Work will begin this week to strengthen a colourful landmark at Ōpononi.
The retaining wall is a very visible and popular feature in the Hokianga township and is covered by a mural painted by several community groups, including the Ōpononi Lions Club, Kaikohe-Hokianga Community Board, Ōpononi-Ōmāpere Ratepayers Association, Ōpononi Area School, Hokianga Historical Society, and the Hokianga Tourism Association.
The remedial work is a proactive project to future-proof the wall. It involves strengthening the concrete footing to create a more robust foundation and upgrading steel support props.
Far North Holdings Ltd, the commercial arm of Far North District Council, has commissioned the work and says protecting the much-loved mural will be paramount during the upgrade.
Work will be carried out by local builders JR & LM Pattinson Ltd and is expected to be completed early in 2024.