New Takapuna yacht site plans now scaled back

The new plan allows for improved access to the water and to storage for sailors, kayakers and waka ama. Photo / Thinkstock

Revised plans for a high-performance centre for Yachting New Zealand in Takapuna have been unveiled.

As overseers of one of New Zealand's most successful international sports, YNZ has long sought a headquarters befitting that, akin to Rowing New Zealand's base on Lake Karapiro.

The initial proposal was rejected early last year but YNZ and the Harbour Access Trust have come back with a trimmed-down plan which it is hoped will meet with approval from the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board.

The facility on the Takapuna Motor Camp site has been reduced from two storeys to one; the overall facility footprint now covers about 10 per cent of the available reserve; and the administrative base of YNZ would be moved to other premises in Takapuna.

A Resource Consent application to Auckland Council is likely to be lodged in the new year with that decision from independent commissioners.

"We have listened to the feedback from the community and stakeholders and taken into account the intent of the council's Takapuna Beach Reserve Management Plan," Harbour Access Trust spokesman Peter Wall said.

"The result is a new design which we believe will considerably enhance the reserve and cater for the best community outcomes all round. We want to share this plan with the public and invite feedback."

The new plan allows for improved access to the water and to storage for sailors, kayakers and waka ama. The visual impact of the facility has been made less obtrusive, the idea being something which blends into the surroundings.

"It will also be a hub for aspiring sailors of all ages from around New Zealand, just as Karapiro is for rowing and triathlon, with the added bonus of green open spaces for the public to inhabit and use for recreation as well as to enjoy the coastline or watch the many on-water activities," Wall said.

The trust and YNZ support the concept of open green space for the remainder of the reserve.

The last time plans to develop the space were put forward, there were significant objections from neighbours and the local community.

Wall believes this response to the initially negative feedback will allay community concerns.