Wendy Schollum reflects on growing up with undiagnosed dyslexia, raising a neurodivergent family, and why inclusive thinking can lead to stronger schools, workplaces, and policies. A timely read during Neurodiversity Celebration Week from a leader with lived experience.

With rates rising, it’s a fair question.

At this week’s Strategy and Recovery Committee meeting, we endorsed a plan to review spending, cut waste, and improve financial oversight - ensuring ratepayers get the best value for their money. Here’s what’s next...

Many Havelock North residents have asked why a crematorium was approved without public consultation. If you've ever been surprised by a new development in your neighbourhood, you're not alone. This post explains how council consents work, why some projects don’t require public input, and how our community can have a stronger voice in planning.

As chair of the Positive Ageing Trust, Wendy is all too aware that 1 in 10 older people in NZ will experience some form of elder abuse. She wrote a talking point reminding us that we all have a role to play in identifying abuse and speaking up for those who are vulnerable.

In her capacity as a board advisor to the Hastings City Business Association, Wendy saw firsthand how front-line workers are bearing the brunt of our nation’s Covid-19 fatigue. She used Pink Shirt Day (a global anti-bullying campaign) to highlight this important issue.

89% of Hastings people who answered a survey on representation said they wanted fewer or the same number of councillors. When Council then voted to increase the number of elected members in Hastings, Wendy spoke up.

Tamariki are telling people in Hastings to clean up their act and stay beautiful, and that's the goal of an anti-litter campaign launched by councillor Wendy Schollum on behalf of the Hastings District Council.

As chair of the Landmarks Advisory Group, Wendy is passionate about protecting heritage buildings. When increasing costs threatened the future of the Municipal Building, Wendy was a vocal advocate for its future.

Seeking greater decision-making transparency and improved business continuity planning, Wendy drove the Hastings District Council to install and adopt live-streaming technology.