Fewer berths in new marina plan

Marina opponents say the drawn-out process has left them struggling to meet the costs of further hearings. Pictured above is the proposed development for Matiatia bay.

Backers of controversial proposal make late changes just as opponents thought they were on verge of victory.

As thousands of holidaymakers converge on Waiheke for the summer break, new details about a controversial proposal for the island's gateway can be revealed.

Backers of a proposed marina alongside the ferry terminal at Matiatia lodged revised plans last week which they hope will swing an Environment Court hearing in their favour.

As the scheduled three-week court hearing drew to a close in October, opponents were confident of sinking the proposal, which has split the resort island's residents and visitors. But with one day remaining, Waiheke Marinas Ltd requested an adjournment so they could modify their plans - a move described as "a bit of a bombshell" by principal Environment Court judge Laurie Newhook, court transcripts reveal.

In the revised plans lodged just inside the judge's deadline last Monday, key changes include:
*No foreshore reclamation to provide a carpark beyond the ferry terminal.
*Fewer berths close to shore - removing the need for dredging and cutting planned berths from 160 to 112.
*Redesign of the seaward breakwaters.

Marina opponents say the drawn-out process has left them struggling to meet the costs of further hearings, including expert witness and barristers' fees. The applicants first sought resource consent in March 2013. Pre-hearing conferencing began last March and the October hearing was expected to produce a pre-Christmas verdict.

It is understood Judge Newhook had little choice but to allow the applicants more time but he was clearly concerned about mounting costs, warning the applicants in an October 30 minute: "It cannot be stressed enough that the possibility of refusal is one possible outcome in view, and the court is not to be taken as deliberately setting out to find a compromise.

"The applicant is asked to bear these remarks strongly in mind when considering whether to engage further cost - its own, and that of other parties."

Christine Gisby, who chairs the Direction Matiatia opposition group, says battling the development has so far cost about $380,000 - mainly in fees for expert witnesses and two barristers. Marina opponents have some well-heeled supporters in businessmen Graeme Hart and Sir Peter Leitch, and former broadcaster John Hawkesby. But the marina's backers - including retired electronics retailer Graham Guthrie and property developer Tony Pope - have equally deep pockets and have told the court berths will sell for upwards of $100,000.

What's changed
*Revised plans have been lodged for the marina planned at Matiatia.
*Key changes include:
No foreshore reclamation to provide a carpark beyond the ferry terminal.
Fewer berths close to shore - removing the need for dredging and cutting planned berths from 160 to 112.
Redesign of the seaward breakwaters.