The Waitākere Ranges is changing.
More people are choosing to call the area home, which means there's growing demand for housing, parks, community facilities and transport options. In the meantime, locals are passionate about protecting the unique natural environment that makes the Ranges such a unique place.
Balancing these priorities isn't always easy. That's where the three-year Waitākere Ranges Local Board Plan comes in. It helps set the direction for local investment, advocacy and projects that reflect what matters most to the community.
Many of the places, spaces and initiatives locals enjoy today started as priorities identified in previous local board plans backed by community feedback. Here are five ways that vision has come to life.
A stronger voice for the Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area
The first meeting of the new Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area Forum, held at Arataki Visitor Centre on Monday 8 June.
A new chapter in protecting the Waitākere Ranges got underway this year with the first public meeting of the Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area Forum in June.
The Forum was established following the signing of the Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area Deed of Acknowledgement in October 2025. It brings together representatives from Te Kawerau ā Maki, Auckland Council's Governing Body, Waitākere Ranges Local Board and the Crown.
The local board had advocated for the signing of the Deed for more than a decade, continuing work that began after the Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area Act 2008 was passed.
The Forum will help support the implementation of the Deed and provide a space for long-term planning, collaboration and shared decision-making around the future of the Heritage Area.
New life for Titirangi War Memorial Hall and Library
A major refurbishment of the Titirangi War Memorial Hall and Library is helping future-proof one of the area's most important community hubs.
With an investment of 3.4 million from Waitākere Ranges Local Board, the project will address weathertightness issues, improve seismic resilience and make the building more sustainable.
Work includes a full re-roof and re-clad, upgraded drainage and stormwater systems, seismic strengthening, repairs and replacement of timber joinery, replacement aluminium joinery and the installation of solar panels.
The upgrades will also help ensure the facility can be used as a Civil Defence Centre if needed, strengthening its role as a key community asset for years to come.
A new playground for a growing Glen Eden community
Local tamariki (children) at the Koroī / Clayburn Reserve Playground.
What was once an empty reserve in Glen Eden is now a popular spot for local families.
With an investment of $686,598 from Waitākere Ranges Local Board, the Koroī / Clayburn Reserve Playground officially opened in November 2025, bringing much-needed play opportunities to an area experiencing significant growth.
The playground features a treehouse play module, accessible carousel, climbing structures, swings and slides, a learn-to-ride track, the popular dancing snake and a basketball half-court.
Waitākere Ranges Climate Action Plan
In August 2025, Waitākere Ranges Local Board adopted its Climate Action Plan, setting out practical steps to reduce emissions and help communities adapt to a changing climate.
The plan aligns with Te Tāruke-ā-Tāwhiri: Auckland's Climate Plan and focuses on actions that make sense locally while contributing to Auckland's wider climate goals.
Projects include joining the Urban Ngahere Programme to better understand and enhance urban tree cover, installing solar panels on council facilities such as the Titirangi War Memorial Hall and Library, and supporting the West Auckland Kai Sovereignty Plan.
Bringing Māori names back to the whenua
Across the Waitākere Ranges Local Board area, 60 parks and two libraries now carry Māori names, helping reconnect communities with the stories and history of the land.
The names were adopted by the board through Te Kete Rukuruku, a programme that collects and shares Māori cultural narratives across Tāmaki Makaurau.
Provided by Te Kawerau ā Maki, the names reflect connections to local waterways, native bush, significant sites and traditional practices.
They're more than just names on signs. They help recognise the rich history of the whenua and acknowledge the enduring relationship between Te Kawerau ā Maki and the ranges.
Have your say on what’s next
The places, spaces and programmes you enjoy today started with community voices. Now it's your chance to help shape what comes next.
Waitākere Ranges Local Board is seeking feedback on its draft Local Board Plan for the next three years.
Find out what's proposed for your area, learn about the projects and partnerships that support your community, and share your thoughts on what matters most to you.
Having your say is easy. Complete the online feedback form by 23 July or attend a local event and speak directly with board members. Event details will be available from 23 June on akhaveyoursay.nz/localboardplans.
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