Who can launch a boat at a marina at Doves Bay, near Kerikeri, has been clarified in an agreement between the Kerikeri Cruising Club, Far North District Council and a local boatie.
The marina is owned, operated and maintained by the Cruising Club. However, a resource consent for the marina requires the club to allow public access to the boat ramp and carpark. High demand for these facilities has caused tensions among ramp users.
Recent talks between the club, council and ramp user Bruce Buckland resulted in the club offering to alter the western ramp so larger trailer boats could use it without difficulty. The club has also reiterated that the western ramp will remain open to the public during regattas it holds at the marina several times a year.
The commodore of the Cruising Club, Doug France, says the agreement balances the interests of paying members of the Cruising Club and the public, providing clarity about the 19 car and trailer parking spaces available to the public.
"We have not known what the parking arrangements are. The clarity about access to boat ramps and the modification of the western ramp is a positive development," he said.