Tahunanui Beach facilities Debate
Community Wellbeing - Safety and Security
Option 2
The overwhelming support for Option 2 emphasizes the critical need for modern, fit-for-purpose facilities to enhance the safety and efficiency of the Nelson Surf Lifesaving Club. Many comments highlight the current inadequate facilities which hinder the club's ability to respond effectively to emergencies and provide essential community services, including lifesaving and water safety education. Additionally, a new facility is seen as a community hub that would foster greater engagement, support volunteer recruitment, and ensure a safer environment for both residents and visitors at Tāhunanui Beach.
Table of comments:
| Point No | Comment |
|---|---|
| 8.2 | Tahuna Football Club strongly supports the proposed upgrade of facilities at Tahunanui Reserve in the Council's Long Term Plan. As a key user group based at the reserve, we believe the current amenities are extremely substandard and in dire need of improvement. For a coastal gem like Tahunanui Beach that attracts residents and visitors alike, the facilities provided are simply not befitting of a world-class destination. The changing rooms used by our club and other sports codes are old, rundown and leak badly during rain. With six senior teams and plans to reintroduce youth teams, Tahuna FC requires facilities that can properly cater for players, coaches and families, especially when forced to share with other user groups like Marist Rugby Club.The entire Tahunanui Reserve is a beloved community asset enjoyed by a huge percentage of Nelsonians, not just for sport but for its beach, playgrounds and open green spaces. The council has an opportunity through this Long Term Plan to transform the reserve into an integrated community hub by tying together upgraded facilities for summer and winter sport codes. We understand Surf Life Saving Nelson requires a new, modern clubhouse to replace its current substandard premises. As a key stakeholder at Tahunanui Reserve, Tahuna Football Club requests to be included in any consultation around the potential development of new shared facilities that could impact our operations. We see great opportunities to collaborate and find solutions that optimise the use of resources across the seasonal sporting calendar.Specifically, we propose the council explores options for Tahuna FC to be housed in any new multi-code facility developed to serve surf lifesaving and other summer sports. Having complementary winter and summer codes co-located could create significant operational efficiencies and reduce council's long-term maintenance costs across the reserve. It would also provide a vibrant, sustainable community hub for sport and recreation year-round.In summary, Tahuna FC fully endorses an upgrade of the poorly ageing facilities at Tahunanui Reserve to match the status of this outstanding beach and coastal environment. We are eager to be involved in the development of an exciting, integrated solution that brings sporting codes together in new shared premises. With some long-term vision and stakeholder consultation, the council has a chance to create a multi-code community facility befitting of this world-class location. |
| 10.7 | We commend the Council and strongly support this proposal. The current facilities are outdated and not fit for purpose. Importantly, the proposal would improve safety and the ability to respond to emergencies. This is important and sensible expenditure even in a context of significant financial pressures. |
| 26.3 | The changing facilities havent been changed since i was 7, i am now 54, cold, dangerous, unhealthy, something needs to be done here for such a tourist spot. |
| 82.1 | To Whom it May Concern.I believe we need new Surf lifesaving club. This will provide the community with appropriate facility to support and to carry their roles and support their members. Cheers Noah |
| 110.7 | I support this development as it benefits the whole community including insuring the safety of residents, tourists and visitors to our region. It is important to develop a club facility so going forward, more children and adult volunteers join the surf lifesaving service and Patrol our local beach at no cost, meaning they give their time freely. They should be acknowledged for this with modern and adequate facilities, that do not hinder their ability to perform their duties like the meagre facilities they have to use now. |
| 114.5 | Agree that a better facility is needed, but perhaps the building could be designed to be shifted if erosion of the beach made it very vulnerable in the future. |
| 147.7 | we currently have a world class beach without world class facilities. A new surf club is more than about surf patrols, it is a community hub. It can be used as an educational facility to upskill our young ones in water saftey and prevent drowning incindents around the country. |
| 168.6 | “Long neglected and tatty”. For a beach that is the envy of almost every community in NZ the current facility and community assett of Tahunanui Beach is, frankly, a disgrace. Not since the Lions Playground in the 60’s has anything of note been done on this, one of the loveliest city seasides in the country. YES! a new Surf Life Saving Club. YES! upgraded changing facilities on several locations along the beach. YES! Two all-weather/all-tide pontoons moored off the beach providing two “targets” for swimmers, paddle-boarders, kayakers, swimming-sunbathers et al to go out to and back. YES! To a mobility-focused boardwalk running the length of Tahunanui Beach (on the edge of the dune reclamimation zone) enabling mobility challenged access to sea and sand (with naming rights to assist fundraising and facility for coffee & donut carts, icecream carts etc.) |
| 184.5 | The Surf Life Saving Club plays an important role in enabling safe use of our most popular beach, and does require fit-for-purpose facilities. I would though ask that the facilities are designed and built to be resilient to the effects of climate change and sea level rise. |
| 225.2 | The Nelson SLSC are a team of volunteers who work tirelessly to keep the community safe. Currently, we cannot see the beach from our club rooms meaning we are exposed to the elements when on patrol. This is not sustaible if we want members to continue to join our club. This also hinders the amount of times we patrol during summer. This facility is essential and we are one of the few clubs in NZ that do not have a club room that you can’t see the beach/water from. |
| 267.7 | the facilities their at the moment are a Disgrace |
| 291.7 | Nelson's access to the ocean for water sports and recreation is a fantastic asset. Ensuring adequate facilities for the Nelosn Surf Life Saving Club would not only support water safety but promote participation in ocean sports. The development of club and changing facilities would support not just the surf life saving club, but also surfski paddlers, stand up paddle boarders and ocean swimmers. |
