We are replacing the iconic Akaroa Wharf – originally built in 1887 – as it is nearing the end of its usable life.

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We’ve been working in partnership with Ōnuku Rūnanga, and speaking to the Akaroa community about the replacement of the wharf – with $19.1 million funding having been included in the Long Term Plan 2021-31.

A condition assessment carried out on Akaroa Wharf in late 2018 identified the structure was reaching the end of its useful life and on-going repair and maintenance was not economical.

We understand this project is of high interest to the Akaroa community as the wharf is an integral part of Akaroa’s heritage, holding high historical, social, cultural and contextual significance.

Construction of the new Akaroa Wharf is expected to begin in late 2025, following resource consent approval, and be completed in 2027. The resource consent will be publicly notified, with a public hearing held in mid to late 2025. Different construction methodologies are being explored with cost and time implications being considered.

Drummonds Jetty and Daly’s Wharf have now been identified as suitable alternatives for the community to use while Akaroa Wharf is rebuilt.

Before Akaroa Wharf is closed, Drummonds Jetty will be completely rebuilt. Daly’s Wharf will also undergo strengthening work, and a crane and diesel bowser will be temporarily installed.

Read more about the latest project update on Newsline(external link) and sign up for our Akaroa Wharf newsletter(external link) for updates as the project progresses.

Our approach for the new wharf

We will rebuild in the existing wharf’s location. 

The new wharf will not be a replica of the existing one but be its own structure – using the best materials available for the conditions, which complement the local environment and take into consideration the longer-term maintenance costs.

Key features of our approved concept design include:

  • Increasing the height of the wharf deck, which means changes will need to be made to how the wharf is attached to the land. The original abutment, or concrete structure, that currently attaches the wharf to the land is in very poor condition and will need to be removed.
  • Using a mixture of materials such as timber, concrete and steel piles, which are durable, sustainable and will require less maintenance.
  • Continuing to provide diesel for commercial operators while exploring the possibility of also providing access to petrol for them.

Heritage

The existing wharf is more than timber, concrete and iron; it holds stories and memories for the people that use it.

Capturing the wharf's history

We are keen to ensure the full history of the wharf is captured and recorded, as well as collecting its intangible heritage including personal memories and stories from the community.

Akaroa Area School’s history teacher, Garry Brittenden, is helping capture this history and wants to hear from anybody who has a story related to the wharf. Email gbrittenden@akaroa.school.nz to share your memories of the wharf.

Salvage of materials

Elements from the wharf which have been identified as having high heritage significance will be salvaged wherever possible. We are exploring ways that some of these can be incorporated into the new structure, or utilised for interpretation.

There may also be an opportunity for the community to access and use some of these salvaged materials for other projects in Akaroa.

We will let the community know more about the salvage project as the project progresses.

Buildings

Two privately-owned buildings adjoin the current wharf and connect to the Council-owned structure.

We are working with the building owners on what the replacement project means for them.

Drummonds Jetty renewal

Drummonds Jetty has been identified as the most suitable option for recreational and commercial marine users to use while the Akaroa Wharf replacement project is underway.

The jetty is due for renewal and work will begin on the replacement in 2024, as part of the Marine Structures Renewal Programme.

The 33m jetty is situated off Beach Road, Akaroa, near the main Akaroa Wharf. The new jetty will be rebuilt in its current location, and feature several improvements.

To provide additional capacity during the Akaroa Wharf rebuild, two floating pontoons will temporarily be added to the end of the rebuilt jetty, connected to the wharf via a gangway. These pontoons will be removed and relocated for use on Akaroa Wharf once construction is nearing completion.

Read more on Newsline(external link).

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