Social & Health Services

Council supports a number of networks that apply a collaborative approach to addressing the wellbeing of our residents.

Social Services Waimakariri

Social Services Waimakariri is a network of social service providers.
Email: facilitator@sswaimak.nz

Waimakariri Health Advisory Group

The Waimakariri Health Advisory Group (WHAG) was established in 2004 to address the health needs of the people in the Waimakariri area. The WHAG meets Bi-monthly from February to December on the first Tuesday of the month, 6–7.30pm at the Rangiora Hospital meeting room.

Terms of Reference

Council Officer: Tessa Sturley
Phone: 0800 965 468
Email: tessa.sturley@wmk.govt.nz

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. They formed an Incorporated Society and developed a Constitution. Advocacy, education and training are amongst the aims to promote a “barrier free” District.

Events were run in all main centres under the name 'Wheel Show Em'. These promotions which raised awareness about physical and sensory limitations, caused a number of changes to be made by both the Council and local businesses.

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
  • NZ Spinal Trust
  • 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)

The Acting Chair until the October 2021 AGM is Phil Humphries  - Email waimakaccess@wmk.govt.nz (The current chair is on leave at the moment)

Council staff from a number of Units 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.  Each Community Board also has a rep on WAG during their elected term.

For further information relating to this group including recent or coming activities, please check out www.facebook.com/WaimakaririAccess or contact the Waimakariri District Council Community Team, 0800 965 468.

Older adults living in the Waimakariri District

The Waimakariri District has an ageing population. A number of useful resources are available to help support older people in our district.

For more information Madeleine Burdon at Waimakariri District Council Community Team, phone 0800 965 468 or email: madeleine.burdon@wmk.govt.nz