A vision for growth over the next 30 years

Published on 25 June 2025

An AI-generated image showing inner city apartments. The Future Development Strategy responds to a need for different types of housing.

Whangarei District Council and Northland Regional Council have jointly adopted the Whangārei Future Development Strategy. 

The strategy sets out how we can manage our growing and changing population to support thriving communities, protect our environment and build resilience for the future. 

It identifies key opportunities, such as enabling quality housing and choice, creating a safe and sustainable transport system, protecting people and place from extreme weather events, and building resilient infrastructure – all while enhancing the natural beauty and unique character that makes Whangārei special. 

Whangārei District Councillor Scott McKenzie is incredibly proud to have been part of the Future Development Strategy Working Group and grateful to everyone who contributed. 

“It’s the result of two years of engagement and collaboration between our councils, hapū, the community, developers, Government agencies and infrastructure providers," he said. 

“For the first time, all these stakeholders are on the same page about how Whangārei will grow – with different types of housing, easier ways to get around, and a clearly phased plan for the next 30 years. It’s a big moment for our District and region," McKenzie said. 

Northland Regional Council Councillor Amy Macdonald is also excited about the strategy's adoption. 

“It sets a positive vision for how Whangārei’s future growth can be designed to enhance our District,” she said. 

“The strategy looks ahead to shape growth in a way that protects the places and things we love about living here, like our beautiful, forested hills and our spacious rural and coastal landscapes.” 

She noted strong public support for revitalising the city centre, with plans for housing and education developments expected to bring vibrancy and create a "beating heart" for our District and region. 

“Growth is coming, so it’s awesome to have spent time listening to our communities and working with Central Government agencies, and to now have their support for this cohesive vision. Now the real mahi begins as we plan the work to implement the strategy,” Macdonald said. 

To find out more and read the full strategy: 

Whangārei Future Development Strategy