5 September 2017

Auckland Transport to address flooding along Tamaki Drive

Auckland Transport today announced plans to address flooding at low spots on Tamaki Drive, between Lilliput minigolf and Ngapipi Bridge.

The plans include raising the road up to half a metre higher, adding a curve to the edge of the seawall to help deflect waves from breaking onto the footpath and installing stormwater valves that will reduce the inflow of seawater.

It is intended that these measures will be done when the Tamaki Drive Cycleway is constructed, planned for mid-2018. This means that the design, resource consenting and construction of both projects can be done at the same time.

Flooding typically occurs during king times and major events and when it occurs Tamaki Drive can be partially closed in this area, up to eight times a year, impacting the flow of traffic and safety of cyclists and pedestrians.

Auckland Mayor Phil Goff says, “These measures will make Tamaki Drive safer for all road users, improve congestion in the area and reduce the need for road closures following significant weather events.

“Council is focused on ensuring our city adapts to climate change. That means investing in our coastal areas to mitigate the impact of rising sea levels and flooding.”

Auckland Councillor for Ōrākei Desley Simpson says she is pleased that this long running issue is finally being addressed.

“Auckland Transport has responded to my concerns and the concerns of the public and they have come up with solutions that are creative, within budgets and can be delivered this financial year,” says Councillor Desley Simpson.

Auckland Transport’s Chief Engineer Andrew Scoggins says, “In recent months we have been progressing a number of cycling and road safety projects and fixing the flooding on this part of Tamaki Drive has come through as feedback from local residents’ groups.

“This is a coastal area so will continue to experience significant weather events, however these measures will help reduce the severity and frequency of flooding and the need to close the road. Together with Auckland Council we are working at responding to the ongoing impacts of climate change.”

ENDS

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