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As chair of the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board, one of the most important responsibilities I have is ensuring our community’s voice is reflected in the decisions we make. That’s why I’m encouraging everyone to take a look at the Draft Hibiscus and Bays Local Board Plan 2026 and have their say before consultation closes on July 23.
A local board plan sets the direction for our area over the next three years and helps guide where we focus investment and advocacy. It identifies the challenges we face, the opportunities ahead, and the priorities that will shape the future of our communities.
This draft plan has been shaped by the voices of our community. We drew on feedback from previous consultations, ongoing conversations across our communities, and a dedicated early engagement process held between November 2025 and March 2026. People shared their aspirations, concerns and ideas for the future. The draft plan now out for consultation reflects what we have heard so far, and this next stage is an opportunity to test those ideas to ensure we’ve got the priorities right.
At its heart, this plan is about ensuring Hibiscus and Bays remains a fantastic place to live as our population grows.
It focuses on creating strong, connected communities where people feel welcome, included and able to participate. It recognises the increasing importance of quality public spaces such as parks, libraries, sports facilities, halls and town centres in supporting community wellbeing and connection.
The plan also prioritises protecting and restoring our natural environment. Our beaches, marine reserve, waterways, reserves and native biodiversity are among the things that make this area so special. You’ll also see a strong focus on vibrant town centres, local economic opportunities, transport improvements and ensuring growth is supported by the infrastructure and public spaces our communities need.
Of course, no plan is perfect. That’s exactly why we are consulting.
We want to know whether we’ve got the priorities right. Are there issues we’ve missed? Are there opportunities we should be focusing on? What matters most to you, your family and your neighbourhood?
You can read the draft plan and provide feedback online, or come along to one of our library drop-in sessions and chat directly with local board members. As this goes to print, the next drop-in session will be Saturday, July 18, from 1.30pm to 3pm at Ōrewa Library.
The best plans are shaped by the people they serve. This is your chance to help shape the future of Hibiscus and Bays, and I hope you’ll take the opportunity to be part of the conversation.
Hibiscus & Bays Local Board chair
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