A plan to restore a piece of Motueka maritime history is taking shape with further funding secured.
The old Motueka wharf on Motueka Quay has fallen into disrepair over the years, but several groups are combining resources to restore the old structure.
The granite and timber structure ran between 1887 and 1916 before being decommissioned when it became too small for the increased size of cargo vessels using it.
About 18 months ago, we sought input from community groups interested in coming together to get a restoration project off the ground.
The old granite wharf is a registered Category 2 Historic Place, but the outer end is collapsing, making it hazardous and susceptible to more erosion from stormy seas.
The project is being led by the Heritage Wharf Restoration Group, which comprises representatives of Keep Motueka Beautiful, the Motueka and Districts Historical Association, and the Motueka Community Board.
We have given $3,500 from our Community Grants Scheme, and the Motueka Community Board has pledged $10,000.
Recently, the group was granted $150,000 from the Lotteries Environment and Heritage Fund, which takes the total raised so far to $289,000 against the target of $378,000 for the main part of the project work.
Plans include restoring and replacing granite blocks, recontouring the surface, restoring timber railings, and installing interpretive information panels.