An Introduction from the Mayor

It's my pleasure to introduce the draft Rangiora Town Centre Strategy.

Over the next few pages we describe an exciting vision of how the Town Centre could look and feel in the future. The success of the Rangiora Town Centre is vital in ensuring Waimakariri’s economy continues to thrive. It’s a major service centre for the District and a hub for commerce, employment and recreation.

Over 20 years of sustained population growth has seen Rangiora expand past its traditional boundaries and by 2048 it is estimated that more than 30,000 people will call Rangiora home. This growth presents challenges, but also opportunities.

We are not starting with a blank canvas, much has already been achieved through the successful implementation of the previous Rangiora Town Centre Strategy and our task now is to build upon this momentum. Local businesses tell me that visitors enjoy our town’s friendly atmosphere and charm. They are often surprised with how much the Town Centre has to offer and we have an opportunity to further enhance our unique character and showcase Rangiora as a destination.

Rangiora’s retail trends are improving. We’ve attracted major national retailers to complement our local, boutique stores and increasingly our residents are shopping locally. As we find ways to encourage this further, it will strengthen our local economy and create more jobs.

However, this Strategy is not just about businesses. We want to develop a vibrant town centre where people enjoy spending time and create public areas that promote our residents’ health, happiness, and wellbeing. This is only a draft; the ideas and feedback we receive from the community will help us to shape the final Strategy. I encourage you to share your thoughts using the form on page 13.

Ultimately, the future of the Rangiora Town Centre will rest on the support and investment of the private sector, Council and the community. We’ve seen what we can achieve when we work together and I’m confident that the Rangiora Town Centre will continue to thrive.

Ngā mihi

Dan Gordon Mayor