The community is being invited to provide feedback on the future development of Tauriko West at two information days this Friday and Saturday.
SmartGrowth partners Western Bay of Plenty District Council, Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Tauranga City Council, and the New Zealand Transport Agency are seeking feedback on the 'Tauriko for Tomorrow'.
The project aims to develop a new urban growth area in the region.
"We are at the early stages of planning for Tauriko for Tomorrow, and we want to work closely with the community to ensure the vision we're creating is a shared one," Tauranga Mayor Greg Brownless said.
"We want to understand what is important for the people who live, work and travel through the area, as to what it is they most value, what they would like to see protected and preserved, and what they would like to change," he said.
Mr Brownless said the objective was to create a thriving community in Tauriko West and provide access to amenities such as schooling, parks, walkways, the Wairoa River, shopping, transport and infrastructure options.
As Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty continue to experience high population growth, more land was needed for housing, he said.
"Tauriko West is one of seven urban projects that will deliver new housing capacity over the next ten years as part of the long-term SmartGrowth Strategy to cater for growth.
"But there are many pieces of the puzzle that need to come together before any urban development begins."
At the two information days at Shop 9, Tauranga Crossing on Friday, and Saturday from 11am until 3pm, attendees will find out more about the proposed programme for State Highway 29, the proposed boundary changes, urban limits and structure plan processes.
"We welcome everyone to come along, learn more about the proposed plans, and help us create the vision of Tauriko for Tomorrow," Mr Brownless said.