Tasman District Council to manage Pohara Boat Ramp

The management of the boat ramp at Tarakohe, Golden Bay is to be transferred to the Tasman District Council in late December this year.

The boat ramp, while owned by the Council as part of Port Tarakohe, has been managed by the Pohara Boat Club since the Council’s purchase of the harbour assets in 1996. The boat club retained the profits, enabling them to clear their debts, including repayment of a loan from Council for building the club’s facilities.

The Council and the boat club have been in discussion for some time regarding a change of management of the boat ramp. Responsibility for management and maintenance of the boat ramp will transfer to the Council with the Harbour Manager assuming responsibility for the boat ramp along with his other port duties.

Barrier arm and security cameras to be installed

As a new initiative, a barrier arm is to be erected between the clubhouse and the boat ramp. This will have lighting and security cameras in place. Security cameras will also be installed in the boat storage compound.

While new to Golden Bay, barrier arms are not uncommon in harbours and marinas across the ‘Top of the South’, and the boat ramp at Ward St, Port Motueka has operated this way for several years. The barrier will replace the honesty box system previously operated by the boat club.

The barrier is expected to be activated by cash or a prepaid swipe card with financial members of the boat club able to purchase annual passes. Casual users of the ramp will probably be by cash or bank card. This system is still being developed and tender documents are in the process of being issued. Charges will be consistent with other charged boat ramps in the district.

Acting Commodore of the Pohara Boat Club Barry Pomeroy said the club and the Council enjoy a good working relationship and through this arrangement the security of the boat club’s tenure at the port will be confirmed.

“We have also negotiated an agreement for the rental of an office for the Harbour Manager and will receive financial assistance for allowing public use of our toilets and showers.”

With the management of the boat ramp going back to Council the area will continue to have an asset providing access to one of the District’s greatest assets and attractions.

Mayor Richard Kempthorne also welcomed the outcome.

“We have come to an agreement whereby the retention of the ramp, its ongoing maintenance and security will continue on a solid partnership platform. Our intention is to have the barrier arm and security measures in place before Christmas. By ensuring that individual components of the port such as this are self funding we can reduce the annual subsidy to the port from rates and still keep the fees fair and reasonable.”

Boat ramp fees are currently $50.00 per annum for members of the Pohara Boat Club and $5 for casual users.