The Wairoa Flood Mitigation project continues to move forward, with several important milestones recently achieved that bring us closer to delivering improved flood protection for our community.

A preferred contractor, Goodmans, has now been appointed through an early contractor involvement process. This means the project team now has additional expertise on board to assist with finalising the technical design and preparing for construction.

Crown Manager, Lawrence Yule, says the contractor appointment, combined with other recent achievements, demonstrates tangible progress is being made.

"We've seen positive momentum across multiple fronts in recent months. The appointment of our preferred contractor, the funding that has been secured, and the Order in Council amendment that has been approved are all significant steps forward," Mr Yule says.

Land access negotiations remain a key focus, with the project team continuing to work respectfully with directly impacted whānau and property owners.

In direct response to feedback from mana whenua, further refinement of the Option 1C+ alignment also continues, with ongoing work to narrow the floodway and minimise impacts on whānau, whenua and homes wherever possible.

The Crown peer review process has now been initiated, with some engineering refinements highlighted which the team is working through in more detail, with the support of technical engineering and construction expertise.

"Though we still have more detailed design and peer review works to complete, we have identified a resource consenting pathway that will allow the project to progress efficiently,” says Mr Yule.

“Additionally, we continue to work toward the possibility of some construction activity during the current summer season, subject to achieving all necessary project approvals from the Crown.”

At the heart of the project is a commitment to moving forward together, says Mr Yule.

“This is about turning plans into action to protect the Wairoa community, and while much of the technical work happens behind the scenes, real progress is being made every day.

“As always, we remain grateful for the ongoing engagement and patience of the community as we work toward a safer future for all.”

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