A community centre in Browns Bay is getting a major upgrade, local parks and sports facilities are being improved, and investment is continuing in cleaner waterways, safer town centres and community events.
These are just some of the ways the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board is investing in local communities and the environment, with $40 million allocated across the area.
The board has has adopted its 2026/2027 Local Board Agreement through council’s Annual Plan and chair Alexis Poppelbaum says the board has focused on the things residents told them matter most.
"We're investing in the things that matter most to residents, including community facilities, parks, town centres, environmental projects and local services.
"As Hibiscus and Bays grows, we're focused on making sure people continue to have access to the facilities, services and spaces they need. We want people to see and feel the benefits of these investments in their everyday lives."
1. A major upgrade for a community centre
One of the biggest projects this year is the renewal of the East Coast Bays Community Centre in Browns Bay.
The building, home to a range of community organisations and services, will undergo a significant upgrade to improve accessibility, strengthen the structure, remove asbestos and modernise the facility.
The work is part of a $7.7 million investment to help ensure the centre can continue serving the community for years to come.
2. Better parks and sports facilities
The board is investing in parks and recreation spaces across the area, including upgrades at Freyberg Park ($40,000), the Victor Eaves Park cricket ground ($230,000) and the Stanmore Bay skatepark. ($180,000)
Long Bay’s Awaruaika Youth Park with a permanent pump track ($1.8 million) will help create another destination for young people and families, while work continues to explore opportunities for additional outdoor courts and indoor recreation facilities.
3. Cleaner waterways and healthier environments
Protecting the area's natural environment remains a priority, with $313,000 allocated to local environmental programmes.
Funding will continue to support community projects that help care for local waterways, coastlines, parks and reserves, including native planting, pest control, habitat restoration and efforts to reduce waste and illegal dumping. This includes projects such as Pest Free Hibiscus Coast, riparian planting initiatives and wetland restoration work.
4. Safer, busier town centres
Town centres are at their best when people feel safe and connected. The board is investing in projects and partnerships that support local businesses, strengthen community connections and create welcoming town centres.
This includes community-led initiatives that improve safety, reduce antisocial behaviour alongside improvement projects and funding for signature local events to attract more people into town centres and support local businesses.
5. Backing local events and community groups
Community grants, local events and volunteer programmes will continue to receive support this year, with $450,000 available through the local grants programme helping to fund local activities and community initiatives.
Whether it's festivals, Santa parades, environmental restoration projects or grassroots community activities funding helps local groups deliver programmes that bring people together and strengthen local connections.
As the area continues to grow, the board says the year ahead is about delivering practical improvements that residents will see, use and benefit from every day.
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