July 28, 2020
Infrastructure spend up for far north
The Government is investing more than $14 million for community and infrastructure projects in the Far North, including $7 million to build a cycle trail and shared path linking Ahipara, Kaitaia, Awanui to Te One Roa a Tohe (90 Mile Beach) and Te Rerenga Wairua (Cape Reinga).
Each of the five iwi of Muriwhenua will provide a unique artwork of up to 8m tall at the entrances of their towns.
Infrastructure Minister Shane Jones says Far North District Council is leading the project with support from the Kaitaia Business Association, Northland Regional Council and iwi.
Construction is expected to take 18 months and create up to 80 jobs with businesses used where possible to supply materials.
Kaitaia-based social services provider He Korowai will receive $1.8 million to develop sites for 24 houses relocated from Auckland to provide affordable housing, which is in short supply in the region.
The funding will provide for 26 civil works jobs and the refit of the houses themselves will employ 10 trade students, six tradespeople and five support staff.
Mr Jones also announced $1 million for Far North Holdings to upgrade New Zealand’s northern-most public wharf, Pukenui Wharf on Houhora Harbour, and a similar sum to turn Unahi Wharf at Awanui into a multi-purpose wharf for recreational and commercial vessels.
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