| 319.7 | As a member of Marist Rugby Football Club (Nelson) Inc., I wholeheartedly endorse their comprehensive submission. We firmly stand behind the Council's proposal to establish a new, purpose-built facility for the Surf Lifesaving Club in close proximity to the beach, coupled with the much-needed upgrade of existing changing facilities. However, our support is contingent upon Marist Rugby Football Club (Nelson) Inc. being formally acknowledged as a stakeholder in the Tahunanui Reserve Management Plan (RMP) and being actively involved in consultations regarding the potential collaboration in a new multi-use facility with Surf Lifesaving. The prospect of relocating to Tahunanui represents a tremendous opportunity for Marist Rugby Football Club (Nelson) Inc. It not only aligns with our existing catchment area but also promises to unify all our members and supporters under one roof, fostering a stronger sense of community and camaraderie. Moreover, the envisaged new facilities wouldn't just benefit our club; they would also be advantageous to Touch Rugby Nelson and football, offering an authentic chance to elevate the already remarkable ambiance of Tahunanui. This collaborative endeavor has the potential to transform Tahunanui into a hub of sporting excellence and community engagement, benefiting all involved parties and enhancing the overall appeal of our beloved region. |
| 338.7 | save more lifes! |
| 341.7 | The current surf life saving club approach is not sustainable long term. The club has no home base making it hard to set up every patrol. This adds more time and we have to have qualified lifeguards to drive the trailer which many arent capable of, given their age. This also increases time of set up making it very long patolling hours which decreases volunteers likelihood of coming back another season and takes up their entire day with an hour long set up either side. It’s also not as effective for lifeguards to be patrolling for that length of time and thus affects the safety of beachgoers. There is another side effect in that having no home base makes the atmosphere of the club very disjointed and we are not one collective. This impacts ease of contacting each other for patrol support, a lack of knowledge about other areas of the club, and a general disconnect where there would normally be a sense of community. The hours that Nelson Surf Lifesaving has put in over the years completely voluntarily adds more than enough value to compensate for infrastructure costs. |
| 344.1 | it is essential for the safety of the growing number of users to have a surf livesaving patrol located on the beach. |
| 349.7 | Changing facilities were updated not long ago - we don't need to waste money on new ones but a new facility for the Surf Life Saving Club would be great and would make the beach a safer and more enjoyable place to be, especially over summer. |
| 360.2 | the surf club needs better facilities |
| 378.3 | Long overdue. |
| 381.7 | The extra money sent into the increase of rates is essential the public donating to a very worthy cause. Surf life saving in this country is the back bone of nz summers and keeping people safe . Nz Families summer memories are created with knowing that tnere at a safe beach !!! To give neslon surf life saving club a new surf club would cement a safer beach and more exciting facilities to use as a community right on the beach front !! . The pros definitely out way the cons ( if any ) and it will also give tahunanui a modern yet earthy face lift , to which it show community professionalism and saftey above all is paramount!!! |
| 388.3 | they need a facility to work out of on the beach to help save lives |
| 396.15 | Kia ora, I have been a surf lifeguard at Nelson for over 15 years (since I was 13!). Not only would a facility for the Nelson Surf Life Saving Club save lives, but is a much needed part of building a strong club and strong community presence for the club. This facility was a childhood dream of mine and to have this built for the next generation of club members would be incredible. |
| 399.7 | The Nelson Surf Lifesaving Club is an asset to the community. There are so many opportunities within the club for all ages. Starting with the nippers programme for those parents kids who already love the sand and the sea, or for those who want to have a taste. To the Search and Rescue squad for those who want to really give back to their community. Currently the facilities are not fit for purpose on multiple fronts. The Age, Size and Location of the current facilities are the main issues. A new, fit for purpose base will provide the club with the foundation it needs to expand while still providing its services to the community for many years to come! |
| 404.7 | the surf lifesaving club provides essnetial search and reacue services to Nelson. Whilst rhe group is highly dedicated, a lack of an adequate home hinders the clubs ability to recruit members for long term continuity. The club is not only the leading marine search capability in the area with the ability to deploy rapidly to all the coastline, but also fills a niche area of flood response capability. A properly designed and constructed club would increase deployability, capability, capacity and dependability. |
| 404.7 | the surf lifesaving club provides essnetial search and reacue services to Nelson. Whilst rhe group is highly dedicated, a lack of an adequate home hinders the clubs ability to recruit members for long term continuity. The club is not only the leading marine search capability in the area with the ability to deploy rapidly to all the coastline, but also fills a niche area of flood response capability. A properly designed and constructed club would increase deployability, capability, capacity and dependability. |
| 405.7 | This is a service that we are lucky to have - lets finally respect it. |
| 421.7 | I strongly support a surf lifesaving facility at the beach. Not only does it keep the waters safety, surf clubs build good kiwis in leadership , teams and keeps everyone active. No brainer for a region with popular beaches |
| 457.2 | Here's why a clubhouse is urgently needed:Public Service: The Nelson Surf Life Saving Club is a vital community service, consistently engaged in search and rescue operations along a 300 km coastline. Our club provides water safety education, youth programs, and surf sports activities. With an average of over 34 rescues per year, multiple assists, first aids and preventative actions that impact the entire region, our lifeguards play a crucial role in saving lives and preventing emergencies.Community Education and Lifeguard Training: Our current training facilities are massively inadequate and scattered across multiple venues, leading to inefficiencies and logistical challenges. A clubhouse would provide a centralised space for training, accommodating larger groups and enable us to provide beach education programs for local schools, promoting water safety in our region.Health and Safety on Patrols: Existing patrol logistics suffer from limited shade, shelter, and scattered gear storage. A clubhouse would streamline patrol operations (saving over 2 hours each day on patrol), improve health and safety conditions, and provide essential facilities such as shade, shelter, toilets, and a kitchen.Community Presence: A Clubhouse would establish a permanent club presence, increasing public awareness, recruitment, and beach safety. It would foster community spirit, enhance members' well-being, and strengthen intergenerational connections within the club.Future Growth: With the club's predicted growth to 400 members and annual training of 35 - 40 new lifeguards, a clubhouse is essential for managing this expansion. It will contribute to the safety of the entire community by increasing the number of trained individuals capable of performing life-saving techniques.Events and Fundraising: A clubhouse would enable us to host events such as our Club’s annual Prize Giving, and multiple inter-regional surf sports events and trainings, attracting visitors to the region and enhancing our club's presence in the community. This would contribute to our financial sustainability and support future initiatives. |
