Dunedin company Onumai Enterprises has applied for consents with the Otago Regional Council.
The proposed multipurpose building will cover most of the wharf area that is vacant between the storage units.
The ORC has received 51 submissions on the proposal, of which 34 are in support, 16 are opposed and one is neutral.
Some believe it will offer something different for the community, but others are worried about the precedent it would set.
The application said the company hoped the site would function "as an all-tide base for recreational, sporting and school-based activities and events requiring access to the coastal marine area, including access for disabled persons".
Resident Kirsty Ann Kirsty Fiddes was particularly pleased with the proposed access for disabled persons, as well as the fact that she felt the building would not impede views of the river.
David McKewen submitted the proposal struck a balance between public good (such as the disability access) and personal desires (such as part of the building being converted to an Airbnb) and would generate local employment.
"I support the application as it will be the catalyst to invigorate what has become an increasing eyesore," his submission said.
Other submissions in favour said they supported the visual element; the size, shape, and materials proposed, particularly the representation of a traditional boat shed.
John Frederick, who has had a crib at Taieri Mouth for 27 years, did not want to see the building go ahead.
"I have used the wharves for fishing and canoeing," his submission said.
"They may be somewhat rundown, but they have a particular character and charm," it said.
Mr Frederick’s concern was this proposal would set a precedent and "without doubt lead to further housing on other wharves".
Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou had similar concerns.
"In allowing residential and rental accommodation activity to take place in the proposed multipurpose building, and with the inclusion of a gate even if left unlocked, this already gives the impression that the associated wharf is also private access only," its submission said.
"It is reasonable to expect that the public would be discouraged from approaching the area and effectively, result in exclusive access for the applicant’s family and their paying guests."
Fire and Emergency New Zealand was neutral about the proposal, but wanted assurances the multipurpose building was provided with a firefighting water supply, saying there were a number of potential options available to provide this.
A hearing date for the proposal is yet to be confirmed.
