Foreword about the Mercury Bay Vision document
By Pauline Stewart
The series of articles published under the title Mercury Bay Vision is drawn from a document submitted to the Thames-Coromandel District Council (TCDC) entitled “A Vision and Planning Document“.
This document was prepared following submissions made to an earlier vision series run by The Informer, together with additional ideas and contributions from members of the community. It remains a living document, with further community input still welcomed and able to be incorporated.
The rationale behind this work is simple. Over time, community priorities become clearer. The ideas that are considered most important gain support, attract momentum and ultimately have the greatest potential to become reality. By presenting these visions to our readers, we aim to encourage informed discussion and help advance thinking that is driven by community need, opportunity and passion.
Many of these concepts align closely with the objectives of the Mercury Bay Future Fund. As sufficient legacies and contributions are received, the Fund has the potential to help transform selected visions into reality. Similar Future Fund structures exist throughout the Coromandel, thanks to the efforts and foresight of a number of visionary individuals who established the legal framework for such funds in town centres across the region.
The success of any vision, however, will ultimately depend on the hard work, determination and generosity of the community itself. Local rates alone will never be sufficient to fund projects of this scale and significance.
Some visions are distinctly local in nature, while others have regional, national or even international significance, with the Coromandel identified as the ideal location. Such projects will require substantial and sustained investment from a range of sources.
The Sailing Academy is one such vision. Introduced to readers in The Informer (Issue 1225), the concept originated with Alan Hopping, founder of The Lost Spring. The idea has been evolving for several years and has been referenced in previous editions of The Informer.
This week, Alan expands on the vision and outlines more of the framework behind the proposal, which continues to attract interest, discussion and growing support.
Youth Leadership Development Programme
By Alan Hopping
The programme combines maritime development with both international and domestic tourism.
Drawing inspiration from sailing academies and tourism initiatives in Canada, and acknowledging successful youth programmes operating in China, the United States and England, the academy would focus on teamwork, discipline, resilience, courage and personal challenge.
It would also embrace strong family values, involving participants from as young as five years old through to seniors, including parents and grandparents.
International visitors would enjoy sailing tuition at the historic birthplace of New Zealand’s America’s Cup challenge, Whitianga in Aotearoa New Zealand. The academy would operate using a model similar to that of New Zealand language schools, attracting students and visitors from around the world.
Note: Following consultancy advice from Boffa Miskell, Tauranga
A sustainable income source is essential.
A landmark Civic Centre would be constructed above the academy and managed by a professional governing board. The Mercury Bay Sailing Club, as it exists today, would become a beneficiary member of the academy.
Income generated from the Civic Centre would help cover operating costs and support the appointment of internationally recognised professional sailors who would lead and mentor programme participants.
The Academy would be self-funding
Primary revenue sources would include:
• International tourism
• Civic Centre venue hire
• Conferences and functions utilising the adjacent airfield for fly-in events
The academy would attract people of all ages from throughout New Zealand and provide opportunities to learn from internationally successful sailing champions.
Rationale
New Zealand’s school leadership programmes would benefit from ongoing initiatives that help rebuild national pride and encourage young people to see New Zealand as their home of choice, a place where they can build their futures and raise their families.
As a nation closely connected to the sea, New Zealand has a strong tradition of maritime achievement. Programmes such as Outward Bound and Spirit of New Zealand have successfully inspired and developed young people for more than 60 years.
Significant resources are often directed toward addressing social challenges. It is equally important to invest in tomorrow’s leaders and build on the foundations already established through existing school leadership programmes.
The proposed Sir Michael Fay Sailing Academy would, over time, repay its estimated $40 million investment through tourism, education and community development benefits.
Tax revenue generated through accommodation, travel and associated tourism spending would provide a financial return while creating exciting opportunities for both young and older New Zealanders. The academy would offer intellectual, practical and personal development experiences that many people currently feel are lacking.
For once, government investment could deliver measurable financial returns while also enhancing national wellbeing, community pride and international recognition.
Whitianga is expected to have a sealed runway within the next five years, supported by plans involving a local company and an international hotel chain, without cost to the New Zealand taxpayer.
Additional Benefits
The significant erosion affecting the adjacent section of State Highway 25 could be addressed through natural reinstatement measures. Brophy’s Beach could be restored to its former splendour through the installation of a groyne and beach replenishment programme.
The illustration published last week demonstrated the academy concept, including the groyne structure and partial reclamation of the beach, highlighting its potential as a premier ocean and recreational facility.
The total cost of the Sailing Academy is estimated at approximately $40 million. This is around half the value of the New Zealand Mayoral Fund and would provide long-term benefits for future generations, helping develop young New Zealanders who may one day become leaders of our nation.
Political parties supporting such a significant investment in young people would likely earn recognition from parents, grandparents and future generations of New Zealand leaders.
Whitianga provides a unique opportunity to establish a world-class sailing academy that combines youth leadership development, tourism, education and community pride in a way that could benefit New Zealand for generations to come.
The right place. The perfect location. The right history.
We can do this!
◾️Disclaimer: This is to clearly distinguish Alan Hopping’s personal views and opinions from any official position, representation, or endorsement by The Lost Spring. Ph: 021 130 1982
