ACCESS LOST!
As is often the case, the negative actions of a few can go on to affect many. So it is with a sense of sadness and great frustration that we share the following news, that access to the iconic Mahia surf break of “Last Chance” has been closed for the foreseeable future.
Last Chance on its day is comparable to Raglan, and the long left point has been a favourite go to spot for local surfers, as well as visitors that have enjoyed the access granted by the Bell family for 60 years. Yet recent actions by a few selfish surfers have now lead to the land owners refusing to allow anyone in anymore.
During Covid lockdown level-4, several surfers, obviously thinking they could surf out of sight, surfed at Last Chance and even when requested not to do so by the land owner who was in a fragile state of health, they argued and abused the land owners request. This was the ‘straw that broke the camel’s back’ after years of picking up rubbish and not being asked for permission.
The Mahia Boardriders Club and local surfers are furious that the actions of some have impacted their lifestyle, yet would like to extend their appreciation and thanks to the Bell family for the many years of access permission.
While access to this break now remains lost, this is a stark reminder that ‘ACCESS’ is a privilege, not a right! So please respect the requests of landowners of surfbreaks you may visit so that we don’t continue to lose our favourite playgrounds!
Photos courtesy: Michi Gordon
