Toilet funding eases drain on Akaroa

Akaroa is feeling flush with success following a decision to award $120,000 from the Tourism Infrastructure Fund towards building new toilet facilities in the seaside town.

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment-controlled fund provides up to $25 million annually for the development of tourism-related infrastructure such as car parks, freedom camping facilities, sewerage and water works and transport projects. It aims to address capacity constraints, and support regions in realising their tourism potential.

Tourism infrastructure funding has been approved for Akaroa.

Applications are approved by the Minister of Tourism.

The round two funding to the Christchurch City Council for the Banks Peninsula infrastructure was announced this week.

Council Head of Parks Andrew Rutledge says the funding for new amenities will help lift the pressure of cruise ship visitors, day trippers and campers on the town’s facilities.

“The funding approval has come at the perfect time as Akaroa works to deal with the growing popularity of the region and the multiple demands of domestic and international visitors,” he says.

Banks Peninsula Community Board Chairperson Pam Richardson says the funding approval is a “wonderful start to boosting and improving the area’s amenities”.

“We are delighted that the Government has recognised the need to share the cost burden and support our area,” Mrs Richardson says. “We need extensive facilities and excellent infrastructure to meet the needs of visitors and this is a first step towards securing a sustainable future for Akaroa.”