A community-led, Council-supported approach was endorsed by Frasertown residents at a recent Cuppa and Korero hui.

Around 60 people attended the gathering, which was defined by a community commitment to lead change and improvements.

Rebuilding Frasertown’s recreational space (Rec) and pavilion is the community's priority. The pavilion burnt down in 2015, with residents wanting to recreate an intergenerational whānau space to support sport and other functions.

The message from the Frasertown community was clear: “We want to be part of the rebuild process, we want to be part of the management, and we are ready to step up.”

Rebuilding and redeveloping the recreational space are part of an overarching Frasertown Community Plan, with the Council focused on developing plans for all local communities in the district. Council has committed to visiting local communities and supporting forward planning and welcomes community members to get in touch.

Other key areas identified for improvement included additional housing/papakainga, riverbank erosion - particularly near the school - speed reduction, footpaths, the removal of privet trees, street name changes and economic development opportunities.

Deputy Mayor Benita Cairns said sports and whānau gatherings are a big part of how Frasertown connects, describing the pavilion rebuild as incomplete mahi.

“This is about a space for the community to connect, and it is time for the Council to loosen the reins and let the community lead the kaupapa,” said the Deputy Mayor.

“There are funding opportunities that support building facilities, and with a community-led, Council-supported approach, my hope is to get something on the ground before this triennium is over.”

Wairoa Mayor Craig Little acknowledged the capability of the Frasertown community and the group of rangatahi who came to see him about rebuilding the recreation site and pavilion. “Council has insurance money that can be put towards the pavilion, and hopefully that can be used to leverage more funding from.”

The community put forward a list of names as the community-mandated steering group to work with the Council to form a community plan, which includes rebuilding the recreational space.

Council chief executive Matt Lawson praised the turnout, ideas and korero of the meeting. “It is essential that the community is involved in Frasertown’s community plan and the Rec rebuild, which will be a community facility and should represent what the community wants it to be.”

For more information on arranging a Cuppa and Korero hui in your area, please email austin@wairoadc.govt.nz.

10 April 2026

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