Recreation Sport and Leisure Consultancy appointed to lead Bay of Plenty Play, Active Recreation and Sport Strategy

Sport Bay of Plenty is pleased to announce the appointment of Recreation Sport and Leisure Consultancy (RSL) as the successful consultant to lead the development of the Bay of Plenty Play, Active Recreation and Sport (PARS) Strategy 2026–2034.

Following a competitive Request for Proposal (RFP) process, RSL was selected for their extensive experience, collaborative approach and understanding of the Bay of Plenty region. The PARS Strategy will provide a regional framework to guide investment, planning and delivery of play, active recreation and sport opportunities across the Bay of Plenty, encompassing all six territorial authorities: Tauranga City, Western Bay of Plenty, Rotorua Lakes, Kawerau, Whakatāne and Ōpōtiki District Councils.

“We are excited to partner with RSL to develop a strategy that will help shape the future of physical activity in our region,” said Larissa Cuff, GM Strategic Partnerships at Sport Bay of Plenty.

“RSL’s proven track record in stakeholder engagement and delivering inclusive, community-focused strategies make them an ideal partner for this important work.”

The strategy will complement the existing Bay of Plenty Spaces and Places Strategy by taking a broader, more holistic view of physical activity. It will focus on informal and formal participation, equity of access and innovative approaches to supporting active lifestyles across all communities.

RSL brings a highly experienced team of consultants, including Project Lead Kiri Pope and Managing Director Richard Lindsay, who will work closely with Sport Bay of Plenty, local councils, iwi and community stakeholders to co-design the strategy. Their methodology includes extensive engagement, data analysis and alignment with national and regional priorities.

“As a recreation and sport planning business, RSL is excited to be working alongside Sport Bay of Plenty and partners in providing a strategy that will assist those in the Bay of Plenty to lead healthy, active lives,” said Richard Lindsay.

“This strategy’s ultimate goal is about physical activity for the region and we can’t wait to do our bit to help this.”

The Bay of Plenty PARS Strategy is due for completion by mid-2026.