Vision for Paihia's future

Posted by The Bay Chronicle 3/12/2009 on 7 December 2009 | 0 Comments

After five months of development, Focus on Paihia has launched a vision for its future.

With an emphasis on nature, humanity and tourism co-existing harmoniously, the vision lays out a foundation for moving forward in a more cohesive fashion.

"The process has been great," says co-ordinator Tania McInnes. "We have had plenty of input from different community members and the four focus groups did an excellent job in researching and defining where Paihia needs to be.

"Our working party put in lots of effort to ensure that the final vision incorporated the majority views and believe that they have produced something that should see Paihia develop into an exceptional place to live, work and experience."

The vision is supported by seven key objectives, which include better recognition of history and developing a more people-friendly waterfront, while protecting the natural environment. Community pride, safety and exceptional visitor experiences also feature. A further seven key goals bring the vision together.

"This is really exciting. The Paihia community have taken responsibility for their town and where they want to go," says Tania.

"We are all very proud to have been involved in this exercise and look forward to getting under way with stage two in the middle of next year."

Stage two will look at how best to move forward and start implementing the vision. This will include looking at governance, strategic planning and securing funds.

For the full vision, key objectives and key goals visit www.paihianz.co.nz or email focusonpaihia@xtra.co.nz.