MEDIA RELEASE
29 November 2004

Warning: Matiatia Wharf is no playground

Auckland City is warning the public that swimming and diving around Matiatia Wharf is dangerous at any time, particularly in the summer months.

Council officers are concerned over the safety of children swimming around the wharf and remind visitors to Waiheke Island and residents that Auckland City’s Consolidated Bylaw 1998, Part 8 Wharves, prohibits such activities in the area.

Auckland City’s professional services manager, Neill Forgie, says the council’s primary concern is public safety. He says the wharf is used daily for commercial activities and it’s just not safe to swim and dive there.

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

The wharf is designed for and heavily used each day by ferries and other boats.

Matiatia beach is a safer swimming option in the area and the waterfront has just been upgraded.

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