Overview
As reported by NZ Herald, iconic Auckland landmark Rangitoto Island could soon boast a zipline and gondola.
James Brown, chair of the Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki iwi, has put forward commercial plans for zipline and gondola rides on the volcanic motu to make it more accessible. "There's no better way to get the elderly, injured and impaired to that iconic destination that only the fit and healthy and enjoy," he said.
The proposal, which is currently being considered, could potentially run from the Islington Bay Wharf to the summit, a distance of around 2.5 kilometres. The proposal has won the backing of Tāmaki Makaurau leaders. A ski chairlift is also being floated.
Brown told NZ Herald the zipline and gondola plans would not be detrimental to the island because they would not be visible from the mainland, would skim the bush line yet would provide a significant amenity for many more people to enjoy the motu.
Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki won a Supreme Court case last year giving it the right to re-apply for rights to conduct commercial tours on both Rangitoto and Motutapu for at least five years.
Source: NZ Herald.
Image: Russell Street, Flickr.