Ahuriri’s Nelson Quay wharf remedial work lined up

Nelson Quay wharf, which, along with part of the launch ramp beside the Hawke's Bay Sports Fishing Club, has been closed and fenced off since October 23 while Napier City Council evaluates safety improvements. Photo / Doug Laing

Work on Napier’s ageing and troubled Nelson Quay wharf could start next June.

Overlooking the Iron Pot at Ahuriri, the wharf’s future has been in doubt since the Napier City Council erected security fencing closing the wharf, part of the boat ramp beside the Hawke’s Bay Sports Fishing Club and some of the parking area five weeks ago.

It said at the time structural investigations had identified issues with the integrity of the wharf, rating it as unstable and at risk of failing.

A council spokesperson said on Friday a draft report on remediation options was now available and a decision would be made by the end of next month on which option would be taken to move forward to detailed design.

Building would start by June, they said, but more details depended on the option chosen.

Vessel relocation is also being investigated for the 22 vessels impacted by a possible loss of mooring during the closure or repairs.

The boat ramp is still accessible, and additional parking for boat trailers has been secured at Te Karaka reserve.

Doug Laing is a Hawke’s Bay Today reporter based in Napier, with more than 40 years’ experience reporting events in Hawke’s Bay.