Looking for Leaders from Pacific Communities

The Department of Internal Affairs is holding elections for three new members to the Pacific Island Consultation and Advisory Group (PICAG).

Members of PICAG are elected from Auckland Central, Manukau, Waitakere, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Porirua, Hutt Valley, Christchurch and Dunedin. There are currently three vacancies on PICAG from the Auckland Central, Manukau and Waitakere areas.

PICAG provides strategic advice to the Local Government and Community Branch of the Department of Internal Affairs on how to improve responsiveness to Pacific Island communities and groups in Aotearoa.

Members of PICAG meet regularly with their local Pacific Island communities to discuss issues that relate to the Local Government and Community Branch and seek feedback on current local issues.

Anne Carter, Deputy Secretary of the Local Government and Community Branch, said that the ability to effectively share timely and accurate information is crucial to understanding and meeting the needs of Pacific Island communities.

“This partnership and exchange of information provides a vital tool for the Local Government and Community Branch in reaching its goal of building strong, sustainable communities/hapu/iwi,” said Anne Carter.

Those standing for election have been nominated by a community group that has registered to vote in the PICAG elections and are in one of the areas with a vacant position. Voting will be conducted at public meetings.

Pacific Island community groups wishing to vote can register in advance or at the public meeting.

Public meetings to elect one representative will be held at:

Manukau area
Mangere Central Hall, 241 Kirkbride Road, Mangere
26 November 2008 from 6.30pm – 9.30pm

Auckland Central area
Fickling Centre, 546 Mt Albert Road, Three Kings
27 November 2008 from 6.30pm – 9.30pm

Waitakere area
New Lynn Community Centre, 55 Totara Avenue, New Lynn
28 November 2008 from 6.30pm – 9.30pm