Golfers are rallying around efforts to save their beloved Takapuna course, as Auckland Council plans to turn a large section of it into a wetland. The proposed changes are part of a larger initiative to mitigate the effects of climate change and address flooding in the Wairau Valley, but many are concerned that the loss of the course will have long-term consequences for the community.
A Lifelong Investment in the Course
Steve Dowd, head greenkeeper at Takapuna Golf Course, has poured his heart and soul into maintaining the course for over 20 years. He is devastated by the prospect of seeing the course destroyed, saying:
“The course, as we know it, will be destroyed. My lifetime’s work will be gone when it doesn’t have to be. It’s heartbreaking.”
Dowd’s concerns are echoed by many in the community, who are worried about the impact on the course’s users, including local businesses and residents.
A Alternative Proposal: The ‘Shoal Bay Solution’
Those backing an alternative proposal, known as the ‘Shoal Bay solution’, believe that keeping the course at 18 holes while also safeguarding against flood damage is a better option. The plan would redirect stormwater through an underground pipe system from the course to the nearby Shoal Bay, reducing the risk of flooding and protecting neighbouring buildings.
- Around 200 people attended a recent community meeting, where the proposal was presented.
- Local resident Jane Dent expressed her concerns about the proposed changes, saying:
- Dent emphasized the importance of the course as a social hub, where people can come together and enjoy golf, saying:
- Dent also highlighted the financial benefits of the course, saying:
Pensioners like me, they can’t afford to join a club. It’s very expensive to play there. Takapuna is so good because it’s great for beginners. It’s not a super pristine place, but it’s a place where everyone’s welcome and you can come and have fun with friends.”
Support from the Community
Many members of the community have expressed their support for the ‘Shoal Bay solution’, citing the benefits of preserving the course as a social hub and reducing the financial burden on individuals and businesses.
- University students, who meet up at the course weekly, praised the affordability of the course, saying:
- Takapuna is so good because it’s great for beginners. It’s not a super pristine place, but it’s a place where everyone’s welcome and you can come and have fun with friends.
- A nine-hole course would be a bummer for us players, who rely on the course for exercise and socializing.
Professional golfer Ryan Fox and former course users, such as Lydia Ko and Michael Hendry, have also expressed their support for the ‘Shoal Bay solution’, highlighting the importance of preserving the course as part of New Zealand’s golfing heritage.
Expert Analysis
Stormwater consultant Phil Jaggard provided expert analysis on the proposed changes, saying:
“The challenge that we have is that we’re looking for a solution to mitigate the effects of climate change, address flooding, but also look after community assets.
“It would be an absolute crime if the council didn’t look at the alternative plan that has been suggested. This would be vandalism to dig this place up. A waste of government money when it doesn’t need to happen.”
“This is one of only two golf courses in Auckland where people can just rock up and play. There’s a lot of talk about how many golf courses there are. But there’s only Takapuna and Chamberlain Park where anybody can just come and play.”
