The Mercury Bay Community Board and Thames-Coromandel District Council cancelled the anticipated Esplanade redevelopment project, which included a new public pier, after raising concerns over a $12.5 million bill to ratepayers, according to local reports. The cancellation leaves a new $1.3 million pontoon as the primary upcoming upgrade for the Whitianga shoreline, with completion scheduled for the end of September.
Esplanade Redevelopment Cancelled Over Ratepayer Costs
The multi-million dollar Esplanade project was initially included in the council’s 2024-2034 Long Term Plan, according to Mayor Peter Revell. However, officials scrapped the broader plan after community feedback highlighted financial concerns regarding the $12.5 million cost. Revell stated that a more streamlined approach is now required to focus squarely on health and safety concerns. “There was this big plan worth millions of dollars… the community is saying ‘don’t do this and please don’t spend all this money’ and we get that, understand that and we support that,” Revell said.
https://x.com/MetService/status/2096363459063759114
Whitianga Shoreline Receives $1.3 Million Pontoon Upgrade
With the broader redevelopment halted, attention has shifted to replacing the failing shoreline infrastructure ahead of the summer tourism influx. According to council engineer and project lead Jodie Kocian, the existing pontoon reached its end-of-life stage at 19 years old, suffering from overall degradation and sinkage that made it “time to go.” Work on the replacement structure began earlier this week, with specialised underwater engineers sawing through concrete pillars—discovering stray trolleys and bicycles in the process. The new pontoon, built and transported from Whangārei, uses six steel pillars to replace a dozen concrete ones, boosting stability and strength. Additional features include motion-sensor marine-grade lights and a higher free-board to assist bikers, prams, and wheelchair users accessing the Whitianga-Cooks Beach ferry.
Impact on Ferry Operations and Community Safety
Whitianga Ferry owner Jeremy Lomas expressed support for the new pontoon, noting it will restore a ‘roll on-roll off’ service for passengers. While Lomas noted it “would’ve been nice” to have a new pier separating commercial and recreational users, he expressed understanding regarding the council’s decision to ease the financial burden on ratepayers.
Related reading