World-famous New Chum headland safe from developers

One of the most beautiful spots in the world, New Chum’s headland on the Coromandel Peninsula, is no longer in danger of being lost to developers.

Locals have secured the headland in a mortgagee sale for $2.15 million, following a fundraising drive that will now see it protected forever.

New Chum Beach is described as one of the most unforgettable in the world by Lonely Planet, while The Observer voted it in the top 20.

“It’s just a wonderful feeling, not just for Ngāti Huarere, mana whenua, but for all of the people of New Zealand, it’s a real win,” says Wanda Brljevich from Ngāti Huarere Trust.

The land behind Wainuiototo Bay, or New Chum, is privately owned. Developers have been fighting against huge opposition to put houses up there for over a decade.

Locals got their chance to preserve the 30 hectares of northern headland when a company belonging to one of the owners, George Kerr, hit trouble.

Preserve New Chum For Everyone spokesperson Linda Cholmondeley-Smith says the group’s Give A Little campaign attracted donations from around the globe.

“To all those who donated, thank you. Every little donation, no matter how big or small, has been wonderful and it’s contributed to where we are today.”

Her group, along with mana whenua and the Environmental Defence Society, is behind the NZ Coastal Trust’s purchase of the headland.

They’ve fundraised $200,000, and are still keen to raise more.

Applications for grants are in to the Waikato Regional Council and the Department of Conservation for the balance of the $2.15 million, with underwriters stepping in to get the sale over the line.