The suburb of Kaiti in Gisborne is characterized by established families with a strong affinity to their community and a desire to challenge the negative reputation of Kaiti by making Kaiti a better place to live.
The current range of services available in Kaiti are utilised by its residents but, out of necessity, many travel outside the suburb to access services such as hospitals, high schools and tertiary providers. Residents have definite ideas about additional services that are needed and how these may be developed. Key social and economic indicators suggest that the ability of Kaiti residents to access existing services both within and outside of Kaiti is difficult.
Community cohesion within Kaiti is limited to a few community-building initiatives and lacks the range of events and activities it needs to flourish. Existing community facilities do not meet the community’s needs or aspirations for shared, accessible and appropriate spaces.
This research project relied on three sources of information; an international literature review, community surveys and focus groups.
New strategies are needed across the community to encourage greater levels of connectedness and discussion on issues impacting Kaiti residents. The overwhelming choice of research participants is for the development of a community space to:
1. Initiate greater community cohesion;
2. Facilitate events, activities and services to the community; and
3. Bring about whanaungatanga and pride amongst residents.
Recommendations are included.
The report was funded by Ministry of Social Development.