Project Future Proof is a multi-stage project to upgrade flood defences (stopbanks and floodwalls) along the Whakatāne CBD stretches of the Whakatāne River / Ōhinemataroa.
The first part of Project Future Proof is to upgrade stopbanks and floodwalls along the awa that have seepage issues.
While seepage control work is being done, the height of the floodwalls will be raised. This height increase is based on increased flows in the awa (due to climate change and predictions for sea level rise).
The second part of the project will be to raise the flood defences in the remaining areas.
Throughout this project, Bay of Plenty Regional Council is working closely with Whakatāne District Council and Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa. Together, their vision is to create a space along the waterfront that functions well in increased, heavy weather events, while ensuring the community can continue to feel connected to the awa.
Construction of Stage One (of Four) is now underway (as of April 2024).
Bay of Plenty Regional Council received $4M in funding from Central Government’s Crown Infrastructure Funding.
