The Waimea Inlet is an important estuary both locally and nationally. Constant nibbling at the edges has resulted in the loss of wetland areas and natural habitats. This is one of the reasons we have discounted the Traverse as a course site.

 

It is felt that the “wet area” and peripheral vegetation of the estuary are of primary importance in terms of the ecology of the system. The modified monoculture of pine on the island is of little ecological importance to New Zealand fauna and the area. Indeed it could be considered a net negative in terms of ecological diversity within the estuary. It is felt that the Trust and its intended development could work together with environmental initiatives which would ultimately assist in the development of a more diverse estuary.

 

It is the trusts intention that the facilities will not only encourage youth to get active, sports and sports men and woman to develop, tourism to increase, but also provide a native habitat for the casual walker and visitor, as well as enhance the habitat for the Fauna of the Waimea Inlet.