Kaimai Ward is home to more than 50 parks, playgrounds, sportsgrounds, bush trails, and scenic spots, and the Western Bay of Plenty District Council is inviting the community to play a key role in shaping the future of these treasured green spaces.

The council is currently reviewing its Reserve Management Plan for the Kaimai Ward, which will set the vision and direction for how these reserves are maintained and enhanced over the next nine years.

After early community engagement in late 2024, which saw input from more than 50 people to help shape the draft plan, the formal consultation process is now underway for the next two months, giving the public the opportunity to have their say 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 ways people use these spaces changes, we must rethink how we manage and improve them,” said council’s Senior Recreation Planner Jason Crummer in a statement.

“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.”

Among the key updates in the draft plan are clarifications to the council’s pest management policy, the inclusion of several reserves not covered in the 2016 plan, and the formal naming or renaming of some reserves.

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

“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.”

The council is welcoming input from all members of the community, including families, recreation groups, conservation volunteers, and anyone who enjoys outdoor spaces in the Kaimai Ward. Submissions are open now and will close on Sunday, May 11.

How to have your say:

Online: Review the draft plan and submit your feedback at yourplace.westernbay.govt.nz/draft-kaimai-rmp.

Email: Send your feedback to yourplace@westernbay.govt.nz.

In person: Submit feedback at Library and Service Centres in Katikati, Te Puke, Ōmokoroa, Waihī Beach, or at the Barkes Corner office.

Community Information Drop-in Sessions:

Saturday, March 22 : Doggy Day Out, 10:00am – 1:00pm, Ōmokoroa Sportsground

Sunday, March 30: Oropi Market, 9:00am – 11:00am, Oropi Memorial Hall

Saturday, April 5: Basketball ‘Have a-go Day’, 10:00am – 12:00pm, Maramatanga Park, Te Puna

Tuesday, May 20: Hearings, starting 9:30am, Council Head Office at Barkes Corner

Important dates:

Feedback closes: 11.59pm, Sunday, May 11

Hearings: May 20. Email yourplace@westernbay.govt.nz by May 11 if you wish to speak to your feedback in person

Don’t miss your chance to help shape the future of Kaimai Ward’s reserves.