What’s next for Wilson Park?

What do you love to do at Waihī Beach’s Wilson Park? Stroll through the Sunday market? Linger over a long picnic lunch?

Western Bay of Plenty District Council is reviewing the plans for Wilson Park and want to know what the community use Wilson Park for, and what could be put in place to ensure it continues to be one of the community’s favourite places.

An initial round of community feedback is now open on the future of Wilson Park, and will run until 27 March at haveyoursay.westernbay.govt.nz/wilsonpark

Katy McGinity, Council’s Senior Recreation Planner says, “We know that Wilson Park is much-loved by the community, so we’re really eager to learn what people use the space for now, and how they want it managed for the future.

“We need as much community input as possible, so we can ensure the park continues to have something for everyone.”

The most recent plan for the park was completed in 2006, and at that time the community wanted to add

• amphitheatre seating and steps
• a drinking fountain
• outdoor lighting
• a retaining wall to promote the site as an events space

Budget constraints around that time meant that these plans weren’t developed. So now Council would like to know - is this plan is still fit-for purpose? And how do you want Wilson Park to be developed in the future?

Katy says, “It’s been 15 years since the community last shared their ideas on this site, so we need to check-in with the community on how their aspirations may have changed.

“It’s really important that park users get in touch and share their feedback, so our plans can reflect the current and future uses of the park.”

There’s plenty of opportunities for you to share your thoughts and ideas for Wilson Park. Whether you prefer to go online, fill out a paper form or speak to someone, we’ve got you covered.

Wānanga ipurangi (online) – head to our website where you can explore the 2006 plan, and answer survey questions about how we can improve things. Find it all at haveyoursay.westernbay.govt.nz/wilsonpark

Kanohi ki te kanohi (face to face) - give us your feedback in-person at the Waihī Beach Market on 6 March. Our team will be there to talk about the park and take your feedback.

Pepa mārō (hard copy) - feedback forms are available at the Waihī Beach Library. You can also email your comments to haveyoursay@westernbay.govt.nz

Council will be using this community feedback to inform a new Wilson Park draft concept plan. A draft concept plan is Council’s recommendation for how a site could be developed, based on the community’s aspirations. After this new concept plan is developed, the community have a second opportunity to provide feedback then it needs to be approved by Council and funding needs to be sought for the work.

For everything you need to know about the Wilson Park plan review visit haveyoursay.westernbay.govt.nz/wilsonpark

Feedback closes 27 March 2022.