Proposed boundary changes between Kawerau District and Whakatane District

Date: 28 October 2022

The Local Government Commission has received a reorganization initiative proposing changes to the boundary between Kawerau District and Whakatane District.  The Commission has adopted a process, under clause 7, Schedule 3 of the Local Government Act 2022, for investigating proposed changes. 

The Commission is now inviting feedback from members of the public in relation to the proposed boundary changes.  The effect of the proposed changes would be to transfer four parcels of land in three separate areas from Whakatane District to Kawerau District:

• Approximately 400 hectares (over two separate parcels), largely bordering the existing industrial areas on Kawerau’s northeast boundary with the Whakatane District;
• Approximately 63 hectares, at the end of Spencer Avenue where the Tohia o te Rangi Marae sits;
• Approximately 86 hectares, being the part of Otarahanga Farm outside of the western boundary of Kawerau.

The reorganisation initiative, a map of the affected areas, and the investigation process is available online at www.lgc.govt.nz/local-government-reorganisation/

The reorganisation initiative is also available on the websites of the Kawerau District and Whakatane District Councils.  Hard copies are available at the offices of both Councils, and at public libraries.

People wishing to provide feedback can do so online via the Commission’s website at www.lgc.govt.nz/local-government-reorganisation/. Feeback can also be provided by post using the forms included with the reorganisation initiative at council offices and at public libraries, or by email to submissions@lgc.govt.nz

If required, a public hearing will be held in April 2023 for those wishing to speak in support of their feedback. 

For further information, email the Commission at info@lgc.govt.nz or phone the Commission on (027) 276 3901.

The closing date for feedback is 31 March 2023.

Penny Langley

Chief Executive Officer