The debate about the future of Marineland continued this week - in spite of an ongoing court case - with 35 submissions and a 700 signature petition presented to Napier City Council.
Speakers at yesterday's council annual plan submission hearing said Marineland was necessary as a tourism draw and animal sanctuary.
Friends of Marineland member Emily Otto presented councillors with designs she said would create a financially viable facility, without dolphins.
She suggested the $1 million earmarked to move the penguins to the National Aquarium of New Zealand could be used to improve the enclosure at Marineland.
An underwater seal viewing area, education centre and penguin house would give visitors plenty to see, she said.
Her design included a solar-powered hospital building.
"Marineland is worth saving as a marine animal sanctuary and education centre," Ms Otto said.
Her daughters also spoke to the council about their desire to see the animals cared for and a facility where children could learn about marine wildlife.
Zarah Otto said she was worried the penguins would not adjust when moved and would die. This had happened when some penguins were moved to Auckland Zoo.
Other submitters also objected to moving the penguins and suggested the Marineland brand needed to be maintained because it was recognised throughout New Zealand.
Napier City councillors' discussion was limited because of the court case brought by Friends of Marineland.
This has resulted in an injunction, preventing the council doing anything to the site.
They told submitters that because of the judicial review, no decisions on redevelopment at the Marineland site can be made.
The council was still committed to finding an alternative use for the site and the funding allocated in the draft annual plan would be used to move the little blue penguins to the Aquarium.
Marineland backers face council
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