The Far North District Council’s strategy to find solutions to address the district’s digital divide has been awarded the MartinJenkins Award for Better Policy and Regulation as part of the 2021 LGFA Taituarā Local Government Excellence Awards, presented at a Gala Dinner event in Wellington tonight.
Nothing but Net is a collaborate, community-focused effort to improve connectivity across Northland, including an innovative online engagement tool to connect with community.
The judges commended the Council for their sound co-design methodology and approach to digital literacy. The approach has now been adopted by all Northland councils as a foundation document for the region to build on.
Taituarā Chief Executive, Karen Thomas, congratulated Far North District Council and said that this year’s Gala Dinner was extra special after last year’s event was cancelled due to COVID-19.
“The last year was challenging for the local government sector, and there are plenty of challenges ahead.
“It was wonderful to gather to acknowledge and celebrate the incredible mahi in the sector.
“Congratulations to Far North District Council. This is a great example of creative thinking to address a community need, in an area where digital literacy needs a boost.”
Seven category winners of the 2021 LGFA Taituarā Local Government Excellence Awards, plus a Supreme Award were announced, along with an award for an emerging leader, overseas manager exchanges, and a leadership scholarship. Also announced was the winning team of the New Zealand leg of the Australasian Management Challenge.
For further information, please see the 2021 Awards Media Pack or contact Ann Thomson on