Project History
Mid-1960s
Coastal shipping stops using Opotiki Harbour.
2001
Eastern Sea Farms established by Whakatohea Maori Trust Board and partners. Consent application submitted to farm water space located 8.5 kilometres off Opotiki's coast.
2002 & 2004
Investigations into feasiblity of improving Opotiki Harbour's navigability.
2006
Eastern Sea Farms granted interim permit for a 3,800 hectare marine farm.
2007
DHI idenfitied six possible training wall/groyne designs, based on studies of wave climate and sediment transport patterns in the harbour mouth. After modelling and testing, these were narrowed down to two preferred options for final modelling and cost analysis.
2008
Preferred training wall structure with parallel groynes identified and detailed engineering, environmental impact, and cost studies undertaken.
Eastern Sea Farms' resource consents approved by Environment Court and Minister of Conservation.
Bay of Connections launched the Regional Economic Development Strategy with aquaculture as a focus.
Resource consent applications lodged with Bay of Plenty Regional Council and notified for public submissions.
2009
Resource consents granted for development of the Opotiki Harbour entrance.
Eastern Sea Farms' fisheries permits upheld by High Court, following appeals by commercial fishing companies.
Bay of Connections launched the Regional Aquaculture Strategy, confirming the need for the Opotiki Harbour Development Project to enable further aquaculture development in the Eastern Bay of Plenty.
For more recent history you can view our archived news files.
2010-2012 Media Releases and Updates
2013 Media Releases and Updates
2014 Media Releases and Updates
2015-2017 Media Releases and Updates
For the most recent history, check out our News Page - just select Harbour in the Show search field.