Wānaka McDonald’s: Council to weigh pros and cons in new restaurant row

Wao Aotearoa Charitable Trust strongly opposed the idea and had concerns about the visual and aesthetic impact on the town.

“The proposed site is highly visible at the entrance of Wānaka and is adjacent to significant landscape features such as Mt Iron,” its submission said.

“The development will have a substantial adverse impact on the visual and aesthetic values of this sensitive location.

“The proposed mitigation measures, including planting and mounding, are insufficient to address the impacts of the building, signage, lighting, and parking areas.

“This site does not align with the community’s objective to protect and enhance our natural landscapes.”

The trust also had concerns about waste management, with the submission saying Wānaka had shown leadership in the move to a zero-waste economy.

One woman, who lived about a kilometre from the proposed site, was for the restaurant being built - but with some conditions.

“Opening hours are restricted to 10pm on weeknights and 12pm on weekends,” her submission said.

“I am concerned by the potential for excessive traffic movements, unsafe driving and anti-social behaviour by McDonald’s customers speeding along Aubrey Road at night disturbing sleeping residents. Limiting opening hours would help reduce the impact.”

Councillors will hear from more than 100 people who made submissions, with the meeting expected to take about three days.

-RNZ