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Tikao Bay jetty
The Tikao Bay jetty is a simple timber structure at the end of Tikao Bay Road in Tikao Bay, on the western side of Akaroa Harbour in Canterbury, New Zealand. It is built on wooden piles with decks and has steps providing water access at all tides. Local people use it mainly for walking, fishing and swimming, and commercial tours occasionally load and unload passengers there. The jetty serves the small Tikao Bay community and visitors who enjoy the sheltered bay and scenic harbour views.
Essential repair work is scheduled for the Tikao Bay jetty on Banks Peninsula, with construction planned to begin in early December and continue through to late January. The project forms part of ongoing efforts to maintain and protect the peninsula’s marine infrastructure, ensuring it remains safe and functional for the long term.
Why the Jetty Needs Repair
Like many coastal structures around Banks Peninsula, the Tikao Bay jetty has been affected by a combination of earthquake damage and repeated storm events over recent years. These pressures have contributed to the jetty reaching a condition where structural repairs are now required.
Regular maintenance of wharves and jetties is a standard part of coastal asset management. In this case, targeted structural work will help extend the life of the jetty and reduce safety risks associated with deterioration in a challenging marine environment.
According to Christchurch City Council’s approach to coastal infrastructure, proactive maintenance is essential to ensure public safety and protect access to coastal communities that rely on marine structures for recreation and transport .
Where the Work Will Take Place
The repair works will be carried out on, beneath and immediately adjacent to the Tikao Bay jetty, located on Tikao Bay Road. Construction activity will be visible from the shoreline and surrounding area, with equipment operating both from land and the water where required.
When the Works Are Scheduled
Construction is expected to run from 8 December 2025 through to late January 2026. Work hours will generally be Monday to Saturday, between 7am and 7pm, although timings may shift depending on weather conditions and site requirements.
Some activities may require extended hours to align with tide cycles, which is common for marine construction projects. Residents may notice occasional early starts or later finishes during these periods.
Jetty Closure and Access Impacts
For safety reasons, the Tikao Bay jetty will be fully closed for the duration of the repair works. This includes closure to both pedestrian access and marine vessel use. Temporary fencing and signage will be installed to clearly indicate the closure.
Boaties are advised to use alternative nearby facilities during this time. The Akaroa Main Wharf and Wainui Wharf will be the closest available options for vessel docking.
Importantly, there will be no restrictions on access to adjacent private properties, and normal entry will be maintained throughout the works.
Who to Contact
The project contractor is Hunter Civil. If you have specific access needs or concerns, including medical visits, home support services, large vehicle deliveries or planned works, you are encouraged to get in touch early.
Hunter Civil
Phone: 03 381 7094
Hours: Monday to Friday, 7.30am to 5.30pm
Clear communication helps ensure the works can proceed smoothly while minimising inconvenience for local residents.
Why It Matters
Coastal infrastructure like the Tikao Bay jetty plays a quiet but vital role in the life of Banks Peninsula. Jetties are more than structures over water. They support recreation, access to the harbour, local identity, and the way people connect with their coastal environment.
Regular maintenance and timely repairs help ensure public safety, particularly in a region shaped by earthquakes, storms and a changing climate. Left unattended, damage can escalate quickly in a marine environment, leading to higher costs and longer closures in the future. Investing in repairs now helps protect the long-term resilience of community assets.
For local residents, the jetty is part of everyday life. It is used for boating, swimming, fishing and simply spending time by the water. While temporary closures are inconvenient, they are a necessary step to ensure the jetty remains safe and usable for years to come.