Background

In August 2025, Council – under section s54(1) (d) of the Reserves Act 1977 – notified its intention to enable a change of use at Ferrybank Reserve, allowing Hamilton Rowing Club to operate a café which would be open to the public for their enjoyment. The café would cover approximately 265m2 footprint of the current building on recreation reserve (a part of Lot 1 DP South 12771), being part of Ferrybank Reserve. It was proposed that if the change of use was approved, a new 25-year lease would replace the club’s existing commercial lease under section 119 of the Reserves Act 1977.

Under s120 of the Reserves Act, Council invited public feedback on the proposal from 15 August to 12 September 2025. Based on the community feedback received, the Council Chief Executive had delegated authority to make a final decision on the lease.

What we heard from the community

We asked the community if they supported the change of use of a section of Ferrybank Reserve to allow for a proposed publicly accessible café. During the consultation period, we received 77 responses – with 75 in support of the lease and two indicating that they don’t have a view or are unsure of the idea.

Public hearings for the consultation were not required.

Decision made

With the majority of public feedback showing support for the change of use, the Chief Executive made the decision to approve the change of use at Ferrybank Reserve and grant the new lease.

Proposal to lease

Under section s54(1) (d) of the Reserves Act 1977, Hamilton City Council hereby notifies its intention to enable a change of use at Ferrybank Reserve, enabling Hamilton Rowing Club to operate a café which would be open to the public for their enjoyment. The Café would cover approximately 265m2 footprint of the current building on recreation reserve (a part of Lot 1 DP South 12771), being part of Ferrybank Reserve. It is proposed if the change of use is approved, a new 25yr lease will replace the Club’s existing commercial lease under section 119 of the Reserves Act 1977.

About the proposal

The club is proposing to undertake improvements to its building including the establishment of a café and restaurant, which will be available to the public. The café and restaurant will operate under a full commercial lease, while the club retains its community occupancy lease for the land. The café activity supports the club’s operations including building upkeep, enhance member facilities, and helps to keep membership costs affordable, with the café also benefiting park users.

About the facility

Hamilton Rowing Club is one of the oldest clubs in Hamilton and has operated from the Ferrybank site since 1905. The club owns the building on recreation reserve land and has a strong history of sport provision, facility maintenance, rowing programmes, and commercial activity. As the café is not contemplated in the Riverside Reserve Management Plan, public consultation is required for this change of use.

Council would like to hear your feedback on the proposal before 12 September 2025.

Next steps

Under s120 of the Reserves Act, you can make a submission on the proposal. Your feedback will be received up to 12 September 2025. Staff will collect and analyse all feedback at the close of the submissio period. If required, hearings will be held in September to hear from those wishing to make verbal submissions. The Chief Executive has delegated authority to make a decision based on community feedback.