Abandoned Boats and Kayaks to Be Removed from Eely Point Reserve

Starting Monday 6 October 2025, Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) will begin clearing abandoned vessels from Eely Point Reserve in Wānaka.

Why the Action is Happening

QLDC Parks Manager Dave Winterburn says more and more kayaks and boats have been left along the lakefront — stretching from the Yacht Club through Eely Point to Bremner Bay.

“Eely Point Reserve is highly valued by the Upper Clutha community and an iconic public area for recreation. To ensure our lakefronts can be enjoyed by everyone, we’re asking people to collect their kayaks and boats, as we’re unable to identify what vessels are unused or abandoned,” he explained.

The Council has counted over 90 vessels in this area. Many appear old, unused, or abandoned, and with no permanent storage allowed on lakeside reserves, action is being taken.

What Happens Next

• Notices have already been placed on vessels in the reserve.

• From 6 October, the Parks team will begin removal.

• Unclaimed vessels will be placed in offsite storage or disposed of.

• Owners are encouraged to remove their property now to avoid losing it.

Winterburn added that abandoned vessels block access to waterways and make it harder for the Parks team and community groups to carry out maintenance, planting, and pest control along the lakefront.

Call to the Community

“If you know someone using this location to store a vessel, please let them know or contact Council,” Winterburn said.
“Thank you to the community in advance for helping keep our lakeside reserves safe, tidy, and accessible for all.”

For questions, locals can reach the Parks team at [email protected].

This initiative is part of QLDC’s ongoing efforts to enhance lakeside reserves across the district.