Message from the Mayor

We are proud of how our community and our council continue to respond to the ongoing challenges of COVID-19.  

Our council is committed to supporting our community through the uncertainty of the pandemic; we are doing our utmost to keep our economy moving and our people employed.

Our focus is on jobs for our people. The post-COVID-19 government funding (about $25m) for ‘shovel ready projects’ has fast-tracked our projects — roading upgrades, cycleways, footpaths and new infrastructure for housing developments; these projects have brought new employment opportunities for many of our people.

Over the past three years our council has delivered safe drinking water across the district, reopened the Opera House at Toitoi – Hawke’s Bay Arts and Events Centre, revitalised the city centre, opened a significant new connector road, Te Ara Kahikatea, across Whakatū, as well as reduced waste to landfill. 

As I write this Council has almost finalised the draft of its 2021-2031 Long Term Plan — the blueprint for our community’s future.

This plan proposes investment in improving our roading network; safeguarding our wastewater, drinking water and stormwater infrastructure; managing our growth and protecting our highly productive land; delivering quality housing; revitalising our city centre; supporting the business community; bringing to our district employment and economic investment opportunities; and enhancing and protecting our beautiful environment, reserves and special places. 

We are striving to deliver on the things that will make a positive difference to our community while keeping rates affordable.

The Hastings District is doing well. I am excited about our future.

We would love to hear what is important to you as we plan an exciting and prosperous future for all.

Look out for the consultation document in your letterbox and on our website.

Ngā mihi

Sandra Hazlehurst

8 March 2021

Back to My Hastings