Karakia ceremonies were held at the Whakatāne Town Wharf and Port Ōhope Wharf this week to mark the start of construction to repair both wharves.

The events were attended by Ngāti Hokopū representatives, Whakatāne District Council Mayor and Elected Members, project team members and contractors, with the karakia acknowledging the safety and well-being of those involved in the projects.

The wharves both require maintenance and strengthening to ensure they are safe and fit-for-purpose, and the projects will provide employment opportunities for local people.

Remediation of the Whakatāne Town Wharf starts immediately, while the Ōhope Wharf project will begin in August. The public are reminded that both projects will be noisy at times.

The Whakatāne Town Wharf Remediation project is made possible with funding from the Provincial Growth Fund

Image: Ngāti Hokopū Kaumatua Charlie Bluett (left) and kaikarakia Mac Kingi performed the karakia and provided information on the history of the harbour and surrounds at today’s blessing events.

Source: Whakatane District Council