Tauranga

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Local Government

Essential details about Tauranga City Council and regional governance for residents and visitors.

Sections

1. Structure of Local Government in Tauranga

Taurangaโ€™s local government is managed by the Tauranga City Council (TCC), which is responsible for governing the city and providing essential services to residents and businesses. The council operates under New Zealandโ€™s Local Government Act 2002 and other relevant legislation.

Key Components of Tauranga City Council:

  • Commissioners: As of 2021, Tauranga City Council is governed by a group of government-appointed commissioners instead of elected councillors. This change occurred due to governance challenges and dysfunction within the council. The commissioners are responsible for decision-making and ensuring the cityโ€™s development aligns with national and local priorities.
  • Mayor and Councillors (historically): Normally, local councils in New Zealand are led by an elected mayor and councillors. However, in Tauranga, this structure is temporarily replaced by commissioners until the next local elections (expected in 2024).

Council Meetings and Public Participation:

  • Council meetings are held regularly and are open to the public, allowing residents to stay informed and provide input on local issues.
  • Agendas, minutes, and live streams of meetings are available on the Tauranga City Council website.

2. Services Provided by Tauranga City Council

The Tauranga City Council is responsible for a wide range of services that support the cityโ€™s infrastructure, environment, and community well-being. Below are the key services:

Infrastructure and Utilities:

  • Water Supply and Wastewater: The council manages the cityโ€™s water supply, wastewater treatment, and stormwater systems. Residents are charged for water usage based on a metered system.
  • Roads and Transport: Maintenance of local roads, footpaths, and cycleways, as well as public transport planning (in collaboration with the Bay of Plenty Regional Council).
  • Waste Management: The council oversees kerbside rubbish and recycling collection services, including green waste and glass recycling.

Community and Recreation:

  • Parks and Reserves: Maintenance of public parks, reserves, and playgrounds, including popular spots like Mount Maunganui and Memorial Park.
  • Libraries: Tauranga City Libraries provide free access to books, digital resources, and community programs. Key branches include the Tauranga Library (CBD), Greerton Library, and Mount Maunganui Library.
  • Community Centres and Events: The council supports local events, cultural festivals, and community centres.

Environmental Management:

  • Coastal and Environmental Protection: The council works to protect Taurangaโ€™s coastline, harbours, and natural environment through conservation programs and sustainable development initiatives.
  • Animal Control: Management of dog registration, stray animals, and animal welfare issues.

Urban Planning and Development:

  • Building Consents and Resource Consents: The council regulates construction and land use through building and resource consent processes.
  • Housing and Growth Planning: Tauranga is experiencing rapid growth, and the council is actively involved in planning for housing, infrastructure, and urban development.

Emergency Management:

  • The council collaborates with Civil Defence to prepare for and respond to emergencies such as earthquakes, floods, and other natural disasters.

3. Local Fees and Costs

Residents and businesses in Tauranga are required to pay various fees and rates to fund the services provided by the council. Below are some of the key costs:

Rates:

  • Property Rates: All property owners in Tauranga pay annual rates based on the value of their property. Rates fund essential services like water, waste management, and infrastructure.
  • Water Rates: Water is charged separately based on usage, with metered billing.

Building and Resource Consent Fees:

  • Fees apply for building consents, resource consents, and inspections. These vary depending on the size and complexity of the project.

Dog Registration Fees:

  • Dog owners must register their pets annually. Fees vary depending on whether the dog is neutered or classified as a working dog.

Parking Fees:

  • Taurangaโ€™s central business district (CBD) has metered parking, with fees ranging from NZD 1 to NZD 2.50 per hour depending on the location.

Kerbside Collection Fees:

  • Residents pay for kerbside rubbish and recycling collection through an annual fee, which is included in their rates.

4. Important Local Offices and Sites

To access council services or seek assistance, you can visit the following key offices and facilities:

Tauranga City Council Main Office:

  • Address: 21 Devonport Road, Tauranga 3110
  • Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Services: General inquiries, rates payments, building and resource consents, dog registration, and more.

Service Centres:

  • The council operates additional service centres in other parts of the city, such as Greerton and Mount Maunganui, for convenience.

Tauranga City Libraries:

  • Main Library: 91 Willow Street, Tauranga
  • Libraries also serve as community hubs where residents can access free Wi-Fi, computers, and local information.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council:

  • While the Tauranga City Council handles local services, the Bay of Plenty Regional Council oversees regional matters such as public transport, environmental management, and flood protection.
  • Address: Regional House, 1 Elizabeth Street, Tauranga 3110

5. Procedures and Considerations

Here are some key procedures and tips for navigating Taurangaโ€™s local government services:

Rates and Payments:

  • Rates can be paid online, in person at the council office, or via direct debit. Discounts may apply for early payment.

Building and Resource Consents:

  • Applications for building or resource consents can be submitted online through the councilโ€™s e-Services portal. Ensure you have all required documentation, including plans and assessments.

Dog Registration:

  • New residents with dogs must register their pets within 14 days of moving to Tauranga. Registration can be completed online or at the council office.

Kerbside Collection:

  • Check the councilโ€™s website for your collection schedule and ensure you use the correct bins for rubbish, recycling, and green waste.

Public Transport:

  • Taurangaโ€™s bus services are managed by the Bay of Plenty Regional Council under the โ€œBayhopperโ€ network. Bee Cards are used for payment, and these can be topped up online or at designated locations.

Community Engagement:

  • Residents are encouraged to participate in public consultations and provide feedback on council projects and policies. Keep an eye on the councilโ€™s website for opportunities to have your say.

6. Additional Resources

By understanding the structure and services of Taurangaโ€™s local government, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to navigate the city and access the resources you need. If you have specific questions or require further assistance, feel free to ask!