Kathy Dedo, Duty Chair of the Wānaka–Upper Clutha Community Board

We recently caught up with Kathy Dedo, Duty Chair of the Wānaka–Upper Clutha Community Board, to talk through several key consultations currently open on QLDC’s Let’s Talk website. These engagement opportunities give locals a direct voice in shaping how our community grows, moves, connects, and enjoys the places we live.

These aren’t just surveys for the sake of surveys. The feedback gathered now will influence planning decisions, funding priorities, and community wellbeing outcomes over the coming years.

Below is a quick overview , why it matters, and how you can get involved.

Quality of Life Survey

This survey asks residents how life is going here in our district. It covers:

• Sense of belonging and community connection

• Housing and cost of living pressures

• Access to services and support

• Transport, mobility, and how easy it is to get around

• Opportunities to learn, socialise, and participate

The results are used by both Council and community organisations to help guide planning and funding. It’s one of the most important snapshots of how people are really feeling in the Upper Clutha, so a strong response helps ensure decision-making reflects lived experience - not assumptions.

Blue Green Network Plan

The Blue Green Network Plan focuses on how we protect and connect our natural and recreational spaces. It considers:

• Lakeshore and river margins

• Parks, reserves, and shared public spaces

• Walking and cycling pathways

• Ecological corridors and habitat protection

This plan is about how we move and connect with nature as our population grows

Dog Control Bylaw & Dog Control Policy (Early Engagement)

This early engagement stage is about listening before any changes are drafted. Council is asking for your experiences and ideas to help guide the direction of the update.

This includes more than on/off-leash zones — it also looks at:

• Responsible dog ownership

• Dog behaviour in shared or busy spaces

• Wildlife protection in sensitive areas

• Fair and effective enforcement

Your Voice Matters

All consultations are online at:
👉 letstalk.qldc.govt.nz