The Town Vision Plan provides a strategic, long-term vision for how the Whakatāne Town Centre might look in the future.

It gives a a framework by which the Council, developers and the wider community can collectively protect those special features that maintain the character of the town centre.

Vision Statement

“The Whakatāne town centre draws on its natural and cultural heritage to emphasise its relationship to the river – a place with a strong local identity that is vibrant and highly valued by residents, business and visitors.”

Overview

The Town Vision Plan will restore connections with the river, create a vibrant and active environment and establish a community/cultural heart within the town centre.

By creating an overall plan for the town centre, it will ensure that future development is in keeping with the aspirations of the community, and in doing so will help safeguard the particular aspects of the town centre which are valued by the community. It provides an opportunity to enhance and celebrate other special attributes which have been lost or hidden.

Although the Town Vision Plan is a concept at this stage, it suggests a framework for future development based on the themes and principles supporting the Vision Plan. 

Download the Town Vision Plan (PDF, 3.5 MB)