PRESS RELEASE - 6th August 2025

Slip Repair Nears Completion at Mangawhai Heads Volunteer Lifeguard Service Clubhouse – But Critical Clubhouse Repair and Seawall Funding Still Needed.

(MHVLS) is pleased to announce that major progress has been made on repairing the landslip behind its iconic clubhouse, with completion expected in early August. The long-awaited repair project, delivered by Earth Stability Limited (ESL), marks a significant milestone in restoring the operational core of the club and protecting the surrounding environment.

ESL has completed significant stabilisation work, including the installation of rock bolts, galvanised and PVC-coated rockfall mesh, and the application of vegetation matting. This state-of-the-art solution will encourage regrowth while preventing further erosion of the exposed rock face.

Once ESL concludes its work, the site will be handed over to the building repair contractors, who will wrap the clubhouse in weatherproof material and begin restoration works, expected to continue through to Christmas. Thanks to steadfast support from insurance broker Aon and insurers NZI and Vero, MHVLS is on track to return to its clubhouse and resume full services to the public during the 2025/26 season.

“This project reflects not just physical restoration, but the resilience of our club over the past two and a half years,” said the MHVLS committee. “The support of Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ), and the CAPEX funding of $1.9 million they helped secure, has been critical.”

Call for Community Support: Clubhouse, Seawall, and Boat Ramp Still Require Funding.

While progress on the slip and clubhouse repair is encouraging, MHVLS continues to face significant challenges in funding the repair of the clubhouse and the upgrade of the seawall and boat ramp directly in front of the club. These essential coastal defences are vital to the long-term safety and function of the site — particularly following extreme weather events.

The club has secured design plans and resource consent from Northland Regional Council (NRC), but despite best efforts, funding applications through multiple community grant channels have been unsuccessful. The situation is further complicated by a lack of clarity regarding financial responsibility between the Kaipara District Council (KDC) and NRC.

“We have the plans and the green light — but without funding, we can’t act,” said the committee. “We are now looking to the public and local businesses to help us protect this vital community asset for future generations.”

Ongoing Lease Negotiations and Future Concerns

The club continues to negotiate its site lease with KDC, which owns the land, amid growing concerns over future development plans at Mangawhai Heads Reserve. Key issues — including access and parking — remain unresolved, and MHVLS is advocating strongly to ensure any development does not compromise its vital lifesaving services.

“We’re here to serve the community, and that includes ensuring this site remains fit for purpose well into the future,” said the club.

How You Can Help

MHVLS welcomes donations, sponsorships, and in-kind support to help fund the clubhouse, the seawall, and boat ramp repairs. If you'd like to contribute, please contact the club or visit:

MHVLS Givealittle page https://givealittle.co.nz/org/mangawhaisurfclub

MHVLS Website https://mangawhaisurfclub.org.nz/