Western Bay of Plenty District Council has announced it is considering the removal of the Waihī Beach Earth Dam to meet new government earthquake and flood control safety regulations.
Built in the 1960s and originally designed as a water reservoir, providing the town supply until the 1990s, the dam’s more recent role has shifted to managing stormwater and providing recreation. However, it was never designed as a flood protection system, the Council said in a statement.
“We see the removal of the dam as an opportunity to improve stormwater management and community safety,” says Rhys Spicer, Council’s Team Lead Capital Projects.
“It will also support better habitat and ecological outcomes, with the potential to enhance community amenities.”
New thresholds and classifications for dams were introduced under the Building (Dam Safety) Regulations 2022, to improve the overall safety of dams in New Zealand.
Previously, dam safety was primarily governed by the Building Act 2004, which included some basic provisions but did not have the same detailed and specific requirements.
Council is carrying out detailed surveys of the dam area, surrounding reserve and infrastructure, to help guide potential designs for stream restoration and associated improvements.
“While upgrading the dam to meet the new standards is an option, it would involve significant costs and challenges, without improving the stormwater issues in the community,” said Mr Spicer.
The community are also being asked to share their thoughts on how the area, which includes a public reserve and walking tracks, is being used, as well as their thoughts on restoration options.
“This is a chance for us to work together to create a space that enhances the environment and brings people together. We’ll be working closely with the community to shape this space, to ensure it reflects everyone’s needs.”
“Whether you use the space for recreation, walking, or group activities, we want to understand how you use the area, any concerns you have and how the changes might affect you,” Mr Spicer said.
The public is invited to attend a Coffee and Kōrero event at the Waihī Beach RSA on Saturday 15 February, between 10am and 1pm.
Feedback closes at 5pm on Monday 24 February 2025.
- For more information and to provide feedback, visit: yourplace.westernbay.govt.nz/waihi-beach-earth-dam.
