Hastings Rural Community Board

The Hastings Rural Community Board is regarded as an important governance body within the Hastings District Council. Its objective is to represent the residents of Hastings’ rural communities. It is made up of seven members, four of whom are elected by the rural subdivisions of Maraekākaho, Kaweka, Poukawa and Tūtira, and three who are councillors appointed by the Council.

As the voice of the rural community, the Board is responsible for rural matters such as rural roads, berms and culverts, bridge repairs and maintenance, and rural halls.

The Board is also involved in setting the vision for the rural community as part of the Council’s Long-Term Plan and Annual Plan, as well as hearing submissions on rural subjects. Rather than having formal delegations, the Board, with the mandate given to it by rural voters, has an understanding with the council that its recommendations will generally be adopted.