Editorial: First the marina, now battle for Waiheke Island takes to the air

Mandy Arnott enjoying a helicopter flight over Waiheke Island. File photo / Richard Robinson

EDITORIAL:

Right now, the once relaxed backwater of Waiheke Island more resembles a microcosm of New Zealand's growing pains.

The warring factions could be easily be described as the haves and the have-nots, but these are more likely the haves and the have-yachts. Those who have settled there for some time cherish the peace and quiet. Flashy new arrivals come with super launches, helicopters, vineyards and parties.

The island's first marina, planned for Kennedy Point, has attracted protests from locals, iwi and others. Opponents to the planned berthage for about 180 boats, as well as facilities for visiting boats, are concerned about the marina's impact on the environment and the threat to the little blue penguin, the kororā, which nest in the bay.

Now the battlefield has opened up on the skies over and around the island. The 40-strong Quiet Sky Waiheke group opposes any further helicopter operations.

Anne Gibson today reports some Waiheke Islanders they "feel like extras in Apocalypse Now" because of the number of helicopter flights. Apparently, all that's missing is Wagner's Ride of the Valkyries and the smell of napalm.

The latest application for chopper landings is from the Obsidian winery at a spot some locals claim to be a "natural amphitheatre" where noise from the machines will echo far and wide. The applicants have supplied a consultant's report stating the accoustic effects could be adequately mitigated.

Auckland Council is in the middle, tasked with somehow fulfilling applicants' wishes according to the rules while protecting ratepayers from a rising chorus of clattering whirly-birds.

These clashes of culture and lifestyle aren't new, but fresh revisions to replace the Resource Management Act are currently being tabled by the Government to fast-track new housing and infrastructure while also seeking to protect the environment.

The new laws will have their work cut out for them.

This week, Klein Vision successfully flew a car between airports, a 90km journey, in Slovakia. On landing in the city of Bratislava, the AirCar taxied off the runway and onto urban streets.

Just wait until The Jetsons catch sight of this little pearl in the Hauraki Gulf.