From Te Puna to Waihī Beach, a range of voices and perspectives are being sought to help plan for the future of three key communities in the Western Bay.

Over the next two years, spatial plans are being developed for Te Puna-Minden, Katikati and Waihī Beach-Bowentown-Athenree.

And, to make sure the community is involved right from the start, Western Bay of Plenty District Council will be using Community Ideas Forums to listen, to involve and collaborate with those who have local knowledge and connections.

A forum of about 20 people will be established for each spatial plan area, including a diverse cross-section of people.

Those who are selected will sit on the forum, alongside directly appointed community leaders, including elected members, iwi/hapū representatives and key stakeholders, to make sure community concerns, values and ideas are front and centre in project planning.

The spatial plans will look at how towns, neighbourhoods and rural areas are set up now, and how they could grow and change over the next 30 to 50 years.

It’s about managing growth pressures and planning for all things that make a place great to live in – like homes, parks, roads, walkways, cycleway, community spaces and areas for work and businesses.

Involving the community from the outset is key to getting it right, said the council’s strategy and community acting general manager Emily Watton.

“These are important kōrero that our communities have been wanting for some time, and the Community Ideas Forums will bring local perspective and input to the table right from the beginning.

“It’s about testing ideas, understanding focus areas and deepening community involvement, so we can create a shared vision for our communities.

“We are looking for people who live, work, or have strong connections to these communities. Whether you have a young family, own a business or are enjoying your retirement, anyone can put their hand up to get involved.”

The forums will meet at key stages throughout the process to generate ideas, share community perspectives and provide recommendations, which will be reported to the council for consideration.

The forums won’t have any formal decision-making powers, but their input will play a critical role in shaping the council’s planning and project outcomes, said Watton.

Alongside the forums, there will be other engagement opportunities for the wider community to get involved in as the spatial plans are developed.

“We all want safe, connected, thriving communities, with affordable homes, local jobs, quality education and public spaces everyone can enjoy, but good planning takes time. As we grow, the spatial plans will guide our planning, while protecting and enhancing what makes each community special.”

Spatial plans are being developed for Te Puna-Minden, Katikati and Waihī Beach-Bowentown-Athenree due to increasing growth pressures and the need for more up-to-date local planning.

These spatial plans will be progressed alongside the spatial plan process that is already underway in Te Puke.

The plans will support the development of the council’s Long Term Plan 2027-2037, and will also contribute to a Regional Spatial Plan, which is expected to be required under new legislation that is replacing the Resource Management Act.

“If you’re passionate about your local community, we encourage you to register your interest to be part of a Forum. There will also be plenty of other opportunities over the next two years to get involved and share your thoughts and ideas,” said Watton.

“Community voice sits at the heart of this kaupapa. This is a two-year process, with multiple touchpoints where people can kōrero with us, test ideas and help guide what happens next.”

To register your interest for a Community Ideas Forum, or for more information on the spatial plans, visit: http://yourplace.westernbay.govt.nz

Registrations close 5pm Friday, October 3.