Created by the community in 2001 as a shared vision of Raglan’s future, the Raglan Naturally community plan was designed as a living document to guide and manage growth and development while protecting and enhancing Raglan’s unique character.
Project coordinator Gabrielle says an amazing amount of time has been invested by a dedicated group of volunteers representing many different voices, points of view and with a wealth of different skill sets.
“It is really wonderful to see enthusiasm and interest from a diverse group of people as we work toward creating an updated community plan.”
The Raglan Naturally committee meets monthly to advise and steer the project.
Gabrielle says the focus groups are currently working on their specific areas, gathering information to create a starting point for the community wide engagement in September. The groups each have a coordinator and they have met a number of times. The coordinators have also been meeting regularly to share and contribute to the process.
“The focus groups play a key role in gathering information, connecting with relevant people in the community and painting a picture of where we are at in each focus area, the strengths and assets in our community, and the potential challenges and opportunities in the future,” she says.
Raglan Naturally has held three workshops to support the focus groups, starting with a Future Focus workshop with seven speakers discussing how to plan for the future. A Te Tiriti o Waitangi workshop facilitated by Ingrid Huygens provided rich learning about the treaty and ended with a discussion about how this fits our local context and what learning opportunities to continue with. Thirdly, a full day focus group workshop gave opportunities to share and integrate information gathered for wider community engagement.
“Raglan Naturally is growing and maintaining momentum. In Whāingaroa we have an abundance of experience, knowledge and wisdom to add to this project. This is a learning journey for us and everyone is welcome to come on board,” Gabrielle says.
Raglan Naturally encompasses the Raglan Ward including Ruapuke, Te Mata, Te Uku, Waitetuna and Waingaro.
