Developer answers concerns

Daniel Henderson, general manager of Matarangi developer Axis Property Group, wanted to respond to concerns about the resort.

He said some areas developed before Axis became involved had been prone to surface flooding during the occasional heavy downpours.

"This had been caused in the main by the blocking of surface-to-groundwater drainage systems that were probably poorly designed and not cleared regularly.

"The Thames Coromandel District Council has carried out alterations to the system to ensure these work effectively and continues to monitor the situation," Henderson said.

"Raw water is pumped to Matarangi from the Opitonui River and is treated by the council at Matarangi. We have paid levies and posted bonds to the council for the upgrade of the water treatment facility.

"As further development occurs we are required to contribute further to ensure the systems are improved to meet additional demand.

"We understand that the council is carrying out a major upgrade this year which will see an increased capacity for this summer."

The council also treated wastewater at Matarangi under the same arrangement for contributions.

" On the golf course, IMG has been secured as the manager. It has a specialised division which designs and manages golf courses.

"This is the first golf course in New Zealand to be managed by IMG.

"The first nine holes of the course were designed by Bob Charles, who has continued to have an interest in Matarangi. The second nine did not have his input and we have not used his endorsement to any great extent.

"Bob Charles has had a long history with IMG as his agent.

"We are advised that he is pleased that we will be working closely with IMG to manage the course and to make further improvements, and although we are unable to go into detail as discussions remain at the early stages and are confidential, it is possible that Bob Charles will have some further input in the course design and may look to extending his endorsement over the whole course."

Henderson said course members received reciprocal playing rights at all IMG courses worldwide, membership to the IMG SportsClub, two season passes to the New Zealand Open and discounts at the clubhouse.