Wharf’s future raised behind scenes
Secret talks have been held over Stanley Bay Wharf ownership being transferred from Auckland Council to the Navy.
Initial discussions over the transfer appear to have been done in secret, without public notification or consultation.
An Auckland Transport (AT) spokesman confirmed the transfer was in progress. “AT is handing the wharf over to council, who will then be in possession of it before it becomes a naval asset,” he said.
“AT is doing minimal maintenance on the wharf until the handover.”
However, Auckland Council said “Stanley Bay Wharf is still being managed by Auckland Transport. We have not received confirmation yet about when it is likely to be transferred across to Auckland Council so it is too soon to comment on the next steps.
“Once the council has taken over management of this asset, we’ll be happy to share more information with you about the process required to determine its future use,” the spokesperson said.
The Navy response to Flagstaff inquiries suggested any transfer was in its early stages.
“The future of the Stanley Bay Wharf was raised during discussions between the New Zealand Defence Force and Auckland Council,” a Defence spokesperson said.
“However, there have been no follow-up discussions or proposals between the parties on this specific subject.
“The NZDF is currently focused on the first tranche of projects already identified and announced for the future naval base development. These include the planned improvements to the Stanley Bay Gate entrance,”
North Shore councillor Richard Hills had heard nothing of the move and was following up with officers on the wharf’s status
Ferry services from Stanley Bay Wharf were controversially cancelled in 2020 due to budget constraints.
At the time, then-councillor and Stanley Point resident Chris Darby said he was “absolutely gutted” about the decision, which came despite behind-the-scenes lobbying. Darby had championed having the pontoon and terminal upgraded in 2012 and fought to retain the service when it was under review in 2018.
More than $1 million had been spent on improvements to the Stanley Bay wharf in the years leading up to the ferry termination.
The wharf is a popular fishing spot and a gathering place for children and teens who enjoy swimming and diving from it.
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https://ift.tt/HVJkNfQ Devonport Naval Base January 29, 2026 at 01:43PM
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