The Whakatipu Community Hub Charitable Trust is pleased to announce the appointment of Sarah Hannan as the General Manager – Establishment Phase.
This newly established role reflects the Trust’s commitment to progressing the Hub from concept to reality. With high-level design now complete, the project has reached a critical phase, making this the right time to appoint a dedicated and suitably qualified person to lead the next stage. The role will focus on capital fundraising, stakeholder engagement, and working closely with community organisations and alongside Queenstown Lakes District Council to deliver a shared vision for the Hub.
Sarah brings extensive experience in leading complex community and economic development projects, including the delivery of the $40 million Hawthorndale Care Village Southland, establishment of the Southland Foundation, and leadership of the Southland Regional Development Strategy.
Chair Hamish Wilton said the appointment marks a significant milestone for the project.
“We are thrilled to welcome Sarah into this role. Right now, we need the capability and momentum that a dedicated General Manager can bring. Sarah’s focus in the establishment phase will be to turn the Hub from concept into reality. We are entering a critical phase of the project, and this is exactly the right time to bring in Sarah’s expertise. Her proven ability to lead major projects, build strong partnerships, and mobilise community support will be critical as we move forward.”
As Queenstown continues to grow, the demand for accessible and more integrated delivery of social services is increasing. The Whakatipu Community Hub is more than a building, it will bring together a range of services in one accessible location, supporting a more efficient, sustainable model of delivery while strengthening the social fabric of the community.
Sarah said she is excited to be part of such a transformational initiative.
“This is a unique opportunity to work alongside the community to create something that will have a lasting impact. The Hub is about enabling organisations to work more effectively together and ensuring people can access the support they need, when they need it.”
The Trust will now progress the next phase of development, continuing to work in partnership with community organisations, funders, and stakeholders to bring the Hub to life.
About the Whakatipu Community Hub
The Whakatipu Community Hub is a collaborative, community-led initiative that will provide a central, accessible location for a wide range of social services and community organisations. The Hub is designed to support more integrated service delivery, improve access for the community, and foster stronger collaboration across the social sector.
The Trust gratefully acknowledges the support of its funders, including Queenstown Lakes District Council, Hubbard Foundation and New Zealand Lottery Grants Board, as well as its professional partners Wingates, Duncan Cotterill, Moore Markhams, Mackersy Property, Brannigans, and Rhodes & Associates for their generous support.
ENDS
For Further Media Enquiries:
Sarah Hannan
GM – Establishment Phase
021 2444435