Regional Community Outcomes

The regional community outcomes have grown out of the local outcomes and discussions by Environment Bay of Plenty with the regional community.   They reflect the expectations of the community for our region’s future and cover the different aspects of life – social, environmental, economic and cultural. 

A variety of public and private organisations will collaboratively work towards the shared vision for the next 10 years, including putting them in their policies and plans.  This will mean they are also accountable to help shape the future of our region.  For us, our children, and their children.

Which community outcomes were most important to you?

In the September 2005 edition of the Regional Guardian we asked you to prioritise which Regional Community Outcomes were most important to you.  While most people agreed that all the outcomes are important, A Clean and Protected Environment and Healthy and Safe Communities were prioritised highest.

The Regional Community Outcomes were prioritised in this order by the regional community:
• A Clean and Protected Environment
• Healthy and Safe Communities
• Value on Learning and Excellence
• Quality, Affordable Infrastructure
• A Vibrant and Fulfilling Lifestyle
• A Prosperous and Sustainable Economy
• Open and Inclusive Leadership
• Respected Culture and Heritage

Our natural environment is valued and preserved – enjoyed by us now and protected for future generations.

This will mean:

• Rare and endangered habitats and species are protected and enhanced
• Areas of important natural beauty are recognised and protected
• Our harbours, foreshore and waterways are clean and healthy
• There are strongly connected open spaces within and between residential and business/industrial areas
• The community is educated and involved in environmental care
• Waste is minimised and managed to ensure efficient use of resources
• Environmental legislation is enforced to ensure population increase and growth pressures are managed in a sustainable way
• Kaitiakitanga is practiced by all – we look after our land, air, and water resources
• The region is a place where people can truly experience, enjoy, and appreciate nature.

Individuals and organisations work in partnership to promote healthy living and ensure safe and caring communities.

This will mean:

• Healthy, active people involved in their communities
• Greater attention to health promotion with information on preventative health issues readily available
• Quality primary and secondary health care accessible to all
• Support for youth development, with youth gaining from – and contributing to – their communities
• Support and respect for the elderly and for the disadvantaged and disabled
• Adequate policing and low levels of crime providing a feeling of safety and security in our homes and communities
• An environment that supports healthy living, including such things as safe drinking water, comfortable public spaces and adequate recreational opportunities
• A real sense of community spirit throughout the region.

Residents are inspired to achieve and are supported in their efforts to learn and be well informed.

This will mean:

• A range of affordable, quality education and training opportunities are available throughout the region
• Educational options are flexible and accessible, and appealing to all age groups
• Participation in education is encouraged and supported, especially for youth
• Skill shortages are addressed through appropriate training
• There are good role models in the community to inspire residents (particularly youth) to strive for excellence
• Efforts are made to recognise, celebrate, and reward achievement.

Our infrastructure – particularly the transport network – serves business and the community well, contributes to quality of life in the region, and is sensitive to the natural environment.

This will mean:

• Infrastructure improvements support sustainable economic growth and development
• The roading network is a key component of a comprehensive transportation system (also including rail, sea and air)
• It is easy to get from place to place and travel times are reasonable and predictable
• Public transport is affordable, efficient and promoted so it is well used
• ‘Active’ transportation options (e.g. walking and cycling) are safe and accessible
• Transportation choices are environmentally sustainable
• Housing developments have minimal impact on the environment and offer variety and choice to suit all segments of the community
• Efficient, reliable communication technology is available throughout the region.
   

The Bay of Plenty is a region that people love and are proud to live in and call their own.

This will mean:

• People work together to make a positive difference
• Regular activities and events that support and celebrate art, music, drama, dance, and sport
• High quality facilities for events, conferences and tourism
• Great attractions such as museums and art galleries
• Parks, reserves and recreational facilities are maintained and enhanced
• The spirit and character of communities throughout the region remain distinctive and vibrant
• The Bay is a bustling and attractive area where opportunities abound
• The region has a unique identity that is celebrated and promoted.

Our productive, diverse regional economy provides long-term sustainable growth and prosperity.

This will mean:

• The region’s unique characteristics are developed and used to our competitive advantage
• A wide range of employment opportunities are available in urban and rural areas
• We are skilled and adaptable and we provide competitively-priced products and services
• Entrepreneurship and innovation focus on adding value and contribute to (export) growth
• Investment, new businesses and skilled individuals are attracted to the area
• Maori economic development is supported
• Tourism plays an important role, building on the region’s attributes and unique character
• Sustainable energy use is encouraged
• Buying local is promoted
• Economic growth is balanced with social and environmental responsibility.

Our responsible and motivated leaders and officials support community participation in decision-making.

This will mean:

• Leaders are visible and strong, have a clear vision, and earn the confidence and respect of the community
• Leaders are accountable, understand and represent the views of the region, and work for the good of all
• Decision-making processes are transparent and easily understood
• Residents have easy access to information and the opportunity to participate in decision-making
• Business, government, education, and not-for-profit sectors work effectively together
• Council and Maori work in partnership
• Councils in the region coordinate their efforts and costs are appropriate for the services and facilities provided.

The history of the region and the value of Maori culture within it are recognised and fostered.

This will mean:

• The special place of Maori as Tangata Whenua is recognised
• Maori resources are preserved and developed in a sustainable way
• All cultural heritage and traditions are respected and celebrated
• Preservation of important heritage buildings, structures, and sites
• Efforts to incorporate Maori culture into more tourism ventures
• Linking Maori culture with schools and education
• A strengthening of harmonious relationships amongst all cultures.