| 457.2 | Here's why a clubhouse is urgently needed:Public Service: The Nelson Surf Life Saving Club is a vital community service, consistently engaged in search and rescue operations along a 300 km coastline. Our club provides water safety education, youth programs, and surf sports activities. With an average of over 34 rescues per year, multiple assists, first aids and preventative actions that impact the entire region, our lifeguards play a crucial role in saving lives and preventing emergencies.Community Education and Lifeguard Training: Our current training facilities are massively inadequate and scattered across multiple venues, leading to inefficiencies and logistical challenges. A clubhouse would provide a centralised space for training, accommodating larger groups and enable us to provide beach education programs for local schools, promoting water safety in our region.Health and Safety on Patrols: Existing patrol logistics suffer from limited shade, shelter, and scattered gear storage. A clubhouse would streamline patrol operations (saving over 2 hours each day on patrol), improve health and safety conditions, and provide essential facilities such as shade, shelter, toilets, and a kitchen.Community Presence: A Clubhouse would establish a permanent club presence, increasing public awareness, recruitment, and beach safety. It would foster community spirit, enhance members' well-being, and strengthen intergenerational connections within the club.Future Growth: With the club's predicted growth to 400 members and annual training of 35 - 40 new lifeguards, a clubhouse is essential for managing this expansion. It will contribute to the safety of the entire community by increasing the number of trained individuals capable of performing life-saving techniques.Events and Fundraising: A clubhouse would enable us to host events such as our Club’s annual Prize Giving, and multiple inter-regional surf sports events and trainings, attracting visitors to the region and enhancing our club's presence in the community. This would contribute to our financial sustainability and support future initiatives. |
| 488.7 | the current facility needs upgrading to serve the community in Nelson. |
| 527.1 | One of the busiest beaches in NZ needs a clubhouse to provide water safety programmes for our community. There are too many drownings in NZ which could be reduced by educating of people about beach and water safety. At the moment the Nelson club mainly operates out of shipping containers and this is inadequate to provide this service. The club also provides a 24/7 search and rescue unit and the gear and equipment is spread out of about 5 locations which hinders the response time to rescues. I 100% support a new clubhouse for this community. |
| 527.1 | One of the busiest beaches in NZ needs a clubhouse to provide water safety programmes for our community. There are too many drownings in NZ which could be reduced by educating of people about beach and water safety. At the moment the Nelson club mainly operates out of shipping containers and this is inadequate to provide this service. The club also provides a 24/7 search and rescue unit and the gear and equipment is spread out of about 5 locations which hinders the response time to rescues. I 100% support a new clubhouse for this community. |
| 545.2 | I support the building of a Surf Life Saving Club at the Beach in Nelson. Reasons why:Club BenefitsShelter for lifeguards Storage of gear in one buildingMeets operating needs for any Surf Life Saving Club - social needs for volunteers Increased training opportunities and education Member protection - female club members require decent facilitiesSense of belonging, attracts more members,stronger bigger club Community Benefits Will help to promote increased patrol hours Shows Nelson is serious about keeping the public safe at the beach and wants to promote the safe beach. It’s an opportunity to create a base to help community resilience in the time of a national and local emergency. It creates a place for the public to go for help, to get first aid and a place for safeguarding children and young people if they feel unsafe at the beach. Surf Life Saving helps with social development of a community. Gives the community a sense of continuity of service and develops that community connection. The right building could support the recreation activity in the area in term of bringing more visitors to the area. It could support the activities that are all ready in the area. Surf Life Saving Buildings are part of the New Zealand coastline and a part of our history. I encourage the Nelson Council to think about what it develops as the group deserves support and are keeping the community safe. |
| 546.1 | We are a family that have been members of the Nelson Surf Life Saving Club for well over ten years, through nippers, lifeguarding, IRB crewing & driving, SARS, training & committee ... the NSLSC has been a big part of our lives.The ability of the volunteers to undertake this vital community service and respond efficiently is hindered with current facilities & equipment spread over numerous locations.The need for a dedicated clubhouse is essential for improving functionality and accessibility, growing our membership, fostering community engagement & playing our part in keeping our community safe. |
| 551.6 | long overdue, let's do it! |
| 553.1 | The Nelson Surf Life Saving Club is a vital community service. They provide educational programs that are vital for a community surrounded by water. It is hugely important for the club to have all its facilities in one central place to ensure that the focus is on community education, safety, predicted member expansion & public presence rather than logistics around different locations. The inter-regional events that a new club house would attract, will bring visitors into the community and again raise the awareness of surf life saving. Surf Life Saving members save lives and they must have the facilities to provide the best possible service to the Nelson community. |
| 555.4 | Urgent Need for a Clubhouse at Tāhunanui BeachAttachments, pictures, and links in this message have been blocked because the sender isn't in your Safe Senders list. I trust content from communications@nelsonslsc.org.nz. |
