Two years in a row now, Whanganui has been selected as one of the world’s Smart 21 communities, by the Intelligent Community Forum.
The Forum recognises communities around the world for steps taken to succeed in a broadband economy, and this year’s theme focused on the contributions brought in by art and tradition to an intelligent community.
“In 2013, we were recognised for the relationship between innovation and employment. In 2014, we are on the list because our existing cultural foundations and heritage have connected us with the world,” said Mayor Annette Main, who chairs the Whanganui Digital Leaders’ Forum.
“We have always been known as an innovative community and these awards recognise us for it. Our goal is now to be named in the top seven,” she added.
Whanganui is the only place in New Zealand to make the Smart 21 list. The top seven intelligent communities will be chosen from the 2014 Smart 21 list and announced in January 2014.