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.
