The first step in the review was the development of the Regional Parks Network Management Plan. The plan provides an overarching management framework for addressing issues common to all parks in a consistent and comprehensive way. The plan covers conserving environment and cultural heritage values in parks, sustaining community and recreational opportunities and use, and promoting partnerships with the community and tangata whenua.

There was an initial delay while land management arrangements for Waitangirua Farm, the Kilmister and Takapu blocks changed negotiations with central and local government.

The review and its initial consultation phase began in October 2006.

The pre-consultation phase for the Management Plan was completed in December 2006. 104 submissions were received; approximately 40 people attended the public meeting held in Belmont Hall, contributing their ideas & suggestions for the management of the park. The community identified that the key values for the park were its open spaces, easy access from Wellington, the Hutt Valley and Porirua, its non-commercial nature and its significant heritage aspects.

Submissions were considered by Council in early 2007. The draft of the management plan is currently being prepared. We anticipate that this draft will be available for public comment at some stage in 2008.

Issues to be addressed include the potential for wind farm operations and land tenure throughout the park including the reserve classification for Waitangirua Farm.