Following discussions held in February 2012, Auckland Council Local Parks West has progressed works to realign the Wekatahi and Marawhara Streams at Piha. See works here 12-04-18 Stream Realignment Plans

Tonkin and Taylor has been engaged to confirm the extent of works required, undertake tender evaluation and supervise physical works.  Tonkin and Taylor was involved with the original realignment works so is familiar with this type of work. 

Works involved in the realignment of the streams include the dredging of two separate channels out to the 1.5m contour (see attached map).  This will result in the separation of both the Wekatahi and Marawhara Streams.  The minimum amount of modification works will be undertaken to achieve the desired result.  It was originally suggested by some of the community that only the northern stream should be realigned; however there is a risk that further dune erosion caused by the Wekatahi Stream to the south would continue. 

Sand removed from the creation of the two new channels will be deposited in the existing channels, and will also used to restore the southern toe of the remaining dune.  As part of this work, planting will be undertaken along the newly restored dune to minimise erosion and assist in dune rebuilding.  Plants include approximately 1,500 West Coast eco-sourced spinifex and pingao and are from seeds sourced from Piha.  Although the planting will be undertaken by the contractor, Piha Coastcare has been consulted in regards to the type of plants and has provided Council with their most effective planting methodology. 

During physical works, contractors will have health and safety measures in place which will restrict public access through the works area.  Machinery will be stored off the beach at the end of each working day. 

It is anticipated that physical works will commence on 30 April 2012 as the tide will be low during this time.  The realignment works will take approximately five working days.  Dune planting will be undertaken following the realignment works and are dependent on when plants can be delivered to site.  If works are not able to commence on 30 April, works will be scheduled for 14 May 2012 as this is the next low tide. 

The future management of the streams is yet to be confirmed and will be discussed further with the community and the Local Board. 

Signs/information flyers advising of the works will also be erected along Marine Parade South adjacent to the works area, at the Piha Community Library and at the Post Office on 24 April.  A contract construction sign will also be erected on site for the duration of works.

Posted 23 April 2012.

The photo below was taken in 1950 and shows the two streams taking a similar route as in 2012. Historic photos show that the route of the streams has varied between separate and joined up over the last 100 years.

Marawhara and Wekatahi Streams in 1950 taking a very similar route to 2012