"Over the course of two weeks we held public meetings and attended the River Traders Market, capturing a wide range of views.
"As expected, there were a range of opinions as to whether more/higher stopbanks provide the best long-term solution. Although this option was generally supported by those directly affected, the wider community was less sure of the wisdom of that approach.
Mr Strong said the council is aware of the "substantial technical challenges involved in raising stopbanks through Kowhai Park" and combined with local people's views has concluded further investment in flood defences is not a viable long term proposition for the area.
The strategy for reducing the impacts of flooding - rather than reducing the amount of flooding - may mean moving homes from Anzac Parade.
The cost - and who pays - has yet to be determined.
Chair of Horizons' catchment operations committee and councillor for Whanganui David Cotton said the regional council "recognises the best approach is to invest in a long-term strategy to lessen the impact of flooding along Anzac Parade.
"One of Horizons' core goals is to increase community resilience to natural hazards so we are not comfortable leaving the situation as it currently stands.
"There are significant public safety and health considerations - in some areas we estimate that in a 200 year return period flood event the depth of flooding will be more than 3 metres."
The proposed measures will be part of the council's 2018-28 Long-term Plan consultation.
Mr Cotton said "we understand that not everyone will agree with this proposal, however we believe we have a responsibility to explore long-term, robust solutions for the community."
The issue of Taupo Quay being prone to flooding was also discussed.
A balance between safety requirements and public use of the space will need to be worked out.
