Western Bay of Plenty District Council and the Waihī Beach Stormwater Liaison Group are inviting residents to a community Open Day to learn more about stormwater projects underway and planned across Waihī Beach, Bowentown, and Athenree.
The event will provide updates on current and future projects aimed at improving stormwater management and reducing flooding impacts where possible, while giving residents the opportunity to speak directly with project teams.
Date: Saturday 12 September 2026
Time: 1.30pm to 3.30pm
Venue: Waihī Beach RSA, 99 Beach Road, Waihī Beach
Council Director Water Services, Coral-Lee Ertel, says recent severe weather events have reinforced the importance of ongoing investment in stormwater infrastructure.
“Many stormwater systems around New Zealand were designed decades ago and are now under greater pressure from more frequent and intense rainfall events,” says Coral-Lee.
“While there's no single solution to flooding, particularly in a low-lying coastal environment like Waihī Beach, every improvement we make helps strengthen the network, reduce impacts where possible, and build community resilience for the future."
Coral-Lee says community involvement remains an important part of developing practical, effective solutions.
"We value the local knowledge and experience that property owners, tangata whenua, members of the Stormwater Liaison Group and the wider community bring to the table,” says Coral-Lee.
“Those insights help us better understand local challenges and identify solutions that are fit for purpose."
The Stormwater Liaison Group includes representatives from Te Whānau a Tauwhao (hāpu of Ōtawhiwhi Marae), the Storm Water Action Team (SWAT), Waihī Beach Community Board members, Katikati-Waihī Beach ward councillors Allan Sole and Rodney Joyce, and Mayor James Denyer.
Group member and Waihī Beach Community Board Chairperson Wayne Stevenson says the group remains committed to supporting long-term stormwater improvements across the area.
“Working together is key to making progress on the drainage and flooding challenges we face,” says Wayne.
"The Open Day is a great opportunity for residents to understand the wider programme of work, learn what's happening in their neighbourhood, and ask questions directly of the people delivering these projects. We encourage everyone to come along."
While stormwater improvements are underway, Council is also reminding residents that being prepared at home – such as keeping private drains, gutters and kerb inlets clear - can help reduce impacts during heavy rain.
More information
For more detail on the Waihī Beach Stormwater Projects, visit:
www.westernbay.govt.nz/waihi-beach-stormwater-projects
Information from the Open Day will also be available on the Council website following the event.
Be prepared
Practical advice and checklists in the event of an emergency are available at: www.westernbay.govt.nz/community/civil-defence/be-prepared
