Auckland Transport (AT) has today released its approved design and announced that repairs to Northcote Point Wharf will go ahead following the conclusion of an internal review and approval of additional funding.
The 60-year old wharf has been closed since 2018 after structural issues were identified during routine inspections and confirmed by detailed assessments, highlighting the need for comprehensive repair work to wooden structural elements under the deck.
Original timeframes estimated completion by the end of 2019 based on developing one of two repair solutions to make the wharf safe for use. Both were unsuitable and an alternative solution was required, resulting in additional design work and extra time to complete.
AT’s Capital Project Control Group (CPCG) was presented with a range of options for the wharf’s future and subsequently approved additional funding to progress with the preferred detailed design.
“We are pleased to be able to share some good news with the Northcote community” says David Nelson, AT Portfolio Delivery Director (Projects).
“Now that the costs are approved, we can now work towards getting the wharf repaired and operational again.”
In conjunction with the critical replacement of piles and substructure elements, the project will also provide some amenity improvements for ferry users including additional weather protection, new seating and better lighting. While these additional improvements will enhance customer amenity, this will not create an all-weather facility, and ferry services will continue to be subject to disruptions arising from adverse weather conditions and the wharf’s exposed location.
“Despite the long wait, AT’s new design and increased investment will provide a much better outcome for our community. We look forward to a much-improved wharf, and safer facilities, opening in 2020,” says North Shore Ward Councillor Richard Hills.
“We thank Northcote residents for their continued patience and appreciate their support for this crucial public transport asset.”
Kaipātiki Local Board also welcomed today’s outcome: “We are pleased that the renewal project will soon be underway, and that the improved facility will be returned to the community next year” says Kaipātiki Local Board Chair John Gillon.
“The local board have always been keen to see the wharf as an all-weather facility, and we will continue to advocate for this in the future as patronage increases”.
Repairs and improvements are aimed for completion by approximately mid-2020, depending on weather conditions. Project updates will be available on at.govt.nz to provide the community updates on progress.
Daily patronage for the Northcote Point ferry averages around 155 trips a day (or around 80 regular users).
Visit the Auckland Transport website for more information.
