Tokaanu Wharf Restoration
Project location
Lake Taupo, Turangi
Client
Department of Conservation
Services provided by Frame Group
Detailed Design and Engineering
Frame Group was engaged to support the restoration of Tokaanu Wharf, a culturally and historically significant structure located at the southern end of Lake Taupō. Once a key hub for transporting goods across the lake by rail and barge, the wharf has since fallen into disrepair and is now closed to the public.
As part of the design phase, Frame Group completed a detailed structural assessment of the remaining wharf, advising on which components could be retained and which required replacement. The proposed restoration aims to extend the wharf, though not to its original length, while preserving its heritage character. This includes matching the original appearance using appropriate hardwood timbers and replicating traditional construction methods to preserve the wharf’s heritage character.
A key technical design challenge was pile installation in the lake’s sandy substrate. Frame Group proposed hydro-injection techniques using barges to achieve the necessary depth and structural stability without damaging the surrounding environment.
