Whangārei Moving Forward – The Okara Marina Project

Whangārei Moving Forward – The Okara Marina Project

As Mayor of Whangārei, I’m pleased to share an update on the Whangārei Marina Okara Project – a development that will play an important role in the growth and vibrancy of our city’s waterfront.

This project is being delivered in partnership with the Whangarei Marina Trust, who have long been champions of enhancing our marina facilities. Their vision, combined with Council’s support, is helping bring this project to life.

To get the development underway, the Whangarei District Council approved a $5 million loan to the Marina Trust. This investment was essential to kick-start the project, ensuring that work could progress at pace while maintaining confidence in the long-term value it will deliver.

Already, we are seeing good progress. The planning and groundwork are advancing well, with close collaboration between the Trust, Council, and contractors. Once complete, the Okara Marina will provide additional berths, modern facilities, and a stronger connection to our wider Town Basin precinct. It will also bring flow-on benefits – supporting local marine businesses, creating tourism opportunities, and strengthening Whangārei’s reputation as a world-class destination for boaties and visitors.

Well done to Cr. Phil Halse and Cr. Deb Harding who are appointed onto the Whangarei Marina Trust, and are keeping a close eye on the project.

What makes this project so special is the spirit of working together. Council and the Marina Trust share a vision for a waterfront that showcases the best of Whangārei – a place where community, culture, and commerce come together. By combining resources and expertise, we’re able to achieve something greater than either could do alone.

This is an exciting step forward, and I look forward to keeping our community updated as the Okara Marina Project continues to progress. Together, we are building a future Whangārei that we can all be proud of.

If you want to know more https://www.whangareimarina.com/okara-marina

Vince Cocurullo

Mayor of Whangārei