Napier Sailing Club is looking a lot smarter these days following the recent development of a new breastwork and wharf.

The structure – comprising a walkway and jetty – stretches past the clubhouse and is a pleasant addition to the Ahuriri walkway.

Construction began in November 2019 to replace the old timber structure which after 40 years had become a safety issue. Built by the Lattey Group, the work required 8m steel piles at 2.5m centres, with tilt slab concrete sections fitted behind to form the wall. Concrete slabs were laid to form the walkway.

Each of the piles has been sponsored by a club member. Their names are engraved on small plaques and, collectively, these read like a Who’s Who of the Napier Sailing Club.

Napier Council contributed significantly to the project, as did the Eastern Central Community Trust. Club members also pitched in financially. At the opening ceremony Commodore Rob Hengst paid tribute to Paul (Red) Redman who stewarded the project on behalf of the club.

The facility was officially opened by Napier Mayor Kirsten Wise.