Green Party MP Kevin Hague says he will formally challenge the Department of Conservation concession allowing a man to sell refreshments at Cathedral Cove in the Coromandel.
Mr Hague, whose family has a bach at nearby Hahei, says the cove is special because it's so untouched by human beings and the drinks stand is wrong for the area.
Some locals are angry that the department is allowing commercial activity at the beauty spot. They say it is a blight on the unspoilt beach.
Mr Hague says he's outraged there was no consultation by the Department of Conservation (DoC) and in the coming week he will formally challenge its decision to allow the stand to operate.
DoC has given Shanan Laird a temporary concession to sell refreshments until the end of February.
Tourists positive
Meanwhile, the man selling refreshments says he's had nothing but positive feedback from thirsty tourists.
Mr Laird says people who walk to the beach are happy they can buy cold water, juice and smoothies.
He says locals may go there only once a month, while 50 to 100 tourists a day are coming to his stand.
Mr Laird says the stand is unobtrusive. He says he brings everything in by boat, including a small table and chilly bins containing cold drinks, and sets up each day at the back of the beach.
DoC says the concession will be reviewed at the end of the trial on 28 February, and the public will be consulted.
The Government department receives 8% of the shop's profits.
