Amberley Beach golfers have urged the Hurunui District Council to immediately build a new access route to their golf course.
During a Tuesday, June 10 council submission, Amberley Beach Golf Club president Bruce Yates and member Paul Wylie demanded restored access to their course.
Coastal erosion at Golf Links Road’s southern end has eliminated the main route. A recent tournament was cancelled, and King’s Birthday visitors needed rescue when vehicles got stuck in mud, Mr Yates said. Access is now limited to four-wheel-drive or walking.
The council received Environment Canterbury consent on June 9 to install culverts on two wetlands, allowing Grierson Avenue extension and providing permanent golf course access. This would also secure access to mahinga kai areas in Waimaiaia Reserve and Waipara River mouth.
“We are asking you to act now,” Mr Wylie said.
“We don’t need to wait. Work can begin immediately if there is the will.”
The club has lobbied for two years. Mr Yates said sea level rise effectively blocks most members’ access.
“It is too late to think about maintaining the road. Repairs are futile.”
The golf club will provide land for the road, impacting parking.
Resident Paula Le Compte noted residents pay targeted rates for a protective bund while the golf club contributes nothing. The council previously backed debt-funding a new bund through its Coastal Adaptation Plan.
The council received 43 submissions, with 35 addressing golf course access and most requesting Grierson Avenue extension.
A $13.5 million roading budget is proposed this year, with $7.5 million from rates, after receiving less than half the requested $12.2 million Waka Kotahi subsidy. An average 3.3% rate rise is proposed, with the council meeting June 24 to adopt the annual plan.
