A "high-level strategy'' to develop the 1.7km strip of land between Wanaka's township and lake received the backing of the Wanaka Community Board this week.
The Wanaka lakefront development plan is designed to guide the development of the town's lakefront reserves for the next 20 to 30 years.
The board indicated it would like the plan to be a reality within six years, depending on finance.
In her report to the meeting, senior parks and reserves planner Jeannie Galavazi noted feedback, during a three month consultation process, was "very positive and supportive''.
However, in the public forum part of the meeting, two members of the public raised concerns about the plan.
Owner of the popular lakefront cafe Kai Whakapai Roger North said his business stood to "lose quite a lot'' through the redesigning of the town centre and he would like to be no worse off as a result of the redesign.
Mr North wanted to be certain his cafe's outdoor seating area would not be reduced and was concerned at the omission of an existing, busy loading bay near his premises.
Board chairwoman Rachel Brown pointed out the plan was a concept one which would be followed by more detailed planning, and she suggested a site visit to discuss specifics.
Wanaka Yacht Club commodore Quentin Smith said the club was "generally very positive'' about the plan but had some concerns about boat parking and the retention of willows, which he believed was not practical.
He also wanted reassurance there would be enough space for yachts to manoeuvre between a new jetty and an extended marina.
Board member Calum McLeod said yesterday it was planned to remove crack willow trees near the yacht club by Christmas but it had yet to be decided what sort of trees would replace them.
"We haven't discussed what we are going to replace them with but the option is something more suitable, something more low-lying. Maybe it's natives, maybe it's not.
"Lots of people like the autumn colour, so that's a discussion yet to be had.''
