Tauranga City Council is proposing a policy change that could permanently affect how often community markets can operate on public land, and we need the community to have their say.
We Need Your Help!
What’s Happening?
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Which would allow fixed-premises businesses to raise complaints about community events on public land, and council would be required to act on those complaints without needing independent evidence.
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This summer, our market schedule at Coronation Park has been significantly cut, with no transparent explanation provided.
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Without clear safeguards, decisions about public space could be driven by commercial interests rather than community benefit.
Why it Matters
Public land belongs to the community, it should stay active, accessible, and focused on people.
The Little Big Markets support 100+ local vendors, attract visitors, and bring life to the precinct — benefiting the whole community
For cruise ship visitors arriving at the Mount, we're often the very first experience of local life in Tauranga.
How You Can Help
Send a short email to council,
it takes two minutes.
Email;
policy@tauranga.govt.nz
Subject: Submission on the Draft Revised Use of Council Land Policy 2026.
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To: Tauranga City Council From: [Your Name / Business Name] Date: May 2026
Subject: Submission on the Draft Revised Use of Council Land Policy 2026
To the Tauranga City Council,
I am writing as a regular vendor with The Little Big Markets to provide my feedback on the Draft Revised Use of Council Land Policy 2026.
1. Opposition to Commercial Protectionism (Sections 5.4 & 7.4)
I am concerned about the requirement to consider "existing ratepaying businesses" when approving activities on public land. As a small business owner, I rely on the foot traffic and vibrancy created by the markets. Public land is "primarily for community use," and decisions should not favour one type of commercial business over the broader public benefit.
My Impact: [Briefly explain how trading at the markets supports your livelihood].
2. Demand for Evidence-Based Limits (Section 7.10)
The policy allows officials to limit events based on the "livelihood of existing traders". Any decision to cap events must be based on independent economic data, not subjective complaints from competitors. I support a policy that ensures fairness and transparency for all operators.
3. Recognition of Proven Track Records (Section 7.7)
I support the recommendation that operators with a compliant history and demonstrated community outcomes, like The Little Big Markets, should be given meaningful weighting and longer-duration permits. This would provide me with the certainty I need to continue investing in my business and the community.
Conclusion
Public land delivers its greatest value when it remains active and community-focused. I urge the Council to ensure this policy protects the vibrant event culture that makes our city a great place to live and visit.
Sincerely,
[Your Name] [Your Business Name]
Consultation closes 8 June 2026.
Please don't leave it too late.
Or
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We strongly disagree with this proposed change as it introduces a level of subjective commercial protectionism that is inconsistent with the primary purpose of council land: community use.
This requirement lacks objective criteria for assessing 'impact' or 'detriment,' creating a risk that individual commercial concerns will be prioritised over broader public outcomes. Decisions regarding the use of public land must remain grounded in a balanced assessment of Public Benefit, including:
Health and Wellbeing: Promoting social connection and mental health.
Vibrancy and Inclusivity: Ensuring public spaces remain active and accessible to diverse demographics.
Economic Activation: Recognising that established community markets act as 'business incubators' and regional magnets that increase overall foot traffic for the benefit of all local businesses.
Any assessment of commercial impact must be supported by independent economic or regional-impact assessments rather than relying on unverified complaints from competitors. Protecting the commercial preferences of fixed-premises neighbours should not come at the cost of the vibrant, community-focused activities that residents value.