Although stands run by Hamilton City Council were in the majority at the Your Neighbourhood event at The Peak, other organisations also took part.
Clad in bright pink t-shirts were the ladies running the North East Community Hub stand – former councillor Daphne Bell, Diana Wood and Katy King – who described themselves as thrilled to be invited to participate.
The group formed in 2015, stemming from a perceived need in the community for an advocacy organisation which brought residents together.
“We’re really conscious that 50% of our residents have come from overseas – and we would really like them to feel more welcome and more settled in our area,” Mrs Wood told ourhamilton.co.nz
“We also wanted a better place for our teens to get together and have more fun. The proposed community space will be vital.”
Ms King says people were particularly interested in community rooms that were flexible and offered spaces that could be booked.
The group also felt its input was valued, “allowing us to be the conduit between the community and the Council”, she added.
Elsewhere at the event, Development Manager Maria Fonua – from supermarket chain Countdown – was talking with visitors about the brand new store the company is looking to construct in Rototuna.
Among those was supermarket firm Countdown, with the company’s Development Manager Maria Fonua talking with visitors about the brand new store the company is looking to construct in Rototuna.
“We’re looking to put in a 4000sqm stand-alone supermarket in Rototuna – the new store will have an in-store pharmacy, a pick-up service and all the latest design features and equipment” she told ourhamilton.co.nz
She said people attending were “very supportive” of the company’s decision to build a new store in the area, with construction expected to commence later this year and the store opening in mid-2020.
“We’re excited to provide a store that better serves the the local community in Rototuna,” she said.