Community aspirations sought for Hannahs Bay plan

Rotorua residents are encouraged to share their aspirations for the future of Hannahs Bay Reserve. Photo/File

Rotorua residents are being encouraged to share their aspirations for the future of Hannahs Bay Reserve.

Rotorua Lakes Council is partnering with Ngāti Uenukukōpako and Ngāti Te Roro o te Rangi and the Eastside Community Collective to review the reserve's current management plan and set clear aspirations for the future of the area.

Under the Reserves Act, the council is responsible for creating and maintaining management plans for all reserves under its control.

The plan sets out a framework for the future use and management of a reserve.

By working in a partnership, council, mana whenua and Eastside Community representatives aim to make sure the plan for Hannahs Bay meets the needs and aspirations of the community who treasure and use the reserve.

Ngāti Uenukukōpako kaumāttua and trustee Paraone Pirika said making Hannahs Bay reflective of its history and culture was one of the reasons they were partnering with the council.

"As tangata whenua, Ngāti Uenukukōpako and Ngāti Te Roro o te Rangi are partnering with Rotorua Lakes Council to seek the community's voice as to how the reserve could be better utilised and what it may look like in the future.

"We personally want to make this space reflective of its history and culture, creating a place that is educational, friendly, fun and safe for all children and their whānau."

The project group, made up of representatives of the four groups, has worked together to develop a set of key themes as the basis for consultation but the community is encouraged to share its own aspirations and ideas for the future of the reserve.

CLICK HERE TO HAVE YOUR SAY

Consultation for the management plan review will be open for a month from todayand locals can have their say.

A community fun day has also been planned for Sunday, August 12 for people to join in activities and have their say in person.

To have your say on the project go to www.rotorualakescouncil.nz/hannahsbay, email info@rotorualc.nz or you can drop off your submissions at the Mokoia Community Association at 297 Vaughan Rd or the main council building at 1061 Haupapa St.

Submitters can also write to Private Bag 3029, Rotorua Mail Centre, Rotorua 3046.