The demolition of 12 properties in Edgecumbe will begin in the next few days before the rebuild of the failed stopbank that led to the widespread flooding of the town.
Houses on College Road, opposite the stopbank wall on the river Rangataiki that breached and flooded the majority of the town causing the evacuation of 1600 residents. Photo: RNZ / Brad White
In April, the Rangitāiki River burst its banks and forced the evacuation of 1600 residents.
Bay of Plenty Regional Council said the properties on College Road were bought in October and it was working with former landowners to allow for final visits.
Project manager Peter Hay said while staff will be at the site before Christmas, the rebuilding will begin in early 2018.
The design of the new stopbank was still being finalised, he said.
There were a lot of emotions tied up with pieces of the wall that failed and the council was considering whether or not to build a memorial using them, Mr Hay said.