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The Bailey family have been visiting the campsite for years, and with Southland District Council now in the process of upgrading the site, they are concerned not enough grass area would be left to pitch a tent over Christmas.

There have so far been two public meetings and one private meeting with the Baileys, and Karen Bailey said a compromise on the proposed plan was made.

Orepuki residents sisters Karen (left) and Trish Bailey demonstrated yesterday how tents (below) are unlikely to fit in the 3m allocated in the plans proposed by the Southland District Council. PHOTO: LAURA SMITH

This would allocate an area 6m wide along 100m of the now gravelled area that would allow for tent-pitching, following the length of the grassed sand dunes.

However, in the subsequent public meeting it was proposed there could potentially be a 3m wide area instead - a space Ms Bailey said could not fit a one-man tent.

"At the end of the day, we're actually back to square one now ... they're saying it's not viable to have our six metres of space."

SDC community facilities manager Mark Day said there was varied feedback from the community as to how much grass was suitable.

"As a result of these meetings there are now two opinions on how much grassed area is enough."

He said plans were still being finalised and the limited space of 120m by 18m made it difficult to accommodate the needs of all users.

"It is our intention to create a family-friendly space at Monkey Island with upgraded facilities. Therefore, we will continue to explore options for the project before finalising our decision."

Ms Bailey said she was hoping for another public meeting to be held next week.