Plan to enhance and protect parks, trails, waterways, and open spaces
Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) is calling on the community to have a say on the draft Blue Green Network Plan .
The blueprint focuses on parks, open spaces, trails and waterways, and identifies what should be protected, enhanced, and better connected as the district grows..
QLDC General Manager Community Services, Ken Bailey said the Plan was more than just a map of natural spaces; it’s about creating well-designed neighbourhoods, resilient communities, and a healthier environment for everyone.
“Queenstown Lakes District is known around the world for its outstanding outdoors – our shimmering lakes, winding rivers, rugged and rocky mountains, and vast and vibrant parks and reserves connected by terrific trails,” Bailey says.
“By integrating these waterways, reserves, parks, and civic spaces into one single network of sorts, we’ve created a practical resource Council and developers can use to understand what environmental outcomes and existing and future residents may benefit from in local areas when planning future development.”
QLDC has partnered with Kāi Tahu to prepare the plan, using the cultural construct of Ki Uta Ki Tai as a guiding principle, which translates to “from the mountains to the sea” and represents the interconnected relationship between landscapes and water.
The draft Blue Green Network Plan identifies blue, green, and community features in Priority Development Areas and settlements across the district, and Bailey says it has the potential to deliver a range of benefits, including:
- Protecting biodiversity and native habitats
- Improving water quality and supporting Te Mana o te Wai
- Building resilience against climate change and natural hazards
- Creating more recreational and community spaces
- Supporting mental and physical wellbeing
- Fostering education and environmental stewardship
- Ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for all
- Promoting sustainable development and local pride
The Plan is built on five core principles, those being:
- Mana o te Wai – prioritising water as the foundation of healthy environments and communities
- Woven into the context – tailoring solutions to each place while contributing to the wider network
- Coexistence of nature and people – designing spaces that benefit both ecosystems and everyday life
- Connecting people and place – strengthening access and belonging through integrated networks
- Fit for purpose and well serviced – ensuring open spaces are well-located, well-designed, and multifunctional
Bailey adds that with the draft Blue Green Network Plan now available for public feedback, it is the perfect opportunity for people to point out what they wanted protected, enhanced, or introduced in their neighbourhoods or across the wider Queenstown Lakes.
“Every voice strengthens our open space network. Community feedback will help complete the picture, ensuring the Blue Green Network Plan reflects what matters most to you – the places you love, the spaces you use, and what you’ll value in years to come,” he says.
“Whether there’s a creek near your place that needs some care, a missing link to your child’s school or your local shops, or a popular park down the road you want protected, this is your backyard so be heard.”
The draft Blue Green Network Plan, a feedback form, and a range of supporting information are available online on QLDC’s engagement platform Let’s Talk at letstalk.qldc.govt.nz/blue-green-network-plan.
Those interested are also welcome to collect a short summary on the topic from Council offices and libraries. However, given the visual natural of the draft plan and the many blue and green elements mapped out across the district, viewing the plan online is recommended.
Feedback can be submitted until Sunday 26 October 2025.
