Parapraumu Community Board
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As our Paraparaumu Community Board term comes near to a close, we’d love to share back with you — the community who put your trust in us. Below is the full Chair’s Report, with just some of the wins and advocacy we’ve achieved together over the 2022–2025 triennium. Thank you, Paraparaumu … View moreAs our Paraparaumu Community Board term comes near to a close, we’d love to share back with you — the community who put your trust in us. Below is the full Chair’s Report, with just some of the wins and advocacy we’ve achieved together over the 2022–2025 triennium. Thank you, Paraparaumu — it’s been our privilege to serve you!
Glen Olsen, Chair Paraparaumu Community Board 2022-2025
Introduction
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It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of the Paraparaumu Community Board over the 2022–2025 triennium. This has been a term defined by both challenge and achievement, where our Board has worked hard to ensure the voices of our community were heard and respected in decisions that affect us all.
At the beginning of the term, Paraparaumu faced several major issues – most notably the controversial Te Uruhi Gateway Project, rising concerns about the fairness of rates, and significant developments in community spaces such as Maclean Park and the Paraparaumu transport hub. From day one, our Board was determined to be an advocate for common-sense outcomes, to push for transparency, and to represent the interests of local ratepayers and residents.
I would like to acknowledge my fellow elected Board members – Deputy Chair Guy Burns, Karl Webber, and Bernie Randall – as well as our councillor appointees, Kathy Spiers and Glen Cooper. We also welcomed Councillor Martin Halliday to the table, whose presence and support strengthened the link between the Board and the wider Council. Each has contributed their time, energy, and expertise to achieve results for our community.
Te Uruhi – Kāpiti Gateway
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The most pressing issue at the start of the triennium was the proposed $8.4 million Te Uruhi Gateway Project at Paraparaumu Beach. The project had been a divisive issue throughout the 2022 local election campaign. Many in our community have expressed frustration with escalating costs, limited benefits, and a lack of meaningful consultation.
The Board made it our priority to ensure Council understood the overwhelming public opposition. We spoke plainly, supported community voices, and stood firm in our conviction that this project was not a responsible use of ratepayer money.
In early 2023, the Council voted to cancel Te Uruhi. This decision was a significant win for the people of Paraparaumu and demonstrated the value of strong, consistent advocacy. It was also an early example in this triennium of how a Community Board can be the critical link between local concerns and Council decision-making.
Targeted Rate
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During Long-Term Planning, the Chair uncovered a targeted rate of $6,500 per year for security cameras. However, no cameras existed, nor were there any plans to install them. Instead, this money was being absorbed into general rates, effectively being spent across the district rather than within the community that paid it.
The Board successfully reallocated the collected rates into the discretionary fund. Ensuring money collected from Paraparaumu ratepayers supports our community, where it belongs.
Transport Hub and Connectivity
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The new Paraparaumu transport hub was another primary focus for the Board. We worked to keep the community informed with regular updates on progress and ensured local concerns were raised early and often.
One of our successes was advocating for the early opening of the small skate ramp to align with the temporary closure of the Maclean Park skate park during redevelopment. This ensured that young people continued to have a safe place to skate and ride during the transition period.
Another contentious issue was the Council's plan to remove the existing pedestrian underpass once the new over-road pedestrian crossing was completed. From the start, our Board strongly opposed this, recognising that the underpass was vital for safety, accessibility, and convenience.
Through determined advocacy, we secured the retention of the underpass.
Maclean Park Redevelopment
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Maclean Park has always been the heart of our community, and its redevelopment was one of the most significant local projects of the triennium.
Our Board played an active role in community engagement, attending sessions, listening to users, and ensuring that local voices shaped the final design. This input led to meaningful changes in the skate park redevelopment, reflecting the ideas and needs of those who use the facility most.
Recognising the importance of continuity, we successfully advocated for the installation of a temporary skate ramp while the main park was under construction. This ramp not only filled a gap but became a major attraction in its own right. Recently, with the closure due to safety concerns of the Waikanae skate park, the ramp was relocated to Waikanae, where it now continues to serve the community and has become popular with bikers.
The shake ramp also became a canvas for creativity, with Raumati Community Board's Tarn Sheehan leading an initiative for local artist Ashling Alerion to cover it in vibrant street art. The artwork included a memorial to two much-loved local skaters, Martin Kaukau and Huta, ensuring their legacy lives on.
