Council Confirms Community Committee Liaison Roles

Manawatū District Council has confirmed the appointment of Liaison Councillors to the district’s 16 active Community Committees, reinforcing Council’s commitment to working closely with communities and supporting local decision-making.

Community Committees play a vital role as an informal link between Council and residents, providing a two-way exchange of information, opinions, proposals, and recommendations. Each committee operates under its own terms of reference, which outlines meeting frequency, membership, and administrative procedures.

“Community Committees are an essential part to how we work alongside our communities. We truly believe in localism.” says Mayor Michael Ford. “They help ensure that local voices are heard, local priorities are understood, and local ideas are supported through strong relationships with Council.”

Aligned with Council’s strategic priority of “A future planned together,” Community Committees empower residents to actively participate in shaping the future of their towns and rural areas. They identify key local issues and work collaboratively to develop community-led solutions that promote the district’s economic, social, environmental, and cultural wellbeing.

MDC acknowledges and values the strong, long-standing relationships built through its Community Committees, recognising their ongoing contribution to building stronger, more connected communities across the district.

The following appointments have been made:

Community CommitteeLiaison Councillor
Apiti Community CommitteeSam Hill
Bainesse/Rangiotu Community CommitteeRaewyn Loader
Cheltenham Community CommitteeRob Duindam
Colyton Community CommitteeColin Dyer
Glen Oroua/Taikorea Community CommitteeShelley Dew-Hopkins
Halcombe Community Development GroupJerry Pickford
Himatangi Beach Community CommitteeJerry Pickford
Hiwinui Community CommitteeRaewyn Loader
Kimbolton Community CommitteeRob Duindam
Kiwitea Community CommitteeAndrew Quarrie
Pohangina Valley Community CommitteeBridget Bell
Rangiwahia Community CommitteeGrant Hadfield
Rongotea Community CommitteeJames McKelvie
Sanson Community CommitteeAlison Short
Tangimoana Community CommitteeJames McKelvie
Waituna West Community CommitteeSam Hill