Coastal Restoration Trust of New Zealand

Coastal Dune Ecosystem Reference Database

Wellington's west coast: The problem of littoral drift and its possible future effects on Porirua harbour Journal Paper

Author
Coddington, R.F.
Year
1972
Journal / Source
New Zealand Engineering
Volume
27
Number
4
Month
April
Pages
125-131
ISBN / ISSN
0028-808X
Keywords
Littoral drift, Harbors--Environmental aspects, Erosion--Control, Express highways--Design and construction
Summary
Following a description of the major portion of the coast south of Cape Egmont, some particular aspects of the Kapiti coast are considered together with the problems that have arisen, including the possible connection between erosion here and the shoaling within Porirua harbour. Suggestions on erosion control are put forward - together with possible disadvantages - for the preservation of the coast and its amenities. A hypothesis is presented on the geological history of the Porirua harbour followed by an appreciation of man's activities in the area, past, present and future. Some conclusions are drawn as to the possible outcome of these activities and those of nature on the future of the harbour taking account of possible external control in other areas.