Hanmer Springs Community Board welcomes new member

Hurunui born and bred, Hanmer Springs Community Board’s newest member is driven to serve her community.

Stacey Inglis was sworn in to her new role at this week’s community board meeting, following the recent by-election to fill an extraordinary vacancy created by the passing of long-serving member Richard Tapper.

The mum of two, who is of Ngati Porou descent, has lived in the township for 18 years and is well-known for her volunteering spirit, including being on the bowling club committee and lending a hand with the school’s Kapa Haka group. She’s also a familiar face as the co-owner, with husband Zane, of Rustic Café, which they have been running since 2005.

“This community looks out for each other. I love the sense of community — that was really behind putting my name forward,” Stacey said.

The business owner, who had always wanted to be a chef, has a clear vision of the opportunities and challenges facing Hanmer Springs. Infrastructure — and the rolling power outages — is high on her list of challenges, along with ongoing staff shortages faced by local businesses.

Topping the list of the town’s opportunities is Queen Mary Hospital Historic Reserve, and Stacey is excited about the Soldiers’ Block restoration and earthquake strengthening, and the potential to create an immersive experience while protecting the heritage of the site as a place of healing.

At Monday’s meeting, Stacey received the delegation of responsibility for the board’s Public Relations portfolio, and was added to the list of Community Board members with a specific interest in the development of the Queen Mary Hospital Historic Reserve.

Hurunui Mayor Marie Black warmly welcomed Stacey onto the board and thanked her for putting her name up for election.