FAQs

 A development plan is a landscape concept plan that shows how a reserve could be used, managed and enhanced over time. It identifies potential improvements and provides a long-term vision for the space while helping protect its natural and cultural values. 

Unlike a Reserve Management Plan (RMP), which guides how reserves are managed under the Reserves Act, a development plan focuses on the physical layout and future opportunities within the reserve. 

The plan will provide a clear vision for the reserve that considers previous engagement with the local community association. 

The Reserve Management Plan for this reserve is also being reviewed by Council, and early engagement closed in March 2026. If you would like to keep up to date with this project, please visit our Let's Talk page for this plan.

The draft development plan has been prepared to guide future improvements and help ensure Sunshine Bay Reserve continues to meet the needs of the local community while protecting its natural and cultural values. 

The plan does not commit Council to immediate works. Instead, it provides a long-term vision that can help guide future investment, enhancement projects and funding opportunities as they arise. 

Implementation is staged as funding becomes available. Funding could come from Council through the Annual Plan / Long Term Plan process, or through community avenues such as associations, local trusts or private donors. While no funding for implementation is currently allocated in Council's Long Term Plan, having a development plan ensures there is a cohesive plan for improvements if funding becomes available.

QLDC has a partnership agreement with local mana whenua and have been in discussions from the early engagement stage of the project. The Parks and Reserves team will continue working with local mana whenua to ensure their values and feedback are incorporated into the final development plan.