Caring for and celebrating Marlborough’s history is the focus of a draft Heritage Strategy presented to Councillors late last month.
Marlborough residents are invited to have their say on the strategy to help guide how the district's heritage is protected, celebrated and sustained over the next decade.
Mayor Nadine Taylor said heritage plays an important role in shaping our sense of place.
"Our heritage tells the story of who we are. It connects us to the people who came before us and helps guide the decisions we make for future generations. This strategy provides an opportunity for the community to help shape how we care for and celebrate these important stories and places.”
The draft plan, Heritage Strategy 2027-2036, was approved for public consultation at a full Council Meeting on Thursday 29 October.
Developed in partnership with ngā iwi o Te Tauihu and informed by engagement with heritage organisations, volunteers and community stakeholders, it sets out a vision for protecting and celebrating Marlborough's rich and diverse heritage.
Councillor Allanah Burgess, who holds the Heritage Portfolio, encouraged the community to have their say on the strategy, and share what matters to them.
“Our heritage is much more than the places and taonga we protect – it is our kōrero, our mātauranga, our whenua and the connections that tell us who we are and where we have come from,” she said.
“He taonga tuku iho – our heritage is something handed down to us, but it is also something we have a responsibility to care for and carry forward for our mokopuna. This strategy is about recognising that heritage as something living, while making sure the stories and places that matter to our communities are understood, protected and celebrated.”
Council cannot do that mahi alone, Clr Burgess said.
“Across Marlborough, iwi, whānau, heritage organisations, volunteers, property owners and communities are already acting as kaitiaki of so much of our heritage … As we take this strategy out for consultation, I really encourage our communities to have their say.”
The strategy aims to achieve five key outcomes, including:
- Improving knowledge and understanding of our heritage
- Strengthening its protection and stewardship
- Celebrating and sharing Marlborough’s stories
- Building stronger partnerships and leadership within the sector
- Supporting the sustainable use and resilience of heritage places and resources.
The consultation is accompanied by the new Heritage Insights 2026 report, which provides the first comprehensive picture of Marlborough's heritage resources. The report identifies 155 protected heritage places, 1,434 archaeological sites, 922 notable trees and a network of museums, heritage organisations and volunteers who help care for the region's heritage.
Those wanting to learn more about the strategy before having their say are invited to a Heritage Public Information Session on Monday 23 November at 10am.
The session will cover why the strategy has been developed, what it aims to achieve and how it will help protect, celebrate and share Marlborough’s unique heritage for future generations.
Register your attendance on the Marlborough NZ website
Public consultation opens today, 10 November and closes on 10 December.
For more information and to have your say, go to the Have your Say webpage
