Spend the evening with Urban Designer, Kobus Mentz

As part of its development of a Rural Residential Land Use Strategy, the Palmerston North City Council is bringing in an international expert.

Kobus Mentz will be in Palmerston North to spend an evening with residents to discuss approaches to the sustainable management of rural residential development.

The presentation is open to the public, and will be held on 14 September at 6pm in the Council Chamber (Level One of the Council’s Central Administration Building in the Square).

There will be a short presentation based on Kobus’ recent experiences planning rural residential areas in both Australia and New Zealand, followed by an open discussion to encourage people to share their ideas.

Kobus brings a wealth of experience as one of Australia and New Zealand's most experienced urban designers. He has made a significant contribution to the move towards applying more sustainable practices in urban planning and has specific expertise in producing urban design solutions that combine good economic, ecological and social outcomes. Kobus has over 23 years international experience in strategic planning, master planning and consultation/design processes.

Anyone wishing to take part in the evening is asked to register their interest with Merle Lavin on 06 356 8199.

During his visit to the city, Kobus will also be conducting a workshop with Council staff.

Background Information

In June of this year, the Council sent out copies of a Discussion Document on rural residential development to stakeholders and residents living in rural areas, asking for written feedback and comments. This was the first step in preparing a Rural Residential Land Use Strategy to guide rural residential development in Palmerston North over the next 10 years.

Approximately 150 submissions were made by rural residents, interest groups and the general public on the discussion document.

For further information on the Rural Residential Land Use Strategy please phone Cynthia Ward on (06) 356 8199 or email cynthia.ward@pncc.govt.nz. A copy of the Discussion Document on rural residential development can be viewed here.