Gisborne District Council

Continue to ensure Māori are represented and be active in seeking the best way to do this.

Ensure opportunities for ethnic community involvement and learn from their experiences.

Place importance on solving the disconnect between our people and the Gisborne District Council.

Be more transparent and collaborative and communicate more effectively with people accessing services and the wider community.

Engage more genuinely with more of the community, especially affected parties and young people, as 39 percent of the population is under 25.

Support a yes vote in the Māori ward referendum as the council needs to reflect the community and have Te Tiriti-based governance.

Hold a fortnightly happy hour for a good-natured face-to-face airing of ideas and grievances.

Support an increased risk appetite at the council table and within council.

Uphold Te Tiriti-based governance regardless of the outcome of the Māori wards referendum.

Continue to support Māori ward seats and their expansion.

Engage with ethnic and diverse communities to encourage future council candidates to diversify the general ward seats.

Re-establish the Youth Council and actively implement internship pathways for rangatahi into governance roles.

Establish a weekly video that keeps the community up to date with what is on the table, what decisions are being made and welcoming feedback.

Retain Māori wards.

Enact a review of how council works for the community, including enabling versus restricting.

Review committee structure to make sure it is fit for purpose and committees are set up to deal with the main areas of concern in the community.

Build genuine relationships with Māori to ensure Māori perspectives are valued and incorporated for policy and project outcomes.

Ensure all council staff are paid above the minimum living wage.

Investigate and try new ways to ensure engagement with the public.