Matakana Island’s vital connection to the mainland is set for a major upgrade, with the Government committing $2.01 million to improve Opureora Wharf.
The funding will come from the Regional Infrastructure Fund and contribute to a $2.9 million project upgrading the island’s only vehicle and freight gateway.
Around 320 people live on Matakana Island, which has no road connection to the mainland. Opureora Wharf is therefore critical for residents, essential services and an island economy built around forestry, dairy farming and horticulture. Several barge services use the facility each day to transport workers, machinery, milk, logs, produce and supplies.
The project will extend the existing seawall, widen and seal the loading area, improve parking and loading facilities, upgrade stormwater management and install new safety barriers and associated roading improvements.
Importantly for mana whenua, the work will also strengthen protection of the coastline below Opureora Marae, reducing erosion risks to both the marae and critical transport infrastructure.
The project has been championed by the Opureora Marae Committee and will be delivered by Western Bay of Plenty District Council in partnership with the committee and landowners.
Matakana Island sits within the rohe of Ngāi Te Rangi and has close associations with Ngāti Tauaiti and Ngāi Tūwhiwhia.
The Māori Climate Platform has already committed $700,000 towards the seawall, while Western Bay of Plenty District Council is contributing another $200,000.
Construction is expected to support around 19 full-time-equivalent jobs, with work planned to begin in late 2026 subject to consents, contracting and other conditions.
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