Deck timber replacement going ‘well’

Stage two of a project to replace the deteriorating timber decking of Holmes Wharf in Oamaru...
Stage two of a project to replace the deteriorating timber decking of Holmes Wharf in Oamaru Harbour is progressing well. PHOTO: REBECCA RYAN
Stage two of a project to replace the decking on Holmes Wharf is "progressing well to budget and schedule", Waitaki District Council property manager Renee Julius says.

The second stage of the multi-year project to redevelop the wharf in Oamaru Harbour got under way on April 4, and the work is expected to be completed by January 2023. It involves the removal and replacement of sub-deck and top deck timbers and strengthening of deteriorated bearer and beam timbers at the eastern end of the historic wharf.

Mrs Julius said the decking timber needed to be replaced as it was in "poor condition".

"Sub-deck and top deck timbers were badly deteriorated and at end of life, which has an impact on public safety," she said.

Sound salvaged timber was being stored for reuse, but "unfortunately" due to the condition of most of the timber there was a "minimal" amount that could be reused, she said.

Stage one of the re-decking project cost $320,000. An additional $675,000 was spent on structural strengthening of the underside of the wharf, after it was discovered some of the wooden piles had severely deteriorated.

Stage two has a budget of $1,150,000.

Named after the harbour board chairman of the day, Holmes Wharf opened in 1907 for ships of up to 10,000 tonnes. Due to its heritage value, the historic railway tracks, track changes, mooring bollards and capstans had to be retained, Mrs Julius said.

Most of the wharf remained open while the project was under way, but the construction zone was closed, she said.

--  rebecca.ryan@odt.co.nz