Napier's War Memorial Project delayed by Cyclone
Napier’s War Memorial Project is the latest victim of Cyclone Gabrielle, with a delay in work meaning a planned Anzac Day function to be held there is now cancelled.
The works are now expected to be completed in June, says Napier Mayor Kirsten Wise.
Wise says there are a number of factors caused by the cyclone which has resulted in the delay.
“I’m deeply disappointed at this outcome, but of course, the cyclone was completely unexpected and unprecedented in its scale. I feel for the many war veterans and their families who were looking forward to this very special occasion.”
Work had to stop for the whole week of the cyclone due to power outages and contractors themselves being affected.
Building materials that had been due to come in from overseas needed to be redirected to other ports. Delivery of these materials and other items coming from outside of Napier were delayed by road closures around the region. Delays had already been compounded by the effects of Cyclone Hale a few weeks earlier.
“Despite the delays, I’m pleased to say that the site itself held up very well during the cyclone, with minimal flooding and no damage to equipment or site fencing,” says Wise.
“We anticipate that works will be completed by June.”
