Our vision

A place to swim and gather, where heritage buildings that have stood empty are open and busy again, and where getting to the water is easy for all ages and abilities.

A waterfront that strengthens our connection to the sea, considers and cares for our environment, and reflects the culture of who we are.

Where the vision comes from

Previous work provided us with a clear cultural direction, through incorporating the Design Principles of Tūturu, Tūhono, Tūranga, Matatū. Together they give the whole waterfront one thread that honours the past and affirms the identity of Whakatū, for everyone.

In practice, they protect customary access to and use of the coast – including Te Taero a Kereopa (the Boulder Bank), Urenui (Fifeshire Rock) and Matangi Āwhio – and protect and strengthen the mauri (life force) of coastal ecosystems. They shape the arrival points into the waterfront, and they open the door to naming the shared path, native plants and habitat, and telling the stories of this place along the way.

The four guiding principles

Every idea in this plan has to live up to these.

Tūturu

Genuine expression of culture

Restore nature at the water's edge and bring people back to the water. Improve the health of the harbour through planting and green infrastructure. Ground what is built here in the stories of tangata whenua, so the place feels like Whakatū and nowhere else.

Tūhono

Connectedness and collaboration

Recognise all our histories and cultures, not just one. Bring the energy back to the Haven edge. Make a plan that welcomes every part of our community – and deal honestly with the need for car parking.

Tūranga

Belonging and mana whenua presence

Recognise whakapapa and mana whenua, and give real prominence to iwi perspectives – including the history of displacement and cultural loss. Celebrate the working port. Make the waterfront somewhere people come to on purpose.

Matatū

Readiness and resilience

Take the rhythm of the tides – Tai Timu, Tai Pari – as the guide. Build spaces that are flexible and ready for a changing climate, and tie them together with art, interpretation and wayfinding.