The ''For our Future'' strategic plan was approved by the council at an additional ordinary meeting yesterday.
Cr Deaker said he was excited about it, partly because the process had not involved planning sessions in ''far away hotels'' or firing ''paint balls at each other'', as such planning sessions had in the past.
''This is big-picture.''
He supported it because it created possibilities and committed the council to a different approach, he said.
Chairman Stephen Woodhead said the plan had enabled the council to look outside the ''trap'' of the annual planning cycle and have a ''good, fresh look at the challenges and opportunities'' facing the council and region.
While it had taken longer to develop than he had hoped, it had come out at the perfect time, with the development of the long-term plan happening during the next three or four months, he sad.
''It will be a strong foundation for the long-term plan, combining the technical and financial strength of this organisation with the passion and desire of the community, who knows what we can achieve.''
Cr Bryan Scott said the strategic plan with its ''enabling'' philosophy was a ''refreshing approach'' for the council.
''It's gate open, rather than gate shut. It's a more positive approach. I like that.''
Combined with retaining the council's environmental bottom lines, it was a positive step forward.
Cr Trevor Kempton said he had been involved in nearly as many strategic plans as he had ''hot dinners'' over the years, but believed the council's document should become ''dog-eared'' by staff as they consulted it when developing council policies and plans.
Cr David Shepherd said he had got a ''buzz'' about being involved in the process, but Cr Sam Neill criticised it for being too wordy.
Cr Louise Croot said she was pleased it had emphasised the importance of the council's regulatory and consent role.
Mr Woodhead said the public would not be consulted on the strategic plan, but would get to have their say on the long-term plan.
