Waimakariri Access Group

Nineteen years ago a number of local people, concerned about the needs of those with mobility issues, met to form a group to highlight these needs. Advocacy, education and training are amongst the aims to promote a “barrier free” District.

The group were also instrumental in Council formulating an Accessibility Strategy (with an action plan) which is reported on to Council. From its early beginnings WAG has become more formalised and now is also an advisory group to the Council.

The Waimakariri Access Group is consumer led with current representation from:

• Blind Low Vision NZ
• Enabling Good Lives
• IHC
• Disabled Persons Assembly
• CCS Disability Action
• GreyPower N.C
• Concerned and interested members of the public
• Some service providers (Idea Services, Aspire Canterbury) also attend the group
• Waimakariri District Council appointment (Currently Councillor Joan Ward)
• Chris Ruth Centre
• Rangiora High School

The AGM held in October 2021 saw the appointment of a new committee. The Deputy and currently Acting Chair is Shona Powell   - Email waimakaccess@wmk.govt.nz

Council staff continue to support the Access Group, ensuring issues identified in relation to Council are followed up, that consultation is undertaken as required and that staff participate in the annual training opportunity. If you want to check out the Barrier free flyer that the group developed for business in our District, please email or click on the link further down.

The survey sought feedback from people in our communities who live with a permanent limitation about their experience of the services provided by Council – how are we doing and where can we do better. The feedback will inform Council about how the delivery of its services could be improved, particularly with regard to removing barriers to inclusion in everyday community life.

Each Community Board also has a rep on WAG during their elected term. From 2022 the group will meet on the  second Thursday of the month from 11am-12.30pm – at the Council Chambers, Rangiora Service Centre, 215 High Street.

For further information relating to this group including recent or coming activities, please check the Waimakariri Access Group Facebook page or contact Martin Pugh 0800 965 468.

Waimakariri Access Group Barrier Free brochure