Objectives and Vision

To ensure consolidation of residential development within existing zone boundaries in all settlements subject to the availability of infrastructure services, contiguous growth, and the constraints of the environment.

Overview

	Population While the population of Matamata-Piako District over the past census period (1991 – 1996) has slightly declined, the three main centres of Te Aroha, Matamata and Morrinsville have all experienced population growth.
	Buildings The number of occupied dwellings within the district has increased when compared to the negative population growth. The increase in the number of occupied dwellings indicates that new subdivisions being developed are being occupied and that housing within the district is being efficiently utilised.
	Subdivision A considerable number of new lots were created in the district over the past year, but no trend information is available yet to determine whether development is increasing or decreasing.
	Services The collection of detailed information regarding Councils services has just begun. However Council is well on the way to assessing the existing services and implementing improvements where necessary to ensure adequate capacity and service for future development. The ability to collect financial contributions to assist in the upgrade of services in response to development has only recently been introduced through the Proposed District Plan. The future use of this mechanism should ensure that services are maintained to a good quality.
	Community Perception Residents of the district are generally happy with the development of their community and the services available.