Wanaka City Council
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About Wanaka
Wanaka, New Zealand is an idyllic alpine town located on the south island of New Zealand. Nestled between the Southern Alps and the stunning Lake Wanaka, the picturesque town offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. From skiing and snowboarding in the winter to fishing, hiking, and mountain biking in the summer, Wanaka is the perfect destination for outdoor adventurers. With its stunning natural beauty, Wanaka is also a great place to relax and unwind. With plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops, Wanaka is the perfect place to explore and enjoy the best of New Zealand.
The Municipal Structure of Wanaka
The City Council of Wanaka, New Zealand is a unique municipal structure that is responsible for managing the city's operations and providing services to its citizens. The Council is comprised of seven elected members, including the Mayor and Deputy Mayor, who serve for three years. The Council works to ensure the city is well-maintained and that the citizens' needs are met. It is also responsible for developing plans for the city's future, setting and collecting rates, and providing a range of services such as water, sewerage, stormwater, waste, and transport. The Council is committed to providing a safe, healthy, and prosperous environment for its citizens.
Why is "Wanaka" called "Wanaka"?
Wanaka is thought to have derived its name from the Māori word ‘Whanake’, meaning ‘to make a noise’ or ‘to make a mark’. The town is located on the banks of Lake Wanaka, which is believed to have been named after the Māori chief Te Whanau-a-Apanui. It is believed that the chief was the first to make a mark on the area, which is now known as Wanaka.