Statement from the New Zealand Geographic Board regarding the outcome of the Wanganui Referendum 09

25 May 2009

The following is a statement by Dr Don Grant, Chair of the New Zealand Geographic Board Ngā Pou Taunaha o Aotearoa (the Board), on the outcome of the Wanganui Referendum 09, which asked Wanganui District residents, which spelling they preferred for their city - Wanganui or Whanganui. The Board expects to make a decision on the proposal to alter the spelling to 'Whanganui' in September or October this year.

“The New Zealand Geographic Board welcomes the views of the Wanganui people who took part in the recent referendum,” Board Chair Dr Don Grant says.

"The referendum results provide the Board with a clear and current indication of the views of the Wanganui District people who responded to the referendum.

"The Board will take this into account, along with all of the submissions and associated reasons it receives before the public consultation period closes on 17 August, any other research and relevant information, and of course the original proposal for the change to 'Whanganui'.

"As of Friday 22 May, more than 450 submissions have been received. The Board encourages people to continue making submissions on their preference for the spelling of Wanganui, and the reasons for that preference."

For more information on the proposal and the process, view the frequently asked questions, or see how to make a submission.

Media enquiries: Kelly Ley-Dahm, Land Information New Zealand, phone +64 4 460 0147, mobile +64 27 278 3968, email media@linz.govt.nz.