Upper Hutt residents are helping reshape how elected members connect with the community, following feedback from Council’s Citizens’ Panel. 

Last month, Council asked the panel for feedback on how elected members engage with the community, and on the most convenient times for Council meetings. 

Panel members were presented with several ways they could engage with elected members, including informal “out and about” sessions at local events, attending Council meetings, drop-in sessions at the Central Library, and online engagement and meeting time options ranging from morning to evening. 

Mayor Peri Zee welcomed the feedback and reiterated the importance of the panel. 

“By bringing together a diverse group of residents to provide input on specific issues, we gain a stronger understanding of what our community needs from us,” she said. 

Feedback will now be reviewed to determine how best to engage with the community, with a report to follow once a decision has been made. In the meantime, Council meetings will begin at 4.30pm. 

“There was a preference for meetings to start later in the afternoon, with 5.30pm the front-runner. However, taking into consideration the preference of the community and the needs of elected members and staff, we have concluded that a 4.30pm start is the best option,” Mayor Zee said. 

While the Citizens’ Panel does not replace formal consultation, it provides Council with additional insights that may not be captured through other channels. 

Council Chief Executive Geoff Swainson said the strong response to the Citizens’ Panel surveys has been encouraging. 

“The most recent survey was sent to all 263 members of the panel, with 117 people responding so far and sharing valuable perspectives on civic engagement,” he said. 

“It helps us understand public sentiment quickly and complements our other engagement tools and channels.” 

“I am excited by the prospect of even more residents joining and contributing to discussions.”

Source: Upper Hutt City Council

11/04/26