The Encumbrance was first mooted during the 1990`s when the Gulf Harbour Plan Module was being developed as part of the Rodney District Council's proposed Plan Change 26. It was agreed at that time to require a Covenant on the Golf Course land protecting it from development as an offset for the increased housing density of the surrounding land and also as partial settlement of Reserve contributions for the Gulf Harbour development. 

RDC Plan Change 26 1995 stated that there would be no development at Gulf Harbour until such time as the Covenant is in place. It was not until 2006 that a covenant was registered on the golf course land protecting it from development.

In addition to the Covenant on the Golf Course land, there are covenants on the individual residential properties next to or close to the Golf Course that place strict building standards and additional costs on those properties. These Covenants benefit the Golf Course and are made to:

• Enhance and protect the amenity value of neighbourhoods which are situated next to or close to the Golf Course so as to ensure that views and outlook to the Golf Course landscaping and golfing activities are protected and enhanced;
• Encourage architectural compatibility (visual accord) with the Gulf Harbour development;
• Enhance visual integration and harmony between the Golf Course and the neighbouring properties.

Gulf Harbour Golf Course not only provides open spaces but habitats for native birds