Brandon Holman, one of the upcoming KCDC Election candidates, is wanting, if elected to undertake a feasibility study as to the provision of a marina on the Kāpiti Coast.
This would enable larger tourist and fishing boats to launch safely as well as yachts with keels. Currently, such vessels can only be safely launched from Mana marina. Funding would have to be provided by interested parties and not ratepayers, and additional benefits could include the provision of waterside eating and drinking venues, seen in smart marinas the world over. Also, a better Coastguard search and rescue service could be provided.
He learnt to sail offshore yachts from Brighton Marina in the UK, which was built in the 1970s by a development corporation and private money. The coastline at Brighton is straight and featureless, and the marina there simply encloses a section of land to create a haven from the English Channel storms. The website is www.brightonmarina.co.uk/
He understands that previous marina initiatives have targeted the Waikanae Estuary. He believes that that is not suitable, because not only is it a nature reserve, but it also would be likely to present a sandbar problem due to the river and sea combination. The beauty of a Caisson design like the Brighton Marina is that it can be created anywhere on the coast.
The creation of a marina would provide another attraction on the Kāpiti Coast for tourists and day-trippers, as well as providing a great facility for local yachtsmen, fishermen and pleasure boat users. It would provide a realisable destination for Mana Marina and Marlborough Sounds boating visitors, and put Kāpiti on the nautical map!
