The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron has rejected a push by dissenting members to overturn its decision to sell prime waterfront property at Kawau Island, asserting the move is constitutionally out of their hands.
In correspondence seen by Barrier Times, the Squadron told its membership this month that the General Committee would proceed with the sale of Lots 271–276 DP7675 — a well-known parcel of land in Bon Accord Harbour that includes the historic Lidgard House site. The property was formally approved for sale at the August 2025 Annual General Meeting, with members voting to authorise the General Committee to offload the land and invest the proceeds into the RNZYS Foundation Fund.
But in October, a group of members lodged a formal requisition requesting a Special General Meeting to reconsider the decision and propose alternatives. That request has now been struck down.
“After obtaining both legal and constitutional advice, the General Committee has determined that an SGM cannot be convened on the basis of the current requisition,” the Squadron wrote to members.
“Under Clause 12.2 of the Squadron’s Constitution, the General Committee has full authority to buy, sell, lease, or otherwise manage Squadron property without the prior approval of a General or Special General Meeting. Therefore, any motion seeking to restrict or override that authority would be ultra vires (beyond the powers of a General Meeting) and cannot legally take effect.”
While firm on the legal position, the Squadron acknowledged the unrest and said it would hold an open information evening at 1800 hours on 4 December.
“Recognising the strong interest and genuine questions raised by members, I believe, along with the General Committee, that open dialogue and clarity are essential,” the letter continues. “This session will allow all members to understand the facts and to discuss the issues transparently.”
The RNZYS has already sold the neighbouring Kawau Boating Club property, with the 2025 Annual Report noting that the Committee was “reviewing the remaining property [it] own[s] at Kawau.”
It remains unclear whether any portion of the site — long considered a spiritual home for Squadron members — will be retained for public or club use. The Foundation Fund, where the proceeds will be directed, exists to support the Squadron’s long-term infrastructure and capital projects.
