Changes to Council Chambers

 This year visitors to Upper Hutt City Council meetings, both online and in person, can expect to have an improved experience.

In the past sound quality issues within Council Chambers have made it difficult to hear proceedings clearly, especially during large or well-attended meetings, and the existing furniture and cabling have resulted in wiring creating an avoidable health and safety risk for anyone moving around the room.

Work has recently been undertaken to install acoustic panelling and replace desks with integrated, concealed wiring and power access to directly address these issues.

The acoustic improvements will ensure that all attendees — including elected members, presenters, and the public — can hear discussions and presentations clearly, supporting transparency and meaningful participation. The new desks will remove loose cabling from walkways, significantly reducing trip hazards.

Changes have also been made which enhance the visible presence of the carvings within the Chambers, corelating to an elevated mouri (life essence) of Te Kaunihera o Te Awa Kairangi ki Uta.

The narrative of the carvings that sit inside Chambers reminds us of a sacred covenant between two people, Māori and Pākeha, with the promise of a brighter future. It speaks too, of strengthening relationships, working together, maintaining strong values whilst being courageous, creative, and welcoming to new people and cultures.  

These works have been funded from existing property and facilities budgets set aside for maintaining and improving Council buildings, rather than from service delivery or community funding allocations.  

Investing in a safe, functional and inclusive meeting environment supports Council’s responsibility to conduct its business openly, safely and in a way that enables the public to engage confidently in local democracy.

Source: Upper Hutt City Council

17/02/26