Bay of Plenty residents are feeling more positive, if electorate surveys are anything to go by.

38,000 people have been questioned about a range of topics, including tax, mining, health services and alcohol reforms.

90% of respondents are in favour of raising the drinking age to 20.

The amount of people dissatisfied in councils control of rates has increased by 20%, to 80%.

Just over half the residents are in favour of mining if it's safe, but there's concern about health, and the increasing cost and time in accessing medical care.

Economic conditions for most people have stayed the same as last year, with only 12% of respondents saying their circumstances are improving.