New Zealand Ōpōtiki Harbour Entrance opens as a monumental achievement for the community. Representatives from government, councils, Whakatōhea iwi, and locals celebrated the channel’s opening at the Coastguard building. The ceremony was a memorable event, with Coastguard rescue boats, including the 12.5m Ōpōtiki Rescue II and the smaller Ōpōtiki Rescue, embarking on a journey over the new bar despite somewhat challenging sea conditions. In a display of unity, working harbor cranes saluted passing boats by raising and lowering their buckets.
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New Zealand Ōpōtiki Harbour Entrance: A $100 Million Marvel Opens Up Opportunities
Despite less-than-ideal weather, 30 to 40 boats set sail smoothly when the channel opened to the public at noon. David Moore, Ōpōtiki’s Mayor, emphasized that the channel’s opening represents a significant milestone for the project, while they plan an official opening next year upon completing the work for commercial mussel boats’ accessibility. Moore thanked Ōpōtiki’s patient residents and acknowledged ex-Mayor John Forbes, who dedicated two decades to advancing the Ōpōtiki harbour entrance.
He also paid tribute to those who had been instrumental in making the Ōpōtiki harbour entrance a reality but had, unfortunately, passed away. Their vision and commitment to the project left an indelible mark.
The project succeeded largely due to $95 million in equity funding from Kānoa, the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment’s unit. Jason Hall, the ministry’s investment director, praised Whakatōhea iwi and Ōpōtiki District Council’s vision, emphasizing its regional origin, not Wellington-based.
Regional councilors Kevin Winters and Malcolm Campbell attended. Winters expressed delight as the regional council contributed $20 million from its Infrastructure Fund. He also recognized Jon Jon Peters, who leads the regional council’s harbour team. Noting that this project would increase the presence of the maritime patrol team in Ōpōtiki harbour.
In conclusion, the unveiling of the $100 Million New Zealand Ōpōtiki Harbour Entrance marks a remarkable achievement for the community. This project, driven by dedication and collaboration, signifies not only the beginning of new opportunities for Ōpōtiki but also a testament to the persistence and vision of those who made it a reality. With a bright future ahead, this harbour promises to be a key driver of progress, economic growth, and unity in the region.
