Dismantling work on the Tairua Wharf and Boat Ramp is now underway, with the floating crane and construction equipment currently on site.

The existing concrete wharf is being dismantled piece-by-piece and will be removed, along with concrete support piles from the seabed, says a Thames-Coromandel District Council spokesperson.

The $1.4 million Tairua Wharf project aims to improve trailer boat launching facilities for Tairua, plus cater for larger recreational boats, commercial fishing and charter operators.

'The next step will be constructing the new wharf, then the existing boat ramp will be widened and extended to improve launching at low tide, and two new 30-metre floating pontoons to be erected.

'One pontoon will go alongside the wharf to increase the number of boats that can launch as well as improving safety, due to the tidal flows of the harbour; and the second pontoon will be on the seaward side of the ramp at an angle to provide for safer launching.”

Throughout the construction period, the ferry service between Tairua, Pauanui and Paku will be closed until Friday, June 30.

CONSTRUCTION TIMELINE:

• November 2016 - March 2017: Preparatory work
• March - April 2017: Demolition of the old wharf
• May - June 2017: Construction of new wharf and boat ramp
• June - July 2017: Refurbishment of new pontoon
• July 2017: Construction of new boat ramp pontoon
• August/September 2017: Completion and official opening

Dates may change depending on weather.

For more information see www.tcdc.govt.nz/tairuawharf