Plan adoption marks watershed moment for Waipā
It was a watershed moment for Waipā District Council today, when the 30 year Ahu Ake – Waipā Community Spatial Plan was formally adopted.
The award-winning plan was more than four years in the making and was developed alongside mana whenua, iwi, stakeholders and the community, during what was one of the council’s largest ever engagement exercises.
Acting as a top-tier ‘umbrella strategy, Ahu Ake – Waipā Community Spatial Plan is recognised as a blueprint to guide the Council’s investment and development decisions for the next three decades.
It has been acknowledged nationally and internationally, winning the 2022 Asia-Pacific Spatial Excellence Award for community impact for New Zealand and Oceania; the 2024 New Zealand Planning Institute Best Practice Award for digital tools; and the 2024 PRINZ silver award for Community Relations and Engagement.
At today’s council meeting, Ahu Ake drew praise for the depth, scope, and thoroughness of the approach as well as being ‘genuine engagement’ during its development.
Mana whenua representatives said the plan would be good for not only Māori and mokopuna, but for the whole community.
Mayor Susan O’Regan said the Ahu Ake – Waipā Community Spatial Plan was more than just a plan.
“It is a commitment to our people, our environment, and our heritage. It represents our shared values and our vision to build a future that is inclusive, sustainable, and vibrant,” she said.
“This plan will guide us as we navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, ensuring that the Waipā District remains a place where we are proud to live, work, play and invest.
“Our journey to this point has included extensive engagement and collaboration. The voices of our community have been instrumental in shaping Ahu Ake, and I am grateful to everyone who contributed their time, insights, and passion.
“Input from our community has been invaluable in creating a plan that truly represents the heart and soul of Waipā. As we move forward, it is important that we continue to work together, creating strong partnerships and maintaining open lines of communication.”
Ahu Ake, and its implementation plan, will be available on the Council’s website in the coming days.
