Hibiscus and Bays is a coastal area that continues to grow, with more people choosing to live, work and spend time at the beach. Local investment helps the area keep up, with places to go and things to do.
Local Board Plans are the starting point for that, always shaped with the help of community feedback.
Local board chair Alexis Poppelbaum says it’s all about making sure the area grows in a way that works for local people.
“We want people to feel proud of where they live and have easy ways to get involved, stay active and connect with others,” she says.
From new recreation facilities to youth support, environmental action and local events, here are five ways local board plans have made a difference.
The Red Beach pump track was a result of the 2023 Hibiscus and Bays Local Board Plan.
A new ride at Red Beach
The new pump track at Red Beach Park gives locals a fun place to ride, practice and hang out.
Strong community support helped shape the idea and location, with local board investment of $490,000 bringing it to life. Designed for a range of skill levels, it offers something for beginners through to confident riders, as well as space for whānau to relax and watch.
Planning is already underway for a second pump track at Te Oneroa o Kahu / Long Bay Youth Park with construction starting later this year .
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See what community work has been done in the North region of Auckland |
Backing a stronger youth ecosystem
Investment is helping strengthen the Hibiscus Coast Youth Hauora Network, bringing together the many organisations that support young people across the area.
It’s all about building a stronger youth ecosystem where schools, health services and community organisations are connected and working as one, rather than in isolation.
This is making it easier for young people and their families to find local support and services. It also helps organisations share ideas and work together to support youth.
Locals looking after the environment
Environmental investment is supporting locals to protect the places they care about.
Community groups, schools and volunteers are restoring wetlands, planting native species and improving waterways across the area. From pest control in Long Bay to stream restoration projects, these initiatives improve biodiversity and water quality.
They’re bringing people together around a shared goal, building connection as well as the environmental benefits.
Events bringing energy to town centres
Local events give people plenty of reasons to get out and enjoy their area.
Investing in popular occasions like the Rodders Beach Festival, Browns Bay Summer Spectacular and the Mairangi Bay Food and Wine Festival draw crowds from across the region.
Alongside being great days out, these events support local businesses by increasing foot traffic, boosting spending and creating vibrant, welcoming centres.
Spaces to learn, create and connect
Over time local investment has helped build a network of libraries, arts spaces and community venues that play a big part in everyday life.
Recent upgrades like Ōrewa Library, supported by $5.9 million of investment, have added more room for people to read, study and spend time, while improvements at other libraries have helped them keep pace as communities have grown.
Whether it’s learning something new, being creative or catching up with friends, these spaces give people more ways to connect and be part of their community.
Have your say
Here’s how local investment is shaping Hibiscus and Bays through our local board plans. We want to hear from you as your feedback helps shape what comes next, visit akhaveyoursay.nz/localboardplans.
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