29 October 2026
The final section of the Waipaoa stopbank upgrades has been completed, marking a major milestone in flood protection for Tairāwhiti.
The achievement was celebrated today at an official opening on farmland along Lavenham Road, attended by Regional Development Minister Shane Jones, Gisborne District Mayor Rehette Stoltz, hapū, project partners and members of the community.
The upgrade strengthens the Waipaoa River Flood Control Scheme, helping protect homes, productive farmland, infrastructure and communities along the river.
Mayor Rehette Stoltz says the completed upgrades are an important achievement for the region.
“We know how devastating flooding can be for our communities. Investing in stronger flood protection is an important part of helping protect people, homes, marae, farms and livelihoods.
“Completing this work around three years ahead of schedule is a fantastic result. I want to acknowledge everyone who has worked together to deliver these upgrades, and the Government’s support in helping bring this work forward.”
The project has delivered 63kms of upgraded stopbanks across the scheme, using 1.56 million cubic metres of compacted soil – equivalent to around 780 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
Other key works include the Whakaahu culvert upgrade, Whatatuna flood gate, Railway Bridge swing gate, and key land purchases, all to help manage significant floods.
Regional Rivers Manager Joss Ruifrok says the work reflects years of effort from contractors and project partners.
“This has been a significant programme of work, delivered across seven construction seasons from 2019 to 2026. Earthwork Solutions has been a key part of that journey as lead contractor, alongside the many contractors, crews and project partners whose hard work and commitment have helped bring the upgrades to a successful completion.”
Government funding helped accelerate the work, including $7.5 million secured through Kānoa in August 2020 and a further $20.46 million approved in December 2023.
The wider project is expected to be fully completed by early 2027, with minor rock armouring still to be finished at one location, as well as fencing and re-grassing reinstatement works.