Residents from a north Canterbury town say they’re shocked and devastated following the sale of the local golf course to a real estate developer who plans to turn it into housing.
Pegasus town, located 25 kilometres north of Christchurch, was designed as part of a ‘master plan’ subdivision, and now the community is taking their bid to keep the course to parliament.
A few weeks ago, housing developer Wolfbrook announced it had bought the 80 hectare site, which was in liquidation, and plans to rezone it and turn it into housing.
Resident Brooke Azzopardi built a home in Pegasus three years ago.
“The majority of people who buy in Pegasus are attracted to the golf course. The green space, the wildlife, the walking tracks, there’s so much here to enjoy.”
She said she was not expecting a sale like this.
“I think to be honest.. just absolute shock.
“It’s not something that crossed our mind. We thought we were protected by the zoning.”
Another Pegasus resident, Cameron Waghorn, said the closure was “really sad for us”.
"It’s devastating to see what’s happened... really disappointing, everyone's gutted."
Pegasus town was established nearly 20 years ago, with the golf course marketed as the centrepiece of the subdivision.
The 18 hole course has hosted major events, like the New Zealand Women’s Open.
In a statement, Wolfbrook said community engagement will be key in its project planning process.
The developer added it would retain the tennis courts, water features and allow the use of the clubhouse for a farewell event.
Pegasus Residents Association President Matt James said he is worried about a possible fast-tracked application for the project.
“Seems like there's a lot of developers using fast track for development and getting results.”
Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop's office said no submission had been made for fast-track approval.
Resident Rachael Potter said it’s a “slippery slope” to turn recreationally zoned land into housing.
“I understand there's a need for more housing, but there's also a need for green space and recreation.”
The residents group has launched a petition to present to parliament and hundreds are expected at a community meeting at the local school on Tuesday night.
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