|
|
The Mount artificial surfing reef had its beginnings as a research idea at the University of Waikato, under the direction of Professor Kerry Black. The Artificial Reefs Program (ARP) was developed as part of positive coastal development, forming the basis of many student research projects. Respected Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Shaw Mead, was just one of those who's degree was part of this project.
In the past, major coastal constructions have always been for a single purpose, such as port protection and erosion prevention. The program sought ways to improve the environmental value of these by incorporating surfing, diving, fishing, biological enhancement, aesthetic values as well as swimming and boating safety. After eight years of research into the enhancement of surfing waves, the expertise to design world-class surfing breaks is now readily available through ASR Ltd.
Mount Maunganui was chosen as the location for New Zealand's first artificial surfing reef for several reasons. The Mount is New Zealand's 'Surf City' with a large population of resident surfers and a thriving surfing industry. The coast east of the Main Beach receives swell for most of the year; however, the sand banks are constantly changing which means there are seldom thick hollow waves at one spot. The placement of an artificial surfing reef creates short heaving barrels at a known location.
What and where is the reef?
The Mount Reef is a small Delta shaped 'A frame' surfing reef off 'The Coast' near Tay Street that will provide 50 metre right and left-hand rides once completed.
Click here to view map of the location.
Click here for pictures of the Delta reef design and waves.
The artificial reef was designed to have a primary purpose of creating high quality surfing waves at a fixed location. A database showing the shape of world-class surfing breaks was utilised to design the reef with sophisticated computer models, like those used for racing yacht design. The reef is 250 m offshore and 0.4m below the lowest tide level, it is not visible above water. It was designed to produce short fast peeling, tubing, right-hand and left-hand waves, suitable for competent and experienced surfers. The reef is being extensively monitored for its performance in terms of surfing wave quality, biological enhancement and its effect on the beach behind and seabed surrounding it.
An added feature of the reef is the ability to remove it if necessary. The research of the ARP has found that effects of an offshore submerged reef are positive and minimal, however, by designing with removal in mind a precautionary approach can be taken. The findings of this research have already pushed New Zealand further ahead in the field of multi-purpose reef design and the application of positive coastal technology.
The usual planning and consent processes were undertaken with a full assessment of environmental effects, public meetings and community consultation to involve all interested and effected parties. The Mount Reef Trust gained resource consent approval after winning a High Court challenge back in July 2004. |
|