Concerns over transparency are resurfacing in Raglan, sparked by the Waikato District Council’s refusal to clarify its recent decision about the Manu Bay break wall. Raglan Community Board Chair Dennis Amoore criticised the council following their confidential session, emphasising that the community deserves clearer communication.
At a recent community board meeting, it was revealed that the council had privately discussed the future of the break wall, citing "commercial sensitivity"—typically reserved for sensitive financial matters—as justification. This raised eyebrows among board members, who questioned the relevance of confidentiality for such a longstanding public issue.
"The joke for me," Dennis commented, "is that they hold a publicly excluded meeting but still can't figure out how or when to tell the community what's happening. Especially on something that's been debated by three community groups for 15 years."
Earlier council staff estimates had put the cost of rebuilding the break wall around $2 million. However, recent council workshop documents reveal minimal funding allocated beyond basic maintenance. With key stakeholders still divided, this would appear to suggest that council is not planning to upgrade the wall.
Dennis remains frustrated and uncertain about when—or if—the council will finally clarify its official position.
Mystery Cameras Puzzle Locals
The unexpected appearance of solar-powered CCTV cameras around Raglan has sparked speculation. Local advocate John Lawson spotted one at Riria Keropa Memorial Drive but found no information on its installation. Dennis noted similar sightings near Hills Road, Ngarunui Beach Road, and possibly the surf club entrance. The community board remains unaware of their origin or purpose, raising further transparency concerns.
Raglan Community Board Frustrated by Communication Breakdown
Ongoing communication issues between Waikato District Council staff and Raglan's community board have intensified, particularly regarding critical planning documents.
Recently, community board members—including Lisa Thomson—highlighted they had not yet seen an important Whaingaroa transport report. This instance is part of a wider pattern where reports are either held back or emerge unexpectedly rather than through official council channels.
"These reports happen quietly behind the scenes, then suddenly someone from the public sends us a copy," Dennis explained. "We read it and wonder, ‘Council, what’s going on here?’"
The Raglan town plan faces similar uncertainty. Although council manager James Fuller previously indicated that work on a town structure plan would begin last year, fears remain that it could become sidelined or forgotten about. Board members are determined to keep the issue on council's radar. "You have to stay on their case," Dennis commented, "or it quickly drops off the radar."
Wastewater Disposal Plans Stall
Fresh concerns are bubbling up around Raglan's wastewater plans after recent soil tests at Wainui Reserve suggested the site may be unsuitable for wastewater disposal. The tests revealed that the soil lacks adequate porosity, potentially causing delays in finalising a much-needed land-based wastewater disposal solution.
The Waters Government Board is now awaiting further tests.
Growth Pressure in Raglan
Rapid growth in Raglan is placing pressure on housing, recreational spaces, and community facilities. Local renters are being squeezed out as landlords favour professional couples over families and long-term residents. This same growth is also overloading recreational spaces for community facilities like sports fields and parks.
While Wainui Reserve, a large 61-hectare farm park, offers substantial flat areas, a draft recreation report has indicated the authors think the wastewater disposal plans will interfere with sports plans and that the perceived distance from central Raglan is an issue.
However, Dennis argues these concerns are overstated. As Raglan expands westward, Wainui Reserve’s proximity will increasingly become advantageous. Dennis noted that the reserve could quickly accommodate facilities such as sports fields if council approval was given.
"If council gave the green light tomorrow, a football field could realistically be developed there within 12 months," said Dennis. "Flattening the pitch is manageable—certainly no more challenging than the current soccer fields."
With rapid growth in local sports participation, particularly soccer, Dennis stresses that future action is needed.
Residents Urged to Engage on Raglan’s Future
The Raglan Community Board is calling on locals to step up and have their say, following low turnouts at recent meetings. With critical discussions underway around transport, infrastructure, and Raglan's future growth, now is the time for residents to get involved.
The board strongly advocates creating a detailed plan to clearly define and prioritise future development in Raglan. Important decisions need to be made about agriculture, local transport and commercial and industrial growth—ensuring these developments reflect community interests and values, rather than simply reacting to private developer proposals.
Flooding Frustration at Aro Aro Park
Recurring flooding at Aro Aro Park playground is reportedly due to an improperly opened tidal gate, held open by a rope, causing unchecked flooding during king tides. Dennis says the solution could be as simple as cutting the rope and restoring previous management practices.
Rising Rates Spur Affordability Concerns
The latest rates figures have been released, showing a slight increase in general rates but a sharper rise in targeted rates, prompting concerns about affordability and long-term sustainability.
While the general rate has increased by 4.25%, targeted rates—including those related to Three Waters—have risen between 7.8% and 10.8%. The final number will depend on if Water is in or out and if public transport all goes to regional Council.
Many residents may not be aware of how their rates are divided between general and targeted costs. “It’s worth checking your rates invoice to see exactly what you’re paying for,” Dennis said. “Targeted rates cover a diverse range of services, and people might not realise how much is allocated to specific areas.”
Council Efficiency Under Scrutiny
Dennis has directly questioned the council's belief in its efficiency, noting that internal assessments primarily benchmark against other councils, rather than comparing operations with the private sector. He argues this approach can be misleading, potentially overlooking areas where genuine efficiencies could be achieved.
He specifically highlighted concerns around essential community services, such as museums and community development initiatives, questioning whether these should continue to be directly managed by the council. While acknowledging that many residents consider these services crucial, Dennis raised doubts about their affordability and whether community-led management could offer a better solution.
Long-Term Plan: Time for Raglan to Speak Up
With the Long-Term Plan (LTP) process underway, the community is being urged to get involved. “The LTP sets out spending priorities for the next 10 years, including infrastructure, maintenance, and new projects,” Dennis explained. Public consultation on this will run from 11th April to 11th May.
An extraordinary council meeting on 11 March will review key asset management plans, covering open spaces, facilities, waste services, Three Waters, infrastructure, and transport strategies. These plans will feed into the draft LTP, shaping how funds are allocated.
“It’s critical for the community to have a say. What do people in Raglan really want? This is the chance to influence what gets prioritised,” said Dennis.
While the process is ongoing, it remains to be seen how much community input will be reflected in the final plan.