Other achievements at Maclean Park included:
• Advocacy for and oversight of the delivery of the new amenities block
• Installation of better lighting for the basketball court and a safety fence to prevent balls from ending up on the road.
• After years of persistence, the recent installation of security cameras has improved safety for children and helped to reduce vandalism.
These projects together transformed Maclean Park into a safer, more vibrant, and better-equipped space for our community.
Maclean Park beach access-ways
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Recently, the Board achieved a significant reset of the Maclean Park beach accessways project. It became clear during the design process that the proposed plans would have had a detrimental effect on both the natural environment and the character of Maclean Park. The design also exceeded the original project goals, driving up costs and placing an unnecessary burden on local ratepayers. The Board raised these concerns early and consistently, advocating for a more balanced and practical approach.
As a result, the Council agreed to strip the project back to its original aspirations. A few weeks back, Board members attended the project relaunch, which now reflects a simpler, more sustainable design that delivers the intended outcomes without unnecessary cost or environmental harm.
Kitawa Park Flying Fox
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Recently, Board member Karl and local ward councillor Martin brought to our attention the concerns of local Kitawa Park users after the much-loved flying fox was padlocked and taken out of use. The community was deeply unhappy with both the handling of the situation and the lack of communication from the Council.
The Board took up this cause strongly, advocating on behalf of the community and ensuring their voices were heard. At our final Board meeting, we invited a group of local children to present directly to the Board, the Mayor, and the Council Chief Executive. With great courage, these young residents explained why the flying fox was so important to them and to their park.
As a result of this advocacy, Chief Executive Darren committed to the children that Council will replace the equipment with the most exciting and thrilling flying fox that can be delivered, while still meeting modern safety requirements.
Representing a fantastic win for the whole community, and especially for the young people who use Kitawa Park. The Board extends a big shout-out to all the children who showed such bravery in standing up for their playground — their voices made the difference.
Vision Paraparaumu
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Understanding that Paraparaumu is the heart of our district, the Board run the Vision Paraparaumu community engagement project. This was about listening to residents and asking how they envisioned our town evolving.
The feedback collected was comprehensive and has been incorporated directly into the wider Vision Kāpiti process, ensuring that the unique voice of Paraparaumu is clearly represented in district-wide planning to shape long-term visioning at both local and district levels.
Development Engagement
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During this triennium, the Board made a deliberate decision to be proactive in how we engage with developers proposing significant projects in Paraparaumu. For the first time, we invited external developers to present their plans directly to the community at our meeting.
This included presentations from The Wellington Company and Summerset, who outlined proposals on a scale that would significantly affect our town centre and surrounding neighbourhoods. The Board also facilitated conversations with locals regarding the Mansel Otaihanga development.
This approach is essential for several reasons:
• Transparency: Too often, residents only hear the details of large projects once they are already approved. By inviting developers early, the community had the opportunity to learn about the plans at an early stage in the process.
• Accountability: Developers have the opportunity to present to and hear from people most affected by their proposals, rather than relying on filtered reports or consultation documents.
• Better outcomes: By asking the right questions, the community can help shape the conversation. For larger-scale proposals, this included concerns such as:
o How will the development affect traffic and parking?
o What provision is being made for affordable housing, green space, or community facilities?
o How will the scale and design integrate with the character of Paraparaumu?
o What commitments are being made around sustainability, resilience, and long-term infrastructure needs?
By taking this advocacy and leadership role, the Board not only gave residents a voice but also signalled to developers that Paraparaumu expects responsible, community-minded development.
Town Centre Planning
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The future of Paraparaumu's town centre has been another primary focus for the Board. As the heart of Kāpiti, Paraparaumu needs a centre that reflects its scale, growth, and role as a service hub for the wider district.
Throughout the triennium, the Board provided substantial input into the Council's town centre planning processes. We consistently advocated for the scope of planning to be expanded, so that it reflects not just immediate needs but also future growth in population, housing, and transport.
Our position has been that we must plan for:
• A centre that supports business and economic vitality.
• Public spaces that are welcoming, safe, and accessible.
• Integrated transport links that serve pedestrians, cyclists, and commuters as well as vehicles.
• A design that reflects Paraparaumu's identity, making it a genuine heart for our community.
The Board had been clear that our community deserves a vision-driven town centre plan, not simply ad hoc developments.
