Key consultation updates, funding requests, and community projects discussed at latest TCC meeting
Tamahere residents are being encouraged to engage with both the Waikato Regional Council (WRC) and Waikato District Council (WDC) as several key plans and funding consultations open for public feedback.
At the most recent Tamahere Community Committee (TCC) meeting, WRC Chair Pamela Storey outlined the Council’s 2025/26 Annual Plan, which is now open for submissions until 30 April. One of the major proposals is a new transport rate levy, aimed at supporting public and community transport. Tamahere residents would be charged an “unserviced” transport rate of $38.35 per property under this plan. The WRC is also seeking feedback on rate remission policies, surplus fund use, and updated fees and charges.
Residents can submit feedback by visiting the WRC’s consultation page at yourvoicematters.waikatoregion.govt.nz.
Gully Consents & Restoration Projects
Cr Keir raised concerns over WRC consent costs linked to volunteer-led gully restoration, prompting a commitment from Cr Storey to review support options, including the work of Tamahere Mangaone Restoration Trust (TMRT).
SNA Clarity Needed
The committee flagged concerns over Significant Natural Areas (SNAs), especially their impact on private property rights. Cr Storey clarified that SNAs remain the responsibility of District Councils and that many proposed sites have yet to be ground-truthed.
Plan Change 1 remains unresolved and is still before the Environment Court. The outcome will not be affected by the current Resource Management reforms.
Waikato District Council Updates
WDC’s own Long Term Plan consultation runs from 11 April to 11 May, with both online and in-person sessions scheduled. Tamahere locals are urged to attend or submit feedback via waikatodistrict.govt.nz/say-it.
Other district-level discussions included:
CCTV Project: As you know new cameras will be installed across six key Tamahere locations. While power access remains a hurdle for some sites, planning is progressing towards installation.
Civil Defence: A new community champion is sought to lead local preparedness planning. Is there a retired person willing to become the Tamahere Co-Ordinator?
Water CCO: Hamilton City Council is the preferred partner for water management under the "Local Water Done Well" initiative.
Playground Shade: Community fundraising will be needed to deliver urgently needed shading at Tamahere playgrounds.
Park Seating Donations: Lions will support future installations, but a clearer payment and planning framework is needed.
Forum, Website & Community Support
TCC confirmed funding to keep the Tamahere Forum website running through June 2025. However, a request has been made to double the Council's contribution to $10,000 annually to ensure continuity into 2026.
Planet Food News, which manages the site, submitted an invoice of $2,625 for the current quarter, which was approved unanimously.
Upcoming Events & Notices:
Pumpkin Night at Tamahere Model Country School – Saturday 5 April
Furniture Restoration Workshop – recently completed with 20 attendees
Market Day at Tamahere St Stephens Church – Saturday 19 April
Mayor’s Community Awards – TCC has nominated John Sheat for his long-standing community service
Speed Management Plan – WDC adoption expected 14 April; schools to shift to variable 30km/h zones
Waste Minimisation Project Funding – Applications close Friday 18 April
Green Gorilla Recycling Centre Tour – Huntly, Saturday 5 April
Download the full minutes of the meeting below: Tamahere Community Committee – April 2025 Minutes (PDF)
For further updates or to get involved in local matters, visit the Tamahere Forum or contact your local committee representatives.
