Trident Stopbank upgrade
Upgrading Whakatāne’s flood protection network
We’re doing work to strengthen sections of stopbanks along Arawa Road. At the same time, we’ll be upgrading the culvert under the road.
Why are we doing this?
Stopbanks and culverts are essential in reducing the impacts of major flood events and improving the long-term resilience of local homes, schools and infrastructure. This work helps ensure Whakatāne is better prepared for future storm events.
What’s happening?
The Arawa Road stopbank and culverts have been in place for several decades. A CCTV inspection in 2024 revealed ovalling and cracking in the culvert beneath Arawa Road, meaning it needs to be replaced.
During the culvert's replacement, we will also be strengthening the stopbank.
How will you be impacted?
Road closures will be in place through to the end of March (weather dependent) and may change, at times, as we move through construction. Following this, a shoulder closure will be in place.
Please follow all signage in the area and listen to instructions from traffic management staff.
Week-to-week updates will be added as project updates at the bottom of this page.
Project timeline
January 2026
On-site set-up, safety fencing installed, road closure and detour in place
January - End of March 2026
Culvert replacement works under Arawa Road
April - June 2026
Stopbank upgrade, landscaping and reinstatement
June - July 2026
Final checks, removal of traffic management, project completion
Please note: Timeframes may shift depending on weather and ground conditions.
What’s been done?
Over the past few months, we have been working on the replacement of the culvert under Arawa Road. Works have included:
- Removal of the road to uncover the structure
- Installation of sheetpiles
- Replacement and upgrade of manholes
