FAQs
- Rebecca Amundsen
- Tammi Topi
- Pauline Smith
- Gary Tong
- Anne Pullar
- Jackie Flutey
What is Just Transitions, and what is its role in Connected Murihiku?
The Government has cemented its commitment to secure a bright economic future for Southland, by launching an economic road map for the region as it navigates the impending closure of the New Zealand Aluminium Smelter.
MBIE’s Partnership Just Transition team has been working with the region since the start of 2021 to support a just transition following the announcement the owners of the smelter plan are to close it at the end of 2024.
This work has led to the release of a just transitions workplan geared towards building the region’s economic, environmental and social resilience through and beyond the smelter’s planned closure. The transition gives the region opportunity to build a fairer, more sustainable, more resilient local economy.
Connected Murihiku is the outcome of the community capacity building workstream, facilitated by the Strong Communities Working Group
Who are Strong Communities working group and what is their role in Connected Murihiku?
The Strong Communities Working group came together to manage the Community Connections workstream of the Just Transition program. The Strong Communities Working Group was made up of:
The group's purpose was to facilitate a locally led future-focused process in our community to think about opportunities for a thriving and sustainable future for Murihiku, Southland. The group underwent a community engagement process, with feedback received becoming the basis of the Connected Murihiku project.
What geographical area will the Connect Murihiku Project support?
Connected Murihiku will support the whole Southland region, including the areas covered by the Gore City Council, Invercargill City Council and Southland District Council.
What is the role of Invercargill City Council in the Connected Murihiku project?
Invercargill City Council is supporting the project through holding the Central Government funding and providing administrative support for the Joint Committee.
Who will make up the Joint Committee?
This committee will bring together the strengths of representatives from Invercargill City Council, Southland District Council, Gore District Council, Muruhiku Papatipu Rūnanga as well as the community.
What is the proposed timeline for the Joint Committee?
As outlined in the key dates, we plan to accept applications for the Joint Committee and establish membership between June and August 2023.
Initially, the committee will be in place for a period of 18 months, with a focus on recruiting to key roles and supporting the platform development and launch period. At the end of this period, the Joint Committee will re-evaluate and consider extending if required.