The Wanaka Rowing Club has been asked why it is hiding its proposed clubhouse among trees at the start of the Millennium Track when it could be basking in full public view on Lake Wanaka's lakefront, in front of the Upper Clutha showgrounds.
That query yesterday from Queenstown Lakes Mayor Clive Geddes and the Wanaka Community Board delighted rowing club president Dave Varney yesterday.
"We would like in front of the showgrounds but had never considered it because of fear of community backlash.
That's why we were trying to hide it," he told the board.
Mr Geddes said water sports activities were expected on the lake so the public should expect to find structures such as wharves, jetties, yacht clubs and public toilets on lakefront recreation reserves.
The board approved in principle a lease to the Wanaka Rowing Club over part of the Roys Bay recreation reserve.
This allows the club to develop detailed site, design and construction plans for several site options for the board's approval before a final preferred site is identified.
