Key Takeaways
- Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale aims to keep rate increases low and finalize a regional deal with the Government in 2026.
- Western Bay of Plenty Mayor James Denyer expects significant change in the local government sector and hopes to secure a regional deal with "great wins" for the district.
- Labour MP Jan Tinetti hopes to build a fairer, more compassionate Tauranga by prioritizing people’s needs and well-being.
- Former National Party leader Todd Muller looks forward to a regional deal that can establish a genuine partnership for growth and development.
- Community leaders and individuals express their hopes and priorities for 2026, including easing cost-of-living pressures, improving access to healthcare, and promoting a sense of community and belonging.
Introduction to 2026 Plans and Hopes
The year 2026 is expected to bring both opportunities and challenges for the city of Tauranga and its surrounding regions. Local government leaders, MPs, and community figures have shared their plans and hopes for the upcoming year. Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale has made it a top priority to keep rate increases as low as possible and finalize a long-anticipated regional deal with the Government. Western Bay of Plenty Mayor James Denyer also expects significant change in the local government sector and hopes to secure a regional deal with benefits for the district.
Focusing on People’s Needs
Labour MP Jan Tinetti emphasizes the importance of putting people at the heart of every decision to build a fairer, more compassionate Tauranga. She hopes to see a city where everyone feels valued, heard, and supported, with a focus on easing the cost of daily life, improving access to quality housing, education, and healthcare. Former National Party leader Todd Muller also looks forward to a regional deal that can establish a genuine partnership for growth and development. He expresses his excitement about the potential benefits of such a deal for the city and its communities.
Community Leaders’ Hopes and Priorities
Community leaders and individuals have also shared their hopes and priorities for 2026. Tom Rutherford, MP for Bay of Plenty, focuses on fixing the basics while building for the future, including easing cost-of-living pressures, backing local businesses, and improving access to healthcare. Tauranga Business Chamber chief executive Matt Cowley hopes that the city’s communities, particularly businesses, will step up and embrace the changes ahead, taking the lead in shaping their own future. Social Link chief executive Liz Davies prioritizes ensuring that everyone has what they need to live with dignity, including a secure home, food, and basic living costs.
Embracing Change and Promoting Community
Bay of Plenty Regional Council chairwoman Matemoana McDonald acknowledges that local government is heading into 2026 amid significant change. However, she believes that change can be positive when managed well, with a focus on ensuring strong community outcomes. Toi Tauranga Art Gallery Director Sonya Korohina hopes to see more acts of reciprocity and kindness across the city, recognizing the importance of small moments in strengthening the city’s humanity and overall well-being. Dr. Kyla Matenga, an orthopaedic surgeon in training, prioritizes creating an environment where people feel supported to aim high, stay active, and believe in themselves.
Conclusion and Looking Ahead
In conclusion, the year 2026 is expected to be a significant one for Tauranga and its surrounding regions. With a focus on keeping rate increases low, finalizing a regional deal, and prioritizing people’s needs, community leaders and individuals are looking forward to a year of growth, development, and positive change. As the city and its communities navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead, it is essential to prioritize people’s well-being, promote a sense of community and belonging, and embrace the changes that will shape the future of Tauranga. By working together and supporting one another, the city can build a brighter, more compassionate future for all its residents.