Community Reference Groups

Make a Difference in Your Community - Volunteer Opportunity

Are you passionate about making a positive difference in your community? Do you want to help shape Council decisions and ensure your community’s voice is heard? Join one of our Community Reference Groups and contribute to improving life in Palmerston North!

We are currently seeking expressions of interest for vacant positions in each of the existing following groups:

• Disability Reference Group – Advocating for the needs and priorities of people with disabilities.
• Seniors' Reference Group – Giving senior citizens a platform to voice their concerns and ideas.
• Heritage Reference Group – Advocating for the awareness, recognition, and protection of local heritage.

Each group consists of 8 to 15 members who provide valuable insights to the Council, helping shape services, strengthen relationships, and improve understanding of local needs.

About the Role

As a volunteer of a Community Reference Group, you’ll act as a bridge between your community and the Council. Your role will involve sharing lived experiences, providing advice on key issues, and ensuring your community’s voice is included in Council priorities. This is an exciting opportunity to influence decisions that affect your community and make meaningful contributions to the future of Palmerston North.

Your Focus Will Be:

• Attending regular meetings (in person or online) and actively participating in discussions.
• Representing the views, needs, and priorities of your community.
• Providing feedback and advice on Council projects, initiatives, and policies.
• Supporting the development of initiatives that benefit your community.
• Collaborating with other group members to offer well-rounded perspectives.

About You

We’re looking for passionate individuals who are eager to make a difference. You’ll bring your lived experiences, knowledge, and insights to represent your community effectively. If you’re committed to fostering inclusivity and have a good understanding of the challenges and opportunities within your group’s area of focus, we want to hear from you!

To be eligible, you should:

• Live in the Palmerston North City boundaries,
• Be committed to attending meetings during the year,
• Have a broad understanding of issues relevant to your chosen reference group,

Specific Groups’ criteria:

• Members of the Seniors’ Reference Group will be at least 60 years of age at the time they are appointed,
• The Disability Reference Group will include disabled people and may include family members of disabled people and others from the disability sector. Disabled people must make up at least 60% of membership,
• The Heritage Reference Group will include members with expertise, knowledge, and representation across a variety of heritage themes related to Palmerston North city and surrounds

For more information, please visit our website and go to 'Community Reference Groups'.

To register your interest, please fill out the form below.

Please don’t hesitate to email [email protected] if you have any questions.

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and welcome applications from all those suitably qualified for this position.