Initiatives to help its community to be more resilient and improve people's health and well-being will continue to be one of Puketāpapa Local Board's focuses over the next three years.
The idea is among proposed priorities outlined in its draft local board plan, now open for public feedback.
"For three terms now, we have worked to promote and support building resilient communities through initiatives such as community grants, Neighbours' Day events, volunteering opportunities and funding our library and community centre that people can use for their development," says Local Board chair Julie Fairey.
She says community resilience is particularly important at times of stress and uncertainty, so it’s important people feel connected with their neighbours and community, have access to good transport links, and well-looked after parks and public spaces.
Feedback from residents tells us how much they valued our local parks over the lockdown period.
Community facilities like the library, pools and community centre, were unavailable during lockdown, leaving a hole for many, but being able to use our local parks and open spaces helped their mental and physical well-being.
This reaffirms the board’s decision to invest in our local parks, facilities and assets, such as the improvements at Walmsley and Underwood Parks in Wesley and protecting the beauty of our natural bush along the Waikowhai Coast.
"This is a challenging time to be putting together a plan for our community's aspirations, and your feedback is vital for us to make sure we get it right."
Fairey says the plan will direct decisions and spending for the next three years and beyond, so it's important to receive feedback on it.
Ways to have your say
Go here to read the full plan, different ways to have your say, and to make a submission. There is also a list of local meetings to provide feedback on the plan to board members in person.
Submissions close on 13 August.
