Submissions to Bay of Plenty Regional Council's Long Term Plan Consultation Document close on Monday and people are being reminded to act now if they want to help shape the council's direction for the next 10 years.

Regional Council general manager Mat Taylor says staff have been out speaking to the community and stakeholders at a number of events during the past month and are pleased with the questions being asked of them.

'We've had some really interesting discussions with members of the public and stakeholders at the various events we've attended, and it's been great to see people so passionate and informed about the work we're doing.”

He says making a submission has never been easier, with the regional council focussing on five key topics and presenting options for each.

'Making a submission is as simple as going to our website, and following the link to make a submission where all we need is your name and contact details, and then selecting the option you prefer for each question.”

He says if people wish they can also provide more detail to their submission, but this isn't necessary.

'We hope people take the opportunity to have a say in how we work over the next 10 years, as we want to make sure we get it right.”

Mat says groups and organisations can also apply for Community Initiatives Funding as part of submitting to the Long Term Plan.

'There have been some great projects supported through the Community Initiatives Fund and we look forward to many more helping Council achieve its outcomes. Applications are also due on Monday March 19 and information about the fund is available on our website www.boprc.govt.nz.”

Staff will be attending the last community event of the consultation period this weekend, and available to answer questions at the Edgecumbe College Coast to College Fun Run today between 9am and 12.30pm.