Coasties who love Ōrewa Beach are being invited to help shape its future.

From now until Friday 9 May 2025, Auckland Council is asking for community feedback on four concept designs for Ōrewa Reserve.

Each option aims to restore the dunes and improve beach access—while also protecting the coastline from rising sea levels and erosion.

This follows the ongoing seawall project at the northern end of the beach, where a shared path is being built between Marine View and Kohu Street.

The council says without the seawall, high tide would make walking access impossible in that area.

But building seawalls is expensive and complex—the Ōrewa project required a ruling from the Environment Court.

So, council staff are now looking at more natural, long-term approaches for other parts of the beach.

Restoring dunes at Ōrewa Reserve would keep dry sand available year-round and create a buffer against erosion.

However, it would mean relocating some existing facilities at the reserve.

Locals can view the four concept designs online, all of which include:

• Dune restoration
• Improved beach access
• New beachfront toilets and changing rooms north of the future surf club

Council wants to know:

• Which concept option you prefer
• How often you visit the reserve
• Which features matter most to you
• Any other thoughts on the plans

To have your say, fill in the online feedback form before 9 May 2025.

Your responses will be shared with the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board to help guide the next steps.

This is a chance to influence how one of our most-loved local spaces is protected and enjoyed into the future.

Know something local worth sharing?

Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.