Broadening community connections for the South Ward

Community and connection will be the focus of the newly formed South Ward Community Board.

The Inaugural Meeting took place on Thursday 6 November at Council Chambers in Amberley.

Around the table sat the full Board of the five Elected Members Anneka Cumming, Geoff Shier (Chairperson), Hamish Trolove, James Hyde and Kevin Roche.

South Ward District Councillors Pauline White and Brett Jones also made up Board membership, and will exchange places with fellow South Ward Councillors Robbie Bruerton and Steve Hutt for the second half of the triennium.

Council’s CEO Hamish Dobbie explained that community boards work within an independent mandate from Council, therefore allowing for growth of relationships with community groups.

“This is an exciting opportunity for the South Ward community to ensure that local community decisions are kept local.”

Mayor Marie Black said the elected membership will increase advocacy, and broaden opportunities for connection.

“This is a new start. Hurunui District Council is fostering deliberate connection between the Community Board and community groups.”

The South Ward Community Board supported unanimously the appointment of the Youth Observer role which Mayor Black endorsed, ensuring the voices of Hurunui’s youth are alive and encouraged.

The next South Ward Community Board meeting will be on Wednesday 10 December, 2025.