SmartGrowth was founded on five key pillars that underpin the Strategy and its implementation
Partnership: SmartGrowth has been founded on good relationships between the partners and collaboration between councils, tangata whenua, strategic community partners and Government agencies, particularly the New Zealand Transport Agency.
Collaborative leadership: Working together is the cornerstone of SmartGrowth to ensure our community punches above its weight and has a collective voice to Government on key issues.
Integration: An integrated approach to planning is fundamental to the Strategy.
Evidence based: SmartGrowth takes an evidence-based approach to strategy development and implementation.This is underpinned by a wealth of research.
Live, learn, work AND play approach: This concept emphasises the importance of balance in the management of growth and ensures the provision of land and services for housing, business, education, rural production, community activities and recreation.