Built in 1968, the Williamson Golf Course in Whangamatā has long been a treasured part of the community — a green sanctuary that has provided more than 50 years of recreation and memories for locals and visitors alike.
But in recent years, growing division and frustration have emerged over the course’s future — and now, over one highly visible addition.
Located on low-lying land, the course has suffered frequent flood damage over time. In response, a range of upgrades have been carried out over the past three years: improved drainage, tree removal, a conversion to a par-3 layout, and a full refurbishment of the clubrooms.
While some of these changes have sparked debate, none has provoked as much anger as the new telecommunications tower.
The golf course is owned by Thames-Coromandel District Council and leased to the club — a relationship that has not always been smooth. A major point of contention has been council-approved infill housing near the course boundaries. This has raised safety concerns and forced the club to redesign the layout to reduce the risk of stray golf balls damaging nearby homes. For many long-time members, this change marked the loss of the course’s original character.
Now, the biggest frustration for many centres on the new cell tower that stands prominently in the middle of the course. While a smaller tower previously existed, approval was granted for a much larger replacement — sparking fierce opposition from residents living along the course. Some have even listed their homes for sale, unwilling to live in the shadow of the new structure.
To those not directly affected, the uproar may have seemed exaggerated — until the day the tower was erected. Now, it looms over every fairway and green, casting an industrial presence over what was once a peaceful patch of green gifted to the town by the Williamson family.
Critics call the tower a visual blight, questioning why alternative designs — such as Denmark’s tree-mimicking towers — weren’t considered. Others raise health concerns due to its proximity to homes and regular course users.
Whatever the viewpoint, one thing is certain: “The Tower” is here to stay — a symbol of modern infrastructure needs that has divided a once-united golfing community.
