A GATEWAY TO THE HAURAKI GULF
The Hauraki Gulf / Tikapa Moana, located north of Auckland, New Zealand, is a well-protected bay known for its countless beaches, safe anchorages and vibrant natural environment. Most of the gulf forms part of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, home to some 25 species of marine mammals, including bottlenose and common dolphins, as well as Bryde’s whales. Remarkably, nearly one third of the world’s marine mammal species live in or visit the Marine Park. To the west of the gulf lies a string of islands, including Waiheke, the most populated. Famous for its pristine beaches, stunning coastal headlands, vineyards and wineries, olive groves, and seaside villages, Waiheke Island is a popular family destination, only a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland.
In 2016, plans for a marina in Putiki Bay, on the southwestern side of Waiheke Island, were introduced under the name Kennedy Point Marina. One key challenge was protecting its 180 berths from strong winds and waves. Given the ecologically sensitive environment, the resident population of Korora penguins, and the bay’s natural water depth, a traditional rock-pile breakwater was ruled out for fears of its potential impact on currents and marine ecosystems. Instead, the privately owned Waiheke Marina company, in partnership with SF Marina, chose a 460-metre-long curved floating breakwater with two sections. This design features 23 concrete pontoons, 20 metres long and 6 metres wide, coupled through a patented system that absorbs and distributes stress loads. The structures are anchored by 35-metre steel piles, keeping them stationary while accommodating the twice-daily tidal fluctuation of 3.5 metres. Additionally, the marina buildings and car park are situated on floating pontoons. Designed by SF Marina in Sweden, the pontoons were manufactured locally by Heron Marina in Port Whangarei and towed 90 miles to the island at a speed of two knots.
The new Waiheke Marina was completed in November 2023.
