The new plan for Wilson Park

Preserving precious pōhutukawa trees, upgrading wharepaku (toilets) and adding power for events are all part of the plan for Waihī Beach’s Wilson Park.

The new concept plan for the three-hectare park was adopted by Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s Policy Committee following a rich kōrero with the community on what they use and value the park for.

Policy Committee chair, Mayor Garry Webber says the community were open about their love for the park and what facilities should be there.

“This park is beloved by the community for all that it offers people – it’s an open canvas for them to do what they enjoy.

“So we will be protecting the open space and adding a few small amenities to ensure the space continues to serve a wide range of people.”

The ‘concept plan’ represents the community and Council’s agreement on how Wilson Park should be developed in the future. It’s based on what the community have told Council they want at the park.

Throughout our kōrero, the community mentioned the wide range of people who use Wilson Park – dog walkers, slow paced people watchers and thrill-seeking kids riding bikes down the hill. They made it clear that this space means something different to everyone in the community, and the new concept plan will protect that.

Council have also added rubbish bins, dog poo bins, a drinking water station, seating and bike racks to the plans based on the community’s requests. We will also ensure new plantings for shade don’t impact the views from surrounding properties, and improve the entrance way.

Mayor Garry says, “Many thanks to everyone who helped us shape the plan. We received really fantastic and constructive feedback from our community and it’s helped make this plan a real success.”

The next step to get these plans in motion will see funding sought through the 2023/24 Annual Plan. The total costings for the concept plan are $460,000 (depending on final specifications).

Read the decision story and see the final concept plan.