Launched as a world-first trial at Cape Palliser in 2022, Ecoreef technology has proven to be a successful approach to coastal erosion.

Installed at two vulnerable sections of the road, it has reduced damage and repairs needed, resulting from swells and severe weather.

With learnings and positive outcomes seen in South Wairarapa, this resilience-boosting method is now being adopted in other regions across the country.

And now South Wairarapa District Council has lodged a resource consent application with Greater Wellington Regional Council (GWRC) to see Ecoreef extended around the rugged coastline.

In the initial trial, the first reef was placed at Whatarangi, and a second reef was installed at Turners Bay.

Roading Advisor Tim Langley says Ecoreef has strengthened the road’s integrity in the face of the area’s volatile conditions.

“An increase in severe weather events meant the road was washing out repeatedly, leading to road closures and cutting off residents’ access to the district.

“The reefs have held up well – there’s still repairs needed but the severity and cost of the repairs have reduced. The whole road would wash out before the reef was installed but that hasn’t happened to date with this approach.”

Tim says the trial came about after he was approached by Ecoreef creator, Fred Waiker of Agmar Tool, who donated the materials for the Whatarangi reef.

“He’s got a place down there and he’s seen the coast deteriorate over the years and the ongoing battle with the sea. He came up with the Ecoreef idea and got the product developed and worked with the Council to get it installed.”

The “reef” is made up of interlocking hexagonal blocks filled with aggregate, a replacement for the boulders that are frequently washed away.

Tim says one of the advantages of EcoReef is that it reduces the need to transport boulders from other regions. He says Ecoreef blocks are manufactured in Masterton and are filled with excess aggregate washed down local rivers that needs to be removed.

Cape Pallier Road is for now designated a Special Purposes Road, so Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency funding covers the maintenance costs.

Providing the consent is granted by GWRC, the length of the two Ecoreef trial areas will be extended.

Ecoreef is also proving beneficial outside of the coastal reserve areas, where it doesn’t require resource consent. It has been used for bridge protection at Mangatoetoe Bridge and was used at a drop-out site above the Hurupi Stream.

Find out more on the Ecoreef website.