Pre-Club Formation and Early Development

In October 1968, Pauanui Ocean Beach Resort Ltd. sold its first 53 lots, with more quickly following in subsequent years. By October 1970, 176 sections had been developed and sold within six weeks, and the area had its own golf course, airfield, and recreational facilities, including tennis courts and a cricket pitch. Social gatherings were held in what became known as the “Hangar,” which also hosted successful flying competitions.

As facilities expanded, the need for better management became apparent. Jim Brittenden took over managing the golf course, which sparked discussions about consolidating various activities into one organization. Pauanui Ocean Beach Resort Ltd. proposed forming a club, offering prepaid memberships tied to property sales. After reviewing potential locations, it was decided that the “Hangar” site would become the club’s new home.

Club Formation and Growth

By 1970, Pauanui residents sought to preserve their community’s cohesion, leading to discussions about forming a club that would unify interests. In August 1971, Jim Brittenden gathered a group of co-sponsors, and by October, over 100 property owners attended a meeting to explore forming a multi-activity club. The enthusiasm led to the election of a steering committee, which finalized the club's incorporation in early 1972.

The First 10 Years (1972-1981)

Pauanui grew quickly, and by January 1972, around 150 property owners agreed to form a club. A committee was elected, and by Easter 1972, rules were formalized, and over 80 families signed the request for incorporation. Pauanui Ocean Beach Resort Ltd. gifted four and a half acres, including land, the hangar, a bowling green, and facilities valued at $60,000, to support the club’s formation. Residents eagerly paid subscriptions and purchased debentures to ensure the club's financial security.

During this period, sub-clubs emerged, and a lounge, pavilions, and additional amenities were built. In 1973, the Club Lounge was completed, and by 1978, the club had expanded with various new activities, including bridge, indoor bowls, and country dancing. P.O.B.R. Ltd. continued its support, deeding land and facilities, ensuring the club’s success as a community hub.

The Roller Coaster Period (1982-1991)

This decade saw a surge in memberships, reaching a peak of 2250, followed by significant resignations after the 1987 market crash. Membership policies were adjusted, such as unlinking property ownership and reducing entrance fees from $500 to $50. Administrative challenges included five managers cycling through in five years, but stabilizing figures like Shirley Robertson (Office Secretary until 1988) and Paul Brunton (resident Treasurer from 1986-1992) helped maintain continuity. Significant expansions included new facilities like the Lakes Golf Course (opened in 1984), Gallagher Park, tennis courts, and bowling greens.

Financial struggles continued, exacerbated by the market crash, but despite membership declines, the Club maintained social activities and sub-clubs. In 1989, the Club expanded facilities with a new Golf Shop, dining area, and billiard room. Sub-committees were introduced in 1991 to improve Club operations, and by the end of the period, the Club began bouncing back.

Consolidation Linked to Change (1992-2001)

The 1990s focused on rebuilding membership, modernizing management practices, and improving facilities. Significant developments included the return of property-linked memberships, the introduction of popular events like the Air New Zealand Sports Weekend, and the continued growth of sub-clubs like snooker and billiards. Social activities such as the winter Jazz Festival and Heineken Golf Classic became fixtures on the Club’s calendar.

Facility upgrades included Church extensions, bistro and lounge refurbishments, and water reticulation on the Pines Golf Course. In 1996, ladies' facilities were expanded, and a Petanque court was added. The Lakes Golf Course was purchased in 1996, and a driving range was constructed in 2000/2001. A Futures Development group was formed to plan future expansions.

Membership and Administration

In 1996, membership rules reverted to linking property ownership with Club membership, and a Development Levy was introduced. The Lakes Golf Course was purchased in 1997 for $620,000. Despite some financial challenges, new members and long-term plans helped stabilize the Club. A Task Force in 1999 reviewed the Club’s administration, and by 2000, a new governance structure was established, including an Executive Board of Directors and a CEO.

Strategic Plan

In 2001, the Club introduced a strategic Business Plan, aiming to resolve membership and financial issues while ensuring a strong future. Members and volunteers, along with the Hopper family and leadership, helped maintain the Club’s original objectives. The Club’s success over the past 30 years reflects the dedication and generosity of its members.

Click here for expanded club history. Published in 2002 with Contributions by I B Hopper, P Clark and J McDougall