Ko te Ārai Waipuke
Flood protection
Strengthening our defences
Te Awa Kairangi / Hutt River is one of the region’s greatest assets. It is also one of its greatest risks due to flooding potential. River works are an integral part of Te Awa Kairangi project. We are focused on saving lives and property from a one in a 440 year flooding event that has a 23% chance of happening in the next 100 years.
Te Awa Kairangi project flood protection work, is expected to safeguard residents from large flood events that could affect up to 3,000 homes, five schools and 600 businesses, with the potential to cause an estimated $1.1 billion worth of damage across the community. During construction, the flood security of Te Awa Kairangi ki Tai - Lower Hutt will be a key element.
Recent flooding events across New Zealand has demonstrated the need for investment in flood protection infrastructure, and the devastating consequences for unprepared communities.
Goals
Stopbanks
The height of the stopbanks will be increased by one metre to strengthen flood defences and improve resilience.
River channel
The river channel will be widened to 90 metres giving more room for it to flow naturally. A wide channel will help a higher volume of water to pass during floods.
Environment
The Belmont wetland filters stormwater before it flows into the river. The wetland includes shallow and deep habitats to support indigenous plants that will improve water quality.
Improving resilience
Upgraded stopbanks will strengthen flood defences, while wider river channels will help higher volumes of water to pass during floods.
Relevant related projects
Belmont Wetland
A constructed wetland in Belmont within the river corridor, will preserve the habitat for indigenous flora and fauna. It will also act like a kidney to filter storm water. This protects the ecological health of the river while also providing flood defences.
Geotechnical works
Geotechnical work was done to make an informed decision on the stopbank design to protect the city from floods. The ground investigations will also help to design the Melling interchange and a new pedestrian and cycle bridge.
Riverside access
An enhanced river park with more room for the river and for you to explore, play and learn in and around the river. Enjoy new cycle ways and pathways along the river bank, replanted with native plants.
Biodiversity
The Te Awa Kairangi / Hutt River catchment is home to 13 native fish species, more than half of these are at risk or threatened. Greater Wellington monitors water at various sites to check ecosystem health, which informs long-term management of the catchment.
