Council warns: the wharf is no playground

Due to increased commercial activity at the recently upgraded Matiatia Wharf, Auckland City has warned the public not to swim or dive around the area.

During summer children have been swimming and diving there unsupervised. Council officers are concerned for the children’s safety and advise the public that Auckland City’s Consolidated Bylaw 1998, Part 8 Wharves, prohibits these activities.

Neill Forgie, professional services manager for the council’s traffic and roading division, said they weren’t trying to be draconian in their approach but had the public’s safety at mind.

“Matiatia Wharf is not the same as it was 20 years ago. It’s increasingly used for commercial reasons. Ferries are coming and going more frequently – it’s just not safe to swim and dive there,” Mr Forgie said. “It is not a children’s water playground.

“We want people to enjoy the sea – but not at the wharf. There are plenty of beautiful beaches around Waiheke for children to enjoy without endangering themselves or others.”

Matiatia Wharf, which recently had a $3 million upgrade, is now fully operational and has 100 per cent tenancy. The tenants are Fullers Ferries, Pine Harbour Ferries, Tourism Auckland, Waiheke Auto Rental, Waiheke Rental Cars and Waiheke Bike Hire.

Auckland City Mayor, Hon John Banks, will officially open the new terminal on 27 March 2004. Ends For further information, please contact: Neill Forgie, professional services manager, Traffic and Roading Services ph (09) 307 7619

© Scoop Media

Gordon Campbell: On the Sony cyber attack

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