Challenging
Challenging the Fast-Track Decision for Waipiro Marina
In a contentious move, residents of Bay of Islands have taken legal action against a Government decision to expedite the development of the Waipiro marina. The proposal by Hopper Developments and Azuma Property involves constructing a 250-berth marina at the remote Waipiro Bay, located east of Russell. This ambitious project includes amenities such as a public boat ramp, trailer parking, refueling facilities, shops, and other services.
The development was not originally included in the list associated with the Fast Track Approvals Bill but gained consideration through Minister Chris Bishop’s intervention in August. However, this decision has faced robust opposition from the Eastern Bay of Islands Preservation Society, which argues that legal errors were made during the approval process. The society claims that relevant considerations and information—including reservations expressed by other ministers and regional council—were overlooked, while irrelevant aspects influenced the minister’s decision.
Further complicating matters, the companies’ application for fast-tracking exaggerated the economic benefits, equating temporary construction jobs with long-term employment prospects. Jay Howell, a local resident and former commodore of Russell Boating Club, voices concerns over the lack of urgent social or economic necessity for such a large-scale marina in a rural area. He emphasizes that any project under the fast-track should offer substantial regional or national advantages.
Hopper Developments’ CEO, Andy Grey, acknowledges ongoing work on refining the marina proposal and assures that all key stakeholders will be informed appropriately during the process. The fast-track law grants Hopper and Azuma a two-year window to submit a more comprehensive consent application.
A judicial review application has been filed in the High Court at Whangārei, scheduled for November 7, with the hearing date pending. This legal action follows public demonstrations where locals voiced concerns over potential environmental impacts and restricted access to traditional kai moana gathering areas during an August New Zealand First meeting.
The unfolding situation underscores a significant clash between development ambitions and community preservation efforts, reflecting broader debates on sustainable development and cultural heritage protection in New Zealand’s natural landscapes.