Measures to Reduce Congestion at the Waikawa Launching Ramps
3 December 2008

Port Marlborough is introducing a range of new parking management measures to alleviate congestion around the launching ramps in Waikawa this summer. The measures aim to improve traffic flows and parking at the marina and, in collaboration with the Waikawa Bay Residents and Ratepayers Association, the Waikawa Bay launching ramp.

“Trailer parking around the launching ramps during peak periods has become an issue of increasing concern,” says Jeannine Paul, Marinas Manager at Port Marlborough. “Last summer we monitored ramp usage and parking at the marina, and after discussion with the Waikawa Bay Residents and Ratepayers Association, saw the opportunity to develop a comprehensive strategy that addresses concerns about congestion at the Waikawa Bay ramp as well.”

Developed in conjunction with Marlborough Roads and the Marlborough District Council, the new measures include road markings to define parking areas and protect driveways in residential areas, additional signage and parking enforcement during peak activity.

The new road signage will provide information about the status of car/trailer parking at both Waikawa Bay and Waikawa Marina. The signs will be erected at the corner of Waikawa Road and Beach Road, and also prior to the entrance to Picton Marina on Waikawa Road.  Vehicles will be diverted to the Memorial Park parking area at Picton Marina when the Waikawa facilities are full.

At Waikawa Marina a new day-only zone is being introduced for car/trailer parking immediately adjacent to the launching ramp.  The balance of the car/trailer parking area on the eastern side of the marina will be reserved for people parking for up to three days. Mrs Paul said that these measures are designed to ensure more parks are available close to the launching ramp for short-term users. Over the peak periods people who plan on heading out on their boat for longer periods will be directed to park in the car/trailer parks on the Western side of the marina,and then to Picton Marina once these parks are full.

 Port Marlborough will be monitoring the impact of the new parking measures over the coming summer period with a view to making further incremental management improvements as required. “We expect that by the end of the summer we will be in a position to map out a sensible strategy for the next 2 – 5 years,” said Mrs Paul.