Members for Forum

Waihi Community Forum is looking for new members for the Waihi Community Forum.

The Forum was originally set up to work with residents of Waihi East and Waihi Gold as part of the Correnso consent conditions. Since then it has worked on a number of projects in Waihi East. Chairperson Bindy Burke says that the group has acted as a conduit between the community and the mining company, providing advice and practical assistance.

“We spend time listening to people, but a big part of our mandate is to get projects up and running. When we first started, residents told us they wanted to make sure that properties in the area didn’t lose value because of underground mining.

“The Streets Ahead Programme, adventure playground, barbecue area at Waihi East School, street frontage competition and cherry tree planting are all examples of the Forum working with residents and the mining company.” The Forum is seeking two new members.

“With OceanaGold announcing is has applied for consents for Project Martha it is a good time to get some new people on the team. While we are looking for people from the Rex area and north of the Martha open pit, there may be people in the wider Waihi area who have skills or interests that could benefit the community.” Bindy says.

“When the group was set up it looked as if mining in Waihi would end in 2019.

“Now it appears that there will be at least another 10 years of activity, perhaps more. This is a great opportunity for enthusiastic new members to join us as we work for the betterment of Waihi.”