Leeston sign with car driving past in background

The community reference group has been confirmed to help create Whata Rau, Leeston’s new multi-purpose community centre.

The Council is pleased to announce the members of the Reference Group.

The five members are:

1. Grant Clausen
2. Mike Lay
3. Antony French
4. Jane West
5. A representative of Te Taumutu Rūnanga (currently being appointed)

After consultation through the Long-Term Plan the Council confirmed a $16 million budget for Whata Rau and that it will be a multi-purpose community centre, with library services on Leeston Park. Whata Rau is a name gifted by Te Taumutu Rūnanga.Grassy field

In response to submissions, it also confirmed it would establish a community reference group chaired by Councillor Grant Miller, which will play a pivotal role in influencing the location and shaping the design, layout, and functionality of Whata Rau.


Expressions of interest were opened in August and Councillor Miller said he was pleased with the high calibre of applications who had already contributed to their community and the willingness they each had to offer their time and insight into Whata Rau.

“I am excited and looking forward to the input of the community reference group into the design of our new Leeston-based multi-purpose community facility. This facility has been much anticipated by the community over a long period of time and it is important we get it right,” he says.


In choosing the members, the panel looked for a combination of members who would represent a broad cross-section of the residents, organisations and interests of the Ellesmere community.Sign saying Leeston Park

The members of the Whata Rau Reference Group will act as liaisons between Selwyn District Council’s Project Steering Group and the Ellesmere community.


The Reference Group will work with Council staff considering the Council’s overall approach including future projects planned for the area, budgets and council policies and processes as well as operational considerations.


The primary objective is to ensure that Whata Rau accommodates a broad range of multiple community uses, including a library that integrates seamlessly with Leeston Park on which it is located.

The Reference Group will advocate for the project within the Ellesmere community, building support and fostering a sense of community ownership of Whata Rau.

Last modified: 09 Oct 2024 9:48am