A new chapter for Sonshine Ranch
We want to share some significant news about a new chapter for Sonshine Ranch.
In November 2025, we were contacted by Watercare regarding their desire to acquire the entire Sonshine Ranch property at 223 Creightons Road, Clevedon. This is part of Watercare’s long-term planning to meet Auckland’s future water needs, which includes replacing the Ardmore Water Treatment Plant currently located across the road from Sonshine Ranch.
This acquisition (purchase) falls under the Public Works Act 1981, which enables the Crown (Government), local authorities, and certain agencies like Watercare to acquire land for essential public infrastructure projects such as roads, schools, hospitals, and water facilities – even if the landowner objects.
While this news was unexpected, we want to reassure you that no significant work is planned for the Sonshine Ranch property by Watercare for approximately 20 years, giving us plenty of time to plan and dream about what’s next.
Although change can be challenging, we see this as an exciting opportunity to imagine the next chapter for Sonshine Ranch and how we can continue to thrive for generations to come.
FAQs
Do you have to agree to the acquisition?
This acquisition falls under the Public Works Act 1981, which allows Watercare to acquire land for essential public infrastructure. While we don’t have the option to decline, we are working closely with Watercare and our own lawyers to ensure the process is fair and beneficial for Sonshine Ranch & our community.
Why do Watercare want to do this?
All the water supplied from the nearby dams in the Hunua ranges is piped to the current Ardmore Water Treatment Plant (WTP), which in turn supplies 50-70% of Auckland’s drinking water on any given day. The WTP is 80 years old, and in need of replacement. After a 12 month project, the Watercare team identified the Sonshine Ranch property as being the best location for the new WTP, given its proximity to the current site and similar elevation.
Are other properties being affected?
Yes, Watercare also plan to acquire other nearby properties as part of this project.
Will Watercare pay a fair price for the land?
Yes. The Public Works Act requires that compensation reflects the fair market value of the property and considers a range of other factors such as relocation costs. We are working with an experienced independent valuer to ensure this is done fairly.
How soon will Sonshine Ranch be moving?
Watercare has confirmed that no significant work will happen for at least 20 years, and that they’re very happy to lease the current property back to us – which means that we’re not going anywhere in a hurry, and we have plenty of time to plan the next chapter.
Where will you consider moving to?
Our goal is to find a location in the same general area that allows us to continue offering great experiences for our community.
Will you buy existing facilities or build new ones?
That will depend on what is available, however it’s likely we’ll need to build at least some facilities.
Will staff keep their jobs?
Yes! Our people are the heart of Sonshine Ranch, and we’re committed to keeping our staff team as we transition to the next chapter.
Will you still offer riding lessons and treks?
Our horses and riding programme are a core part of who we are, and we plan to continue offering a similar or expanded programme in our new location. We plan to take all of our horses with us in the move.
Will you still offer camps for young people?
Yes! Our camps are a big part of our mission, and we’re committed to seeing them thrive and grow.
Will my current booking or registration be affected?
At this stage everything is continuing as normal. We’ll communicate well in advance of any potential changes.
Can I give you my ideas about a new location?
Absolutely – we’d love to hear from you – send an email to comms@temaru.org.nz
How is this project being managed?
Sonshine Ranch is part of the Te Maru family of Christian camps, which means that we’re part of an experienced team, and have access to good advice and resources. A project team is being formed from across the wider family to help us plan this next chapter well.
I have more questions – who can I ask?
Great, we’d love to hear from you! Please email comms@temaru.org.nz and we’ll do our best to answer your question soon.
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