North Mole restoration

The North Mole restoration is a community-led, hapū-supported, and council-delivered project that reflects our shared responsibility to the awa. It builds on previous work at the North Mole under the Te Pūwaha project, along with Nga Ringaringa Waewae and Progress Castlecliff, and forms part of our long-term coastal restoration programme.

This project balances infrastructure needs with the ecological and cultural values that make this area significant to our community. Guided by Te Awa Tupua values, the restoration aims to strengthen environmental resilience, improve public safety and recreation opportunities and deepen our community’s connection to the river and coastline. 

Current North Mole carpark area

What the project will deliver

The North Mole restoration project will deliver an enhanced public space for our community - a place we expect will be valued, respected, and well-used for years to come.

Key improvements include:

• New public toilets and showers
• A new sealed carparking area near the existing carparking area
• Signage
• Picnic tables
• Shared pathway along the shoreline
• Additional native planting to help stabilise the dune system and protect the coastline.

Earlier concept designs included several bespoke features, but these have been refined to ensure the project remains sustainable and aligned with the core needs of the space. The final design focuses on practical, durable infrastructure that supports both community use and environmental wellbeing.

Funding for the project is provided by Whanganui District Council and central government’s Tourism Infrastructure Fund obtained by Progress Castlecliff with hapū support.

Working in a Te Awa Tupua way

Te Awa Tupua principles guide every stage of the restoration. This means working in a way that upholds the mana and mauri of the Whanganui River and its surrounding environment.

The project includes actions to:

• Restore natural dune systems
• Improve habitats for native species
• Use locally sourced native plants to support long-term ecological health

These steps reflect our commitment to protecting and enhancing this unique coastal landscape. 

Want to find out more

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