A new strategy, endorsed by the mayors and chief executives of all six Bay of Plenty councils, has been created to put parameters around the long-term investment and development of sport and recreation facilities in the region.
The Bay of Plenty Sport and Recreation Spaces and Places Strategy provides a high-level strategic framework for regional sport and recreation facility planning. By working in a collaborative manner, Sport Bay of Plenty, Sport New Zealand and local government have developed a strategic view of the regional priorities for future sport and recreation spaces and places.
Mayors and chief executives from Opotiki, Whakatane, Kawerau and Western Bay of Plenty District Councils, Tauranga City Council and Rotorua Lakes Council have all endorsed the strategy, which will begin implementation from July 1.
In a statement, Sport Bay of Plenty chief executive Heidi Lichtwark said she applauded the foresight of the regional mayors and chief executives to back this strategy.
"Working together to determine the priorities for future needs of the region allows the councils to plan for their communities' sport and active recreation needs."