Koitiata Coast Care sign installed
Date: 09 December 2008
The interpretation panel, which was several years in the making, is a show-piece for the small, close-knit community of Koitiata. It aims to enrich the experience of visitors by informing them of the inhabitants and characteristics of the unique coastal environment, and encouraging them to care for the beach as they enjoy it. The panel, designed with input from Koitiata residents and the Department of Conservation, highlights some of the plants, animals and features of Turakina Beach that are special to the Koitiata community.
Koitiata is the residential area at Turakina Beach, with a population of around 90 permanent residents. This small coastal community is situated at the Turakina river mouth, and was originally developed as a sea-side resort. Like many of the beaches along our coast, it is a very dynamic environment characterised by constant sand movement and the ever-shifting river mouth. This is a fact of life for Koitiata residents, but was cause for concern during the development of the sign. Kelly Stratford, Department of Conservation ranger who co-ordinated the production of the sign, describes how difficult it was to decide on an accurate map. "The river mouth and sand spit constantly moved during the months of the design period. In the end, the map was date stamped and the constant changes of the environment became a feature of the information on the panel".
The new sign welcoming visitors to
Turakina Beach.
Initially, locals couldn't understand how a sign could cost so much money, but upon seeing the finished product, the overall consensus is that it is money well spent. "It's a wonderful sign" says long-time resident and Koitiata Coast Care member Peter Fraser. "It tells the story of the locality and does the essentials of explaining what makes the beach unique and giving advice on how visitors should treat the coast".
Mr Fraser has been working on the project with fellow coast care member Arnold Nation since its inception. They had hands-on involvement, helping to determine the content and installing the frame and shelter structure themselves in their spare time. The sturdy, sheltered structure has provision for further community and public signage. They are very happy to see it completed. "We hope the sign will assist tourists and visitors in appreciating the uniqueness of our beach" says Mr Fraser.