Positive sentiments for vehicle on beach changes

Published date24 June 2022
Fifteen people spoke to their submissions during the three-hour morning session in Clutha District Council’s Balclutha chambers

A majority of those favoured at least some restrictions to vehicles on beaches, some suggesting further areas to consider for ‘‘safe zone’’ designation, and others greater freedoms than proposed.

Five of those present expressed a wish for no or limited changes to the status quo.

The draft proposal would ban vehicles altogether from eight Clutha beaches — mainly in the Catlins — with exemptions for emergency services, boat access and access to properties otherwise inaccessible by road.

Vehicles elsewhere would be limited to 30kmh and be expected to drive safely and away from wildlife.

The eight beaches subject to the proposed ban are: Taieri Mouth, Kaka Point, Cannibal Bay, Surat Bay, Jacks Bay, Purakaunui Bay, Tahakopa and Tautuku.

Speaking in favour of the proposals was Invercargill environmentalist, Sea Society founder Sian Mair, whose appeal to the council in 2020 initiated the review.

Ms Mair thanked the council for recognising its ‘‘beautiful back yard’’, and said she was present to speak on behalf of wildlife unable to speak for itself.

‘‘Vehicles on beaches degrade wildlife habitats, cause wildlife nuisance and stress, and can separate sea lion mothers from their pups.’’

She proposed reducing speed limits on all beaches to 20kmh, pointing to bylaws Dunedin introduced in 2017 that restricted vehicles on beaches.

‘‘Five years on, the community have adapted and found that their short-term pain has been their long-term gain.’’...

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