The following consultation has now closed.
Kaikōura District Council is seeking community feedback on a proposal to enter into a joint venture to develop Wakatu Quay, a Council-owned waterfront site at the northern end of Kaikōura township. Council considers the site important for supporting long-term economic resilience and year-round activity.
Council proposes to establish a new jointly owned company with three equal shareholders:
- Kaikōura District Council
- Te Rūnanga o Kaikōura (Ngāti Kurī)
- A private development partner
To enable this arrangement, Council would transfer the Wakatu Quay land into the jointly owned company for the duration of the project. This is not a sale of the land to a private party. The proposed transfer of land is the key matter on which Council is seeking feedback.
The joint venture would be responsible for raising capital, planning, building, and operating agreed facilities. Potential development may include premium hot pools, accommodation, wellness facilities, cultural spaces, and activation of the waterfront promenade.
Invitation for Submissions
This is your opportunity to provide feedback on whether Council should transfer the Wakatu Quay land into a joint venture structure — your feedback matters. You can provide your submission by:
• Sending a written letter to Kaikōura District Council, PO Box 6, Kaikōura • Emailing submissions@kaikoura.govt.nz • Completing the online submission form at the bottom of this page.
Public consultation on this proposal will run from 2 March 2026 to 2 April 2026. Full details, including the Statement of Proposal, are available at the bottom of this page.
Submissions must be received by 4pm, 2 April 2026.
Please indicate whether you wish to be heard by Council in support of your submission. Public hearings for this proposal are scheduled to take place in the Council Chambers 15 April 2026.
Council will consider all submissions before making a final decision.
