Members hone core skills
Tips and tricks at Wellington training
As part of their induction as elected members, councillors and community board members joined their colleagues from across the region for a day-long training session in Wellington last Thursday.
“The calibre of people serving their communities through councils was inspiring, and it was lovely to meet councillors from across the region, mainly first-time ones, including two whaea (Māori ward councillors) from Tairawhiti, hearing their stories and why they stood for council,” Kāpiti Deputy Mayor Lawrence Kirby said.
The Ā kona sessions, run by Local Government New Zealand, are designed for new and returning councillors and community board members, and provide an interactive exploration of local government, aiming to set up elected members with the tips, tricks and tools needed to deliver big things locally.
Councillor Liz Koh said the discussion was wide ranging and useful. “We covered topics such as understanding our role as elected members, learning about the Treaty of Waitangi, different leadership styles, and how to engage with the community.
“We talked about behaviours that build trust, such as talking straight, demonstrating respect, creating transparency, righting wrongs, keeping commitments and delivering results.”
The session was in addition to an extensive induction programme within council, which involves strategic planning sessions, presentations on council work programmes, site visits and workshops.
Mayor Janet Holborow said the programme so far has been well attended and positive.
“It’s been great to feel the positive energy in the room as we learn where we are, where we’ve come from and create a vision for our future.”
“We have an incredibly committed group of councillors and community board members who’ve been elected to serve the community, and I’m so looking forward to seeing what we can achieve together over the next three years.”