WSP appointed to run Te Anau Basin development plan

Work is now under way on the Te Anau Basin Development Plan, after WSP NZ Ltd was appointed by Southland District Council to design the plan.

The work will produce a multi-faceted development plan that will enhance Te Anau, Manapouri and the wider area as a place to live, work and visit. It will include recommendations and conceptual designs that consider a wide range of factors, including accommodation, service facilities, infrastructure location, recreational activities, roads, car parks, footpaths, cycleways, walking tracks, open spaces and improved CBD opportunities, as well as costings.

The brief is that the final document will “provide a detailed level of urban and spatial planning to further develop and align the Fiordland Community Board Plan and the Milford Opportunities Project Masterplan”.

It will support Te Anau’s growth to become a standalone destination, the beginning of the journey to Milford Sound Piopiotahi and a central departure hub for Fiordland and the wider Southland Murihiku region.

The first advisory group meeting will be held in Te Anau on Tuesday.

WSP project manager Luke McSoriley said WSP is delighted to carry out this work.

“The formulation of the Te Anau Basin Development Plan provides an opportunity for the Fiordland community to push its vision of a thriving connected community of people that welcomes visitors, embraces sustainability and takes care of its environment,” Mr McSoriley said.

Residents and ratepayers will have plenty of opportunity to share their ideas and thoughts, with a series of engagement events and activities planned. Engagement with mana whenua will also take place throughout the project.

Fiordland Community Board chair Diane Holmes said she was really pleased to see this project get under way.

“I would encourage people to have their say and I am most excited to hear what they say - what their visions for the area are,” Ms Holmes said.

The draft plan will be completed early next year.