Engineers are inspecting the surrounding rock around the historic Birchville Dam for ongoing public safety
Engineers are inspecting the surrounding rock around the historic Birchville Dam in Akatarawa Forest to ensure that it can continue to safely support the dam structure.
The inspection is entirely precautionary.
We work with specialist engineers at Dam Safety Intelligence Ltd. to inspect the dam routinely as part of a safety assurance programme, and revisit it after any unusual events, such as the earthquake and flood event last month. Engineers tell us there are no safety issues with the dam wall.
We are preparing the area for geo-technical engineers to check the ongoing strength of the rock that the dam is built on and the connection with the abutments. People using the track will see we’ve removed some of the vegetation and soil around the rock so the engineers can do a thorough assessment.
We are looking to reactivate the control valves and reduce the water level behind the dam.
This is an historic site and a very popular walking track. We want to make sure it remains safe for the community and people can keep enjoying it.
From the Greater Wellington Parks Team
Ryman Village Open Days
Friday 20 & Saturday 21 March, 10am - 2pm.
Come and experience the warmth of our Ryman village communities, we'd love to show you around.
Discover our lifestyle and care options, tour our show homes and explore our premium amenities.
🌉🛶 Early Birds Might Crack This One First… or Not? 🥚🧠
A person is crossing a bridge and sees a boat full of people, yet there isn't a single person on board.
How is this possible?
(Susan from Massey kindly provided this head-scratcher ... thanks, Susan!)
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
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Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.
Poll: Are you still heading to your local for your caffeine fix, or has the $$ changed your habits? ☕
Wellington’s identity is built on its cafe culture, but with costs climbing, that culture is under pressure. We’ve seen the headlines about recent closures, and it’s a tough pill to swallow along with a $6+ coffee.
We all want our favourite spots to stay open, but we also have to balance our own budgets ⚖️
We want to know: How are you handling the "coffee math" in 2026? Are you still heading to your local for a chat and a caffeine fix, or has the cost of living changed your habits?
Keen to read more about "coffee math"? The Post has you covered.
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45.1% I avoid spending money on coffee
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41.7% I still indulge at my local cafe
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13.1% Irrelevant - coffee is not for me
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