Planning for the development has required detailed site investigations and on-going consultation with specialist advisors and stakeholders. Research of the potential adverse effects (both during construction and once operational) - and how to resolve or minimise these - has been a major focus of the planning to date, and has included:

• Extensive observations of vehicle traffic flows and parking within the marina and nearby over the peak summer period, as a basis for the provision of extended parking facilities. Particular attention was paid to berth-holder parking and trailer parking needs; and to traffic flows on Beach Road.
   
• On-water studies, focusing on boat traffic, berth occupancy and demand on the fuel berth.  Future requirements for increased areas of hardstand and commercial marine industry area have also been assessed.
   
• Land and marine ecological surveys to assess the impacts of the extended marina on flora, fauna and marine life.
   
• Potential impacts of the development on Waikawa Bay residents - both those immediately adjacent to the marina and those more distant.  Noise and lighting assessments have been undertaken, together with consideration of the increased traffic flows that a larger marina would generate.  The visual impact of the marina within the Bay has been considered and simulations have been prepared to show how the marina is likely to be seen from various viewpoints and at night.
   
• An archaeological survey of the area was completed late last year, and a cultural impact assessment of the project is in progress.

One of the issues associated with the proposed marina extension is management of the moorings within Waikawa Bay. Extension of the marina will require relocation of approximately 60 swing moorings that are currently located within the footprint of the development. To safeguard relocation options an application has been made for alternative swing mooring sites, including Whatamonga Bay, however we hope that relocation there can be avoided by employing more efficient tackle systems in a consolidated mooring space at Waikawa.