The Kaituna Mole at Maketū provides river management and recreational benefits for the lower Kaituna catchment area.
In July 2021 Bay of Plenty Regional Council started a major upgrade on the structure to make it structurally sound, fit-for-purpose and safe for public use.
The Kaituna Mole has significant recreational value for the community. The structure is a base for monitoring by coastguard, supports the navigable channel for local boaties and is a very popular fishing spot. The upgrade involved installing 50 metres of new sheet pilling (steel used to provide temporary or permanent walls) around the existing structure. These are capped by a new concrete deck, which tie the structure together and lead into the carpark area.
A new accessway and new handrails were added as well as concrete benches/tables for the public to enjoy.
This project began in July 2021 and was substantially completed in February 2022. The final landscaping improvements are being planned in conjunction with Western Bay of Plenty District Council.
The project had a budget of $2.5 million with 75% of funding coming from central governments Resilient River Communities Projects fund.
