High quality local ideas win concessions

Local businesses take opportunity to operate from Coromandel reserves

 Locals have secured non-exclusive three-year concessions to operate businesses from Thames-Coromandel District Council (TCDC) reserves, subject to Council approval in December.

 Mercury Bay proved to be the most popular location with concessions conditionally granted for 39 sites. Whangamata had 13; Coromandel-Colville had nine; Tairua and Pauanui had four applications granted and four were also granted in Thames. Three applications were declined.

TCDC Community Services Manager, John Rich said "applications had to match the purpose of the reserve, fit the reserve management plan and make a contribution to the local economy."

"The quality of the concessions applications was very high, with a significant number of local businesses taking the opportunity. The successful applicants will add vibrancy to the reserves and make valuable tourism contributions to the local economy," he said.

New activities include Coffee & Surf School at Whangapoua, Matarangi, Kuaotunu and Opito Bay; ice cream carts on Whangamata Beach; a food van at Waikawau Bay on the Thames Coast and a food van at the Hotwater Beach middle carpark and Kayak Hire at Tairua's Pepe Reserve.