An unhappy meal awaits locals in the Wanaka region, with fury among residents at the prospect of a new restaurant in the area.
Locals in the Wanaka area have continued to protest over the possibility of a McDonald’s restaurant in the region.
The proposed new build is under council consideration for consent, and if successful, will result in a 455 square-metre restaurant at the Wanaka-luggate Highway.
The Queenstown Lakes District Council received 366 public submissions, 339 of which were opposed and 21 in support. Six submissions wanted changes. A further 106 people have agreed to speak at a meeting later in the month.
Local leaders have said that the development will have an adverse impact on the visual and aesthetic values of the location, and that it did not align with the community’s objective to protect and enhance the natural landscapes.
Thirty percent of people within the Wanaka community have signed a petition to stop the global fast-food giant from opening in Wanaka. The main concerns have been cited as waste and the environmental impact. One submission said that the heart of Wanaka’s shared values was to protect its natural environment.
Some submissions have also outlined the excessive traffic that would be caused if a McDonald’s restaurant opened in the area. Locals are concerned that late night drive thru orders will disturb nearby houses. Pollution and the effect the opening would have on the local hospitality sector were also notable issued that locals voiced to the council.
However, there is support for the arrival of the golden arches in the region, adding that with restricted opening hours, it won’t make any difference to the community.
Another resident said that a McDonald’s restaurant would make a positive addition to the the current take-away food businesses in Wanaka, and that it was appropriate for residents to have their choice of food.
The council’s meeting on the matter is scheduled for November 25th.
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