Ōtara stopbank upgrade

The Ōtara stopbank upgrade will improve flood defences (stopbanks and floodwalls) along the left bank of the Ōtara River, from Ford Street to Princess Street in Opotiki.

Why are we doing this?

Flooding is the most common natural hazard in Aotearoa, with a major flood event occurring on average every eight months. As the climate changes, communities across New Zealand need to adapt to meet the challenges of a rising sea level and more frequent, more significant rain events that may cause flooding.

Regular asset performance reviews of our flood defences help to ensure they are in good condition so they can perform when we need them most. A recent review of this section of the Ōtara River identified the need to upgrade these defences.

This project is one of the many we have underway across the rohe to manage, maintain and improve our flood protection network (worth more than $400m).

Project overview

Construction is expected to begin April 2026.

Works include:

Upgrade of flood defences – raising the height and width of stopbanks by 500-700mm
Replacement of seven culverts
Retaining the shared pathway as a part of the Motu Trails
Upgrade and extension of the existing floodwall along Richard Street.

What’s happening?

The first part of the project is to raise the height of the stopbanks and floodwalls.

In most places, they will be raised between 500-700mm to meet the agreed level of service. We will also be extending the floodwall further down Richard Street.

The work also involves replacing several culverts throughout the stopbanks. Culverts are a vital part of the flood protection network as they allow water from the landside to flow out into the river.

The culverts will be fitted out with flap gates to help control the flow of water. During a flood event or when the river is high, the flap gates close preventing water from the river to flow inland.

How will you be impacted?

Please note, this information was updated on 10 March 2026. We will provide further updates as information becomes available.

While construction is underway, the path on top of and on the berm next to the stopbanks within the worksite will be closed. A temporary access route will be established and signposted.

Please follow all signage and instructions from contractors when visiting the construction area.