Beach patrol ask for bike shelter
Harsh coastal conditions are damaging vehicles and sparking funding pleas for Himatangi patrollers seeking shelter.
The patrol is sourcing about $30,000 for a garage to house the group’s quad bike, jeep and an office.
Co-ordinator Rene van de Weert said beach conditions were ‘‘not favourable’’ for vehicles left outside. The group had limited funds and wanted to eliminate the risk of unnecessary wear and tear, he said.
The patrol is in its second year after it was established late in 2015. After initially using their own vehicles to patrol the village, the group received a grant in February 2016 for the purchase of a four-wheel drive.
The small beachside town population swells over the Christmas period from about 400 to close to 4000.
‘‘We feel it is very important to provide a garage to protect the Jimny as soon as possible,’’ va de Weert said.
The project has been given a kickstart by the Manawatu District Council who have offered $4000 towards the construction of a garage provided the group can secure the remaining funding.
Van de Weert said they would be approaching the Eastern and Central Community Trust and ‘‘other funders’’ if necessary.
The cost of the garage was estimated to be $18,000 to $26,000, excluding the floor pad and any consenting fees. They would also require power and an alarm system.
Councillor Alison Short said the patrol was a great asset to the district and went a long way to ensuring Himatangi was a safe place to visit.
Last year the vehicle cost about $1000 to run after petrol, registration and warrant of fitness costs.
Van de Weert said the patrol had ensured less motorbikes were screaming up and down the beach and vehicles were acting responsibly.
‘‘Locals have commented that they feel safer now.’’