Help shape the future of Kaimai Ward’s reserves

Kaimai Ward is home to more than 50 playgrounds, sportsgrounds, bush trails and scenic spots, and the people who use them are being asked to play a part in shaping their future.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council is reviewing its Reserve Management Plan (RMP) for the Kaimai Ward, setting the vision and direction for how these green spaces will be cared for and enhanced over the next nine years.

Community feedback has already played a key role in shaping the draft plan, with over 50 people sharing their thoughts during early engagement in late 2024. Now, the formal consultation process is underway for the next two months, and Council is calling for more voices to help refine the plan before it is finalised.

“It has been nearly a decade since the last review, and as our communities grow and the way people use these spaces changes, we must rethink how we manage and improve them,” says Council’s Senior Recreation Planner Jason Crummer.

“We want to hear from everyone, whether you’re a regular walker, a weekend adventurer, a sports enthusiast, or someone who enjoys a quiet moment in nature. Your input will help us create spaces that truly serve the people who use them.”

Included in the suite of changes is clarifying Council’s pest management policy and the addition of several reserves that weren’t in the 2016 plan. Some reserves are also proposed for formal naming or renaming.

“This is a great opportunity for the community to have a say in how these reserves are identified and recognised,” Jason adds.

“Whether it’s enhancing biodiversity, improving accessibility, or creating new recreational opportunities, your feedback will directly influence the future of these special places. The plan will set the vision and future actions for each of our reserves, with funding and timing considerations determined through future Annual Plan and Long Term Plan processes.

“We welcome input from a wide range of voices, such as families, recreation groups, conservation volunteers, and everyone who enjoys the outdoor spaces of the Kaimai Ward. Submissions are open now, so don’t miss your chance to contribute.”

Join the korero

Online | Wānanga ipurangi

Visit yourplace.westernbay.govt.nz/draft-kaimai-rmp to review the plan and submit your feedback.

Email | Īmēra

Send your feedback to yourplace@westernbay.govt.nz

In Person | Ā kanohi

Submit your feedback at our Library and Service Centres in Katikati, Te Puke, Ōmokoroa, and Waihī Beach, or at our Barkes Corner office.

Community Information Drop-in Sessions

• Saturday 22 March, Doggy Day Out, 10.00am to 1:00pm, Ōmokoroa Sportsground
• Sunday 30 March, Oropi Market, 9.00am to 11.00am, Oropi Memorial Hall
• Saturday 5 April, Basketball ‘Have a–go day’, 10:00am to 12:00pm, Maramatanga Park, Te Puna
• Tuesday 20 May, Hearings, starting 9:30am, Council Head Office at Barkes Corner

Email yourplace@westernbay.govt.nz before Sunday 11 May if you would like to speak to your feedback in person

Feedback closes at 11:59pm, Sunday 11 May