Mana Whenua Partner in Expanded Te Wai Takamori o Te Awa Kairangi Flood Protection Project

On 4 September 2026, reports emerged regarding the significant expansion of Te Wai Takamori o Te Awa Kairangi, a critical flood protection and infrastructure programme in Lower Hutt. Formerly known as RiverLink, the project’s flood protection component has been revised to an estimated $535.4 million. The initiative represents a significant partnership with mana whenua, who are deeply involved in decisions regarding the future of the river. According to the report, the collaboration ensures that the work addresses essential questions of whakapapa, kaitiakitanga, and the restoration of the health and mauri of the awa alongside urban protection. Greater Wellington Deputy Chair Ros Connelly highlighted the project as one of the country’s most vital flood protection efforts. The project aims to safeguard the Lower Hutt CBD, Hutt Hospital, schools, and major public assets like State Highway 2 and the rail corridor. The goal is to provide protection against a one-in-440-year flood event, which poses a significant risk to one of the nation’s most densely populated floodplains. The cost increase from the previous budget reflects a more mature understanding of the complex engineering and construction requirements. Greater Wellington noted that inflation, rising utility costs, and the relocation of critical infrastructure—such as a sewer main and the Melling railway station—have contributed to the new total. A funding gap of $184.9 million remains, and the council is currently in discussions with the Government to secure co-funding, arguing that local ratepayers should not bear the full cost of protecting nationally significant Crown assets. While the financial scope has grown, the commitment to restoring the environment remains a cornerstone. The project involves moving sections of the river to meet safety standards while integrating the new City Link pedestrian and cycling bridge, balancing modern infrastructure needs with the spiritual and ecological wellbeing of the waterway as guided by mana whenua.