01 December 2001 Lincoln student takes designing look at Tahunanui Beach

A hypothetical landscape proposal for Nelson's Tahunanui Beach is on display in Christchurch in a public exhibition by final year students of Lincoln University's Bachelor of Landscape Architecture class.

The proposal, by Emma McKegg, is titled "Shifting Sands" and it involves relocating the main swimming area of the beach further to the west and focussing the village centre on Beach Road.

She says her design aims to reduce erosion, allow for easier access and increase user interaction, generally creating a coherent recreational space for Nelson. It includes a skate bowl, a new library, cafe and links to Wakefield Quay.

Inspired by the contrast of natural and human-made landscapes, Emma has attempted to show in her design the control people have over the land, while at the same time trying to preserve what is left of the natural landscape.

The project brief for the students' Major Design exercise asked them to 'think laterally and push the boundaries".

Emma believes the present erosion problem provides "an opportunity to combine engineering solutions and landscape elements, creating an enjoyable beach and village atmosphere".

The exhibition, in Christchurch's Arts Centre, is called 'Threshold", reflecting the position of the graduating students as they face the start of their professional careers.

Ian Collins, Journalist, Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand.