Henderson-Massey Local Board has officially adopted the Harbourview-Orangihina Park Masterplan following an 18-month development process and community consultation.

The masterplan will guide long-term improvements to the park including works to protect and enhance its significant environmental values, create recreational opportunities and acknowledges the park’s cultural heritage and past.

The council worked closely with mana whenua – in particular Te Kawerau ā Maki and Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei and incorporated Te Aranga Design principles into it. Public consultation on the plan took place in August and September 2018, with 254 submissions received; followed by a day of hearings in December 2018.

Important guidance

Henderson-Massey Local Board Chair, Shane Henderson says the plan will guide development of the park for generations to come.

“This is a hugely important document for this much-loved park,” he says. “Now it is in place, we can ensure its key elements are enhanced and protected for many years to come.​

“We know that the community treasures Harbourview-Orangihina and we were determined to ensure that the final plan reflects its importance to the area as well as the enormous benefits to the community it brings.

“One of the most important parts of the masterplan is the fact that long-term we will be able to enhance the park knowing what our end goal is.

“While not all elements of the plan are in budget at the moment, going forward this clear direction will make it very clear what our priorities should be.

“I want to thank all the members of the community who took the time to provide valuable feedback for the project, and reassure them that their feedback played a really important role in deciding the final plan.”

The council has approximately $1.4million set aside from a previous targeted rate to improve the park.