Daly/High streets demolition
From mid‑April two separate but coordinated demolition projects will be underway in the Daly and High streets areas. Both are part of Te Wai Takamori o Te Awa Kairangi and are being carefully coordinated to manage wider programme impacts as much as possible.
Why this work matters
These works are enabling steps: temporary and time‑limited. They need to happen now so the main flood protection infrastructure can be built safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of far greater disruption and damage during major flood events.
While this phase is challenging, the benefits will be long‑lasting and city‑wide.
Demolition of 4 and 5 Daly Street
Demolition activity began in April 2026, and foundation and site works will continue into May.
Access to surrounding properties will be managed and maintained, although short‑term traffic management may be required at times.
Demolition at the south end of High Street
Internal demolition and internal strip-out work will begin in May on several small commercial buildings at the southern end of High Street, followed by the more obvioius external demolition. Both will require temporary closure of the adjacent car park.
Both works are necessary to clear space for future flood protection infrastructure (a new Daly Street stopbank) which will help protect the city from major flood events.
What you might notice
Depending on where you live or work, you may notice:
- Increased construction activity
- Temporary traffic or parking changes
- Construction noise during standard weekday hours
- Contractors working close to entrances or boundaries
Not everyone will be affected by every aspect of this work. Targeted updates will be provided where specific impacts apply.
Find out more:
To learn more about Te Wai Takamori o Te Awa Kairangi and progress on the project:
- Subscribe to our monthly newsletter
- Follow us on Facebook: Te Awa Kairangi | Delivering RiverLink
- Email us directly at info@teawakairangi.co.nz (include your preferred contact method and/or best time to call and we will be in touch)
Frequently asked question
What work is happening in this area?
Two demolition projects are underway or upcoming around the south end of High Street:
- Demolition of buildings on Daly Street
- Demolition of buildings at the south end of High Street
Both projects are temporary enabling works that are part of the Te Awa Kairangi flood protection programme.
Why are these buildings being demolished?
The buildings are being removed to clear space for future flood protection infrastructure, including a new stopbank. Demolition is not the end goal — it is a necessary step that allows the main flood protection works to be built safely and effectively.
We know these changes are significant and can feel confronting, particularly following a sustained period of disruption in this area.
How are the two demolition projects different?
Daly Street demolition
- Involves demolition of buildings on Daly Street
- Creates space for future flood protection infrastructure along Daly Street
- Demolition activity began in April, followed by site works into May
South end of High Street demolition
- Involves demolition of several small commercial buildings at the southern end of High Street
- Internal demolition is expected to begin in May
- External demolition will follow and will require temporary closure of the adjacent car park
While related, the two projects:
- are managed as separate sites
- occur on slightly different timelines
- do not affect the same properties in the same way
Are both demolitions happening at the same time?
Some overlap in timing is expected, but the demolition works are staged and carefully coordinated. Not everyone in the area will be affected by both projects. Targeted updates are provided where specific access, traffic, or timing impacts apply.
What might I notice during demolition?
Depending on where you live or work, you may notice:
- Construction activity during weekday working hours
- Construction noise, particularly during later demolition stages
- Temporary traffic management or short‑term parking changes
- Contractors working close to some entrances or boundaries
Every effort is being made to manage these impacts and keep disruption as limited as possible.
Will roads or footpaths be closed?
Some temporary footpath or car park closures may be required at certain stages, particularly during external demolition. These closures will be short‑term and carefully managed Advance notice will be given whenever access is affected. No long‑term road closures are planned.
How are safety, dust and noise being managed?
Both demolition sites operate under approved management plans that include:
- Safety fencing and restricted access
- Dust suppression measures such as water use
- Controls on noise, vibration and working hours
- Traffic management staff when vehicles enter or leave the site
Public safety is always a priority.
How long will this demolition take?
Demolition is a time‑limited phase. Daly Street is set to be completed by the end of May, with High Street demolition continuing into June. Updates will be provided as each stage progresses.
What happens after demolition is complete?
Demolition clears the space needed for future flood protection infrastructure. Once demolition is complete, sites are made safe and prepared for the next stage of construction. This phase enables the infrastructure that delivers long-term city-wide flood resilience.
Why is this work happening now?
These demolition works are being done now so that future flood protection infrastructure can be built safely, efficiently and in the right place, reducing the risk of far greater disruption and damage during major flood events.
We recognise this is a difficult period and appreciate the patience and resilience shown by local residents and businesses.
Where can I get more information or ask questions?
- Email: info@teawakairangi.co.nz (tell us your preferred method of contact – email or phone) and the best time to contact you)
- Subscribe to our newsletter here
- Follow us on Facebook: Te Awa Kairangi – Delivering RiverLink
Targeted communications will be provided to directly affected tenants and owners.