About the project
The project aims to strengthen the existing retaining wall supporting Grosvenor Terrace at 4 Goldie’s Brae, Wadestown. This strengthening work will enhance the performance of the wall during natural hazard events, particularly earthquakes.
In the scenario of a major earthquake that closes SH1 between Thorndon and Johnsonville, the route from Wellington City to Johnsonville via Wadestown becomes a crucial transport link in and out of Wellington city centre.
Engineers have conducted a thorough ground investigation and assessed the likely performance of the Wadestown route during an earthquake or storm event. Based on their findings, they have developed a plan to fortify walls along the route to improve their resilience.
Contech has been contracted to deliver this project. They are responsible for all phases of construction, including site establishment, anchor installation, piling, reinforced concrete wall and buttress construction, and final reinstatement works.
Timeline
Construction work began on 26 May 2025 and is expected to be completed by the end of January 2026.
The working hours are Monday to Saturday, from 7am to 6pm.
Construction progress
Construction is progressing well. Key activities completed or underway include:
- site establishment and preparation
- ahcnor testing and installation
Major items planned for next few months:
- piling - excavate and pour concrete
- constructing reinforced concrete wall against the existing wall
- constructing reinforced concrete buttresses - install and cast concrete
- final steps - test anchors, reinstate footpaths, construct handrail and clean up.
Traffic management
Traffic management has been in place 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week since the start of construction in May 2025 and will remain until the end of January 2026. Pedestrian access has been maintained throughout the project to ensure safety and accessibility for residents and visitors.
Impact on buses and parking
- Bus Stop 4117 city-bound has been temporarily closed since May.
- Bus stop 5117 towards Wadestown was relocated 90m toward Wadestown Vet and Cattery.
Both stops will be reinstated once construction is complete. For the latest updates please refer to Metlink alerts.
Several parking spaces adjacent to the site continue to be used for contractor parking and material storage. Residents are reminded to avoid parking near the work zone during operating hours (Monday to Saturday 7am - 6pm) to prevent towing.
If a vehicle is towed and cannot be returned to its original location, it will be placed in the nearest available legal parking space.
If your car is missing, first check nearby streets before calling Dean Latham, Project/Operation Manager of Contech on 04 569 1167 or 027 571 7120.
Contact
If you have any questions, email transport.structures@wcc.govt.nz.