Provides lived experience advice to help Council staff understand the needs and perspective of diverse communities.

Applications for this group open on 2 March 2026.

The Multicultural Advisory Group was established to provide advice and consultations only, to:

  • bring impartial, informed advice to the Council to facilitate participation and consultation on issues related to multicultural communities.
  • advise the Christchurch City Council (Council) of the views, concerns and aspirations of all diverse communities. 
  • raise awareness of the aspirations, needs and concerns of these communities, within government and the community.
  • facilitate interaction between the diverse cultural profile of all residents in Christchurch communities.

Find out more about the group in the Multicultural Advisory Group's Terms of Reference [PDF, 142 KB].

For more information, email AdvisoryGroups@ccc.govt.nz

1. Purpose of the Multicultural Advisory Group 

The Multicultural Advisory Group (MAG) provides independent, informed advice to Christchurch City Council on matters affecting culturally, linguistically, and ethnically diverse communities in Ōtautahi Christchurch.

The MAG supports the implementation of the Christchurch Multicultural Strategy – Our Future Together, ensuring that Council planning, services, and decision‑making reflect the city’s multicultural identity, aspirations, and needs, while upholding the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and recognising the unique role of mana whenua.

2. Role of MAG members

MAG members contribute their individual expertise, lived experience, and skills to support inclusive and well-informed advice to Council.

Members:

  • Provide impartial, evidence-informed advice on issues affecting multicultural communities
  • Contribute strategic insights that support equity, inclusion, participation, and well-being
  • Engage in respectful, collaborative discussions that reflect diverse perspectives
  • Support a consultative and inclusive approach to the delivery of the Multicultural Strategy
  • Act in the collective interest of multicultural communities across the city

Clarification on representation

MAG members are appointed in their personal capacity. They do not represent organisations, agencies, or specific communities.

Members are selected based on their skills, abilities, experience, and insight, and while they may draw on lived experience or community knowledge, they are expected to contribute independently and consider a range of perspectives beyond any single group or interest.

3. Responsibilities of members

Members are expected to:

  • Attend and actively participate in scheduled MAG meetings (every two months)
  • Prepare for meetings by reviewing papers and contributing constructively
  • Engage respectfully with members, Council staff, and invited contributors
  • Apply an equity and Tiriti-based lens to discussions and advice
  • Maintain confidentiality and declare any real or perceived conflicts of interest
  • Uphold Council’s Code of Conduct and MAG values
  • Members may also be invited to participate in workshops, consultations, or working groups related to Council initiatives.

MAG members do not represent organisations, interest groups or communities.

Members are selected based on their individual skills, abilities, knowledge and experience, and are appointed in their personal capacity.
While members may draw on their lived experience and community connections to inform their contributions, they are not expected to speak on behalf of any specific group.

The role requires independent thinking, critical reflection, and a willingness to consider a range of perspectives in the collective interest of multicultural communities across Ōtautahi.

4. Time commitment and meeting frequency

  • Term: Two years
  • Meetings: Bimonthly, approximately six to eight meetings per year
  • Duration: Two to two and a half hours per meeting, evenings
  • Additional commitments: 
    o    Occasional workshops, consultations or community events
    o    Preparation or reading materials before meetings (approx. 30 to 60 minutes).

5. Skills and experience sought

Formal qualifications are not required. Applicants may be existing or emerging leaders.

MAG members are selected based on a combination of the following:

Core capabilities

  • Strong intercultural awareness and cultural sensitivity
  • Ability to think strategically and contribute to complex discussions
  • Confidence in expressing ideas clearly and respectfully
  • Willingness to listen, collaborate, and engage with differing viewpoints

Knowledge and experience

  • Understanding of multiculturalism and inclusion in a Tiriti-based context
  • Insight into challenges and opportunities affecting diverse communities
  • Interest in civic participation and local decision-making
  • Awareness of local government processes (or willingness to learn).

Selection will also consider how applicants contribute to a balanced mix of perspectives, including diversity of ethnicity, gender, age, lived experience, newcomer status, and intersectional identities.

6. Support offered to MAG members

To ensure equitable and meaningful participation, Council will provide:

  • Governance, civic, and capacity building training
  • Secretariat and facilitation support
  • Culturally safe and inclusive meeting environments

Members will also receive recognition for their time and contribution, in line with Council policy.