New 130-berth marina in Northland's Whangārei sails past consent process
A new 130-berth marina consented for Whangārei is expected to benefit not only the city but the whole Northland region.
An independent commissioner granted permission for the marina, including reclamation of more than 4500 square metres off Whangārei's Port Rd.
The $11 million marina is proposed by Whangārei Harbour Marine Management Trust, who say it will indirectly bring in at least 94 new jobs and generate $9.5 million for the local economy.
It will complement Whangārei's existing berth space, with the trust currently managing 177 berths in the Town Basin and 109 pile moorings at Kissing Point.
The marina will be situated near Limeburners Creek on the upper Hatea River, within walking distance to shops and the growing Port Rd marine industry.
It will be on the seaward side of the Te Matau ā Pohe bascule bridge, meaning yachts and tall launches will not have to wait for the bridge to open to get to their berths.
It will link with the popular Hatea Loop walkway with public access along the eastern edge of the reclamation.
In March 2018, the trust applied to both the Northland Regional and Whangarei District Councils for a raft of more than a dozen consents required to build the marina.
The application was notified in September 2018, attracting 10 submissions - two opposed and eight in support.
Independent hearing commissioner Dr Rob Lieffering heard the submissions in Whangārei in early August and has just released his decision approving the marina.
Lieffering found it would provide "significant positive effects, not only for Whangarei but also the wider Northland region".
Provided consent conditions were met, Lieffering said the adverse environmental effects from the marina would be minor, especially given the development already on the Hatea River.
The consents allow the 130-berth marina, marina building and car park to be built on top of reclaimed land, 100 to 150 piles and associated floating marina piers, and a rock retaining wall.
The commissioner's decision is subject to appeal for 15 working days.