A well‑attended community meeting was held yesterday, with approximately 50 residents present. Members of the Waitākere Local Board and council officers were also in attendance. The discussion covered all aspects of the proposed Laingholm Beach upgrade. Acoustic and temperature conditions in the hall made the meeting challenging, and it was noted that these factors should be considered by the council when planning future sessions. The key points are summarised below.
1. Communication and Consultation
Concerns were raised regarding the limited communication about the project. Approximately 200 letters were distributed, despite Laingholm having an estimated 3,000 residents.
In response, Council agreed to extend the submission deadline and to publish information in the next issue of the Roundabout to ensure broader community awareness and participation.
2. Project Prioritisation
Several residents questioned why a “beautification” project was being prioritised ahead of more urgent issues such as the Victory Road slip and damaged footpaths.
Council advised that the upgrade is funded from a separate budget, specifically the Local Communities and Parks fund. While this distinction is clear from a Council perspective, many residents expressed that it does not align with local priorities.
3. Boat Ramp and Access
There were strong views on maintaining access for fishing and water‑based activities at both the creek end and the beach. The Western Road access was noted as unsuitable due to potholes and the softness of the foreshore.
The boat ramp maintained by the local Fishing Club was also discussed. The Club is already in communication with Council regarding continued access, and councillors indicated their support.
4. Creek Maintenance
Residents raised ongoing concerns about the creek becoming blocked with sand following king tides, resulting in foul odours and erosion of the parking area.
A concrete breakwater was suggested as a potential mitigation measure.
5. BBQs and Showers
Council staff confirmed that the majority of submissions opposed the installation of BBQs and showers. These elements have therefore been removed from the proposal.
6. Phoenix Palms ( aka “Iconic Palms” :) )
The bad new: the petition here to retain the palms may not be accepted, as the signatures cannot be verified as predominantly local. This highlights the importance of collecting addresses in future petitions. However, it also raises the question why the council does not ask for an address in their own submission form!
Residents are still encouraged to email their feedback directly to Council (email below). Please include your address, as Council has indicated that local submissions will carry the most weight.
A former Laingholm resident and member of restoration Ruatuna shared her experience of removing palm seedlings from her property in Laingholm, although she no longer resides in the area.
Another resident shared ACC data indicating that Phoenix Palm–related injury claims have decreased in recent years and are mostly associated with elderly individuals on private properties. The view expressed was that this trend should not be used as a primary factor in the argument for the removal of the Phoenix Palms.
The broader problem of weeds and animal pests in Laingholm ,including ginger, stoats, and rats, was raised, and several people questioned why Phoenix Palms are being singled out when there are other issues considered to be higher priority.
Options discussed included:
Planting natives now and removing palms only once the native plantings are established
Retaining the palms with improved maintenance and removing seed heads regularly
Council will provide:
- The estimated cost of palm removal (approximately $40,000)
- The annual maintenance cost
- The overall project budget for the upgrade
7. Native Planting
Concerns were raised about the inclusion of karaka trees, as their berries are highly toxic to dogs and horses.
Council noted that the planting plan was submitted by the Ruatuan group and remains open for discussion. Please submit your feedback!
8. Project Process and Community Involvement
Several residents questioned how the project had progressed to this stage without broader consultation or more comprehensive research.
Ken Turner emphasised that the community must drive the outcome, citing Huia as an example where strong community engagement led to a positive result.
Where to from here
The meeting made one thing very clear: if we want a say in the future of Laingholm Beach, we need to stay involved and make our voices heard. Council has opened the door for further feedback, but it’s up to us as a community to step through it.
At this stage, it would be helpful to know whether there is an existing local group that can coordinate community input, or whether we should establish a dedicated forum to ensure residents can share information, discuss proposals, and present a unified position when needed.
What you can do now:
• Spread the word to neighbours and friends
• Check in with those who aren’t on social media
• Offer help to anyone who may need support in submitting their feedback
The more people who participate, the stronger and more representative our community voice will be .
Council Feedback Form or waitakererangeslocalboard@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Thank you for your support.
Eva