Restoration of the Forest & Bird Memorial Plaque
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Early in the triennium, the Board was approached regarding the return of the Forest & Bird memorial plaque at Maclean Park, which commemorates the work of Val Sanderson in leading to Kāpiti Island being dedicated as a wildlife reserve. Recognising the importance of this history to both our district and New Zealand conservation more widely, the Board committed to funding the restoration of the plaque.
The plaque is currently being reinstated, with completion expected in early October 2025. This outcome represents not only the preservation of an important piece of local heritage but also the recognition of a legacy that continues to inspire conservation work to this day.
The Chair extends his thanks to Pene Burton Bell, Chair of the Kāpiti-Mana Branch of Forest and Bird, for her willingness to work alongside us to make this restoration possible. Her support and collaboration have been instrumental in achieving this outstanding outcome for the community.
Community Facilities, Plaques, and Local Projects
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Beyond the major projects, our Board has consistently advocated for practical, often smaller improvements that have real meaning for our community. These included:
• Supporting the installation of a plaque for Christophe Ruthe, honouring his contribution to our community.
• Advocacy for and approval of a covered bus shelter at Kenakena, now in place for locals, students and commuters.
• Delivery of a safety fence at Te Atawhai Park, protecting walkers and children from a dangerous drop into the stream opposite Kenakena School, with thanks to Kathy Spiers for bringing this issue to the Board’s attention.
• Continued advocacy for flood protection and drainage improvements in the Kenakena area.
• Installation of new loading bays and parking restrictions near Ocean Road doctors and community centre, as well as improved open-road parking at Paraparaumu Beach.
Advocacy for LINZ Land – Kāpiti Road and Amohia Street (South-West Corner)
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The Board has consistently advocated for the clean-up and better management of the parcel of land owned by Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) on the south-west corner of Kāpiti Road and Amohia Street. This site occupies a highly visible location at the entrance to Paraparaumu town centre, and its condition and future use have the potential to shape the character of the area significantly.
Over time, the vacant buildings on the site have become a target for vandalism and a blight on the town centre's appearance. Following persistent advocacy, the buildings were recently removed — a critical first step in improving the outlook of this prominent site.
Ongoing Advocacy for a Local Park – Kāpiti Road and Amohia Street (North-East Corner)
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On the opposite corner, the Board has continued to advocate for the Council-owned land on the north-east side of Kāpiti Road and Amohia Street to be converted into a local park. At present, this site remains underutilised, yet it has the potential to become an official green space in the heart of Paraparaumu. A park here would soften the heavily built environment, create a welcoming entrance to the town centre, and offer a space for telling the story of the Paraparaumu Township.
Strengthening Advocacy and Board Practices
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Over this triennium, the Chair has also worked diligently to enhance the Community Board's advocacy on behalf of the community. One of the key changes has been the introduction of deputations as a standard agenda item — not just for the Community Board, but now across all Council and Board agendas. This simple yet significant change has enabled the Board to formally invite external groups to present directly at meetings, ensuring that community groups and others are given a formal opportunity to be heard.
Additionally, the Paraparaumu Community Board was the first to introduce Chair's Reports as a standing item on its agenda. This initiative enabled the Chair to formally report to the Board on matters of concern or importance, alongside official reports from Council staff. Since their introduction, Chair's Reports have become a regular feature at all local Board meetings, creating greater transparency, accountability, and responsiveness.
These improvements reflect the Board's commitment not only to delivering outcomes for the community but also to strengthening the democratic processes that underpin local decision-making.
Conclusion
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The 2022–2025 triennium has been a period of significant progress for Paraparaumu. From the cancellation of Te Uruhi, to investing in Maclean Park to ensure it remains a vibrant hub for residents and visitors alike, to smaller but vital safety and community projects, our Board has consistently stood up for local interests and delivered outcomes that matter.
I want to thank my fellow Board members for their dedication and hard work throughout the term, with a special mention to Kathy Spiers for her friendship, support and guidance as the previous Board Chair. I also acknowledge the support of Council staff who have partnered with us to deliver these results, often going above and beyond in challenging circumstances.
Finally, I would like to extend my deepest thanks to the people of Paraparaumu. It is your engagement, your willingness to speak up, and your belief in our community that have enabled us to achieve so much together.
This report reflects only a small snapshot of what the Board has achieved during the triennium. In truth, there have been far too many contributions, advocacy efforts, and community wins to mention in one document. Large or small, each outcome has made a difference, and collectively they demonstrate the strength of a community that works together to achieve practical solutions.