| 559.7 | This is a great community project which will not only help protect people using our beaches who are not confident swimmers or who have a medical emergency while at the beach, but it will also give many young people in our community an opportunity to participate in a group where they can develop self confidence, self esteem and other skills that are great for their mental and physical well being. Good on you Council for supporting this idea. |
| 572.1 | this is a fundamental to the safety of everyone who enjoys water sports in the Nelson region. NLSC have already saved lives this year, they have gear stored all over and a makeshift base that makes their work incredibly difficult. |
| 572.1 | this is a fundamental to the safety of everyone who enjoys water sports in the Nelson region. NLSC have already saved lives this year, they have gear stored all over and a makeshift base that makes their work incredibly difficult. |
| 577.3 | surf club plays critical role in our community training youth , search and rescue efforts. We havr a large coast line and rivers that need experienced search and rescue teams available to conduct often technical rescues. The nippers progam is great for younger children building water confidence. A new facility would enablr them to train and havr proper facilities and storage of there equipment. |
| 607.2 | An essential facility for such a popular beach and would be an asset for the whole community. |
| 629.7 | Would like this modified so a new facility sits on top of dunes, incorporate more changing rooms and a new cafe/restaurant with a wooden deck overlooking the bay. |
| 637.3 | The Surf Lifesaving Club is such an important community organisation. Benefits include providing lifesaving rescues in the water, promoting water safety, and providing a pathway for young people to becoming involved in lifesaving and building high level skills in the water. A dedicated club house would allow them to provide these important benefits in a much more efficient and sustainable way. They have been an important part of our community for many years, dedicating countless volunteer hours to keeping us safe, and they deserve to have this asset to continue their good work. |
| 639.1 | Public Service: The Nelson Surf Life Saving Club is a vital community service, consistently engaged in search and rescue operations along a 300 km coastline. Our club provides water safety education, youth programs, and surf sports activities. With an average of over 34 rescues per year, multiple assists, first aids and preventative actions that impact the entire region, our lifeguards play a crucial role in saving lives and preventing emergencies.Community Education and Lifeguard Training: Our current training facilities are massively inadequate and scattered across multiple venues, leading to inefficiencies and logistical challenges. A clubhouse would provide a centralised space for training, accommodating larger groups and enable us to provide beach education programs for local schools, promoting water safety in our region.Health and Safety on Patrols: Existing patrol logistics suffer from limited shade, shelter, and scattered gear storage. A clubhouse would streamline patrol operations (saving over 2 hours each day on patrol), improve health and safety conditions, and provide essential facilities such as shade, shelter, toilets, and a kitchen. |
| 646.1 | As a Police Officer in Nelson, I support the construction of a new Surf Club for the region. From a Search and Rescue perspective a new clubhouse would provide a better base of operations than is currently available. A centralised hub would allow better planning and operations when responding to Search and Rescue incidents. increasing the safety for Nelson residents and visitors to the region. |
| 665.7 | This is a life saving critical piece of instrastructure that also has the potential to become a community hub.Nelson doesn't generally have big surf but the currents in the area caused by the largest tidal range in NZ are substantial and offer a real risk. Having a presence in the area could literally be a life saver. |
| 681.1 | What cannot be understated in consideration of this proposal is the immense value a physical location can add to create a sense of connection; to the community, for the community. A Clubhouse provides a sense of belonging - not only for club members who give so much voluntarily to the Nelson and Tasman communities, but also community members and visitors alike who choose to recreate in the Tahunanui surrounds, the sea around Nelson, and further afield where the activities of the Nelson Surf Lifesaving Club are visible in their endeavours to keep people safe in and around the water. A physical facility - while multi-functional to support the wider community, also serves as an assertive statement, legitimising all the activities Nelsonians, friends of Nelson and visitors participate in - on, in and around the water. |
| 682.7 | This is such an important club, it would be great to see this grow and florish to see our waters safer. Again this proposal affects many members of our community and so I fully support these upgrades. |
| 688.2 | very much needed |
| 778.7 | Tahunanui has been overdue for an ONSITE facilities for slc for decades. I suggest a facility with a dairy/fish and chip shop/coffee shop and or rental shop for paddle boards/kayaks etc or similar below where money from rent/sales can go back to the slc so they can become self sufficient. |
| 809.7 | Only progress if can demonstrate a need for Surf Lifesaving club. |
| 825.4 | Our Current surf lifesaving facilities at Tahunanui beach are not fit for purpose. It seems a no brainer to me to build a new facility on the beach which will empower the club to attract new members 7 enable this vital service to not just continue but to grow and thrive. Having an area which can be used not just for surf club activities, but other community events will also benefit our community. An area that can be also rented out for functions seems like a good idea to provide some income to go towards building maintenance and surf club funding. |
| 834.3 | The work that NSLSC do is massive, the amount of area they do a lot of search and rescue 24/7 for is massive, they need a stable and suitable facility for those that work for surf life saving etc. |
| 851.5 | Yes I think a new facility at Tahunui and improved changing sheds sounds good, but it should be for all Tahunanui based sports, land (rugby, tennis, field etc) and water (life saving, paddle boarding, kitsurfing), not just the surf club. If all clubs could use the facilities. And if it could be hired out to public, design it so it has separate locked storage but a main communal hall/kitchen area that can be hired, then it would be a much more "future-proofed" and utilised asset than just one main club. Location is tricky, not too close to beach or sand dunes due to potential climate changes, dynamic environment etc. A bit further back. |
| 882.7 | I assume the new building will be climate change proofed (such as on poles) to be able to withstand higher peak tides |
