KEY POINTS:
Concern that Matakana and Waiheke Island should be seen as suitable models for Auckland's west coast communities was expressed by the Waitakere Ranges Protection Society yesterday in opposition to a plan to build Piha's first cafe.
Speaking at the cafe planning hearing, Dr Mels Barton said the society was extremely concerned about a Waitakere City Council staff memo that pointed out Piha was popular yet lacked economic activities.
The memo said other attractions, such as Matakana or Waiheke Island, had managed to keep economic activity in scale with the location.
Dr Barton said the comparison failed to recognise the unique and sensitive natural environment and character that the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Protection Bill, at present before Parliament, sought to protect. "If the cafe is expected to contribute to making Piha more like Matakana or Waiheke, that alone is reason enough to decline the application," said Dr Barton.
The council must realise the flow-on effects on the environment, she said.
The society, which has 600 members, had expert advice that the provision of better services commonly had the effect of increasing visitors.
On Monday, city council and Auckland Regional Council commissioners heard the case from Preserve Piha, a company that proposes to seat 35 customers in a revamped telephone exchange building.
A partner in the company, television personality Marc Ellis, said the cafe was not about making money but was for the benefit of the community.
The hearing continues today.
