Flood protection networks across Tairāwhiti were impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle in February 2023. A major consequence was reduced drain channel capacity.
In addition to the Waipaoa flood control project, we've secured $71.1m funding to deliver flood resilience and recommendations and then improvements. $64m is from the government's $204m cyclone support package with Council has committed $7.1m for flood resilience and protection.
Funding is for work in Waipaoa - $20.46m, Te Karaka - $13.2m, the city - 12.4m, Stage 1 - $22.4m, contingency yet to be allocated - $2.65m.
Stages of the project
Work will be delivered in 3 stages, with all work completed by 2028.
Stage 1 - identifying cost effective solutions to reduce the likelihood of repeat damage from similar weather events in these communities. It includes investigations and modelling, then optioneering by catchment.
Early engagement with community, iwi and infrastructure owners is underway to share a long list of options for all 4 catchments.
Stage 2 - funding approval, concept design, resource consent.
Stage 3 - final design and construction
Stage 1 - investigations and modelling underway now
Hydraulic models, flood hazard mapping, sediment assessments, options and designs by catchments will be carried out in these catchments:
- Te Arai River
- Hikuwai, Mangaheia and Uawa rivers - Tolaga Bay
- Makarika River, Poroporo River - Tikitiki
- Waiotu Stream and Mangahauini River - Tokomaru Bay
Details of work in catchment areas
Te Arai Catchment
Waingake, Manutuke, Hangaroa, Waerenga-o-Kuri
East Coast
Tolaga Bay, Tokomaru Bay, Makarika and Tikitiki
Gisborne city
Waimata, Taruheru and Turanganui rivers
Te Karaka
The township and outer areas that experienced flooding
Waipaoa Flood Control
64km of stopbanks along the Waipaoa River