PHOTO: Anna Mowbray, co-founder of Zuru Toys, and former All Black Ali Williams
Auckland‘s Westmere community is currently embroiled in a contentious debate over a proposed helipad by multimillionaire couple Anna Mowbray, co-founder of Zuru Toys, and former All Black Ali Williams. The couple’s application to construct a helipad at their Rawene Avenue residence has sparked significant opposition, leading to a five-day public hearing that commenced on Monday at Auckland Town Hall
Community Opposition and Environmental Concerns
Out of 1,397 written submissions received by Auckland Council regarding the helipad proposal, a substantial majority—1,227 submissions or approximately 87%—expressed opposition. Only 108 submissions supported the application, while 12 remained neutral. Local advocacy group Quiet Sky Waitematā, among others, has voiced concerns about the potential environmental impact, particularly on endangered bird species that inhabit the nearby Cox’s Bay area. Residents fear that increased helicopter activity could disrupt these habitats and degrade the quality of life in the neighborhood .
Applicants’ Mitigation Measures
In response to the backlash, Mowbray and Williams have proposed several concessions aimed at minimizing the helipad’s impact. These include limiting helicopter flights to two per day, with a maximum of 10 flights per month, and restricting operations to within two hours of low tide to avoid disturbing roosting birds. Their legal representative, Chris Simmons, argued that many community concerns were overstated and that the proposed measures would sufficiently mitigate potential adverse effects .
The Ali Williams and Anna Mowbray’s Auckland helipad saga | WATCH
Broader Implications and Regulatory Context
The Westmere helipad proposal is part of a larger trend of increasing helipad applications in Auckland’s residential areas, raising questions about urban planning and environmental preservation. Under current regulations, helipad applications often do not require public notification, leading to calls for more stringent oversight and community involvement in the decision-making process
The Rawene Avenue property where the helipad might be built. Photo: RNZ/Maia Ingoe
Anna Mowbray & former All Black Ali Williams are not making friends with their neighbours
SOURCE: RNZ