South Mole works underway as next phase begins
Construction is now underway on the next phase of the Te Pūwaha South Mole works, with rock deliveries and construction activity beginning this week at South Beach.
The works will extend the South Mole to its full design length and height, helping reduce coastal erosion, improve flood resilience, and support a safer and more stable river channel at the mouth of the awa.
Te Pūwaha project director Hayden Turoa says seeing works back underway is an important milestone for the project and the wider community.
“This next stage is a significant step forward for Te Pūwaha and for the long-term resilience of this area.
“The South Mole plays an important role in helping protect the coastline and support the river channel, but this project is also about restoring and caring for the wider environment around it.”
Alongside construction works, large-scale dune restoration and native planting will also take place across the South Spit, helping rebuild natural protection along the coastline. Around 7,500 square metres of dunes will be restored as part of the project.
Horizons Regional Council group manager Jon Roygard says the project combines infrastructure resilience with environmental restoration.
“This is about building resilience in a way that works with the environment, not against it.
“By strengthening both the infrastructure and the natural dune systems, we’re helping this area better handle future weather and climate impacts.”
The works are being delivered by Mills Albert Limited following a competitive procurement process. The company also completed Phase One of the South Mole works.
Company director Dave Mills says the team is pleased to be back on site.
“Our crew built a strong connection to this project during the first stage of works, and we’re looking forward to continuing that work.
“We understand how important this area is to the community, and we’ll be focused on delivering the project safely while minimising disruption wherever possible.”
South Beach will remain open during construction, with no major disruption expected. However, the stockpile site carpark near the South Mole is temporarily closed for safety reasons, and people are asked to avoid work areas and follow all signage.
Te Pūwaha has received $7.875 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to support the next phase of works. The co-investment, totalling $13.125 million between central government and Horizons Regional Council, recognises the importance of coastal protection and flood resilience in the Whanganui catchment.
A second community day is planned for later this year, giving the public another opportunity to learn more about the project and see progress on site. Follow the Te Pūwaha Facebook page for updates.
Construction is expected to continue through until early next year.
