Marina consultant, Philip Wardale, is leading a new Waiheke marina development project, which will work with and alongside community groups to identify and scope a new development site on the Island that meets both the needs of the community and boaties, after the Matiatia proposal was rejected late last year.
Wardale, a former consultant to Waiheke Marina’s Limited (the developer of a marina at Matiatia Bay) and seasoned marina professional, says many lessons were learned from the previous campaign, in particular a failure to adequately consult with the community and integrate their views into the planning process from the start.
“The overwhelming message from the community was no marina at Matiatia, but for most locals not no marina at Waiheke.
“I believe there is an opportunity to take the many lessons learned and knowledge gained from the earlier project – and by working alongside key community groups – to achieve a proposal that is much more aligned with the needs of all stakeholders.
Wardale has already met with a number of local stakeholders and has plans to meet with other community groups in the coming weeks.
“Early engagement with the community will allow direction to be given over the preferred location on the island along with any consideration as to what additional public and other facilities may be able to be incorporated into the proposal.
“One of the first things that we will discuss with the Waiheke Community Board is engaging with the community and seeking feedback on the alternative locations.
“We consider the time is right to ask these questions whilst the topic of a Marina is fresh on everyone’s mind.
“Most people can see both the demand for and potential benefits to the island of a well-planned, quality marina development on the Island.
“By working together I believe this can be an achievable goal.”
Ends.
For more information please contact:
Philip Wardale
021 667445
