East Coast flood resilience improvements

Following the impacts of Cyclone Gabrielle in February 2023, along with previous significant flood events, flood resilience options have been investigated for the East Coast communities of Ūawa (Tolaga Bay), Tokomaru Bay, Mākarika and Tikitiki.

The project focuses on cost-effective solutions to reduce flood risk to 38 impacted homes, as well as community facilities and critical infrastructure. Technical investigations, engagement with mana whenua and communities and evaluation of a wide range of flood mitigation options have helped identify preferred approaches for each catchment.

East Coast communities preferred option reports

The East Coast Flood Resilience Programme has identified preferred programmes of works for Mākarika, Tikitiki (Poroporo River), Tokomaru Bay and the Ūawa River catchment. The recommendations were informed by technical assessments, engagement with communities and mana whenua and evaluation of a wide range of flood mitigation options through a consistent assessment process across all catchments.

Across all catchments, the preferred approaches combine targeted flood protection measures with non-structural initiatives such as flood warning systems, emergency management planning, nature-based solutions, planning controls, monitoring and community education. Together, these measures aim to reduce risk to people and property while supporting long-term community resilience and an adaptive approach to flood risk management.

Each report outlines the flood hazards affecting the area, the options considered, stakeholder feedback, technical assessments and the rationale for the preferred programme of works.

Mākarika - Mākarika Stream and surrounding settlement

• Preferred approach includes a limited structural flood protection measure alongside non-structural initiatives.
• Focuses on managing increasing flood risk associated with river aggradation, climate change and access constraints.

Tikitiki - Poroporo River

• Preferred approach includes upgrading the existing stopbank to reduce flood risk to homes, key infrastructure and community assets.
• Supported by flood warnings, emergency planning, nature-based solutions and ongoing community resilience measures.

Tokomaru Bay - Waiotu Stream and Mangahauini River

• Preferred approach addresses flood risk from both the Mangahauini River and Waiotu Stream.
• Includes targeted capital works, ongoing monitoring and adaptive management to respond to changing flood risks over time.

Ūawa (Tolaga Bay) - Mangaheia, Hikuwai and Ūawa rivers

• Preferred approach includes targeted capital works to reduce flooding in Tolaga Bay, supported by catchment-wide resilience measures.
• Focuses on managing future flood risk associated with climate change, sea level rise and geomorphic change.