The road to Twin Wharf, at the tip of Herald Island in Whenuapai, is now open after six months reconstruction following slips during last year’s storms.
The seaward side of the original road caved in and the existing timber wall rolled over, leaving a narrow one-lane accessway down to the popular community wharf.
Auckland Transport (AT) engaged with the tight-knit Herald Island community early to discuss the proposed design and construction methodology for the repair. This meant the final design and complex two-phase construction was well supported.
“We essentially built a new road, shifting it three metres from its original position towards the bank and the reserve, which enabled us to repair the fault on the seaward side,” said Ian Bielawa, AT Project Engineer.
“We’ve improved the road drainage capacity with additional stormwater piping and kerb and channel. A soil nail treatment was undertaken on the seaward side which slipped, and a timber retaining wall was constructed on the other side to provide additional width and prevent any future slippage. The footpath and pedestrian fencing was reinstated and we’ll soon replace the stairwell from Pakihi Reserve, which was removed to allow for the new road positioning.”
The works resulted in considerable disruption and increased heavy traffic to and from the worksite, however this was mitigated by AT and Herald Island community groups actively communicating with the wider community and minimising visits to the wharves during the works.
Upper Harbour Local Board Chair Anna Atkinson said Auckland Transport worked collaboratively with the community and the local board, both before and during construction.
“The plans were quite complex and there were options on the table and many parts to consider … not just the road but walking access, parking, rubbish, and replanting.
“The local board were pleased to support and attend meetings held between Auckland Transport and members of the Herald Island Community, where the best solution was agreed upon by all.”
The community also contributed to the native planting above the timber retaining wall, by arranging supply of plants from the local nursery and Auckland Prison. The planting was undertaken as part of Fulton Hogan’s Community Outreach Programme.
“We’re very, very happy,” said Jan Diprose, Chair of the Herald Island Environmental Group.
“Herald Islanders love the wharf, they love the view of the harbour, and it’s got lots of historical significance. We’ve always wanted something to be done on this coastal bank and fate meant that happened because of the slip.”
To learn about the project, including before images, see the below video.
