Independent Hearing Commissioners have issued their decision to decline a resource consent application bundle lodged by the Mapua Community Boat Ramp Trust.

The reasons for their decision to decline the application are summarised as follows:

• the unacceptable and uncertain risks associated with construction of the ramp in an area with contaminated marine sediments; and
• the inappropriateness of the site for the ramp due to size, and safety concerns.

Notice of this decision has been sent to the applicant and all submitters.

The full decision can be viewed via this link:

RM230253 Māpua Community Boat Ramp Trust Decision FINAL 26-08-2025.pdf (pdf 618 KB)

Tasman District Council received 329 submissions in relation to the application, of which two were withdrawn prior to the hearing in November 2024.

Of the 327 remaining submissions, 211 were in support of the proposal, six were neutral and 110 opposed. Fifty submitters were heard in person or via Zoom during the hearing.

The application sought approval for the construction and operation of a new boat ramp within the coastal marine area and foreshore, with access from the Māpua Waterfront Park and associated consents for access and parking on the western side of Tahi Street, signage, stormwater discharge and earthworks.

The proposal originally included the construction of a Sea Scout / Community building within the Māpua Waterfront Park, but that aspect of the proposal had been removed in response to concerns raised by submitters prior to the hearing.

The process is now subject to an appeals period in which interested parties can lodge an appeal to the Environment Court before 17 September, 2025.

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