To maintain a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment, all participants are expected to adhere to our guidelines. Hate speech, abusive language, and discriminatory behaviour won't be tolerated. Items or imagery that may cause harm, distress, or pose a safety risk aren't permitted, and any threatening or unsafe actions will result in the participant being asked to leave the premise. These guidelines are designed to ensure safety and mutual respect for all.
There are criteria to be met prior to being granted speaking time at a Council Meeting or Te Awahou Foxton Community Board meeting. You can speak or present as a member of the public (called 'public participation'), or as a representative for an organisation or group that has a specific purpose or common view (called 'deputation').
Members of the public can request to speak to most agenda items. All requests are subject to the approval of the Chair and in addition are subject to and can be declined under Standing Orders.
How to request speaking rights
If you wish to speak, you must request speaking rights at least 24 hours in advance, by 12 noon on the day before the meeting, and identify the specific item you want to speak to. Requests must be lodged with the Chairperson, Chief Executive or other appropriate officer of Council.
You can make your request by:
You'll need to provide the following details:
- your name and contact details
- which meeting you'd like to speak to
- the topic you want to speak about
- if you’re representing an organisation or group, the name of the organisation and any other speaker appearing for that organisation (note only two representatives from one organisation can speak).
If you're not able to provide this information, your request may be declined by the Chair.
Requests will not be accepted for:
- matters that don't appear on a meeting agenda;
- proceedings of committees that don't have a substantive resolution for adoption;
- procedural items and reports which are for information only.
In all cases the request to speak shall be referred to the Chairperson of the meeting to confirm acceptance. The person requesting to speak shall be advised whether or not their request has been accepted. If declined the applicant shall be advised of the reasons why. The author of any report to which there are requests to speak shall also be advised. Following the close off of speaking requests, the Chair of the meeting will approve or decline speaking requests.
Unless the meeting determines otherwise, a limit of five (5) minutes is placed on each speaker.