One minute with Clare Pattison
We are all in the Waka together as all sectors and groups have a role to play in creating a healthier Greater Christchurch! Meet some of the signatories who are with us in the Waka in our new One Minute With segment.
Let's meet Clare Pattison...
What does your organisation do and what’s your role there?
I’m Principal Strategy Advisor at Environment Canterbury. As the regional council in Canterbury we are an environmental regulator, public transport authority, and provide flood protection. Those are the main things, but we have lots of other functions like regional civil defence and harbourmaster.
We do not have the same responsibilities as a local council - we just have the same election process for our councillors. As a strategy advisor, my job is basically to work out the best way to achieve the strategic direction set by the councillors.
What do you enjoy most about your mahi or working for your organisation?
I love that my job every day is about trying to make the world a better place, and everyone I work with is also trying to do the same.
What project have you been a part of at your organisation that you’re most proud of?
Probably the Regional Land Transport Plan – we pushed the envelope forward in terms of integrated environmental, social and cultural impact. There were many wins. We now have three wellbeing indicators in the monitoring framework, and a policy that acknowledges the wellbeing impacts of extreme events on communities.
The information we got from communities in Mackenzie, Waimate, Hurunui and Kaikoura was also absolutely gold in terms of trying to make the innovative, low emissions, resilient transport system the committee want to see.
Who inspires you in your mahi?
My mum and dad! My whakapapa is people who push for social, cultural and economic change. I would not be me if I was not working on making the world a better place.
Share a book, talk, training or podcast that has influenced your professional development
Oooo I love consuming information. My favourite recently was the Systemic Leadership Summit - listening to global thought leaders in advising and supporting transformation and systemic shift. My key takeout was the European School of Governance saying that business tools are fundamentally inappropriate to apply in public benefit entities because of the underlying assumptions behind their development. It is so true. They are designed to create an entity that will compete and grow. Not what the public service should be.
What’s an activity, hobby, or interest that you enjoy outside of work that contributes to your own wellbeing?
It’s not really a hobby, but worshiping God and praying is my happy space. After a good 30 min in worship or prayer I am ready to face anything!
What is your favourite space or place in Waitaha, and why?
A small area on Sugarloaf that is original pre-people forest. I love to walk into that forest and just stand there and breathe in the forest air. It puts time and people in context.
Email healthychristchurch@cdhb.health.nz if you would like to be featured in our One Minute With segment for Waka Toa Ora signatories.