Jackson Bay's deep-water wharf is set for a significant overhaul after the government committed funding to address the ageing structure's safety and long-term reliability.
Associate Regional Development Minister Mark Patterson highlighted the wharf's all-weather accessibility, saying it becomes a lifeline when natural disasters strike. "This upgrade secures the wharf as a vital access point during disasters and supports the fishing industry by ensuring efficient seafood transport and supply chains," he said.
The project will draw on money from the Regional Infrastructure Fund, topped up by a $990,000 contribution from Westland District Council. Planned works cover structural improvements alongside new digital surveillance systems and updated signage, enabling the council to enforce launch fees and direct that revenue towards ongoing maintenance costs.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary to the Minister for Oceans and Fisheries Jenny Marcroft commended the fishers and industry leaders who she said worked tirelessly to secure the upgrade. "The wharf is in a severely deteriorated state, so this upgrade is critical to keep it safe and reliable for all users," she said.
The government has described the Jackson Bay works as the final component of a broader programme to upgrade West Coast ports. Earlier this year, ministers announced a $5.5 million loan from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to upgrade Westport Port and Greymouth Port.
