Mapua Wharf Attracts Thousands of People a Day

People are enjoying the redeveloped Mapua Wharf in big numbers, with the Shed 4 retail development adding to its popularity as a top Tasman summer destination.

The Tasman District Council counted people going to the wharf on several days in late December and January. The Council recorded about 7500 pedestrian movements (people both entering and exiting) in the wharf precinct on 28 December, almost 9000 on 2 January and about 6400 on 17 January.

Moutere-Waimea Ward Councillor Brian Ensor said the numbers far exceeded expectations.

“It’s been an extremely popular spot for both locals and visitors to the region over the summer so far, and I think it shows Shed 4 has added even more vibrancy and appeal to the beautiful Mapua waterfront.”

The Council’s Shed 4 development opened in mid-December, adding a further six retailers to the existing cafes, restaurants, galleries and shops.

Cr Ensor said Tasman’s Great Taste Trail had also added to numbers in the area, and it was great to see the community using the new Waterfront Park for picnics and leisure.

Cr Ensor said the Council was still working with the Mapua Boat Club to consider alternative boat ramp access. Vehicle access to the Mapua Wharf is restricted, with no vehicles permitted between 10am and 7pm daily.

“With the numbers of pedestrians using the wharf area it is just not safe for vehicles to be driving in and out,” Cr Ensor said. “The boat club has raised some different options with us for alternative launching spots and we’ll be working through all of those with them.”

Cr Ensor said there were plans to provide improved parking near the wharf to meet some of the extra demand being experienced. “We expect that work to be completed this year, once the peak season is over.”

Shed 4 is part of a wider development plan for the Mapua waterfront. The next phase of the Council’s development will see landscaping of the wharf precinct completed this year and other improvements on Aranui Road.

ENDS

© Scoop Media