The Hui, which follows on from a similar meeting in March 2001, is a chance for community conversation about the project’s progress over the last year and to look at future priorities.

A partnership between the residents of Aranui, the Christchurch City Council (CCC) and Housing New Zealand Corporation (HNZC), the project aims to “enhance Aranui as a good place to live” by focusing on the community’s housing, employment, training and social services needs. The CCC and HNZC are applying resources to Aranui over a three to four year period as a project to stimulate change.

Since the partnership was established in September 2000, the focus has been on a scheduled programme of activities in Aranui that is led by community involvement. A Community and Housing Information Centre opened in August 2001 as a local base for the project.

Key speakers at the Hui will include Christchurch City councillor Chrissie Williams; HNZC joint project manager Bill King and chairperson of the Community Renewal Committee Rob Davidson. Feedback and ideas will be sought from the community on issues identified through the Aranui Community Needs Analysis including; facilities and services in Aranui for children and young people; parenting skills; health; local employment opportunities and training. Supper will be provided.