Last month we updated you on the Kaipara District Council (KDC) approving a new 33-year lease for the surf club, as well as proposed plans for the overall redevelopment of the surf beach. You can read that here

The long-term lease provides certainty for the club and ensures it can continue to deliver vital surf lifesaving services for many seasons to come.

This positive development comes as work continues steadily on the large-scale slip repair behind the clubhouse, which was damaged during Auckland Anniversary severe weather event in 2023. A Dangerous Building Notice forced the closure of the facility, prompting Mangawhai Heads Volunteer Lifeguard Service (MHVLS) to operate from temporary structures at the beach while repairs and planning progressed. This restricted access made rescue efforts more difficult for lifeguard staff.

Earth Stability Limited (ESL), the contractor overseeing the slip remediation, reports that the project remains on schedule despite some poor weather over the Easter period. The site held up well, and the team made up for delays by working over weekends. All rock bolts have now been successfully installed, and the next stage—known as meshing—is about to begin.

The meshing phase requires helicopter lifts that will take flight from the grassed beach car park area over the coming weeks. The public is advised to keep clear of this zone when directed by contractors.

In line with ecological requirements, weed control has also begun across the historic Pā site, with native planting due to take place later in the year.

The slip repair is still expected to be completed by July, in keeping with the original timeline. Once this work is finished, the focus will shift to repairing the damaged clubhouse and constructing a new seawall and boat ramp to enhance the club’s operational capabilities.

The club acknowledges the strong support received from its members, volunteers, local councillors, and Kaipara District Council staff. For updates or to support the club’s ongoing work, visit www.mangawhaisurfclub.org.nz.