Christchurch’s Kerrs Beach flatwater sport facilities to be relocated

Christchurch's Kerrs Reach site is a key hub in the Ōtākaro Avon River Corridor and is well-used by the flatwater sports community.

However, current sport facilities at Kerrs Reach are now crowded, with  many no longer fit for purpose. Christchurch City Council has advised that a proposed change to the Christchurch District Plan will enable the relocation of flatwater sports facilities at Kerrs Reach.

The Council has opened consultation on the Kerrs Hub Plan Change project to seek early feedback on the plan change notification.

The new location for the flatwater clubs will better allow for their growth, while geotechnical reports also show the area has better quality land. 

The land where the flatwater club sites are situated is currently designated as an  Activity Zone within the District Plan.  A plan change is required to uplift this zone and relocate it to the opposite side of the river.

If the plan change is approved, the existing flatwater facilities at Porritt Park will be relocated to the opposite bank, with the former location being developed as a new landing, known as the Wainoni Landing. 

Details of the new landing would be finalised after the plan change, but could include a small commercial kiosk, a pavilion that can be booked for events, outdoor spaces for markets, gathering and eating, an events space, ecological enhancements and river-viewing platforms. 

The area could also have boardwalks through wetland areas and trees, cultural design elements and features that encourage play and exploration.

The City to Sea Pathway will also travel through the Wainoni Landing area.

Red Zone manager Dave Little says the proposed Kerrs Reach developments are a significant project for the Ōtākaro Avon River Corridor  (OARC).

“These developments have been in the planning stages for a long time and it’s exciting to engage with the local community about the project and hear the community’s feedback on the plans. We know the community, especially the flatwater clubs, are keen to have certainty around their future at Kerr’s Reach as they plan for their future growth.

“We anticipate the Wainoni Landing will become a significant and popular destination within the OARC due to its location on the City to Sea Pathway and its proximity to the nearby flatwater sports clubs.”

The community feedback from this early consultation will help inform Council’s draft plan. 

Once Council has approved the draft plan, the proposed changes will be formally notified. The public will then have further opportunity to have their say via the formal consultation process.

Find out more how this project may affect you or your community, and to share your feedback. 

Consultation will close on 27th October.