Interest in shaping the future of Awakeri has been positive, with strong community support for involvement in the Awakeri Community Reference Group.
Final nominations have now closed for the Awakeri Community Reference Group, with 33 people confirmed to take part.
“We were hoping for around 20 to 25 nominations, so it’s been great to see such a strong response and to be able to include everyone who was keen to be involved,” said Nicholas Woodley, Manager Policy, Planning and Consents.
While the reference group plays an important role, the Council emphasised there will be further opportunities for the wider Awakeri community to stay informed and provide feedback throughout the process.
Mr Woodley also acknowledged there has been significant interest in the project, but said some discussion has led to inaccurate information circulating about what is happening in Awakeri.
“We want to be clear – this work is about developing a framework. We’re not getting ready to turn the first sod. While we’ve been talking with some property owners and carrying out technical work such as soil testing, no decisions have been made. We’re not buying land, and nothing has been decided about what goes where. This work is about understanding what is possible.” explained Mr Woodley.
The Community Reference Group will meet for three workshops across April, May and June. These workshops will focus on key themes including recreation and civic services, growth and new homes, transport and movement, water and the environment, and what makes Awakeri a great place to live. A key role of the Community Reference Group is to ensure local knowledge and perspectives are clearly represented.