Katikati-Waihī Beach Forum to Spotlight Key Local Projects

Western Bay of Plenty District Council will host a Katikati-Waihī Beach Community Forum Expo on Wednesday, 9 April at The Centre–Pātuki Manawa Digital Hub from 7pm to 9pm. The expo-style event gives residents a chance to connect with ward councillors Allan Sole, Anne Henry and Rodney Joyce, and to learn more about local initiatives directly from the teams behind them.

Projects up for discussion include the Heron Cres elder housing redevelopment, Te Ara Mātauranga–Waihī Beach Library and Community Hub, the proposed Ahi Pātiki crossing connecting Waihī Beach and Athenree, improvements to the Dave Hume Pool, and the replacement of Athenree Jetty. The council will also be sharing information and seeking feedback on the future of water services in the district as part of the Local Water Done Well reform.

Attendees will also be able to find out about kerbside recycling, community grants and emergency management, including the chance to experience a natural hazard simulation through VR goggles. The expo format was first trialled in Te Puke last year and proved successful, so it is now being rolled out across the district.

Councillor Allan Sole urged residents to attend, describing it as a valuable opportunity to stay across what is happening in the ward. "Staff and local elected members will be available at the expo to help you and to listen to your ideas," he said.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).