awa

We know how important maintaining access to the awa is for mana whenua and we hope to work closely with you to ensure the whole community can continue to have access.

For this project, most of the flood defences we are upgrading will replace what already exists. In some places we will be extending the floodwall, however, this will not prevent access to the awa. We want to ensure that what we design not only functions well in the face of future floods but is also a place that the community can continue to feel connected to the awa.

What’s happening?

Works began mid-April and covers the area from Ford Street to Princess Street.

Key features of the work include:

Upgrade of flood defences.
In most places, we will be raising the stopbanks between 500-700mm in height to meet the agreed level of service. We will also be upgrading and extending the floodwall further along Richard Street.
Replacement of seven culverts.
Culverts are a vital part of the flood protection network as they allow stormwater from the landside to flow out into the river. The culverts will be fitted out with flap gates to help control the flow of water. During a flood event or when the river is high, the flap gates close preventing water from the river to flow inland.
Retaining the shared pathway as a part of the Motu Trails.

How will you be impacted?

While construction is underway, the path on top of and on the berm next to the stopbanks within the worksite will be closed. A temporary access route is available and signposted.

Please follow all signage and instructions from contractors when visiting the construction area.