| 887.5 | NPHS Te Waipounamu supports the development of Tāhunanui Beach facilities. This includes the provision of a new, fit for purpose building for the Surf Lifesaving Club close to the beach. However, it is important that sea level rise and the impact on the marine and foreshore environment is considered. Supporting this development may encourage the growth and retention of volunteer surf lifesavers, creating a safer environment at the beach. It was noted that Council’s independent report identified “that there is a deficit in meeting levels of service for sports facilities at the Tāhunanui Beach. The most urgent relating to the Surf Lifesaving Club’s facilities, the safety of their members, and the ability to respond to emergencies. Changing facilities for the sports fields (especially women, girls, accessible and non-gendered provision), storage facilities, and the lack of a sports hub (social/meeting rooms) contribute to the case.” |
| 889.1 | Because it's a community service and it has no facilities to effectively offer beach safety programmes. It is also a 24/7 Search and Rescue unit and the lack of facilities must hinder response times. It's one of the busiest beaches in the country and it has no Clubhouse. |
| 890.3 | The Nelson Surf Life Saving Club is a vital community service and their current facilities are grossly inadequate. I support to proposal to construct a fit-for-purpose facility at Tahunanui Beach. |
| 893.2 | Fully support Option two of constructing a new facility for the Nelson SLSC at Tahunanui Beach but also provide storage space underneath a raised structure for use of other Clubs such as Stand Up Paddleboarding, Waka Ama and Surf skis. Tahunanui Beach offers the best option for launching paddlecraft with a gentle beach fall off and generally flat water. It is well clear of commercial fishing boats, power boats and launching ramps so offers a far safer location. There would be very few, of the hundreds, of recreational SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarders) in Nelson, that would want to launch in the hazardous Marina area adjacent to power boats and their associated wake and manouvering. |
| 894.7 | I support a new facility being built for the surf lifesaving club closer to the beach as long as it is well thought out to have minimal effect on the dune system and doesn’t take over existing recreational areas like the beach volleyball courts. I know the surf lifesavers love their sport and are passionate about being able to provide their service for the community when needed, they definitely deserve some funding. Also it would make a lot of sense to turn the exisiting slsc building into clubrooms for touch rugby/ultimate frisbee or any of the sports that use the fields and im sure they wiuld be happy to colloborate with the council on that. For the changing room i think an update on the current ones to make them more accessible and up to date with privacy in mind is all that should be required and would be most cost effective. |
| 897.1 | The Nelson SUP Club fully support plans to develop facilities at Tahunanui Beach to enhance the on-water safety of all those that use the offshore waters in the vicinity of Tahunanui Beach. Paddleboarders are present year round and especially in the summer months and anything that can improve safety and the facilities will be of benefit to all. In fact being at the beach all year round also means that Paddleboarders are there to help people in trouble on and in the water given the current situation of only having limited coverage by SLSC due to lack of facilities. I know of several cases where Club members have been involved in assisting people in trouble in the water. |
| 901.7 | lights needed on pitch by trains so we dont have to have 3 teams training on a tiny triangle to avoid impacting the rugby training sessions. |
| 902.2 | The current facilities are well past dated and must be upgraded asap. With multiple sports codes using the Tahuna Playing fields already it would benefit a huge amount of members. At the moment the current toilet block is well past needing an upgrade, sewage flows into the changing rooms from the toilets, the lights are very inconsistent at working and the showers aren't always hot. |
| 909.7 | The construction of a new facility for the Nelson Surf Life Saving Club is definitely needed, and I fully support the Council's proposal. However, there are other clubs like Nelson Yacht Club with existing facilities that require maintenance and seismic upgrading, which should also be considered and supported by Council. Extending the life of existing facilities is much more in line with reducing our impact on the environment than building new ones. |
| 920.1 | We have a dedicated group of people saving lives and keeping people safe in the aquatic environment in our community, they do this without a fit for purpose base to do so.It is time to change this and provide them with the tools to do their job, of which they all give a huge amount of voluntary hours to. |
| 982.7 | TĀHUNANUI BEACH FACILITIESConstruct a new facility for |
| 994.7 | very important resource |
| 999.2 | Our beaches are a key attraction to the area and ensuring they are safe for our residents and visitors is critical. The Nelson Surf Life Saving Club is a vital community service, saving lives, providing first aid, training others and promoting water safety in the region.Having better facilities will aid them in their role and help future training on water safety as well as a provide a safe base for these amazing members. |
| 1001.8 | 7Tahunanui: Support option 2 |
| 1019.3 | Dear Nelson City Council, Having been deeply immersed in the Nelson Surf Life Saving Club for the past 16 years, I've gained a profound understanding of the critical need for a Clubhouse and the invaluable service our Club renders to our Community. Throughout this time, my involvement has spanned various roles within our club, from steering junior surf activities to donning the lifeguard cap, instructing newcomers, and serving on multiple committee positions.From the perspective of a volunteer surf lifeguard on patrol, the current scenario paints a picture of inefficiency and frustration. Our gear sprawled across numerous inadequate facilities and containers adds a hefty two hours to our patrol days. Unlike other clubs where they simply open their clubhouse doors and head out for patrol, we struggle with the logistical nightmare of ferrying equipment to and from scattered locations. The ordeal of wrangling the patrol tower in and out of the council shed by Natureland, amidst public scrutiny and occasional abuse, further compounds our challenges.As a lifeguard instructor, the limitations of our facilities present a significant hurdle in conducting effective training sessions and inhibits us from recruiting larger numbers. With many trainees under 16 and lacking driver's licences, transportation to alternate training venues becomes an added complication. Despite being stationed at one of the country's premier and busiest beaches, our facilities pale in comparison, earning the dubious distinction of possibly having the worst SLS setup nationwide. The potential for community outreach, especially through programs like SLSNZ beach education for local schools, remains unrealised due to our current constraints.A clubhouse isn't just a building; it's a catalyst for strengthening bonds within our club, bridging the gap between junior and senior members, and fostering a sense of unity. It would afford us the opportunity to host events like our long-awaited club prize-giving, no longer relegated to the confines of local rugby clubrooms. And we could also hold bigger carnivals here attracted lots of out of town visitors to our region.Beyond the tangible benefits, involvement in Surf Life Saving transcends mere water safety. It equips individuals, especially our youth, with invaluable skills in risk assessment, first aid, CPR, and instils a profound sense of community responsibility. It's about belonging to our 'surf family' and, most importantly, about saving lives. This all extends beyond the beach, for example, just last year one of the young guards I trained ended up using her knowledge at the Warehouse one day where she saved a mans life doing CPR. The Nelson Surf Life Saving Club deserves better, and a clubhouse is not just a luxury but a necessity to unleash our full potential and better serve our community. Thank you for considering these points, I really appreciate your support for the NSLSC and our community.Ngā mihi, Mary Seelen |
| 1021.1 | as a young surf life gruad, i think having a surf club isnt a want but a need. Having gone through 8 years of jr surf and now a surf lifegruad, having a single club room, not only for patrols, tainings and gear storeage, it would bring a piblic presints, spreding aweraness of not just who we are but also what we do. |
| 1026.1 | Dear Nelson City Council,We wholeheartedly support the council's initiative outlined in the Long Term Plan 2024 -2034 Consultation Document, to develop a new facility for the Nelson Surf Life Saving Club. As representatives of the Nelson Surf Life Saving Club, we are submitting this proposal to advocate for your backing in establishing a clubhouse at Tāhunanui Beach - a pivotal initiative crucial for our community's safety and well-being.We have identified, through careful consideration, that the optimal location for a clubhouse would be where we currently already have two storage containers on the beachside of Bisley Walk. This is our preferred location as it is central along the beachfront, the part of the beach we want to encourage swimmers to; and it is also close to services. As a Club, we are fully aware of the financial requirements to make the Clubhouse a reality. Through extensive research and discussions, we have diligently prepared to pursue grants and partnerships, including regional and national funding opportunities through organisations like Surf NZ. We are confident in our ability to raise the necessary funds and fulfil our commitment to the council, as outlined in your “proposed Approach’ within the Long Term Plan 2024 - 2034 Consultation Document .Outlined below are the compelling reasons for the urgent need of a clubhouse:Public Service: The Nelson Surf Life Saving Club plays a vital role in our community, actively engaged in search and rescue operations along a coastline spanning 300 kilometres, and responding to natural disasters, as highlighted in Nelson floods. With an annual average of over 34 rescues, numerous assists, and proactive measures, our lifeguards are instrumental in preserving lives and averting crises.Community Education and Lifeguard Training: Currently, our training facilities are massively inadequate and dispersed across various locations, leading to operational inefficiencies. A clubhouse would serve as a centralised hub for training, accommodating larger groups, and strengthening our efforts in providing comprehensive beach education programs, particularly for local schools, thereby further promoting water safety within our region.Health and Safety on Patrols: In 2023 the Council prepared a business case for the project, with the independent consultant’s report highlighting the inefficiencies of the facilities, stating “that there is a deficit in meeting levels of service for sports facilities at the Tāhunanui Beach. The most urgent relating to the Surf Life Saving Club’s facilities, the safety of their members, and the ability to respond to emergencies.” Our current patrol logistics suffer from inadequate shade, shelter, and dispersed gear storage. A clubhouse would optimise patrol operations, enhancing health and safety standards by providing essential amenities such as shade, shelter, toilets, and kitchen facilities.Community Presence and Facility Accessibility:Establishing a permanent club presence through a clubhouse would not only elevate public awareness but also provide a facility that the community can use. It would facilitate recruitment efforts, fortify beach safety measures, and nurture community cohesion, enriching members' experiences and fostering intergenerational bonds within the club.Future Growth: With projections indicating a surge in membership to 400 individuals and annual training of 30-35 new lifeguards, a clubhouse is indispensable for managing this expansion. It will significantly contribute to community safety by augmenting the pool of trained individuals proficient in life-saving techniques.Events and Fundraising: A clubhouse would enable us to host various events, including annual prize-giving and inter-regional surf sports events. These events would not only attract visitors to our region but also amplify our club's presence in the community, thereby bolstering our financial sustainability and supporting future initiatives.In conclusion, the construction of a clubhouse at Tāhunanui Beach is not merely a practical requirement but also a strategic investment in public safety, community engagement, and the overarching development of the Nelson Surf Life Saving Club.Tāhunanui Beach is one of the best and busiest beaches in New Zealand, with the worst facilities, so we implore the Council to prioritise and endorse this imperative proposal.Thank you for your ongoing support.Sincerely,Noah Hosie,Club President NSLSCOn behalf of the Nelson Surf Life Saving Club Committee |
| 1032.1 | The current facilities are not adequate to support the Nelson region with our location based right on the beautiful water. We have seen the surf life saving club in action and believe asking a team of volunteers to operate from the current facilities is detrimental to their success. A new facility with a centralised base for the club would create a hub, greater community involvement, greater training opportunities and reduce the health and safety risks associated with the water. |
| 1037.1 | the best and the busiest beach in the counrty and the facilities are totally impractical and inadequate to serve the community. The club needs a clubhouse to effectively promote water safety courses. |
| 1039.2 | First responders at the beach is a no brainer. More visibility on surronding facilites means less crime. Safer community |
| 1039.2 | First responders at the beach is a no brainer. More visibility on surronding facilites means less crime. Safer community |
