New $2.1M Panepane Wharf Opens on Matakana Island
The brand-new Panepane Wharf on Matakana Island has officially opened, replacing a 1980s timber structure that had been badly damaged by marine borers. The $2.1 million wharf — built primarily from steel and aluminium — can be reached by pontoon and gangway for easy accessibility, or via stairs for use in all tidal conditions. Around 60 people gathered for the opening ceremony on 4 November, including local iwi and hapū, Western Bay of Plenty District Council (WBOPDC) elected members and staff, and project partners. The occasion was marked with a blessing from kaumātua Bob Rolleston and waiata from local tamariki.
The five hapū connected to Matakana Island are part of Ngāi te Rangi Iwi — Ngāi Tuwhiwhia, Ngāti Tauaiti, Te Ngare, Te Whānau a Tauwhao, and Ngāi Tamawhariua. Nessie Kuka of Ngāi Tuwhiwhia said the new wharf would make a real difference for residents, especially tamariki travelling to school on the mainland ferry. WBOPDC Mayor James Denyer described the wharf as a vital community asset that would make daily life easier and more connected for island residents.
The council worked closely with local iwi and hapū throughout the project to ensure the design reflected cultural values and community needs. Timber salvaged from the old wharf will be recycled, with some incorporated into proposed seating and picnic tables on the adjoining foreshore reserve. A 13-hectare public reserve — known as Panepane Pūrakau — was transferred to a local hapū Trust in October 2021, with a public esplanade strip ensuring continued access to the foreshore.
WBOPDC reserves and facilities manager Peter Watson reminded visitors to stick to the harbour margins, respect the whenua and nearby forest, and noted that lighting fires on the island is strictly prohibited following a fire there two years ago. A wharepaku near the new wharf is available for visitors, with new signage planned to help people understand how to enjoy the area safely and respectfully.
Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).