The last month has seen a series of milestones for the Wood Street and surrounds revitalisation and stormwater project. All stormwater work has been completed, as well as the concrete work on Wood Street between Fagan Place and Ellen Street, and the project is on track for the middle section of Wood Street to open ahead of Labour Weekend, once the raised crossings at either end are finished.

This month the HEB construction team have been working to install the concrete footpaths and the wooden boardwalks in the centre section of Wood Street.

The new playground is well underway behind Gringas, and the new public toilets are planned to be open by early November sometime. Also in the back area, the permanent fencing is complete and the carpark lighting on – it’s all coming together. Pedestrian access is possible to all businesses. If you’re unsure how to get to where you need to go, just ask one of the friendly traffic management team. They’re there to help, so don’t be shy!

Nightworks on Wood Street and Molesworth Drive

Sunday 19 October to Tuesday 21 October (weather dependent)

The HEB Construction team will be milling out the existing asphalt and laying the new road on Wood Street, Fagan Place and Molesworth Drive. While they are working Wood Street will be closed overnight Sunday, Monday, Tuesday between 9pm and 6am, as will Molesworth Drive at the intersection to Wood Street.

A short diversion will be in place via North Ave/Margaret/Findlay Street and overnight entry and exit to and from Fagan Place will be possible through the back car park.

The streets will be open as normal during the day over this period, with a slower speed limit to protect the roadway.

Work on the Ellen Street roundabout is set to begin in early November, with planting in that area to follow shortly after.

Planting in the back car park is now complete, and all remaining planting along Wood Street will be finished by Labour Weekend. The trees, shrubs, and plants have been carefully selected for their ability to thrive in coastal conditions and withstand drought. Many will bring vibrant colour to the area so keep an eye out for striking pōhutukawa varieties like Māori Princess and Tahiti, as well as Pink Cascade mānuka.

Near the new playground, we’re introducing a range of sensory plants including lavender, Mexican bush sage, stonecrop, and more, to enhance the experience for children and their whānau.

Thank you for your continued patience and support as we work to improve Wood Street. Mark your diaries! We're working towards a November completion and will be celebrating the project finish with a street event planned for Thursday 20 November 4.30 – 8.30pm, in collaboration with Wood Street businesses. More information to come on this soon.

If you have any questions, email the project team at [email protected]. You can see the staging plans, artist impressions, and more info about the project on our website.