Plans afoot to remove jagged piles

The old Onetangi wharf piles causing a hazard to swimmers are still in situ but plans are in place to remove them soon.

An initial attempt at pulling out the jagged metal piles from the sand with earthmoving equipment was expected to take place at the end of February during a very low tide but was called off.

Auckland City Council parks officer Gary Wilton says a marine salvage specialist will now take on the job.

The specialist can work in any depth of water, says Mr Wilton, so the job is no longer tide dependent.

"We have accepted a quote and booked the contractor to come over with his equipment. It's just a case of waiting for him now."

Mr Wilton says he expects more than the three piles that are visible during a very low tide to be pulled out.

"We hope to get out at least five rows of three piles."

Meanwhile, on Sunday, beach race officials will mark the hazard area directly opposite Third Avenue and Charlie Farley's with a sign and a buoy to protect the public.

- Waiheke Marketplace