| 1054.7 | Nelson Surf life Saving Club deserve a base to call their own! They fo such fantastic work in our communitu |
| 1060.1 | Nelson surf lifesaving club needs a base. Its a busy beach and it needs patrolling also easy access storage areas for emergency response. My daughter is in the nippers program and loves it, needs to be more accessible for all children. They train in any weather so a space to go to for the theory side of learning is sorely needed not to mention hot showers and decent changing rooms. Water safety needs to be improved and this needs to start when children are young. Schools groups could benifit too. Thanks |
| 1061.1 | It is so beneficial to our community to teaching lifesaving skills as well as saving life's. Also it's not just about Tahuna Beach we cover such a wide area and now flooding we attend to. Our gear is stored in multiple areas is just not practical. |
| 1061.1 | It is so beneficial to our community to teaching lifesaving skills as well as saving life's. Also it's not just about Tahuna Beach we cover such a wide area and now flooding we attend to. Our gear is stored in multiple areas is just not practical. |
| 1080.4 | A clubhouse for the surf lifesaving club is a desperately needed facility. It astounds me that it hasnt been built already. The current facilities are so bad. One clubhouse where all the gear, patrol, changing rooms, events etc can be run from and to allow the surf lifesaving team to carry out their jobs better and more effectively.it could be like clubs in other regions where it includes a cafe (income source) as well as function area (another income source) and area for training and further education to be carried out. it could incorporate the Marist Rugby club house as well to be a multi sport facility. The beach cafe could also be relocated to this building- as where it is currently is in dire need of an upgrade too.there are many options for a purpose built facility at Tahuna beach. We have one of the best beaches in NZ but the worst facilities. Having children go thru the Nippers program, it’s embarrassing when we host the Nelson champs with the terrible facilities. Having various containers spread around to house the equipment and no where to host the prizegiving. |
| 1085.7 | do so and take into account climate change and rising sea levels |
| 1095.3 | Nelson Life saving is vital to keeping us safe abd saving lives . They run an amazing junior programme which i honestly think every child should do at done point as living where we do water safety and survival skills are vital. The club needs a new facility that can be a hub. Everything stored in once place, more equipment ( the existing buildings and strage units are not big enough) to allow better services abd training. A single hub would attract more people to access this vital club and make things better. Embracing the landscape we live in by tte sea and allowing more safety. |
| 1097.1 | It is vital for all beachgoers to have the surf life guards close by, especially after hours when ever second counts. |
| 1114.5 | A new facility is required to enable modern and efficient responses to search and rescue call outs along our coast line. An increasing population means more responses and responses need to be coordinated. A new modern facility that houses specialized equipment with updated communications systems will lead to faster responses and more lives saved. |
| 1144.7 | I swim with a group of friends all year. I have noticed the increase of people at the beach at all times and in all weather. It is a wonderful space and gives so much to our wellbeing. My father built the first surf life saving clubhouse on the beach and it was a hub for all sorts of family activities, King Neptune day was such a great event. I love seeing the club grow and see the next generation build confidence in the water and see its natural beauty as something we should respect and take care of. It is a treasure. |
| 1154.7 | I can not stress how important it is to have a new, purpose built SLSC facility. Since arriving in Nelson, our children have been part of the JSLSC and have been made to feel so welcome as well as recognising the importance of having proper facilities. Having come from the UK where we lived close to a purpose built, state the art RNLI Lifeboat station, i cannot emphasise enough the impact on having a sea based life saving service properly funded and higgky regarded in the community. |
| 1161.7 | 100% , This facility and service to the Nelson community is long overdue and should be a priority for Nelson and the region. |
| 1166.7 | The current facility is well beyond the scope of the services which it needs to adequately service the Nelson egion. The purpose of these services is to provide a "life saving service" to the Nelson community and visitors which utilise the waters near our beach and haven. This is a must do item and should be first priority to have a suitable club house facility for this amazing lifesaving club. With the increase of Nelsonians and their visitors enjoying the Nelson water sports this needs to be actioned ASAP. |
| 1238.4 | This will be a key piece of infrastructure for a hugely important public service. It will allow for the establishment of a long overdue professional facility, enabling greater community exposure and growth. |
| 1267.7 | I strongly support the council's proposal. |
| 1286.7 | Urgent overhaul of beach facilities is long overdue. |
| 1341.2 | This community of volunteers requires updated facilities as a matter of urgency. This is exactly the kind of group that our region depends upon. And the next generation will be the future custodians of our marine areas. Attracting interest into the many programs this essential group offers already, not to mention the scope for future developments, is a must. Fair to say the value of this initiative is huge, at least for my family of four residents and the vast majority of our friends also raising active children who depend on safety on the outdoors and a thriving surf lifesaving community. |
| 1344.1 | The Nelson Surf Lifesaving Club are integral partners working with Police Search and Rescue to deliver search and rescue service to our local community. At the time of writing, the Surf Lifesaving SAR squad have just completed the rescue of a father and his 8-year-old son who were swept off their Kayak by high winds in the Nelson harbour. Without their speedy response the incident could have had tragic consequences. This is just one example of the tremendous work the club do for the Police and the community. Due to the tidal and shallow water in the local response area, the Nelson Surf Lifesaving Club and their SAR squad play a key role in the overall capability of our water rescue assets. The club’s SAR squad have played a key role in rescuing and assisting people caught by major weather events in the last few years, such as cyclones GITA and FAHEY and the severe Nelson flooding event in August 2022. The Squad are currently upskilling around flood rescue to be available as the current changes in weather patterns see increased risk to our community. One of the biggest challenges facing the Nelson Surf Lifesaving Club and the work they do to support