Citizens' assembly set to start

Published on 30 April 2025

Whanganui District Council’s inaugural citizens’ assembly will convene for its first session in early May to discuss the future of outdoor pools in Whanganui, including Whanganui East Pool.

“We were delighted with the enthusiastic response to this initiative,” says council chief executive David Langford, “with a total of 367 residents registering their interest in the citizens’ assembly.”

Forty participants were selected at random using demographic information provided to ensure the overall make-up of the citizens’ assembly broadly reflects Whanganui’s demographics with roughly proportionate representation from Māori, and Whanganui East residents, as well as a good spread across age ranges and gender.

“Some people who were selected were unable to participate because of other commitments but we still managed to get a mix of people broadly representative of Whanganui’s demographics.”  

Everyone who registered was notified of the outcome by email.

“Council staff received numerous emails from people who weren’t selected, thanking us for the opportunity to be involved and wishing us well with the process which was very encouraging. I’d encourage people who are keen to contribute to keep an eye out for opportunities to get involved with local decision-making in the future,” David Langford says.

The citizens’ assembly will meet for up to five sessions from early May through to early June, with an accredited independent facilitator supporting the discussions and making sure everyone has a chance to explore different perspectives, ask questions and share their thoughts.

Participants will receive a one-off payment of $500 for their involvement.

“We’d like to thank those who have jumped on board to help shape this important decision for Whanganui and we’ll be waiting with interest to hear what the assembly thinks when they bring their recommendation to the council table,” David Langford says.