Community Reference Groups

Palmerston North City Council

Job Location:

Palmerston North - New Zealand

Monthly Salary: Not Disclosed

Posted on: 3 days ago

Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

Make a Difference in Your Community - Volunteer Opportunity

Are you passionate about making a positive difference in your community Do you want to help shape Council decisions and ensure your communitys voice is heard Join one of our Community Reference Groups and contribute to improving life in Palmerston North!

We are currently seeking expressions of interest for vacant positions in each of the existing following groups:

Disability Reference Group Advocating for the needs and priorities of people with disabilities.
Pasifika Reference Group Representing Palmys growing Pasifika communities.
Seniors Reference Group Giving senior citizens a platform to voice their concerns and ideas.
Heritage Reference Group Advocating for the awareness recognition and protection of local heritage.

Each group consists of 8 to 15 members who provide valuable insights to the Council helping shape services strengthen relationships and improve understanding of local needs.

About the Role

As a volunteer of a Community Reference Group youll act as a bridge between your community and the Council. Your role will involve sharing lived experiences providing advice on key issues and ensuring your communitys voice is included in Council priorities. This is an exciting opportunity to influence decisions that affect your community and make meaningful contributions to the future of Palmerston North.

Your Focus Will Be:

Attending regular meetings (in person or online) and actively participating in discussions.
Representing the views needs and priorities of your community.
Providing feedback and advice on Council projects initiatives and policies.
Supporting the development of initiatives that benefit your community.
Collaborating with other group members to offer well-rounded perspectives.

About You

Were looking for passionate individuals who are eager to make a difference. Youll bring your lived experiences knowledge and insights to represent your community effectively. If youre committed to fostering inclusivity and have a good understanding of the challenges and opportunities within your groups area of focus we want to hear from you!

To be eligible you should:

Live in the Palmerston North City boundaries
Be committed to attending meetings during the year
Have a broad understanding of issues relevant to your chosen reference group

Specific Groups criteria:

Members of the Seniors Reference Group will be at least 60 years of age at the time they are appointed
The Disability Reference Group will include disabled people and may include family members of disabled people and others from the disability sector. Disabled people must make up at least 60% of membership
The Pasifika Reference Group will include members with a variety of backgrounds and experiences including members from each Pacific nation Members will have connection to and experience working with Pasifika families and communities.
The Heritage Reference Group will include members with expertise knowledge and representation across a variety of heritage themes related to Palmerston North city and surrounds

For more information please click on this link:Community reference groups Palmerston North City Council

To register your interest apply below. Please dont hesitate to email if you have any questions.

Applications close: 11.00 pm Sunday 15 February 2026

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and welcome applications from all those suitably qualified for this position.

Make a Difference in Your Community - Volunteer OpportunityAre you passionate about making a positive difference in your community Do you want to help shape Council decisions and ensure your communitys voice is heard Join one of our Community Reference Groups and contribute to improving life in Palm...