New Accessibility Advisory Group off to a strong start
Published on 24 June 2026
Back row (left to right): Ngakiri Antonovich, Serena Tohu, Martin Harrap, Mayor Ken Couper (liaison councillor), Deputy Mayor Scott McKenzie (liaison councillor), Patti Poa. Front row (left to right): Sandie Waddell (Interim Chair), Robin Lieffering, Steve Bradley, Johnny Wilkinson, Nikita Van Dijk. Absent: Rebekah Buxton.
Earlier this year, we welcomed 10 new members to the Accessibility Advisory Group. Since then, the group has settled in well, meeting every two months and already making a valuable contribution to Council’s work.
Our advisory groups help ensure key voices are heard in decision-making, so we can better reflect the needs of the Whangārei District community.
The Accessibility Advisory Group, which has been appointed for a three-year term, focuses specifically on improving accessibility across Council services, projects and engagement, guided by the Te Tai Tokerau Regional Accessibility Strategy.
Through their lived experience and practical knowledge, members of this group help highlight barriers, identify opportunities and shape more inclusive outcomes for the community.
So far, the group has provided early input on Council’s Long Term Plan priorities, helped shape its three-year work programme, and contributed to discussions on draft public places and signs bylaws.
Members have also provided input into wider strategic planning and infrastructure matters to help improve accessibility outcomes across the District.
Interim Chair Sandie Waddell said, “The group has quickly built a strong, collaborative environment, with members contributing valuable insights to support more accessible outcomes across the District.”
This group and its early input make accessibility a consideration from the outset in Council planning and decision-making.
The group is supported by technical staff, who engage directly with members, and by Mayor Ken Couper and Deputy Mayor Scott McKenzie in their roles as liaison elected members, helping ensure the group’s insights are heard and considered.