Rehette Stoltz Responses

1.What is your vision for Gisborne in terms of cultural diversity? I love the fact that we already have so many different cultures living together here in the Tairawhiti! I would love to see us grow that even more. 2. The Ten Year Plan says GDC will support the development of cultural groups in the district, what kind of support do you think GDC should provide to the Tairāwhiti Multicultural Council? I would think the same kind of support like most community groups receive at this stage - availability of meeting rooms, some 'in-kind' assistance, ect. 3. What regular interaction do you have with groups of people from cultural backgrounds different to your own? Being an immigrant myself, I am blessed with a diverse group of friends from many different cultures, like Somalia, England, Zimbabwe, Sweden, America, New Zealand, France. 4. What, if any, common challenges are you aware of for local residents from ethnic minority groups? It takes some time (it can be years!) to find your feet in a new country, and most new immigrants feel overwhelmed with their new environment and way of life. Personally, we were very lucky to have met friends from South Africa who moved here a couple of years before us, so they helped us a lot with practical information and help. Having a "go-to" organisation (like Tairawhiti Multicultural Council) that could introduce new immigrants to settled immigrants who could offer practical help and advise, will be a neat way to assist. 5. What are the biggest opportunities you see for attracting new immigrants and refugees to Gisborne? Having working opportunities available is always a good way to attract new people to town. Helping/assisting new immigrants and refugees to settle into the Gisborne lifestyle would help make sure that they stay here, become part of our society and eventually call Gisborne home :)