Community comes first—especially when a key transport route is affected
Erosion and coastal storms had jeopardized Mataikona Road’s viability as an important route for locals. To address this issue, the Masterton District Council engaged us to engage locals and investigate options for a resilient, long-term solution.
Closure of the road would be disruptive but not unfamiliar to local industry and residents of the nearly 100 permanent dwellings. The road’s susceptibility to slips, dropouts, and erosion have resulted in several closures per year and risked losing a major portion of the road without any alternative in place. We knew community involvement would be crucial for finding a sustainable solution to this ongoing issue. Our engagement was simple but effective: inform, consult, involve, collaborate with, and empower the local groups essential to this project’s success. We actioned these values with open days, feedback forms, briefings, and workshops and placed the final decision making in the hands of stakeholders and the community.
The hybrid solution combines road realignment, increased maintenance, and priority strengthening and resulted from people’s participation, which will continue to be key to the project’s success.
At a Glance
- Offices
- Client
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- Masterton District Council
- Partners
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- Waka Kotahi
- Rangitāne
- Ngāti Kahungunu
Andrew Maughan, Principal Consultant
The thing I celebrate most is when we’re able to exceed client expectations by solving complex problems.
Kylie Huard, Senior Transportation Planner/Practice Leader - Active Modes & Complete Streets
I’m passionate about making a difference—I love working with communities to develop solutions that will improve livability and equity.
Ryan Abrey, Principal Civil Engineer, Water
I am a keen problem solver passionate about raising the profile of our coastal sector and always willing to learn something new.
Johanna McIntosh, Principal Communications & Engagement Consultant
Understanding the value of engaging with stakeholders means our clients and communities are fully informed, included, and heard.
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