Tuesday 7th of December 2004

The 8,200 sq m waterfront site comprises five titles in the commercial zone, adjoining a scenic reserve administered by the Department of Conservation. The proposed South Pacific Apartments Ltd development is a discretionary activity in terms of the Proposed District Plan but a non-complying activity in relation to the Transitional District Plan and FNDC staff have recommended that the application be publicly notified because of the likely impact and special circumstances. The FNDC has deferred its decision at the request of the applicant, who is gathering further information.

The complex includes 94 apartments and associated facilities. Cladding materials are pre-cast concrete panels, to be finished in recessive colours, with non-reflective glazing. The block is designed to graduate in mass to give a sense of fading into the hillside when seen from the Bay.

The complex will be owned by individuals and managed through a body corporate.

The proposal has the support of Tangata Whenua but the Department of Conservation has expressed concerns: firstly, that the development could set a precedent for development within the coastal environment of the Bay of Islands and, secondly, that there is potential for building dominance over the waters of the Bay of Islands.

Read More - Opens in a new window