Thames-Coromandel District Council (TCDC) has confirmed that preferred concept plans for upgrading Whitianga’s marine and waterfront facilities will be presented to the Mercury Bay Community Board on Tuesday, May 7.
In a statement released this week, the Council outlined key recommendations developed through earlier stages of the project, which included reviewing existing studies, engaging with local residents, user groups, commercial operators, and iwi, and hosting a public consultation process in late 2024.
According to the TCDC release, the proposed upgrades are intended to improve both recreational and commercial use of Whitianga’s waterfront and surrounding marine infrastructure.
Preferred Options Revealed
Three key proposals have emerged as the preferred concept plans:
- A new public pier at the existing wharf, including a dedicated commercial fishing hub (Concept 1)
- Retention of the waterfront playground and improvements to parking in the area (Concept 3)
- No immediate changes to the Robinson Road Boat Ramp, with upgrades and overflow parking deferred due to funding constraints (Concept 5)
The recommendations come following extensive public engagement. TCDC noted that survey respondents listed walking, jogging, the passenger ferry, playground use, waterfront events, and trailer boating as the most popular activities in the affected areas.
“Other survey findings, including priority rankings and details of previous consultation stages, are available on our website,” the Council said.
What’s Next?
If the Community Board agrees to proceed with the recommendations at its May 7 meeting, the project will move into Stage 3 and 4, which includes detailed design work and the development of a full business case. This next phase is expected to cost $1.1 million, which, according to the Council, is already accounted for within existing budgets.
The final stage — construction — would not commence before 2027 and would be subject to further consultation as part of the 2027–2037 Long Term Plan process.
“This ensures the community continues to have a say before any major construction decisions are made,” the Council added.
Public Invited to Attend
The Mercury Bay Community Board meeting will be held at 10 Monk Street, Whitianga, starting at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, May 7. Members of the public are welcome to attend in person or watch the meeting live online at tcdc.govt.nz/meetings. Those wishing to speak during the Public Forum can register at tcdc.govt.nz/public forum.
