The Papanui project includes the renewal of the kerbs, channels and paths in eight interconnected streets - detailed in the map at right - in the north-east of Papanui under the Living Streets community collaboration process.

The Room 6 children were invited to think about what improvements they would like see in the area in association with the renewal. A field trip during which the children walked through several streets noting current and potential problem areas proved useful in their research. Their findings were collated into a report which they presented to the Shirley/Papanui Community Board. Drawings and posters accompanied their report. The Council planning staff were able to integrate the children's recommendations into the design plans where possible. Everyone involved found the process rewarding and considered that involving children in Councilplanned projects was something that should happen more often.

Information about Living Streets can be found on the at www.ccc.govt.nz/LivingStreets If you're new to the internet, call into any of the Council's libraries and ask one of the staff to show you how it works.