Councillor's Comment

Following the 2022 local elections, the Mayor proposed the creation of a Tāhunanui Liaison Councillor to provide a stronger voice for the beachside community and develop a closer working relationship with its residents and businesses.

This role, which I am proud to hold, has helped deliver several successes for the community. These include:

Contaminated wood waste removal

Tāhunanui is a slice of paradise in the heart of Nelson and its beach is consistently rated one of the best in New Zealand. It holds its own in world rankings, too – coming eighth in the South Pacific category for TripAdvisor’s 2023 edition of its annual best beaches awards.

When Council was made aware of contaminated wood waste on the Back Beach, we were committed to getting the issue resolved without putting too much pressure on ratepayers. Last week, we welcomed news of a grant from the Government equivalent to 75% of the expected $4.59 million cleanup cost. Our concessionaires and stakeholders have been on this journey from day one and we, as a Council, have made sure they can remain open throughout the cleanup project, which will be completed in time for another successful summer.

New surf lifesaving club facility

The exciting Tāhunanui Beach surf lifesaving club facility development has been boosted by funding from Council and Government. Council has committed $1.65 million through the Long Term Plan 2024-34. Another $1.6 million is coming from Surf Life Saving New Zealand’s Central Government Capital Fund, which means work can get under way finalising the design and securing the building and resource consents for this project, which will make our world-class beach safer.

Pedestrian refuges

Two new pedestrian refuges have been installed on the Annesbrook Drive section of State Highway 6, just north of Blackwood Street, and on the Tāhunanui Drive section of SH6 adjacent to St Stephens Community Church and McDonald’s. I’ve been advocating for these refuges, which were badly needed and now that they’re in place, they have given people confidence to cross the road safely.

I welcome your concerns and ideas for our stunning beachside community. Come along to one of my monthly drop-in sessions at Catch 22 Café and Bar on Beach Road or send me an email email at Campbell.Rollo@ncc.govt.nz. We have an exciting summer ahead with a reserve full of fun for the whole family and a world-class beach for the next swim.