Western Bay of Plenty District Council and the Waihī Beach Stormwater Liaison Group are inviting residents to a community Open Day to learn more about stormwater projects under way and planned across Waihī Beach, Bowentown and Athenree.

The event will be held on September 12 from 1.30pm to 3.30pm at the Waihī Beach RSA and will provide updates on current and future projects aimed at improving stormwater management and reducing flooding impacts where possible and giving residents the opportunity to speak directly with project teams.

The council’s water services director Coral-Lee Ertel said recent severe weather events had reinforced the importance of ongoing investment in stormwater infrastructure.

“Many stormwater systems around New Zealand were designed decades ago and are now under greater pressure from more frequent and intense rainfall events,” Ertel said.

“While there’s no single solution to flooding, particularly in a low-lying coastal environment like Waihī Beach, every improvement we make helps strengthen the network, reduce impacts where possible and build community resilience for the future.”

Ertel said community involvement remained an important part of developing practical, effective solutions.

“We value the local knowledge and experience that property owners, tangata whenua, members of the Stormwater Liaison Group and the wider community bring to the table.

“Those insights help us better understand local challenges and identify solutions that are fit for purpose.”

The Stormwater Liaison Group included representatives from Te Whānau a Tauwhao (hāpu of Ōtawhiwhi Marae), the Storm Water Action Team, Waihī Beach Community Board members, Katikati-Waihī Beach Ward councillors Allan Sole and Rodney Joyce, and Mayor James Denyer.

Waihī Beach Community Board chair Wayne Stevenson said the group remained committed to supporting long-term stormwater improvements across the area.

“Working together is key to making progress on the drainage and flooding challenges we face,” he said.

“The Open Day is a great opportunity for residents to understand the wider programme of work, learn what’s happening in their neighbourhood and ask questions directly of the people delivering these projects. We encourage everyone to come along.”

When stormwater improvements were underway, council reminded residents to be prepared at home – such as keeping private drains, gutters and kerb inlets clear – could help reduce impacts during heavy rain.