A more coordinated approach is needed to plan for the future of our marine facilities (including boat ramps, wharves, jetties and pontoons). The Marine Facilities Framework considers the bigger picture and guides how our community and visitors access Tauranga Harbour, Te Awanui, in the future, as well as addresses the increased recreational and commerical pressures facing these facilities. Developing a master plan for Sulphur Point and Marine Park is a priority action as part of the overarching Framework.
Marine facilities framework
Background
- Sulphur Point (shown in the red box on the map above) is owned by Tauranga City Council, and a majority of this area is leased out to a variety of interests. It includes Marine Park, which is a reserve managed under the Tauranga Reserve Management Plan 2019.
- Marine Park is the only space of its kind in Tauranga that provides all tide access for water-based recreation and supports water based, non-powered, recreation access and events.
- This area was reclaimed by the Bay of Plenty Harbour Board as part of the future development of the Port of Tauranga on Sulphur Point between 1971-1981.
- Tauranga Marina offers 560 berths for boats, a haulout facility, travel lift and 50 hardstand spaces.
- There is a six lane and a four lane boat ramp at Sulphur Point which are access at all tides, with pontoons, parking and toilets, as well as a boat storage facility with the capacity for 76 boats.
- The area provides for a range of recreational and commercial marine activities, including home to the Tauranga Yacht and Power Boat Club, Tauranga Sport Fishing Club, Coastguard, Tauranga Young Mariners, TS Chatham Sea Cadets, Sailability Tauranga, Tauranga Moana Outrigger Canoe Club, a café and restaurant, chandlery and 24-hour fuel
Purpose of the Master Plan:
- help clarify and address issues from recreational and commercial users, which have been in place for quite some time and may be exacerbated by further growth.
- identify future land use, facilities and activities to respond to concerns raised from recreation and commercial users.
- identify actions and investments required.
- create good linkages for walking and cycling beyond Sulphur Point.
- consider other approaches to manage public access and boating demand, including information and technology, charged vs free amenities, subregional/regional considerations and broader network implications.
Working with the community
Community feedback is vital as we consider the future needs and use of Sulphur Point and Marine Park. Council is working with mana whenua, the local businesses, organisations, leaseholders and the community to make sure we create a balanced plan that meets the needs of most people. It’s anticipated the Master Plan will be implemented over the next ten years as funding becomes available.