Castlecliff Coastal Reserve plan up for public input

The public can have its say on the future of the Castlecliff Coastal Reserve. Photo/ Bevan Conley

The future of the Castlecliff Coastal Reserve is open for public input.

Whanganui District Council's draft management plan for the reserve outlines the use, development, maintenance, protection and preservation for the reserve over the next decade.

The new plan will include the north mole alongside the reserve and land seaward up to the mean high water tide mark.

"It's including the mole because its such a significant feature... but it's not going to affect the upgrading of it," council policy planner Victoria Edmonds said.

It will take in an area 3.1km north from the Whanganui River mouth and covers about 38ha, mostly in dunes and the Karaka Wetland.

Deputy Mayor Jenny Duncan said the reserve's future was as important for all of Whanganui community, not just Castlecliff.

"It's everyone's beach, playground, where we walk our dogs, picnic, fish and swim," she said.

"Generations of families have grown up with the beach and reserve in their back yard. It also has cultural and spiritual significance for local hapū and iwi as a place for gathering food and materials."

Duncan said public submissions provided an opportunity for everyone in the Whanganui district to have their say.

"Managing the reserve in partnership with the community creates a sense of ownership and pride that has flow on effects throughout the wider Castlecliff and Whanganui communities," Duncan said.

Edmonds said the plan had a number of key objectives.

"It also includes an action plan, from reserve use through to pedestrian and vehicle access, parking, dune stability and dealing with plant and animal pests."

The draft plan and submission forms are available online at www.whanganui.govt.nz/castlecliff-coastal-reserve.

Copies of the plan and submission forms are also available from the council office at 101 Guyton St and copies can be viewed at Whanganui libraries.

Submissions close at 5pm on August 17.