Governance
The Eastern Bay of Plenty is governed through a combination of local district councils, community boards and the regional council, each playing distinct but complementary roles in managing services, development and resources.
Bay of Plenty Regional Council (Toi Moana)
The regional council oversees the entire Bay of Plenty area, focusing on environmental management, water quality, regional transport and resource consents. Its work is centred on sustainable development and protecting the natural environment across all districts.
Visit Bay of Plenty Regional Council
Local District Councils
- Whakatāne District Council
Covers the coastal and inland areas, including Whakatāne town, Ōhope, Rūātoki and nearby communities. The council manages urban services, infrastructure, local planning and community wellbeing.
Visit Whakatāne District Council - Kawerau District Council
Governs the Kawerau township and surrounding area, focusing on local services, infrastructure and community development.
Visit Kawerau District Council - Ōpōtiki District Council
Manages the coastal and inland areas around Ōpōtiki, with a particular focus on supporting Māori communities and natural resource management.
Visit Ōpōtiki District Council
Community Boards
Within Whakatāne District, four community boards - Whakatāne–Ōhope, Rangitāiki, Tāneatua and Murupara - provide local representation and oversight. They ensure that the unique needs and voices of smaller communities are heard and considered in council decisions, strengthening local democracy and engagement.
For comprehensive information on all four boards, including meeting schedules and contact details, visit the Community Boards section on the Whakatāne District Council website.