2016 0178 Opureora Channel Dredging Project

2026-11-03

The Opureora Channel in Tauranga Harbour has two very shallow sections which in low tide conditionslimit boat access to the wharf and jetty at Opureora, Matakana Island. The Bay of Plenty Regional Councilhas obtained the required resource consents to dredge the channel to improve low tide access and to usethe dredged sediments for beach nourishment on the foreshore of Opureora Spit. The council is seeking asuitable contractor(s) to undertake the dredging and spoil disposal in accordance with the constraints setout in the conditions of the regional and Western Bay District Council resource consents for the project.The regional council (as consent holder) is looking for providers who have relevant capability, experience and infrastructure tosuccessfully complete the project within the project timelines and in accordance with the conditions ofconsents of both the regional and district councils. They need to have wide experience in carrying outsimilar scale marine dredging and spoil disposal (earthmoving) projects. This project has a strong focus onprotection of existing kaimoana beds adjacent to the part of the channel to be dredged. Proposals mustshow how these kaimoana resources will be protected. Similarly, the land where the dredge spoil is to bedisposed is privately owned and needs to be treated with sensitivity.The Opureora Channel Dredging and Spoil Disposal Project will provide on-going benefits of improved boataccess in the Opureora Channel particularly for the people of Matakana Island. Through the resourceconsent consultation the regional council (as consent holder) has been able to develop strong relationshipswith parties potentially affected by the project. This is a unique opportunity to work with council tocontinue building on these relationships particularly the local Matakana Island community.A compulsory site inspection of the dredging and spoil disposal sites has been arranged for Friday 26 February 2016. Registration is required by Wednesday 24 February. Details will be provided following registration.

New Zealand

2026-10-30