Motuoapa Marina officially opened
Boaties at the southern end of Lake Taupo¯ are celebrating the completion of a new $6million marina.
Harbour Master Philip King was choked up with emotion as he spoke at the opening of the 158-berth Motuoapa Marina on Saturday.
He said all the hard work that has been put into the new marina was going to be a big boost to everyone the community not just the boaties.
The new facility has been designed for everyone with a new public beach, 104 new carparks and 158 marina berths.
‘‘It has taken a bit longer to complete, but we got it done properly,’’ he said.
‘‘Future generations will benefit from this.’’
He said seeing people happy that the marina has been revamped was a great feeling and he is glad that has gone ahead.
‘‘I am looking forward to summer and for the community to enjoy it [new marina and beach.]
King said the revamp cost $6 million and, where possible, money was spent locally.
Taupo¯ MP Louise Upston visited the marina ahead of its official opening on Saturday.
‘‘It is an exciting time for locals who will now be able to experience the benefits and opportunities that the longawaited upgrade of Motuoapa Marina will bring,’’ she said.
‘‘The neglected state of boating facilities around the lake was one of the first issues raised with me when I became the MP for Taupo¯ .
‘‘I was pleased to be able to secure $4.8 million in Budget 2011 to help this project and others like it get off the ground.
‘‘I’m delighted to see years of discussions and planning come to fruition.’’
She said the upgrade of Motuoapa Marina joins a long list of completed projects that received funding in Budget 2011.
These include upgrades and improvements to Taupo¯ and Nukuhau Marinas, as well as ramps and jetties at Acacia Bay, Te Moenga, Pukawa and Omori, among others.
‘‘Lake Taupo¯ brings thousands of visitors to the region every week so it’s important that its boating facilities are modern, safe and fit for purpose.
‘‘I look forward to seeing Motuoapa Marina provide a welcome boost to the southern end of the lake.’’