The first Pan-Pacific Strategy for Manurewa is being created to strengthen Pacific voices in local politics and decision-making. The strategy, being developed by Manurewa Local Board, is being shaped with input from the areas Pacific community.
A workshop held in March at Manurewa Library gave people a chance to share their views and help guide the plan, which is set to be finalised in June.
Pacific communities make up over 40% of Manurewa’s population, with the strategy designed to reflect their needs, strengths and future aspirations.
Local Board member Andrew Lesa is thrilled to see the Pacific-led strategy being explored.
“The strategy will allow us to measure outcomes for Pacific communities and to identify their aspirations for Manurewa,” he says.
The focus is on creating meaningful engagement between all Pacific residents and local government, making sure everyone has an opportunity to be heard. Including underrepresented smaller island groups like Niue, Tuvalu, Kiribati, Rotuma and Solomon Island communities.
It considers ways to improve communication, ensure better access to local support, and remove barriers that may stop Pacific people from engaging with the local board.
Board Chair Matt Winiata says supporting the aspirations of young Pacific people is a key priority for the board.
“Youth involvement in local decision-making is important for our community, with a focus on creating space where young people can contribute confidently to local conversations.”
Financial capability, education, and stronger cultural connections are some of the other areas being explored as part of the strategy.
The final draft strategy will be prepared using the insights gathered from the design workshop and survey results. The final Pan-Pacific Strategy will be presented to the board for approval at the June business meeting.
If adopted, it will become part of the 2025/2026 Manurewa Local Board Plan, helping to shape how future decisions are made to support Pacific people in Manurewa.
“The Pan-Pacific Strategy is an important step toward building a stronger, more inclusive future for everyone in Manurewa,” Winata says.
Have your say by joining the peoples panel online surveys here: https://tinyurl.com/ysnrpbfj
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