Auckland’s North Shore could see a significant transformation of A.F. Thomas Park and Takapuna Golf Course, thanks to a $20 million redevelopment offer from retailer Golf Warehouse. The proposal comes as Auckland Council plans to use half of the 18-hole golf course as a floodwater catchment area to address the city’s increasing flood risks.
The Kaipātiki Local Board is set to begin public consultation on the future of the park in October, and one option on the table is the Golf Warehouse plan. This ambitious proposal aims to turn the 28.7-hectare park into a multi-purpose community hub with several “recreation zones” without any public funding.
A New Vision for the Park
The plan includes a new, world-class nine-hole golf course and an upgraded driving range. For casual players, a 36-hole floodlit mini golf course is also on the list. The proposal also addresses the persistent issue of flooding at Eventfinda Stadium, which sustained $6 million in damage in 2023. The stadium would be rebuilt on a raised platform, offering a long-term solution to its flood vulnerability.
Eric Faesenkloet, owner and chairperson of Golf Warehouse, said the proposal would create a hub for a variety of sports and entertainment.
“I’m pleased the council has now confirmed a solution that protects lives and infrastructure for future flooding events,” Faesenkloet said. “I believe a smart plan like ours not only provides exceptional new golfing facilities but also addresses a surge in demand for other sports like basketball, gymnastics, pickleball, cycling, and skateboarding.”
While he acknowledged that regular players would ideally prefer to keep all 18 holes, Faesenkloet stated that it’s no longer a viable option due to the new site’s constraints. He added that the way people play golf has changed and that their proposal—with a professional nine-hole course, a nine-hole par 3 course, and a large driving range—provides a pathway for all ages and abilities.
Ticking All the Boxes
Brian Blake, CEO of Eventfinda Stadium, expressed strong support for the proposal. He noted that the current 33-year-old venue is in dire need of a new roof and is still susceptible to flood damage.
“Golf Warehouse’s Proposal will see us able to build a larger venue on a new site to prevent flood damage in the future,” Blake said. “I really hope the community gets behind this proposal because it ticks so many boxes for what we need.”
In addition to the stadium and golf facilities, the proposed redevelopment would also include a community clubhouse, a dedicated space for a pickleball facility, a pump track for bikes and scooters, and a new walk/cycleway connecting Wairau Road with Northcote Road. It would also serve as a base for Golf New Zealand’s entry-level participation and talent development programs.
