Work is under way to remove a wave tower off Port Taranaki severely damaged during ex cyclone Dovi.
The damaged wave tower off Port Taranaki Photo: Supplied
A 50 metre exclusion zone has been placed around the mangled tower which holds equipment used too monitor tide, wave and wind conditions.
Port Taranaki engineers have assessed the tower as unrepairable and work has started on Friday to remove it.
Chief executive Simon Craddock said a works window extending to 5pm 27 February had been put in place.
"Throughout this period, a 50m exclusion zone is in place around the structure so that the demolition and removal work can be carried out safely.
"We ask that all harbour users please respect the exclusion zone and keep well away while the work is carried out."
Craddock said the top of the tower would be cut into sections, lifted onto a support vessel and taken wharfside.
The piles that hold the structure to the sea floor would then be cut, and floated wharfside, where they would be lifted onto the wharf.
"The piles will be cut at seabed level so as not to pose a navigational hazard," Craddock said.
Other tide, wave and wind monitoring equipment was in place around the port that would continue to keep customers and harbour users informed of conditions.
Meanwhile, Craddock asked that Lee Breakwater carpark and boat ramp users take care and be patient following the weekend's storm.
"The boat ramp is now fully open, however the damaged areas of the carpark remain cordoned off and repair work will begin on Monday.
"Users will need to carefully navigate their trailers and be mindful of other users when launching and retrieving their boats.
"This may cause delays, so we ask that people please be patient."
