Hikurangi Community
Development Coordinator (HCDC)
Supporting community-led projects and local development in Hikurangi.
The Community Development Coordinator (HCDC) position was created in response to the Hikurangi Placemaking Plan and the community’s desire for more support to progress local projects. The role provides coordination, administration, and practical assistance to help community groups, volunteers, and partner organisations move ideas forward.
The HCDC works across a wide range of initiatives, from small improvements to large, long‑term projects, facilitating good communication, collaboration, and follow‑through.
What does the Hikurangi Community Development Coordinator (HCDC) do?
The HCDC role supports the community by:
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Helping groups develop and progress projects
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Coordinating communication between community, Council, and partner organisations
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Providing administration support
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Assisting with funding applications
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Supporting events and community engagement
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Helping ensure projects align with the Placemaking Plan and community priorities
Some projects are confidential or in early stages, so not all details can be shared publicly.
How is the role managed?
The HCDC is overseen by the Hikurangi Development Group, which includes representatives from:
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Hikurangi Business Association
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Hikurangi Friendship House
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Hikurangi Historical Museum
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Hikurangi Rugby Club
This group provides governance, guidance, and community oversight for the role.
What are the projects?
The HCDC supports a wide range of projects that benefit the Hikurangi community. These include improvements to infrastructure, signage, safety, recreation, heritage, and community services. Projects vary in size and stage. Some are completed, some are in progress, and others are awaiting funding or partner approval.
A full list of current projects is available on the Project Register page.
How do projects progress?
Community projects typically move through the following steps:
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Idea raised by a community member, group, or partner
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Initial discussion with the HCDC to understand scope and feasibility
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Development Group review
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Engagement with Council or relevant agencies
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Funding applications (if required)
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Implementation
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Updates shared with the community when appropriate
This process helps ensure projects are well‑supported and aligned with community priorities.
Meet your Coordinator!
Community. Collaboration. Care
Sharlene Morris Ross is Hikurangi’s Community Development Coordinator. She has lived in Marua for more than 18 years and brings a strong background in administration, along with many years of volunteering across local facilities and events. Her steady involvement in the community naturally led her into this coordination role, where she supports local projects and helps ideas move forward.
Sharlene is a mother of four with long standing ties to the Hikurangi area. She cares deeply about the wellbeing of the village and is especially committed to projects that support families and young people. Her work focuses on helping Hikurangi grow as a resilient, connected and empowered community.
