There have been several discussions held over the years about whether the Manawatū and Whanganui branches should merge. Earlier this year, that prospect was again raised with National Office.
Steps to give effect to the merger are now well underway. The new branch will be known as the Manawatū Whanganui Branch. Members of both branches (including branch associates) will automatically become members of the new Branch.
Following extensive consultation, branch members of the CCNZ Manawatū and Whanganui Branches voted to proceed to merge the two branches. A recommendation to proceed was approved by the Executive Council at its meeting on 29 September 2022, and the new Manawatū Whanganui Branch will have its first meeting on 3 November in Bulls, with all members welcome to attend.
There is a strong sense that the amalgamation of the two branches will create a stronger branch, with more scale from which to approach and influence customers including local authorities. Members will have access to a wider network of contractor and associate members, with increased opportunities for Manawatū and Whanganui members to participate in all the planned activities whilst sharing the branch workloads.
Thank you for your continued support. My team and I look forward to working with all members to ensure the Manawatū Whanganui branch is a success.
Yours sincerely
Alan Pollard
Chief Executive
Civil Contractors NZ