Keen interest in District’s future

Published on 02 October 2024

Building infrastructure, providing more green space, improving public transport and housing, and supporting rural communities were topics raised by people looking into the draft Future Development Strategy for Whangārei. 

Dozens of people attended each public event, including community drop-in sessions at Te Kamo High School, Te Iwitahi civic building and Bream Bay Community Trust, and workshops with resident and ratepayer groups and with Council’s Youth, Disability and Positive Ageing advisory groups. 

Local business leaders attended a Business After 5 event to discuss the strategy and two hui were held to ensure hapū perspectives were included. 

Submissions were received from 99 individuals and 35 organisations, with 37 submitters opting to speak to their submissions when hearings are held. 

Council’s Strategic Planning Manager Bernadette Aperahama said people asked how Council will ensure the amount of infrastructure (including roading, water, wastewater, rubbish management, paths and recreational spaces) will keep pace with the population growth expected in the District over the next 30 years. 

“There was also demand for more public green space within communities as housing density increases. Concerns were expressed about whether there would be sufficient housing for an increasing population and the need to balance urban development with protecting nature." 

She said many who recalled using train transport in their youth were excited at the prospect of reestablishing passenger rail services. The participants also raised the need to ensure rural and coastal communities within the District are supported.