The geographic diversity of the Western Bay of Plenty District is a unique characteristic and is reflected in the special identity of each of the District’s six rural and coastal communities.
Perception that the unique characteristics of the District are being maintained
While the majority of residents believe the identity of their particular community is being maintained and enhanced, there remains concern that growth and development may compromise the special character of each community.
The District’s communities have a clear focus on the future through community plans that identify special features of each area that are of importance to people. These plans include input from all sectors of each community and set targets to ensure those special characteristics are protected. The plans form a blueprint of how each community hopes to create a special environment in which to live, work and play.
Perception of sense of pride in the District
Perception of well used and vibrant town centres
Perception of well used and vibrant city centres / Perception of strength of town centres / Perception of sense of pride in the District
The District’s geographic diversity is mirrored in the individuality of the town/village centre of each community. It is important that the uniqueness of each town centre is enhanced so that residents feel a sense of belonging which in turn serves to attract people to shop, thereby creating a sense of vibrancy that builds economic strength.
Perception that unique characteristics of District are being maintained
Range of recreation and leisure opportunities / Perception of a culturally rich and diverse arts scene
Providing places to “play’’ is an essential ingredient to a vibrant community and the District prides itself on a wide range of recreational and leisure opportunities including coastal, heritage, harbour and wildlife parks. Within communities, great emphasis is placed on enhancing public reserves to provide places where people can explore and relax.
Range of recreation and leisure opportunities
Involvement in community groups and voluntary work / Perception that people support each other in the local neighbourhood
A vibrant community is the result of strong networking and voluntary participation. The District’s communities have a core of voluntary workers in organisations, marae, childcare and aged care.
Perception that people support each other in their local neigbourhood
Involvement in community groups and voluntary work
Perception of impact of diversity on the community / Perception that Maori culture is respected
As the ancestral landing place of three waka from The Great Migration, the District has a large population of Maori whose cultural heritage is woven through each community and adds to the region’s culture and artistic richness.
The District’s population growth has brought greater ethnic diversity and there is acceptance and respect of these different peoples and their lifestyles, and recognition that they enrich the cultural mosaic of the District.
Perception that the general community recognises and respects Maori culture in the District
Perception of impact of diversity on the community
Perception of culturally rich and diverse artscene