Horowhenua District Council has approved key measures to enable the development of an 18-hole links golf course in Ōhau, marking a significant step forward for the project. The Council voted to reclassify part of the Muhunoa West Road esplanade reserve and grant a 33-year license to developer Grenadier Limited.
The development promises substantial economic benefits for the region while prioritizing environmental and cultural considerations. Plans include creating a 6-hectare Coastal Dune Environmental Management Area and planting 185,000 native plants, which the Environment Court has recognized as providing a net environmental gain.
Grenadier Limited has established partnerships with local iwi through a Memorandum of Understanding, ensuring their involvement in native plant selection and installation. The project will preserve culturally significant areas and create a 2.5-hectare Cultural Heritage Management Area, to be overseen by a kaitiaki forum representing local iwi.
Public access to the beach, currently restricted, will be enhanced through a new walkway to be built and maintained by Grenadier Limited. The developer’s license includes two 33-year renewal options, demonstrating a long-term commitment to the region.
Council Chief Executive Monique Davidson will now proceed with final negotiations with Grenadier Limited to advance the project.
