■ Every year, the Bay of Plenty Regional Council Toi Moana (BOPRC) reviews how it invests your rates and resources to care for our environment, support communities, and strengthen our region’s resilience. The annual plan sets out what we’ll deliver in the coming year, while the long-term plan (LTP) maps out priorities and challenges for the next 10 years, writes Kōhi Māori Ward councillor Dr Mawera Karetai

These plans shape our collective future; they guide everything from flood protection and sustainable transport to climate action, biodiversity protection, and partnerships with iwi, hapū and our wider community. That’s why your voice matters.

When people from all walks of life contribute, the plans reflect our shared values and the realities of the communities who live, work, and raise whānau here.

It is important to know that we don’t plan in isolation.

The regional council works closely with our district councils, other authorities, and a wide range of community and environmental groups to make sure the region’s goals align.

This collaboration helps avoid duplication, shares resources, and strengthens outcomes.

From joint transport strategies to shared climate response initiatives, working together ensures regional planning fits with local priorities and community aspirations.

We really want you to get involved, and there are many ways to have your say and help shape the plans that guide our region’s future:

■ Read and review the plans online: Drafts and summaries are available at www.participate.boprc.govt.nz/consultation2026, making it easy to explore what’s proposed and why.

■ Make a submission: Whether you want to show support, raise concerns, or suggest new ideas, you can submit online, by email, or in writing.

■ Attend community sessions: Drop-ins and workshops across the region provide a chance to discuss issues directly with councillors and staff.

■ Present your views at hearings: Sharing your thoughts in person ensures real stories and community priorities are heard first-hand.

■ Use the Friends of the Submitter service: If you want to contribute but don’t know where to start, this free service pairs you with an independent adviser, who can help you draft or refine your submission. Everyone is welcome – no experience required.

■ Spread the word: Encourage whānau, neighbours, schools, and clubs to take part.

Community engagement makes our plans stronger and fairer.

Strong regional planning grows from strong community voices. Every idea, question, and perspective helps us refine how the Bay of Plenty Regional Council invests in the wellbeing of you, and the things that matter to our environment and our people.

The Bay of Plenty Regional Council Annual Plan, and amendments to the long-term plan are open for consultation now, until April 2. Please take a moment to read, reflect, and share your thoughts.

Because when everyone has a voice, our region’s future truly belongs to all of us.