The latest Chamber BA5, hosted by Tauranga City Council at Baycourt, provided an opportunity to discuss the city’s 2021-31 draft Long-term Plan. Key speakers at the event were Tauranga’s recently appointed Commissioners.

Drawing in more than 100 people from the local business community, this was an event unlike our usual BA5s.

Anne Tolley (Chair), accompanied by Commissioners Bill Wasley, Shad Rolleston and Stephen Selwood ensured that April’s BA5 was very much an opportunity for them to “steal the show” and highlight the future direction of Tauranga. TCC commissioners made it clear they were willing to engage and hear the aspirations from those in attendance.

Scroll down to view our photos from the night, courtesy of Vanessa Laval-Glad (Laval Photo & Video). 

A city of 150,000 and experiencing rapid rates of growth, Tauranga’s pressing infrastructure needs and overall ability to provide a desirable lifestyle were hot topics of the evening.

Although only a brief presentation, TCC commissioners made it clear that they were willing to engage and hear the aspirations from those in attendance. A city of 150,000 and experiencing rapid rates of growth, Tauranga’s pressing infrastructure needs and overall ability to provide a desirable lifestyle were in question at this event.

Bill Wasley and Stephen Selwood mirrored this sentiment during their presentation, acknowledging the lack of adequate investment to date in community facilities and improved transport systems.

A short Q&A from the floor was welcomed from the commissioners, who provided no nonsense responses and the occasional dose of humour from Anne to lighten the mood. Shad Rolleston shared that although action is required within Tauranga City Council itself, it is going to take collective action from neighbouring councils to move forward and create success for the region.

Anne Tolley acknowledged a short timeframe of 18 months to initiate change and make the region one residents should be proud of, which provided a small light at the end of a dark tunnel. Anne called on locals to vote and do so wisely in the next local election to ensure the right leadership can carry Tauranga into a bright future.

Thank you to all guests in attendance.

The Chamber’s next BA5 event, hosted by Exceed, is on Wednesday, May 5.