Foreword from the Chair of Urban Development Sub-committee

Te Ara ō Whakatū The pathway of Nelson

As we look at our past and the journey that has taken place to where we are now, we are reminded that it is history that shapes our future. What we do now - in the decisions we make and the choices we follow, will influence and affect those that follow us.

In the planning of the future for Nelson City, an intergenerational approach is needed that not only addresses our challenges but weaves into the community a social fabric that connects people to each other and place. We need a framework that gives us a transformative vision not only for the city, but for our region as a whole.

In order for us to be good ancestors, we must choose the right path and be brave in our decision making to ensure the future wellbeing of our descendants. Te Ara ō Whakatū is about creating a vision, setting a strategy and the pathways we will take as we reimagine the potential of our city centre. It is about people and place. We have a chance to deliver meaningful change that will benefit the generations to come and deliver on our cultural, economic, environmental and social outcomes. Let us be good ancestors and choose the right path – Te Ara ō Whakatū.

Te Ara ō Whakatū is a journey to be taken over time. Achieving the outcomes of this spatial plan will require partnership, collaboration and investment for decades to come. Together we will meet the challenges and opportunities our Smart Little City faces, with a defined sense of purpose and a shared energy to reach our goals.