Together Hurunui

“All people in Hurunui are valued and connected". That is the vision statement for Together Hurunui, a network of social services in Hurunui District of which Council is a proud partner.

The mission statement reflects our purpose to grow community connections and collaboration. We call it the Hurunui way.

Together Hurunui was developed in 2014 at a time when a Greater Canterbury Community response had brought councils and communities together after the earthquakes. The value of these relationships became even more evident following the earthquakes of Waiau Kaikoura in 2016.

Together Hurunui was designed to build strong relationships and networks across service providers, and to help identify, prioritise, and respond to opportunities or issues as they arise. Over time, we have responded to more recent challenges, including improving access of food provision across the district, minimising drug-related harm and improving the health and wellbeing of our residents.

I have been fortunate to Chair the steering group for several years now, and we are incredibly fortunate to receive strong support with sector representatives from Education, Health, NZ Police, Rural Women and Social services.

Last week the steering group got together to look at the year ahead. Natalie our facilitator has developed some new initiatives to meet our goals, and I am incredibly proud of this important and valuable work, which is supported financially with a grant from The Department of Internal Affairs.

An example of the real impact of collaboration, with agencies like Food Secure North Canterbury, Mainpower and the wonderful volunteers from all the local food banks, is the Food in Schools programme which is operating in seven of our 13 schools.

Another welcome project was to hosting workshops for students and parents with skills-based educators from Vape Free Kids NZ and Attitude. The attendance and feedback from these sessions was strong with many requesting additional education.

I remain committed to supporting and delivering this important work to further enhance the wellbeing of our district, thanks to the many, many people who step up and lend a hand.

Your input helps us to ensure that “All people in the Hurunui feel valued and connected".