Popular Manukau Cruising Club is in danger of going under after Auckland City Council demanded a rate rise, writes Jacqueline Smith An 86-year-old boating institution is being swamped by demands for money from the city. Manukau Cruising Club has been an outlet for local boaties since 1922. Run entirely by volunteers,it is used by members ranging from wee children to the elderly who enjoy fishing, boating and a quiet drink and a meal. But the community icon is staggering under a $16,574.99 bill demanded by its leaseholder, Auckland City Council. A rates review has increased the club's monthly land lease by 66 per cent and demanded payments back-dated to 2004. Club commodore Ron Williams says this is too much for the volunteers to fundraise. He is calling for the non-profit organisation to be classified and charged as a community organisation, not a commercial one. While he doesn't want to say the club would close down because of it, it cannot operate in deficit. Jim Anderson, club captain for 18 years, says the club is an important part of his family. His sons - aged 10 and 15 - are down there every other weekend fishing and doing power boat time trials. "I really hope the club can be around for their children too," he says. Jim Jackson, chairman of The Onehunga Enhancement Society says that if the foreshore restoration plan is to proceed, it would be logical that the Manukau Cruising Club be relocated to the all-tide ramp adjacent to the Onehunga wharf. But he says the club is an integral part of the community and Auckland City Council should recognise that. Maungakiekie Community Board chairwoman, Bridget Graham says a report has been requested and that their case looks positive. "It certainly fits the criteria of a community organisation," she says, adding that the club currently provides the only channel for locals to access the harbour. "When we are trying to get people to make use of the Manukau Harbour we should be doing everything to keep the club going. "I don't want it to close down, it gives too much pleasure to too many people."
