Following robust feedback and discussions with the community, we adopted the updated Waimea River Park Management Plan in September 2025.
The Waimea River Park is made up of over 409 hectares of land along the margins of the Waimea River and the lower reaches of the Wai-iti and Wairoa Rivers.
We wanted to review the initial plan, with a view of incorporating increased engagement with Te Tauihu iwi, as well as significant legislative, environmental, recreational and economic changes that have occurred in the area since 2010.
We received 61 submissions during May and June, and 19 submitters spoke to the Hearing Panel in support of their submissions.
Submissions focused on the role of the park with a catchment-wide approach to river and environmental management, and the need to actively and explicitly provide for climate change adaptation.
Feedback also involved the proposed restriction for horse riding access from Lower Queen Street, how to best provide for motorised vehicle access and manage their use on tracks and within the riverbed, access for gamebird hunting, and greater security of tenure for gravel extraction and processing operators as well as recognising the value they bring to the District.
The Hearing Panel recommended that the Council adopt the amended Plan, incorporating numerous matters raised by submitters.
The final plan is now in effect, and you can download a copy here or read one at our service centres and libraries.
We will work with iwi and community groups to implement the objectives and policies outlined in the plan. Budgets for specific projects will be considered as part of our Annual Plan and 10-Year Plan processes.
The Lower Waimea River Wetland Enhancement Project aims to restore and create high-quality marsh bird habitat within a highly modified landscape. This initiative will focus on re-establishing ecological function and biodiversity by enhancing wetland features that support native bird species.
Given the complexity of the site and the need for adaptive management, the project will be delivered in carefully planned stages over several years. Each phase will build on ecological outcomes and community engagement, contributing to the long-term resilience and value of the Waimea River corridor.
Learn more about the Waimea River Park Development Plan
| Current status | Planning/Design |
| Start Date | Several stages worked annually |
| End date | Winter 2029 |
| Access | TBC |
| Contractors | TBC |
| Cost | TBC |
Contact: Email [email protected] for further information, reference 1686.
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