Valued sandspit taken off market

The ecologically significant site Ngunguru Sandspit has been taken off the market.

Auckland property development company Landco, which owns the land that is 22km north east of Whangarei, made the move over the weekend.

The 115ha site was for sale with a valuation of $37.65 million. But it had not sold, despite tenders closing in February. Landco is to consult with the public, in conjunction with Whangarei District Council, on the site's future.

But the Ngunguru resident leading the fight to save the sandspit, Pat Heffey, won't be celebrating just yet.

"They may have just taken it off the market because it won't sell, rather than to protect it," Ms Heffey said. "I'd like to know what they want in return. Are they committed conservationists or are they wanting to do a deal?"

Landco spokesman Bruce Waters said the company appreciated the site has ecological and cultural significance, and was approaching it with great sensitivity.

A "carefully considered approach to any development that does take place" would lead to enhanced ecological, conservation and community outcomes, Mr Waters said.

- NORTHERN ADVOCATE (WHANGAREI)