A hard-to-reach “stretch of paradise” in New Zealand’s Abel Tasman National Park is now in public hands after a successful crowdfunding campaign
The private owner put the beach up for sale for NZ$2m (£940,000), prompting Christchurch men Duane Major and brother-in-law Adam Gard’ner to set up a pledge on Givealittle to give Kiwi citizens back control of the natural wonder. Close to 40,000 residents, philanthropists, businesses and schools chipped in, with the New Zealand government contributing NZ$350,000 (£164,000) to get it over the line – the site’s biggest ever fundraising effort.
The idea of buying a beach which could be shared by all New Zealanders for generations really captured the public’s imagination
“We loved the audacity of it and the fact it was so fitting with our national culture – the idea of buying a beach which could be shared by all New Zealanders for generations really captured the public’s imagination,” said Givealittle chief giving officer, Tom Beyer.
The national park is one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions, but this particular beach can only be accessed by boat or foot.
Now a co-operative, the owners are working with the Department of Conservation, environmental groups and local iwi (Maori community) networks to secure long-term protection and public access to the site.
Image: Bayleys Marlborough
