Westhaven wins

From City Scene, published on 7 December, 2008

Westhaven Marina, owned by Auckland City Council, has won international environmental recognition for the fourth consecutive year. Last month the marina was awarded the Foundation for Environmental Education Blue Flag. This is a voluntary eco-label awarded to more than 3200 beaches and marinas in 38 countries worldwide. Westhaven is currently the only New Zealand marina to hold this award.

Receiving the award means meeting strict criteria covering water quality, environmental education and information, environmental management, and safety and other services. Some of the assessment criteria include cleanliness, provisions for waste and recycling, zoning of activities, and environmental education.

"Achieving blue flag status four years in a row shows the commitment the council has to good management practices and high standards," says Councillor Greg Moyle, chairperson of the council's Arts, Culture and Recreation Committee.