Carterton District Council will hold an extraordinary meeting on Wednesday 8 March to consider three proposals for new road names, including one honouring former Mayor Georgina Beyer.
The District is in mourning for Ms. Beyer, who passed away on Monday [6 March]. Flags on Council buildings are at half-mast, and a book of condolence is available to sign at Carterton Events Centre.
Ms. Beyer was elected mayor of Carterton, making her the world’s first openly transgender mayor, the first female mayor of Carterton, and Wairarapa’s first Māori mayor.
She later became the world’s first openly transgender Member of Parliament, winning the Wairarapa electoral seat by over 3000 votes.
As an MP, and after retiring from Parliament, Ms. Beyer supported policies such as LGBTIQA+ rights and Māori rights.
Mayor Hon. Ron Mark and Councillors will discuss three new road names in the District at the meeting. The three road names are Kākāriki Crescent, Peaks Avenue, and Beyer Way.
The developer of the roads noted that “Beyer Way” was appropriate. He remembered his family’s interactions with Ms. Beyer over the years with fondness and is delighted to be able to honour her.
Council’s road naming policy allows for names that recognise Māori cultural significance; cultural significance other than Māori; a reflection of the landscape or topographical features; a historical event; or to honour residents who have made significant contributions to the District.
If a road/street is proposed to be named after a person, the person’s family/whanau will be consulted, where possible.
This is not possible in Ms. Beyer’s case, but her close friends have been informed, and are delighted Ms. Beyer’s amazing contribution Ms. Beyer made to not only Carterton but also New Zealand, is recognised.
The Hurunui-o-Rangi Marae has confirmed via Mayor Mark that they support the proposed names.
The meeting begins at 1 pm on Wednesday 8 March. A video recording of the meeting will be available on our YouTube channel.
The full agenda is available at https://carterton.infocouncil.biz/Open/2023/03/CO_20230308_AGN_3252_AT_EXTRA_WEB.htm.
The agenda includes a map of the proposed roads, and documents from the Council archives signed by Ms. Beyer during her election and tenure as Mayor of Carterton.