New manager settling in

Family violence, alcohol and drug abuse and issues affecting disabled people are all key focus points for Wanaka Community Networks new manager Heather Clay.

Mrs Clay was appointed to the position late last month by the Alpine Community Trust. She replaced former manager Tina Haslett, who resigned after accepting a position to manage Invercargill-based Tennis Southern.

Previously a social worker with mental health services in Queenstown, Mrs Clay, her husband Mike and two teenage children, Anna, 16, and Francis, 14, moved to Wanaka from Christchurch two and half years ago. "It's great to now be living and working in Wanaka. It means I can be more connected to the community," Mrs Clay said.

A board member of Autism NZ and Disabled Snowsports NZ, Mrs Clay was instrumental in establishing Riding for the Disabled in Wanaka.

"My daughter Anna is disabled and loves horses. I knew from my experience in Christchurch that a template could be done here. I am not at all horsey but just wanted to help out," she said.

Alpine Community Trust chairwoman Devon Hotop said Mrs Clay's background in mental health and disability services meant she was "ideally placed" to take on the role of running Upper Clutha's one-stop social service agency.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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