Warkworth Riverbank Enhancement Group

Within the last two decades studies have determined there is over 3 metres of silt lying within the Warkworth 'town basin' of the Mahurangi river as a result of deforestation and poor land management. 

 

Over the entire river this sedimentation has contributed to the proliferation of mangroves and reduced its navigational capability.

 

Dredging near the wharf in 2009 removed several cubic metres of silt providing a metre of clearance beneath the pontoons. But two years later this had refilled again, threatening to damage the pontoons and worse still, casting a shadow over the continuing operation of the Jane Gifford, which Peter Thompson has stated will be unable to remain in Warkworth in 2 years time if this is not addressed.

 

The 'Riverbank Enhancement Group' has been working with the Auckland Council to address these issues.