search and rescue, has been the lack of a fit for purpose base. Having to have rescue and club assets scattered across multiple locations directly impacts their response time and capabilities. The Nelson Police Search and Rescue Squad are 100% supportive of the club having a fit for purpose base situated at Tahunanui beach. A facility that could be utilised by other suitable community groups, including Land SAR, would be of immense benefit to the community. As all volunteer groups in New Zealand are finding it increasingly challenging to recruit people and find suitable locations to work from, the Police are committed to having likeminded volunteer groups working in partnership. This would increase the overall capability of the combined groups. This concept was recently put into practice with the Police 2024 Annual SAREX, where Surf Lifesaving, Coastguard, Land SAR and other volunteer groups all came together to exercise a mass rescue event. This event was extremely successful, and bonds were formed that will see these agencies partnering well into the future. Police would support a fit for purpose facility that would support collaboration and serve as a hub for likeminded groups. A base that can facilitate cooperation, partnerships, training & joint operations will be a significant asset that will benefit the local community & future proof emergency response for generations to come. Sergeant Malcolm York and Senior Constable Jude Yeoman Nelson Police Search and Rescue Squad. Malcolm.york@police.govt.nz |
| 1377.5 | This is much needed to support the club to continue the life saving services they offer. There is a need to engage our community and young people to join the club and keep locals and tourists safe in our NZ waters. As a club member the current set up is challenging and the required set up take time and resources that could be better spent. |
| 1379.6 | The Nelson Surf Lifesaving Club provide a wonderful and much needed service (particularly with the growing number of non-swimmers and tourists to Tāhunanui Beach). The present facilities are totally inadequate, and the club has been making do for at least a decade (and probably far more years). They need and deserve a proper facility. As volunteers they are very much taken for granted so at least the community can support the surf life saving club with the tools to properly do their job.I also support the upgrade of the changing facilities at the beach. The present ones are totally inadequate especially with the growing number of users. |
| 1399.6 | Fully support the need for a new facility for the Nelson Surf Life Saving Club. |
| 1433.7 | Tahunanui Beach facilitiesTBCA supports Option 2 – construct a new facility for the Nelson Surf Lifesaving Club, upgrade the changing facilities and improve other facilities at Tahunanui Beach Reserve following further consultation The Nelson Surf Lifesaving Club is a voluntary organisation that provides an essential 24/7 search and rescue service as well as seasonal beach patrols. Currently it lacks an appropriate operational home base to act as a focal point for its activities. This club enjoys strong family and community support, providing healthy activities for its members while at the same time ensuring a safe beach environment for the community. |
| 1434.1 | As a newbie to Nelson, and also a long time supporter of Surf Lifesaving and their amazing volunteers, I was extremely suprised by the minimal SLS facilties for a coastal city - its a no brainer really!!! |
| 1435.3 | I am new to Nelson and have come from Taranaki. I have over 30 years of involvement in surf lifesaving and was appalled at what the Nelson surf lifesaving club have to operate from. The surf lifesaving clubs around nz provide an essential service to the community. There have been countless lives saved by these volunteers and for them to continue to provide that service they need decent facilities to function. Rescue equipment needs to be available quickly and kept in a place that keeps the integrity of it. Having this and a central hub where the community can learn about water safety from passionate community volunteers is a must. I can't think of any other cities in nz on the coast that do not have a fit for purpose facility except for Nelson. If an investment is not made you will loose the resource of community volunteers keeping our beaches safe and the skills knowledge and experience that is relied on when things go bad. It would be an investment in the community and people that can save lives and what is the cost that you put on that. I am.moee than happy to be contacted about this if you wish |
| 1435.3 | I am new to Nelson and have come from Taranaki. I have over 30 years of involvement in surf lifesaving and was appalled at what the Nelson surf lifesaving club have to operate from. The surf lifesaving clubs around nz provide an essential service to the community. There have been countless lives saved by these volunteers and for them to continue to provide that service they need decent facilities to function. Rescue equipment needs to be available quickly and kept in a place that keeps the integrity of it. Having this and a central hub where the community can learn about water safety from passionate community volunteers is a must. I can't think of any other cities in nz on the coast that do not have a fit for purpose facility except for Nelson. If an investment is not made you will loose the resource of community volunteers keeping our beaches safe and the skills knowledge and experience that is relied on when things go bad. It would be an investment in the community and people that can save lives and what is the cost that you put on that. I am.moee than happy to be contacted about this if you wish |
| 1465.3 | Nelson Yacht Club is supportive of Option 2 - Construct a new facility for the Nelson Surf Life Saving Club and upgrade the changing facilities. We know full well how important it is for a club to have a fit-for-purpose facility, and wish our friends at the Nelson Surf Life Saving Club every success in securing their new facility. We also note the significant financial support for the development of the new facility, at a time when we are fighting to secure our existing facility. We would welcome engagement with Council on how NCC may be able to assist Nelson Yacht Club both with our current seismic strengthening project, but also with future projects such as the renewal of the launching ramp. |
| 1474.29 | We support option 2, with one caveat. |
| 1482.7 | We are ambivalent on the best course of action, in part due to pressures to minimise current demands on rates and in part due to shortage of data supplied around the actual lifesaving activities of the Surf Lifesaving Club.We acknowledge the general importance of surf lifesaving in New Zealand, the undesirable location of the present building, and the high level of usage of Tahunanui Beach. We also recognise potential repurposing of the existing building and need for improvement to some other amenities.In view of the business case having been prepared and the graduated expenditure we agree, with some reservations, with the proposal to pursue Option 2. |