A meeting at Le Fale Jobs and Skills Hub in Cannons Creek, Porirua this week considered how creating a living wage city could improve the lives of families and children in the community.

Piri'anga Alofa Pacific and Community Services senior lead Caroline Mareko facilitated the meeting which considered building solidarity to make the city fairer.

Issues considered included the problems associated with low wages, including housing, food insecurity and difficulties in paying bills, contributing to church and family and caring for elders and children.

The meeting also discussed how Pacific values - tautua/service, respect, collective responsibility and faith - relate to the living wage movement and support people to speak up and take action.

The living wage is currently $28.95 per hour, which is 5.45 above the minimum wage. It is calculated each year based on what it takes people to participate in society, not just survival.

Porirua City Council pays the living age as do many other employers including Whānau Manaaki. The living wage helps employers as it increases productivity and commitment and lowers staff turnover. It also encourages wellbeing and the economy through participation in such things as sport, and cultural and leisure activities as well as supporting retail and hospitality. 

There’ll be another meeting next month at Le Fale, and then a larger city meeting to discuss how to progress the idea of a living wage city.