An assessment conducted in 2023 as part of the Holmes Wharf Refurbishment project uncovered that the overhead power lines, poles, and streetlights surrounding the harbor were no longer functional.
As a result, the pre-1960 poles were removed and power disconnected due to the public safety risk. Some of the poles were repurposed as bollards along the northern side after their height was reduced.
Fast forward two years, a recent report presented to Waitaki District Council’s (WDC) harbor area sub-committee outlines three options for restoring lighting.
“Network Waitaki has proposed underground power as the preferred option going forward, with a shared trench system for multiple services offering the best value for money and future flexibility.
“The current lack of lighting at Holmes Wharf poses risks for commercial fishermen, boat owners, and the public. Without adequate lighting, there is an increased danger for those using the wharf and water traffic.”
Otago Regional Council’s (ORC) Harbourmaster had already voiced concerns about the insufficient area lighting.
Harbourmaster Steve Rushbrook mentioned that while the navigational lights at the harbor entrance were operational, the absence of lighting on the wharf raised safety issues.
“The end of the wharf is dark with no current lighting, except for a high-level floodlight that aids in highlighting rocks during darkness. The lack of lighting on the rest of the wharf has been identified as a concern.”
Concerns about safety in the evening have also been raised by individuals jogging or exercising around the harbor, particularly on the Sumpter Wharf side.
The recent WDC report revealed that a resource consent was granted last September to allow for the underground entrenching of the power supply in stages, in collaboration with Network Waitaki, to address health and safety concerns.
While this solution would tackle safety issues, the report noted that replacement lighting was not initially included in the refurbishment project, and there is no allocated funding in the council’s 2025-34 Long-term Plan for such upgrades.
The estimated costs for the works range from $213,000 for installing a high-voltage power supply and street lighting to $428,000 for extending power to harbor berths and adding services at Holmes Wharf sheds.
The harbor sub-committee is set to discuss the report in an upcoming meeting.
andrew.ashton@odt.co.nz
