Proposed changes to lakeshore reserves
Vehicle access to Ōtaiātoa Bay
Ōtaiātoa Bay is the long stretch of reserve that runs between Motutere Bay and Waitetoko. Formerly known as Mission Bay and is part of the Motutere Recreation Reserve.
The stretch of State Highway 1 road that runs along this bay is 80km/hour with no turning-bay access for vehicles. Ōtaiātoa Bay foreshore reserve is not adequately providing for public lakeside recreation as an alternative to Motutere Bay. The lakebed is shallow, rocky, and exposed, creating an unenjoyable swimming and user experience. The internal access road is in poor condition. There are no water or wastewater services, which makes providing adequate facilities for public enjoyment difficult. Illegal camping, dumping and offensive behaviour have also been occurring along this Bay.
Through analysis of road safety, reserve matters, and discussions with the Parks and Reserves team, officers have concluded that vehicle access should be restricted along this bay to better provide for public use and enjoyment, and help restore the natural character values of the bay.
Two new proposed campground areas
The draft also provides for two proposed new camping areas:
- Proposed Campground Area 1
- Proposed Campground Area 2
A cultural values assessment has been undertaken for these sites that shows there are two sites of cultural significance near the proposed new areas. Any development would be subject to consideration by mana whenua.
An ecological assessment was undertaken for Area 1. Significant ecological vales were identified in this area so any development is subject to controls on vegetation clearance and offset conditions.
For Proposed Campground Area 2, use and development in this area will be dependent on the outcome of a Hazardous Activities and Industries List (HAIL) assessment. This is required because the area is near the site of an old landfill and it is identified as a contaminated site on planning maps.
Proposed Public Day-Use Area On Motutere Bay Lakeshore
Through the review process, concerns have been raised about the balance between the parts of the reserve that are set aside for commercial camping versus the areas available for the community to access.
Initially the campground catered only to tents but over time the lakeshore lease area has expanded to include permanent caravans, domes, and motor homes. This transformation has led to issues with safety, erosion, traffic, and access to the boat ramp. Additionally, the exclusivity of the current campground operation has significantly limited public access to Motutere Bay.
Therefore, a new public day use area is being proposed. This would require a reconfiguration of the current campground lease to enable a separate day-use area to the east of the boat ramp and tent camping remaining to the west of the boat ramp.
This proposed change is shown in the map below.
