A $150 million golf course and academy, resort and residential development is being planned in Christchurch, New Zealand, although the project still needs a crucial approval from the Christchurch City Council to change the land zoning.
South Korean developer Thomas Na has been planning and purchasing land for what will be a 132-hectare development since 2003. An additional 41 hectares will be turned into a conservation area along the Styx River corridor.
Plans call for an 18-hole course, a golf academy designed to accommodate up to 160 trainees, a sports complex open to the public and a variety of residential options for rental or purchase.
Supporters of the plan cite not only increased employment for local residents, but an opportunity to enhance the Christchurch area as a golf destination for visitors. The approximately 50 submissions to the City Council were split equally between supporters and opponents of the project, with opposing groups including Environment Canterbury and New Zealand Transport Agency.