A new position of Wanaka Ward secretary has been created in the Wanaka Queenstown Lakes District Council office, acting Wanaka Ward manager Roger Taylor said.

"I am very pleased to announce that former Wanaka administration officer Barbara East has accepted the new role," Mr Taylor said.

As the Council continued to review the structure of the role of ward manager, the new role had become an obvious step.

"Whilst no decision has been taken about the manager role, I will continue to be working in Wanaka on a part time basis but Ms East will now become the first point of contact for the Wanaka community," Mr Taylor said.

With a wealth of local knowledge at her disposal, Ms East was extremely capable of stepping up to the new position, which would see her assisting the community to deal with issues.

"Ms East will then process those issues, connect the community with the appropriate contractor or council staff member and continue to monitor progress and resolution," Mr Taylor said.

The new role was also recognition of the work already being undertaken by Ms East, during a transition period, according to QLDC chief executive Duncan Field.

"I am delighted to have Barbara on board in this capacity, she has proved to be an asset to the Wanaka team," Mr Field said.

Ms East said she was looking forward to the role.

"It will be both challenging and rewarding and I'm very much looking forward to continuing to work with the Wanaka community," she said.

ENDS

For further information please contact Roger Taylor or Barbara East 03 443 8197.

By: Sarah