Community group, Keep Whangaparāoa’s Green Spaces (KWGS), has welcomed the decision of Auckland Council to publicly notify the Resource Consent application by Long River Investments, owner of Gulf Harbour Golf Course.

The application aims to alter boundaries, potentially paving the way for residential development on holes 2 to 9.

KWGS expresses concerns over potential loss of green spaces, increased traffic congestion, and environmental impacts.

They credit their efforts and support from local officials for reaching this stage, with plans to facilitate community submissions through their website and Facebook page.

The decision to notify the application highlights an anomaly in Long River's submission regarding coastal land contracts, which KWGS argues are non-existent or lapsed, undermining the rationale for boundary changes.

KWGS insists on rejecting the application, citing a 999-year Encumbrance mandating golf course and country club use for the land.

They call for transparency in Long River's plans and adherence to established planning laws to safeguard the golf course's integrity and community interests.

While committed to opposing any threats to the golf course, KWGS emphasises the council's responsibility to preserve community interests by upholding the Encumbrance against residential or commercial development.

Auckland Council's move to publicly notify the Resource Consent application reflects a step towards community engagement and transparency in land development decisions, inviting wider participation and scrutiny in shaping the future of Gulf Harbour Golf Course and its surrounding green spaces.