Earlier this year I posted about our efforts to secure external funding to rebuild the Tinopai Wharf. As part of that, we invited the Minister for Regional Development, Hon. Shane Jones, to Tinopai to see firsthand why the wharf is so important.
I’m very pleased to say those efforts have paid off, with $1 million secured from central government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund towards the $1.3 million rebuild. Council had some money set aside for the wharf, but a full rebuild was beyond current budgets. This external funding has made the difference and council will fund the remaining cost.
A lot of work has gone on behind the scenes since the wharf closed. The community has been a huge part of that, forming a trust to raise additional support and working alongside the council to find a way forward. People have been very clear about the importance of the wharf, and I’ve appreciated their willingness to work with us on a practical solution.
This project is also important for Tinopai’s resilience. With only one road in and out, having the wharf available as another connection will be extremely valuable if that road was ever cut off.
A special thank you to Minister Jones for taking the time to come to Tinopai, listen to the community and understand what we’re trying to achieve. Without his help this wouldn't have become a reality.
It is going to be great to see the wharf rebuilt and open again.
Photo: Elected members, staff and Tinopai community members meet at the wharf with Minister Shane Jones
Photo: The old wharf
