Locals oppose Herne Bay boatshed plan

• Published date: 28 May 2023
• Author: Anne Gibson
• Publication title: Herald on Sunday

But locals strongly oppose the addition to the property sold last decade by rich-lister Geoff Ross and his wife Justine, saying it will dominate the tiny bay

Because of the scheme’s features — which include pouring 87 concrete piles into the seabed — Auckland Council has notified the application so people can have their say up until June 13.

Planners at 4Sight Consulting say historical photos show an old shed once existed there.

The house at 8 Wairangi St was one of 11 in Herne Bay sold by the multibillionaire sultan for almost $35 million in about 2005. The property was previously owned by 42 Below vodka co-founder Geoff and wife Justine Ross.

In 2021, the council valued 8 Wairangi St at $22m. Rates of $39,390 per year are charged.

The new boatshed is to be 15m long by 8m wide, about 4.5m high, have a 120sq m area and will be supported by 17 concrete piles sunk into the seabed.

“The boatshed has been designed to house an amphibious (Sealegs) boat, jet skis, kayaks and paddle boards. A stainless steel filleting bench is provided along the southwestern wall and toilet and shower facilities are provided at the rear,” iLowa’s application to the council said.

Wastewater will be pumped up the cliff and discharged via existing connections.

An 8m wide by 5m deep launch deck is proposed at the northwestern end of the boat shed and a 33.7m long by 5m wide boat ramp will extend in a northwesterly direction.

But Dirk Hudig and Don Mathieson from the Herne Bay Residents Association oppose...