Last days to share ‘What Matters Most?’

The community has three days to help set the agenda for the coming decade as Christchurch City Council develops its next Long Term Plan.

Residents have until midnight Sunday 13 August to give feedback on what matters most to them.

Council Head of Communications and Engagement Katy McRae says more than 2,000 people have shared their views online so far, with many also giving their feedback in-person at events or at a voting display stand in libraries and service centres.

“We’ve taken a new approach this year, engaging early with a range of online tools and in-person activities to gather a range of perspectives from across our communities,” says Ms McRae. 

The campaign asks people to allocate points across Council services to show what matters most to them.

“Everyone in the city has different priorities, and this exercise will help us see where each of our core services rank in the discussion,” says Ms McRae.

The results will help inform the draft Long Term Plan 2024–34, which sets out the Council’s activities, services and budget over the next decade.

Council staff have been gathering feedback in person across Christchurch and Banks Peninsula throughout the five-week campaign.

“We’ve been attending markets, community events, and Saturday sports games - you name it, we’ve been there – and we’re really pleased by the level of participation so far. But we’re always keen for more. Parts of the city are still underrepresented in the feedback, including people from Innes, Papanui, Riccarton and Waimairi.

“Everyone’s views are important. There are a range of ways to get involved, so if going online isn’t your thing, come chat to us in person this Saturday at the New Brighton Seaside Market, or visit the stands at Hornby Library and Akaroa Library,” Ms McRae says.

The What Matters Most? campaign closes midnight Sunday 13 August.