Working together for our community

Rotorua Lakes Council, Ngāti Uenukukōpako, Ngāti Te Roro o te Rangi, and the Rotorua Eastside Community are working in a partnership created by the Waikawau Reserve Management Plan. This plan shows our shared commitment to improving the Waikawau/Hannah’s Bay Reserve for the wider Eastside community.

The Waikawau Reserve Committee manages the reserve according to this plan. This project is part of the larger Waikawau/Hannah’s Bay Reserve Upgrade. In 2023, after listening carefully to the community, a concept plan was completed for these upgrades.

Why are boat ramp changes needed?

Waikawau Reserve is a popular spot enjoyed by many, and it's getting even busier. The Committee wants to ensure the reserve remains a place for peaceful enjoyment.

Currently, the reserve's boat ramp needs replacing. Its current location near the playground creates safety concerns with vehicles and boat trailers moving around. It also causes conflicts, as people swim in the same area where boats launch and moor.

Moving the boat ramp from its current position in Waikawau Reserve will therefore increase safety. The existing jetty at Waikawau Bay will remain, and the reserve will have a focus on passive activities.

To address these issues and improve the reserve for everyone, we're suggesting two main changes:

1. Move the boat ramp

We propose moving the boat ramp to the southern end of Waikawau Reserve.

This move would significantly improve safety by separating boat launching activities from the playground and main swimming areas. It could also serve boat users better, potentially offering a design shielded from the wind, making launching easier in various weather conditions.

2. Create a 'swimming only' zone

We propose creating a dedicated 'swimming only' area along the reserve's lakefront. This zone would be around the jetty area, where the current boat ramp is located.

This will make the water safer for swimmers and others enjoying passive water activities, like waka ama, paddle boards and kayaking.

Funding

Funding has been set aside in Council’s Long-Term Plan for the replacement of the boat ramp.

Our vision for the reserve

These changes support our vision for Waikawau Reserve to become a more natural and peaceful place. The existing jetty will remain, and the reserve will focus more on quiet, passive recreation. Moving the boat ramp and creating a safe swimming zone are key steps towards improving safety and enjoyment for all visitors.

Share your feedback

Before we finalise the designs, we want to hear from you. We invite the community to share feedback on the proposals to:

• Move the boat ramp.
• Create a 'swimming only' area.

Your input is valuable and will help us make Waikawau Reserve even better.