Residents and ratepayers are being invited to comment on a new draft management plan that sets out proposals and policies for Auckland’s 28 regional parks over the next decade.
The 460-page plan looks at overall concerns and challenges, such as climate change and population growth, and includes a chapter on each individual park and its specific needs and attractions.
They include the two regional parks in the Hibiscus region – Shakespear and Wenderholm.
“The draft plan outlines how to maximise the opportunities presented by our regional parks, and manage the challenges across some 41,000 hectares of public open space,” the document says. “It covers all aspects of land and visitor management and sets out Council’s intentions in respect to partnerships and relationships with mana whenua and diverse stakeholders.”
With Auckland’s population forecast to grow by nearly 16 per cent, from 1.66 million people in 2020 to over 1.9 million by 2031, Council says regional parks will continue to see an increase in visitor numbers and demand for facilities. Popular parks such as Wenderholm are already facing significant pressure.
“The park’s popularity means the car park and boat ramp access area are often congested, particularly during busy holiday periods. Cars, boat trailers and visitors with certified self-contained vehicles are all seeking space in the same area and conflicts can arise,” the draft plan says.
“In the future, as the region’s population continues to grow, Council will carefully consider where the acquisition of new parkland is required to give more people the opportunity to experience the natural outdoor settings provided by regional parks.”
Improvement options for individual parks include better access of all types, extended tracks, new or upgraded toilets, improved camping facilities and prohibiting potentially harmful activities – see panel for local examples.
Feedback and submissions on the draft park plan can be made until March 4.
Info: https://akhaveyoursay.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/regional-parks-management-plan or email regionalparksplanreview@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Good intentions – potential options for local parks
Shakespear: Review concept plan for improving access routes into park • implement remedial works to protect WWII pillbox next to Army Bay boat ramp • adopt Māori name alongside English name, once one has been provided by mana whenua • advocate for a ban on set netting from the park • advocate for higher levels of marine protection in waters adjoining sanctuary
Wenderholm: Advocate for public transport to park • relocate self-contained vehicle camping sites from main carpark to more suitable location • support future development of sea kayak trail between Wenderholm and northern parks • adopt Māori name alongside English name, once one has been provided by mana whenua • investigate removing failing timber seawall and steps on beachfront, recontour and replant dunes
