A project to build new tidal steps, a pier and a pontoon on Tauranga's waterfront is expected to be given the go-ahead on Tuesday.

A Tauranga City Council meeting will tackle the decision on the annual plan component being made.

The waterfront steps plan is expected to be approved on Tuesday.

Morning discussions will also include the decision to spend $4.5 million at Tauranga Airport in the 2016/17 to extend the baggage claim area and build a first-class Koru Lounge.

The request is linked to reports of continued crowding and congestion at peak times, which has been described as a regular occurrence at the check in and baggage claim areas of the airport which affects flight time performance.

The extensions will be paid for by using up to $2.4 million of the Airport's cash balance.

Also awaiting the go-ahead from the politicians is the waterfront tidal steps and pier and pontoon project.

The tidal steps are estimated to cost between $1,944,000 – $2,592,000, and the pier and pontoon $584,000. They are being paid for out of $8 million the council set aside for CBD works over the next few years.

Council staff have recently met with several developers to gauge interest in a commercial-led or partnership project for delivering a Town Wharf.

In the afternoon session, councillors will be begin deliberating on the submission made on Smiths Farm, the 40 or more hectares of land between the former route K toll Road and Cambridge Road that it wants to turn into a special housing area.

Local residents oppose the council decision on access to the subdivision.