We are delivering a variety of initiatives right now
Find out more about our active projects being delivered in 2025.
Have a look at our project ideas register to see what other possibilities are being considered.
Supporting sustainable energy
Our community has some of the highest energy prices in the country. Our electricity is generated by burning large quantities of diesel every day. Liquid and solid fuels are significantly more expensive than mainland Aotearoa.
Future Rakiura is helping build awareness of the opportunities around solar power. Technological advances in the last two decades have significantly improved hardware efficiency and lowered costs.
We’re teaming up with Rewiring Aotearoa to spread the word on household level solar power. We are helping build our communities understanding of the technology and how it can be used successfully on Rakiura to lower our power bills and our carbon emissions.
E-waste management
Computers, phones, tablets and other forms of technology are both a recycling resource and a fire hazard if not disposed of properly.
We are keen to help locals manage electronic waste effectively so we get the best of both worlds and help do our bit for the environment.
Upgraded conference equipment
Upgraded conference equipment for the community centre to enable our residents to connect with the world using professional quality technology including a large screen, easy to use speaker system and quality conference camera.
24/7 available AEDs
Automatic external defibrillators can make all the difference for someone in need. You never know when an emergency might strike and it could be in the middle of the night. Rakiura has multiple AEDs spread through the township but they’re behind locked doors.
We’re working to establish two AED stations in central locations that can be accessed at any time, as quickly as possible. Each minute is crucial
Visitor information kiosks
We’re rolling out interactive digital information kiosks at key visitor locations such as Stewart Island Flights, the Stewart Island Ferry terminal and visitor centres. Locals and visitors can easily access the community calendar and the main tourist information website.
Watch this space as more kiosks are coming soon!
Rakiura Community Calendar
As a connector we see value and opportunity in a joint online calendar where island locals and visitors alike can find out what is happening on Rakiura.
The community calendar can put the spotlight on key events and get them noticed. It is embedded in the main Stewart Island tourist website increasing exposure.
Future Rakiura provides this service free of charge to our community. We are proud to have a practical way to help people.
Technology support
In a remote and isolated community, staying connected to the rest of the country and the world is essential. We rely on online shopping, trading and other services to get on with our lives.
In an increasingly connected world, independence and resilience relies on technology. Getting the job done online is not only efficient, it’s essential when you can’t drive to site or meet in person.
Future Rakiura is helping locals get familiar with the tech through a series of targeted workshop sessions aimed to build confidence in getting the most out of phones, computers and the internet.
Assisted web development
An online presence is essential for our small community. Much of our economy is tourism based and visitors turn to the internet and their devices to do their research.
Getting online with a web presence is often complicated and expensive but it doesn’t have to be that way.
Future Rakiura is helping locals get online and build their web presence by combining and sharing our hosting package and building simple websites free of charge.
Community Meetings
Small communities have an opportunity to build stronger connections and shared goals. We aim to help our community keep up to date with things that matter to us.
A fun, easy going and informative evening out is our goal. A low key approach encourages participation and attendance. Spark up a conversation over a cup of tea afterwards.
Future Rakiura works alongside the Stewart Island Promotions Association and the Stewart Island/Rakiura Community Board to bring this annual event to the locals.
