Ahuriri Beach Rock Pool Project Gains Momentum With Feasibility Study

A proposal to transform Ahuriri Beach into a ticketed outdoor rock pool complex is gaining traction as a recent feasibility study indicates the project is viable. The plan, spearheaded by a local resident from Hawke’s Bay, envisions a $20 million development featuring a six-lane, 50-meter Olympic-sized swimming pool and a shallow, 25-meter bean-shaped pool designed for seniors and children. Both pools would be filled with naturally heated saltwater and remain accessible year-round.

The Ahuriri Rock Pools Development Trust initially presented this ambitious proposal to Napier City Council in 2021 as part of the council’s Long Term Plan consultation process. Over the past four years, the vision has evolved, and in 2022, the council allocated $70,000 to support a feasibility study that has now confirmed the project’s potential.

Community support is crucial, as the study suggests that the public might need to contribute approximately a quarter of the total development cost. This funding model aims to ensure the project’s sustainability and accessibility for local residents and visitors alike.

The proposed facilities at Ahuriri Beach are designed not only to enhance recreational opportunities but also to boost tourism in the area. By creating a family-friendly environment with year-round access to swimming, the trust hopes to draw more visitors to the region, potentially benefiting local businesses.

Local stakeholders are optimistic about the project’s prospects. The combination of recreational space and an attractive coastal setting is seen as a way to promote healthy lifestyles and community engagement. As discussions continue, the trust is focusing on garnering support from both the community and potential investors to secure the necessary funding for the project.

In the coming months, the trust plans to hold community meetings to inform residents about the project’s benefits and gather feedback. Engaging the public will be essential as they move forward, ensuring that the development aligns with community desires and expectations.

If successful, the Ahuriri Beach rock pools could become a landmark attraction in Hawke’s Bay, offering both leisure and wellness opportunities while enhancing the natural beauty of the coastline. The trust remains committed to pursuing this vision, and with the feasibility study’s positive findings, they are now looking to solidify support and funding to make the dream a reality.