Saturday, April 20, 2024

Surprise find in North Shore excavation

Iron pipes that helped supply Auckland’s North Shore with water more than 100 years ago have been rediscovered during works in Killarney Park in Takapuna.

The find occurred during site excavations to upgrade the lakeside pathway, seating and lookout by the historic PumpHouse at Lake Pupuke.

The pipes sit underneath the middle of the new terraced seating and viewing area.

But rather than cover them over, the space has been redesigned to include clear coverings allowing people to see the pipes underneath, with the seating on either side.

Auckland City Council says a sign featuring information on the history of the pipes will also be installed.

Heritage water pipes preserved2

Devonport-Takapuna Local Board chair, Ruth Jackson applauded the efforts to preserve a piece of the area’s past. 

“We did not know exactly where the old pipes were, so it was a wonderful surprise to discover them. I am delighted the project team found a way to keep make them a feature of the design,” she said.

“Heritage assets like this, and the PumpHouse nearby, are features that define our local board area so it is important we continue to preserve, showcase and celebrate them.

“This is already a very popular spot for locals and these improvements have only added to it.”

The bulk of the works have now been completed, with the clear covering and sign expected to be in place in the next few weeks.   

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