At planning stage for over ten years, marina construction finally started just days before restrictions came in place for COVID in March 2020. Design of the marina considers climate change, with the potential for the reclamation and breakwaters to be incrementally increased in height should this be necessary in response to sea level rise.
The marina design was also carefully considered to minimise effects on coastal processes. Extensive engineering and physical modelling was undertaken to ensure there were no adverse impacts on the wider bay, particularly the Waikawa awa outlet and delta. Use of only partial depth panels in the breakwater assists water flow through the marina basin to ensure water quality.
The integration of manewhenau elements at the northern end of the marina and along the breakwater walkway are a testament to the historical and cultural significance of Waikawa Bay.
The new extension provides an additional 251 berths at Bellingham Marine concrete floating pontoons, in sizes ranging from 10 to 30m (33 to 98ft), including some berths specifically designed for multihulls. A notable addition to the marina is a ‘step jetty’ specifically for kayakers, swing mooring users and swimmers.