Review of the Use of Council Land Policy 2022

We are reviewing the Use of Council Land Policy to ensure it is fit for purpose. 

Next steps

The policy was adopted in December 2022, amalgamating 10 previous council policies related to activities on council land to provide a consistent approach to managing the formal use of council land by community, private and commercial users.  

It sets out the high-level outcomes that are sought from the use of council land as well as the principles that underpin how council will manage the use.

The policy outlines what types of activities and uses of council land need approval, the different approval types(such as bookings, licences/permits, leases and licences to occupy), and the general conditions and expectations that must be followed for each type. For some of the approval types, it also covers how prioritisation decisions will be made. 

We’re now reviewing the policy to see how it’s working and to ensure the policy objectives are being met.  

Use of Council Land Policy 2022 (193kb pdf)

We asked stakeholders for feedback on how the current policy is working and to identify any issues. Feedback closed Friday, 15 August 2025.

We will now analyse the feedback to identify any issues in the current policy that need to be addressed. We will then present an issues and options report and draft revised policy to Council’s City Future Committee (the Committee) in November 2025.  Once approved by the Committee, the community can provide feedback on the draft revised policy in early 2026.

Who did we seek feedback from?  

We wanted to hear from groups, clubs, businesses, and organisations who have direct interest in the use of council land, including but not limited to: mana whenua, community groups, sports and recreation clubs, event organisers, market organisers, those with licences, leases or permits to use council land, as well environmental, heritage and industry groups and organisations.

What does the policy cover?  

The Use of Council Land Policy covers how Tauranga City Council land can be used by the community, including private and commercial users.  

The policy supports a wide range of uses — such as events, markets, sports and recreation, and filming, as well as many other activities — to ensure council land is primarily for community use and benefit, supporting health and wellbeing, enhancing vibrancy and diversity, and protecting and promoting cultural and environmental values. 