Prak means business

Prak has been using his experience in the industry to support impacted businesses in the city – it was knowing that he could support them which drew him to the role in the first place.  

“I've been at the Council for the grand total of 18 months now but I'm also a current business owner – I own a shop and gallery on Ghuznee street. Having that sort of intimate knowledge and understanding of what makes and shapes business in the central city is pivotal to me now being in this role, where I can advocate on the behalf of business interests for the Council.” 

Wellington is undergoing significant transformation with a programme of works that will improve public spaces, upgrade transport networks, and fix critical infrastructure now and for future residents and businesses of Pōneke.  

With transformation comes disruption, and a key part of Prak’s role is to work alongside central city businesses to help them manage through this time. 

“Businesses will reach out to share their concerns and ideas, and when you’re on the outside of the Council, it’s very easy to have these preconceived notions on how things get done. I’m here to help them better understand how things work and show them how to navigate our processes, while also giving them the space to tell me their ideas so I can pass them along.  

“Even just acknowledging what is happening with businesses and then being able to share that perspective to the organisation – that’s the most important part of the role.”  

One of Prak’s key projects was launching the Courtenay Place precinct plan, which aims to revitalise the area alongside residents and local businesses, as part of the Pōneke Promise. 

An outcome of this is the team hearing from residents that they wanted more greenery in Courtenay Place, and a space for the community. This led to planter boxes being put up and over 100 plants being donated from Tory Street Bunnings, which has added a vibrancy to the area. 

The Council have also funded businesses to run a series of entertainment activations in the Courtenay precinct, including street performances and food festivals. There is also a new cleaning schedule and temporary lighting to keep the space well-lit, clean, and ready for people to celebrate, socialise and have fun in the area.  

Prak acknowledges that while times are tough in this current landscape, him and the team are dedicated to the transformation of the city and bringing business owners into the mix. 

“Communication is crucial. We want to ensure businesses understand the significant developments that are happening to our central city, and the ways in which we work with businesses to mitigate the impacts of construction. Building that awareness within the business community is one of my goals as it can build support and advocates for these major projects – while championing for small wins along the way.” 
 
Find out more about the transformational works in the city through the Positively Pōneke website.