Te Whakarāwai Tarawāhi Awa o Whakatāne

What's happening? | E aha ana te aha?

Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s Project Future Proof is upgrading the flood defences along the Whakatāne CBD stretch of the river (Ōhinemataroa) to help safeguard our town from future flood risks. Stages 1 and 2 of the floodwall are now complete, with stages 3 and 4 due to start across 2026.

Whakatāne District Council is now looking at how we can enhance the riverfront area alongside the new floodwall and reconnect people with the awa. We want to hear from the community about what this space could look and feel like as part of the design process.

Read the consultation document for more details about the designs - (PDF, 7 MB)

Why are we seeking feedback? | He aha mātau e uiui nei?

The new floodwall is essential to protect the CBD from severe weather events. As the new flood defences are upgraded by Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council, we have an opportunity to soften its presence and improve how the riverfront looks and functions.

These enhancement works include the area around the former iSITE building and surrounds, the corner of Quay Street and The Strand and the area along the river down to Mataatua Reserve. Your feedback will help guide design choices that shape how these spaces are used, how they connect to the town centre, and how they reflect the character of Whakatāne.

What do we want to know? | Kei te whai mātau i te aha?

We’re asking the community to tell us what’s important for this space.

We know access to the river, places to sit and gather, and a pleasant area for recreation are valued by many. We’re presenting a baseline design that aims to soften the look and feel of the floodwall and create a more welcoming experience along the riverfront. The baseline is our most simplest, and cost-effective option. We'll also provide designs that show some extra components, along with their costs, that can be added to the baseline design. These are potential additions that could be included in the final design.Your feedback will help us understand what’s most important to you.

What happens after engagement closes? | Ka aha whai muri i te tūtakitakitanga?

When engagement closes, all feedback will be brought together and presented to councillors. They will then decide which concept design to progress to the next stage.

We will update the community on the decision and next steps once councillors have reviewed all feedback.

Submissions close at 5 pm on Friday, 27 March 2026