A crane unlike anything seen before in New Zealand is set to take centre stage in Māngere, arriving for one critical job: helping reduce flood risk for local homes.
The massive crane, the largest of its kind in the country, is so substantial it must be assembled on site using another crane. It is the only machine capable of lifting a new section of the Eastern Interceptor into place, a key moment in the Harania Flood Resilience Project.
As part of the work, the old pipe section that once sat within an embankment in the creek has already been removed. The new pipe will be lifted onto piled foundations, and when the embankment is taken away, the creek will be able to carry water freely to the harbour instead of backing up during heavy rain.
This marks a pivotal milestone in the $15.7 million project, part of Auckland Council’s Making Space for Water programme.
Chair of the Transport, Infrastructure and Development Committee Councillor Andy Baker says the project highlights the importance of working together at pace.
“This is exactly the kind of work we need to see, central government and Auckland Council partnering to invest in critical infrastructure that protects our communities,” he says.
Aerial view of Harania site where New Zealand's largest crane will lift pipe into place.
By increasing stormwater capacity, the project will reduce flood levels for at least 45 properties, including 13 previously assessed as facing an intolerable risk to life. It will also improve access for maintenance and strengthen the network’s resilience to increasingly intense weather.
Auckland Council General Manager Healthy Waters Craig McIlroy says the focus is on long-term protection.
“This is about protecting people, homes and livelihoods, now and into the future,” he says.
Construction began in April 2025 and remains on track for completion by October 2026. Alongside the pipe bridge, works include restoring the Wai-purea / Blake Road Reserve stream, building a new footbridge and planting along the waterway.
While it won’t eliminate flooding entirely, the project represents a significant step toward a more resilient Māngere.