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Residents at Hatfields Beach are concerned that sand erosion is worsening following the removal of a rock wall that was installed after the 2023 storm. (Hibiscus Matters, February 12, 2024.)
Longtime resident Rodney Dewhurst says the embankment beneath the road has been steadily eroding since the rocks were taken away in April and feels it has been exacerbated by the vibrations of heavy vehicles on Hibiscus Coast Highway.
In response to an enquiry by Dewhurst, Auckland Transport confirmed the rock wall was intended as a temporary measure only.
“After further assessment, Auckland Transport and Auckland Council agreed that they should be removed, as the rock protection currently in place does not align with standard coastal engineering guidelines or best practice.
“The scale of the structure was considered excessive, relative to the erosion risk posed to the road, and it unnecessarily reduced the public’s recreational space on the beach. Removing the rocks supported the natural recovery of the beach by allowing sediment processes to resume.
“It’s also important to note that an existing buried pitched rock retaining wall remains in place and will act as a backstop for future storm events and any potential sand bank erosion.”
However, Hibiscus Matters visited the beach and observed active erosion in the area where the rocks had previously been. In some areas, the beach edge appears to have receded by several metres, with less than a two metre gap to the roadside.
In response to our enquiries following the visit, Auckland Transport said the site continues to be monitored.
“At this point, we are confident that the road is not at risk of further erosion,” the spokesperson said. “Should the situation worsen, we will review this position and, if necessary, take steps to protect the road from further erosion.”
