Nine objections have been lodged over plans by the Upper Clutha A&P Society to extend its building on the Wanaka Recreational Reserve, usually referred to as the Wanaka Showgrounds.
The society is seeking approval from the Queenstown Lakes District Council to expand its building by 486sq m, an increase in size of about 112%.
It is also seeking a 33-year lease of reserve land for the extension.
Late last year, the Wanaka Community Board recommended to the council the building extension and the new lease be approved.
In written submissions, Graham and Joanna Anderson said the extension would have a significant impact on the reserve ''and our appreciation of it''. It was out of character with the nearby residential neighbourhood.
Lynda Walsh-Pascoe and Gary Pascoe submitted that the extension would reduce the open nature of the area and restrict the viewing corridor of neighbouring sections.
''This is unfair, as the impact of the extension significantly outweighs the benefits of what is basically a storage shed,'' they said, adding that they considered the council should ''resist the temptation'' to fill open spaces in Wanaka with buildings.
Bill and Pauline Hunter said they lived 100m from the site of the proposed extension, which they said would have an ''unbroken wall'' 77m long.
''It's our understanding these aren't permitted in residential neighbourhoods, so why should they be permitted in a reserve bordering a residential zone?'' they asked.
They questioned the need for an extension that would be a warehouse for all but five days each year.
''We ask whether the A&P Society's needs might be better met by a marquee erected for each show.''
Meridee Beange said the large open spaces of the reserve were enjoyed by many sports and family groups.
''It is important to retain the land and space for the enjoyment of all.''
The community board recommended at its meeting last year the extension be granted, subject to conditions, which included a resource consent being obtained.
A hearing will be held at the Lake Wanaka Centre on Wednesday.
