Digital Stategy consultation

Published on 10 May 2019

Whanganui District Council has developed a proposed Digital Strategy and is seeking your input on it over the next six weeks.

The purpose of the strategy is to create a framework to drive digital innovation and opportunity in Whanganui, in partnership with the community.

Whanganui District Council’s Policy and Governance Manager, Stephanie Macdonald-Rose, says, “In 2018 Whanganui was recognised for being a digitally savvy community when it won the international Smart21 Intelligent Community award for a city with a population of under 50,000.

“But we live in a world where technological change is fast-paced, with the job market forecast to be transformed by technology in coming years. We want to build on the great things we are already doing as a district in the digital space, while also setting our sights on emerging opportunities. As a result, we have set a vision to keep pace with digital opportunities to empower and enrich our community.

“We want to be known for our digital capabilities in order to attract businesses, investors, talent and tourists to Whanganui”.

In February 2019 the Council held a series of workshops to gather feedback on our district’s digital strengths and areas for development before drafting the strategy.

“One strong idea which emerged from the workshop was that participants wanted Whanganui to take a proactive approach in preparing for the future,” Ms Macdonald-Rose says.

She says, “We want to work with the whole community so we can connect the dots between projects, programmes, ideas, opportunities and challenges, in line with the Council’s Leading Edge vision.

“Although this strategy will be formulated by the Council, delivery of its actions will be a collaborative, community-focused effort.”

The Digital Strategy consultation begins on Friday, 10 May 2019 and ends at 5.00pm on Friday, 21 June 2019.

To view consultation information and to submit feedback online, go to www.whanganui.govt.nz/haveyoursay or email your thoughts to policysubmissions@Whanganui.govt.nz.

Hard copies of the proposed plan and submission forms can be picked up from Whanganui District Council at 101 Guyton Street, Whanganui & Partners at 179 St Hill Street, Davis Central City Library or Gonville Café Library. Hard copy feedback can be submitted to the Council at 101 Guyton Street. Please indicate whether you would like to speak to your submission and include contact details.

Submissions close at 5.00pm on Friday, 21 June 2019.