As this triennium comes to a close, I am proud of what we have achieved and confident that the Board has left Paraparaumu stronger, fairer, and more connected than when we began.
Glen Olsen
Chair – Paraparaumu Community Board 2022 - 2025
Join us for the final Paraparaumu Community Board Meeting of the 2022-2025 triennium
We have Te Wharemauku Awa Ropu providing an update on protecting the vitality of Wharemauku stream
, see the poster attached for a list of other updates to the board during the meeting.
I will also provide a… View moreJoin us for the final Paraparaumu Community Board Meeting of the 2022-2025 triennium
We have Te Wharemauku Awa Ropu providing an update on protecting the vitality of Wharemauku stream
, see the poster attached for a list of other updates to the board during the meeting.
I will also provide a Char's report with highlights of the Paraparaumu Community Board’s work, 2022-2025
Link to full agenda on KCDC website: kapiticoast.resolve.red...
Wow, how it has changed, this once was the corner of Kapiti Road / Amohia Street Old SH1. But what year/decade was this photo taken?
I remember the old gas Station in front of the old Paraparaumu Hotel, but I don't remember the dairy on that corner, when did the dairy go? Was something … View moreWow, how it has changed, this once was the corner of Kapiti Road / Amohia Street Old SH1. But what year/decade was this photo taken?
I remember the old gas Station in front of the old Paraparaumu Hotel, but I don't remember the dairy on that corner, when did the dairy go? Was something else there before it was redeveloped into the the current BP site? The photo shows a Shell sign, and Shell later become Z, how did it end up BP?
On Tuesday the Paraparaumu Community Board and elected members where given a walk through of the Maclean skate park development. It’s great to see that work is on schedule, on budget and it is looking amazing, looking forward to the skate park being a regional draw card again as it used to be … View moreOn Tuesday the Paraparaumu Community Board and elected members where given a walk through of the Maclean skate park development. It’s great to see that work is on schedule, on budget and it is looking amazing, looking forward to the skate park being a regional draw card again as it used to be when it was in its prime, more visitors to the area is a positive for the our local beach businesses!
Tarn Sheerin from the Raumati Community Board joined us for the walk through and after wrote (Photos also credited to Tarn):
I've not been on a skateboard since the 90s, but today, walking through the soonish to be completed new skatepark in Paraparaumu, I had a massive urge to drop into the bowl. But at my age, I would probably break a hip or someone else's and no one wants that 😆
I think the Kapiti Coast District Council staff and the team at Angus McMillan Concrete have done an outstanding job and I can't wait to hear how our youth and our visitors to the area love the new park, which is due to open in the new year🛹🛹🛹
There will be colour in the concrete, art by local graffiti artists and I'm hoping that KCDC will put on a public BBQ for everyone when the park is officially opened... 🛹🍖🌭
Angus McMillan Concrete have made over 30 skate parks, the staff all skate, well apart from Angus, who hasnever skated before.. but your never too old to learn right Angus!! Thanks team, we appreciate all your hard work
"The Paraparaumu Community Board has learnt that Kāinga Ora recently signed an agreement with Gibbons and Co. confirming their intention to purchase 26 two and three-bedroom homes at 112 Old Main Road Ramauti (Old SH1). The developer is responsible for managing all aspects of the consenting … View more"The Paraparaumu Community Board has learnt that Kāinga Ora recently signed an agreement with Gibbons and Co. confirming their intention to purchase 26 two and three-bedroom homes at 112 Old Main Road Ramauti (Old SH1). The developer is responsible for managing all aspects of the consenting and construction process, including site preparation and delivery of the new homes.
The residences will consist of 15 two-bedroom and 11 three-bedroom homes, fully insulated, with carpets, curtains and double glazing. Each home will have a private, low-maintenance garden and two shared community gardens in the heart of the development. These new state homes are expected to be ready for local people and families to move into by late 2025.
Kāinga Ora has been working collaboratively with the developer Gibbons and Co. to ensure the homes will best meet the needs of the people and families who will live there and the community. "
We hope Kāinga Ora will stay to their word, with priority given to local people and families in need, above others relocated from outside our district.
While this development is in Ramuati, it falls under the Paraparaumu Community Board; thank you to the Raumati Community Board for sending over the information.
Our board and the Ramuati Community Board will continue to monitor this development.
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