Westland District Council has welcomed a significant Government investment of $2.31 million to upgrade the Jackson Bay Wharf, ensuring the long-term resilience, safety, and economic viability of one of the West Coast’s most remote and strategically important coastal assets.
The funding, provided through the Regional Infrastructure Fund, forms part of a $3.30 million upgrade project, supported by Council and industry contributions to ensure the investment delivers maximum commercial and community benefit. Industry co-funding is currently being progressed as part of the project’s delivery model.
Hosted at Jackson Bay, the announcement was made by Under-Secretary to Oceans and Fisheries, Hon. Jenny Marcroft, on behalf of Regional Development Minister Hon. Shane Jones and Associate Minister Hon. Mark Patterson. Mayor Helen Lash opened the event, acknowledging the importance of the wharf to local industry, heritage, and community identity.
Mayor Lash said the funding represents a critical commitment to a community and economy built around resilience, hard work, and connection to place.
“Jackson Bay Wharf is more than infrastructure; it is a lifeline. It supports commercial fishing, community access, emergency response, and the visitor economy. This investment reflects the national significance of South Westland and protects an asset that underpins livelihoods and opportunities far beyond our district.”
She also acknowledged the long-standing heritage of Jackson Bay and the deep connection the community holds with its history and coastal identity.
The upgrade marks a shift in how the wharf will operate in future, transitioning from an ageing structure into a modern commercial asset capable of supporting long-term growth.
“This model allows us to turn a remote asset into a commercial opportunity. The upgraded wharf will earn revenue, support jobs and industry, and reduce future cost pressures for our district.” Mayor Helen Lash
Mayor Lash confirmed that the project enables Jackson Bay Wharf to move from a cost pressure on the council to a revenue-making community asset.
“This upgrade positions Jackson Bay Wharf as a revenue-making asset. The improved infrastructure, digital systems, and user management will enable consistent annual revenue to support ongoing operations, maintenance, and future improvements.”
While external funding significantly reduces financial pressure on the rate payer, Council has committed to progressing the project to protect the wharf’s future, recognising its strategic value to South Westland’s economy, industry, and emergency access. The upgraded wharf is expected to generate year-on-year income, reducing long-term financial pressure and supporting future reinvestment into the facility.
Under-Secretary Marcroft highlighted the wharf’s role in supporting New Zealand’s natural resource industries, regional growth, and resilience.
She confirmed the upgrade will:
• Increase capacity for vessel arrivals and projected user demand
• Strengthen structural resilience, including earthquake performance
• Extend the wharf’s operational lifespan
• Improve functionality for commercial and recreational users
• Install digital surveillance and signage to support safety, fee enforcement, and maintenance funding
The upgraded wharf is expected to support local supply chains, commercial fishing operations, and tourism dispersal, while also providing a vital access point during emergencies or natural disasters.
The Jackson Bay Wharf upgrade is the final component of the Government’s West Coast Port Infrastructure Upgrade Programme, bringing total investment to $7.81 million across Jackson Bay, Westport, and Greymouth.
Planning and delivery phases will now commence, with procurement, timelines, and community updates to follow.
Mayor Lash said the announcement also strengthened relationships with central government ahead of a pivotal year:
“Having leaders who listen, who understand regional realities, and who champion our needs makes a real difference. Today marks both an investment and a partnership.”
