Whakatāne’s riverfront revival begins with five building demolitions in 2026
Five buildings in Whakatāne’s town centre will soon be demolished as part of a riverfront regeneration project. The Whakatāne District Council has purchased the properties, including 58, 60, 62 The Strand and 31, 33 Quay St, to make way for redevelopment. Businesses currently operating in these buildings have been given deadlines to relocate.
The demolition follows the completion of Project Future Proof’s first two stages. The council plans to transform the area, with tenders for demolition works expected in March 2026. Enhancement works will begin later that year, focusing first around the Whakatāne isite building and the demolition site.
Funding for the project includes $3.79 million from central government and $7.5 million from the council’s Long-Term Plan 2024-2034. The buildings, which have been leased on short-term agreements, are showing clear signs of deterioration. Priscilla Bhandari, owner of 1950 Restaurant and Bar at 62 Strand East, must vacate by the end of March. Rich Nielsen, who recently took over The Framer at 58 Strand East, has already moved to new premises on the corner of McAlister and Pyne streets.
The riverfront revitalisation will reshape a key part of Whakatāne’s town centre. Demolition and enhancement works are scheduled to progress through 2026, with funding already secured. Businesses affected by the changes have either relocated or been given deadlines to do so.
