Moorings Survey Results

In order to better understand our provision of marine services, particularly moorings, a survey was undertaken in May 2009.  Of the 1298 surveys distributed to mooring holders, local boat clubs, etc 266 surveys were returned (a 21% response rate).

The survey specifically requested feedback on moorings, navigational aids, holding tanks, marinas, breakwaters, and dredging.

In general users were more than satisfied with the services provided, although there was also a significant “wish list” for new and better facilities.  A number of operational issues were also highlighted and we will be endeavouring to make these small improvements through our existing budgets

Summary of results

Kawau Island was by far the most popular destination for boating, and fishing the most popular boating activity.

Many comments were received about potential improvements that could be made. Improved facilities was the most significant issue affecting boating experience, with refuelling stations being the most requested improvement (30 respondents). More car parking was also requested. Unfortunately there is no space for expansion of car parking at our most well used mooring management areas; Sandspit, Jamiesons Bay, Scotts Landing, Omaha, or Ti Point.

Mooring access, fees and contractor performance results were very favourable, although 67% of respondents did not want mooring fees to increase. Respondents were also very satisfied with navigational aids. There appears to be a perceived lack of value for money with mooring licence fees. Rodney mooring licence fees are very competitive and below the level of many other regions throughout New Zealand.

There was also strong support for more marinas particularly in Sandspit.  In terms of dredging to improve navigation 65% of respondents believed more dredging was required in Sandspit and the Mahurangi River.

Generally respondents did not want additional breakwaters in the District; however Gulf Harbour was the most common location identified as needing a breakwater. We also received feedback regarding useability of boat ramps at all tides.

56% of respondents did not want additional moorings which likely demonstrates that although there is a significant waiting list at popular locations, there is unlikely to be additional room to accommodate more moorings.

30% of respondents commented that poor water quality negatively impacted on their boating experience.  Locations of most concern were the Mahurangi Harbour and Bon Accord Harbour on Kawau Island. 

Next steps, we will:

Further investigate the feedback provided on the need for additional navigational aids around the Gulf.

• Forward feedback on extent/availability of mooring areas to the ARC, who have responsibility for planning/developing available moorings throughout the region – for example, some moorings areas such as Tindalls Bay and Wenderholm are currently underutilised.
•  Discuss customer service with the mooring contractors to help address performance issues.
•  Review dinghy storage provision with an aim to increasing it in major locations where feasible
• To meet refuelling demands we will continue to trial the mini-tankers at Sandspit over the summer.   Feedback to date is that the mini-tankers are a practical option though users would prefer on site facilities.  Fuel companies are, however, unlikely to proceed with permanent facilities due to environmental risks. 
• Background work is underway to consider dredging of the Mahurangi River to make it more navigable. An initial feasibility study has been completed and a hydrological survey undertaken. This is a community project with RDC as a potential partner.  Deposition of dredging spoil is the main issue to be resolved. 
• In most areas the shallowness of our coastal geomorphology means that all-tide boat ramps are not possible. Gulf Harbour is however an all tide boat ramp but is exposed to wind and swell. A breakwater in this location would allow the ramp to be more safely used in windy conditions and protect the pontoon from damage during storms.  Breakwater options at Gulf Harbour are being explored at present.