Christchurch City Council says its $27 million rebuild of Akaroa Wharf is on track for 2027, with construction on the new structure expected to begin early next year.
The project team submitted the resource consent applications for the wharf’s construction earlier this month. This will be a publicly-notified resource consent processed by both Environment Canterbury and Christchurch City Council.
Manager Regional Parks, Paul Devlin says the project team are hopeful for the resource consent hearing to be held in early 2026.
Construction of the new wharf will begin soon after the consent is granted, he said.
“We are dedicated to ensuring the new wharf meets the community’s needs and continues to be a valued and iconic part of Akaroa. The public meeting will be a great opportunity for the community to hear firsthand about the rebuild and ask any questions,” said Mr Devlin.
To minimise disruption from the project, much of the work will be undertaken from a barge travelling between the wharf and the Akaroa Boat Ramp.
The largest contractors’ laydown area will be within the Akaroa Recreation Grounds, by the entrance to Akaroa.
The layout of this area has been designed so that events including youth cricket can still be held at the grounds, the Council said.
Condition surveys, engineering assessments, and recent geotechnical information have also provided further clarity around the complexities and costs incurred to work around the two privately-owned buildings connected to the wharf.
Mr Devlin says Council will carry out minimal structural improvements to the buildings to allow them to stand independently from the wharf before the wharf is fully demolished.
“To minimise risk of damage to the buildings during the rebuild and to ensure access for construction equipment, the new wharf will be set back approximately two metres back from the buildings.”
Project completion is expected in mid-2027.
For more information on the project, visit https://ccc.govt.nz/the-council/future-projects/major-facilities/akaroa-wharf.
