Waihau Bay Masterplan

Council has been working with iwi, hapū, the Waihau Bay Fishing Club, and the wider community for several years as part of the Reserve Management Plan consultation and Treaty settlement redress negotiations.

These discussions have coincided with increasing visitor numbers, particularly during peak holiday periods and when tuna migrate close to shore.

While the rise in visitor numbers has provided economic benefits to the local community, it has also led to challenges such as parking congestion, littering, and other environmental concerns.

The masterplan aims to continue collaboration with the Waihau Bay community, creating a clear pathway to achieve community aspirations while addressing the negative impacts that can be associated with increased visitor activity.

What’s in the Waihau Bay Masterplan

You can read the full Waihau Bay Masterplan (PDF 45mb)

The plan is divided into a northern area and southern area.

• Potential overflow parking area for boats and trailers
• Relocation of the weigh station
• Boat ramp improvement
• Upgrade of the existing jetty
• Installation of bollards along the road in front of the lodge to the eastward point
• Upgrade of the existing public toilets, keeping the same location
• Assigned parking space in front of the shop with consideration of time limits
• Potential extra parking space at nearby lodge and opposite side of the petrol station
• New cultural entrance/arrival features
• Navigational safety improvements.