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Wharf threatens windsurfers at Takapuna Beach
Monday, 10 October 2011 10:53

Takapuna Beach: say no to the wharf

New Zealand windsurfers are battling against the development of a wharf and commuter ferry service at the Northern end of Takapuna Beach. The Harbour Access Trust, in association with the Takapuna Business Association and Auckland Council are currently studying this possibility.

The effect of the future installment will have an high impact in the large windsurfing, surfing and stand-up paddleboarding community that use the reef and beach, making it more dangerous to ride the reef. For example, a rip may wash users off the reef right into/under any proposed wharf positioned adjacent to the reef.

Other specific concerns include the wind shadow and disturbed airflow that any such structure and increased power boat/ferry traffic would have in launching windsurf and kitesurf, as well as an increased safety risk to swimmers and water users as a result of increased number of powered vessels and proposed ferry services which would utilise the wharf and further developed ramp facilities.

The Auckland Windsurfing Association and a number of local residents have significant environmental, safety and viability concerns about any such development and believe that the repurposing of the Takapuna Beach Holiday Park is an antecipation of what is yeat to come.

Local windsurfers have put out a petition to be signed by all citizens and supporters of the cause. You can sign it here.


 

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