Quality of life is the major strength the Waimate district has to attract and retain people, a survey conducted by the Waimate District Council has found.
However, the limited range of retail goods and services, concern about ongoing health services, and recreational opportunities for young people were downsides of living in Waimate.
The survey was aimed at finding out what the community thought had been happening in the district to provide a basis for the council to renew its community plan. There were 149 respondents who commented on what they saw as the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and barriers impacting on their lives and futures in the district.
The biggest response of 78% was within the urban area of Waimate and a considerably higher proportion of those were aged 65 years or more.
"Many enjoy living in the Waimate district and believe it is a place that contributes to a positive sense of well-being," the survey found.
Respondents felt the quality of life in the Waimate district was its major strength, but also highlighted the negative attitude of citizens about life in the district.
The stress-free lifestyle, caring community and surrounding natural environment, were all big pluses for them. Easy access to the main centres, lakes, rivers and mountains were mentioned as a strength.
Respondents felt the limited range of retail goods and services was a hind-rance to living in the district.
Opportunities for im-proving the district in-cluded developing tourist attractions and greater provision of retail services.
Good sport, cultural and recreational facilities would help, particularly developing recreational opportunities for young people.
But events in the district won high praise, although they suggested the look of the "main street" needed to be improved.
They were also not satisfied with the level of accountability of Waimate district councillors and the cost-benefit ratio of the council itself.
They were very concerned about the quality of local governance which was identified as a barrier to the future of the district.
They felt the council had a major role to play in planning and governance, ensuring the needs of its citizens were met.
The council also had a major role to play in economic development, protecting and enhancing the natural environment, waste disposal, providing infrastructure and affordable services.
