Public urged to have say on Hammerhead

Around 50 people came to the first public meeting held by Panuku Development Auckland about the Hammerhead in Gulf Harbour. Further meetings are being held next week.

Panuku is proposing, on behalf of Auckland Council to do a deal with the lessee of Gulf Harbour marina. The proposal includes Council surrendering lease rights over the Marina to that lessee and in return acquiring the lease rights to the remainder of the Hammerhead for public use, including the ferry service and public boat ramp.

Crs John Watson and Wayne Walker were at the meeting, on Monday, May 14. They say it was a good turnout, especially considering that the meetings were poorly promoted, and the timing – 6pm on a weekday being difficult for working people.

Cr Watson says the main points raised by residents at the meeting were that they want the Hammerhead preserved for transport and recreation, but that rather than doing a deal with the lessee, the site should be acquired under the Public Works Act.

Cr Watson says this would be appropriate, bearing in mind the land’s importance as a public transport hub.

“There was unanimous opposition to a deal that freeholds the marina land and unanimous support for using the Public Works Act,” Cr Watson says.

The public is urged to attend next week’s meetings to make their voices heard.

The meetings are on Monday, May 21 and Wednesday, May 23, at Gulf Harbour Yacht Club, 1299 Laurie Southwick Parade, Gulf Harbour, 6pm–7.30pm.

Anyone is welcome to attend.