Updated 15 January 2020
Information on the demographic advisory panels and the recruitment process is now also available in New Zealand Sign Language and Easy Read.
Updated 9 January 2020
The application period to apply to be a member of an advisory panel has been extended until 10 February 2020. More information, including specific criteria for each panel, and an online application form can be found at aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/advisorypanels.
Aucklanders from all walks of life are being encouraged to apply for Auckland Council’s six demographic advisory panels.
The panels are an important part of the council’s governance structure, advising elected members and staff about plans and strategies that impact their communities.
Up to twelve positions are now available on each panel - the Disability Advisory Panel, Ethnic Peoples Advisory Panel, Pacific Peoples Advisory Panel, Rainbow Communities Advisory Panel, Seniors Advisory Panel and Youth Advisory Panel.
Panel membership offers a unique opportunity for passionate and motivated Aucklanders to help ensure that the council’s decisions reflect the views and needs of the city’s diverse communities.
Chief panel liaison councillor Cathy Casey says the advisory panels are an important part of council’s decision-making process.
“Our six demographic advisory panels exist to ensure the voices of all Aucklanders are heard around the council table. During my work with the panels over the previous two terms, I have seen first-hand the value that their combined knowledge, experience and insights bring to our work," she says.
Carol Hayward, Principal Advisor Panels, says the council is looking for panel members who represent Auckland’s diverse population and who have the ability and confidence to offer high-level policy and strategic advice to council staff and elected members.
Carol said, “Tāmaki Makaurau’s strength is in its diversity and it’s vital that this is reflected in our decision-making processes. We’re looking for people who will work collaboratively with council staff and its elected members to share the thoughts and experiences of our communities.
"Now is the time for Aucklanders from all backgrounds to step up, share their ideas, and help shape our region.”
Speaking about his recent experience as co-chair of the Rainbow Communities Advisory Panel, John Kingi says, “Being part of an advisory panel gives you a real insight into the inner workings of the council. It also provides an opportunity for you to expand your networks and really try and make a difference for your communities of interest in Tāmaki Makaurau.”
The term for each of the advisory panel is three years, ending in early September 2022, one month before the next local government elections. Positions are part-time with 10 meetings a year and up to 15 hours of panel member time required each month.
Aucklanders of different ages, cultures and ethnicities are invited to apply. Applicants must be a New Zealand citizen or a New Zealand permanent resident aged 18 or over and must reside within the Auckland region (generally Wellsford to Pukekohe).
More information, including specific criteria for each panel, and an online application form can be found at aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/advisorypanels.
Applications close Friday 10 January 2020.
Article updated 9 January 2020 -The application period to apply to be a member of an advisory panel has been extended until 10 February 2020.
