Major riverbank reconstruction is underway along Te Awa Kairangi/ Hutt River after significant erosion destroyed part of a popular walking path near the Royal Wellington Golf Club.
Photo: RNZ / Rebekah Parsons-King
Almost 20 metres of riverbank and walking track were destroyed after two events of severe weather last month, with the pathway being swept away in the second instance. The path has been blocked off since late July.
Access around the path is not possible due to the bordering golf club, which stretches over 2km, meaning large detours are having to be made.
The footpath is popular not only for walking, but a common track for cyclists and pedestrians commuting to and from Upper Hutt City.
Greater Wellington Regional councillor and climate committee deputy chairperson Ros Connelly said the pathway was a significant loss for the community.
"It's not just a recreational thing we've lost, it's also part of the transport infrastructure," she said.
Erosion at a section of the Hutt River. Photo: Kirsty Frame
Construction to rebuild and strengthen the riverbank against future floods is expected to take three months, depending on weather and availability of materials.
The council has previously identified the area was at risk of erosion, and had planned to strengthen the area later this year.
Its flood protection manager Graeme Campbell said last month's flood was a warning.
"It's a harbinger of the intensity and frequency of climate change-induced weather events that will continue to place increasing stress on existing flood protection structures and on emerging areas of vulnerability."