SmartGrowth is the spatial plan for the western Bay of Plenty.The three councils (Tauranga City, Western Bay of Plenty District and Bay of Plenty Regional) and Tangata Whenua work in partnership with many businesses, government, strategic partners, communities, education groups and sectors. The focus is on a collaborative, partnership approach to address and provide a long-term vision / direction in growing a sub-regional community that considers and values social, environmental, cultural and economic factors. SmartGrowth aims to provide strong leadership and advocacy on behalf of the sub-regional community.One of SmartGrowth's hallmarks is its strong engagement with and representation from the community. The "SmartGrowth Way" is an approach and methodology unique to the development and implementation of the strategy. It involves a partnership and collaborative approach to spatial planning and growth management with a strong emphasis on inter-agency implementation, community understanding and buy-in.