Shannon / Otāuru Community Plan
We're pleased to share the Shannon / Otāuru Community Plan.
Shannon / Otāuru Community Plan 2025(PDF, 2MB)
Development of the plan
The Shannon Community had voiced their support for a Shannon Community Plan, and during the Long Term Plan 2024-2044 process, several Shannon community members called for the next community plan to be in Shannon. With such a strong case made, Council agreed and it became one of Council’s Top 12 Priorities.
In September 2024, Horowhenua District Council, Ngāti Whakatere, and the Shannon / Otāuru community came together to envision a brighter future through the development of a Shannon Community Plan.
A series of public meetings followed, starting at Whakawehi Marae, then moving to Memorial Hall and the Shannon Library. The Shannon Community Plan Working Group was established to drive the development of the plan. Wider community feedback was sought through extensive engagement during January and February 2025.
Community engagement and feedback
We received amazing feedback. A total of 297 submissions were received – very impressive at 18.5% of the town’s population and if we consider representation by households, 297 submissions against 624 households in Shannon that would be a 48% response rate. There was strong representation from Māori, Pasifika, and younger people. These are groups that have historically been underrepresented in local government consultations.
Adoption of the plan
These insights and suggestions were integral to developing the Shannon / Otāuru Community Plan, adopted by Horowhenua District Council, which held its first meeting in Shannon on 18 June 2025. This marked a significant milestone of this journey. This plan has been a truly iwi and community led initiative, championed through the leadership of Councillor Olsen and strong support from the community.
How to stay involved
As we move forward to developing an action plan, we want to keep the lines of communication open. If you have any additional thoughts or ideas, please don’t hesitate to share them with us.
Your continued input is essential to bringing this plan to life. If you have further thoughts, please email them to StrategicPlanning@horowhenua.govt.nz