Eleven entries have been received in this year’s Beca Award for Excellence in Placemaking, the largest number of entries in the three years that this category has been open.
The category recognises projects that shape or create a vibrant local economy, culture, or promote positive social outcomes.
Taituarā Chief Adviser, Raymond Horan, notes the different mix of entries received this year.
“Many of the entries in 2022 and 2023 were community facilities, including various parks and reserves. This year only five of the eleven entries are community facilities, of which two could be described as a community park or reserve.”
“The influence of the former Provincial Growth Fund is evident in this year’s group of entries. Four of the eleven entries have referenced the fund in their applications.
“But placemaking is not just about building things. This year’s entrants include Tīrama Mai, Christchurch City Council’s Matariki themed festival.”
This year’s competition sees the first ever entry from a co-governance authority, Tūpuna Maunga Authority, the co-governance authority for the Auckland volcanic cones. Whānau Ātea is an accessible multigenerational contemporary and cultural space to gather and play.
Beca’s Director Local Government, Sanchia Jacobs said that partnering with Taituarā in this category each year has been a natural fit for Beca.
“We have walked beside local government for the last century delivering place-based projects with councils across the motu. It is exciting to see the calibre of projects this year, and to support a sector that continues to deliver outstanding benefits to the communities it serves.”
The winner of this Award, the six other category winners, and the LGFA Taituarā Local Government Excellence Supreme Award will be announced at the Taituarā Gala Dinner and Excellence Awards at the Dominion Museum, Wellington on 13 June. If you would like to be a part of this celebration of excellence, more information is available here.
This Award and the Gala Dinner would not be possible without the sponsorship of Beca, returning as a sponsor for the third year. We thank them for their ongoing support.
The entrants have provided videos describing their entries. These can all be found here.