Ashburton District Council has been given the seal of approval by Business Canterbury, the regional Chamber of Commerce.

The organisation has awarded Council “Canterbury Trusted” designation, after interviewing staff, customers, suppliers and constituents.

Group Manager of Democracy and Engagement Toni Durham said the designation signified that a business or organisation met certain criteria and was considered reputable and trustworthy within the community.

“Business Canterbury spent a lot of time talking to the people, businesses and groups we deal with, as well as asking staff what it was like to work here. We’re pleased to receive the designation and will continue to work hard to live up to it.”

Annual compliance checks must be met to ensure the accreditation is ongoing.

Mrs Durham said Council’s annual resident survey provided useful information, and the quarterly visits by Business Canterbury would be another way to check in with the community on how Council was doing.

“We see this as a symbol of reliability, good practice and responsible business behaviour.”

Business Canterbury’s Kyley Charteris said council had passed the designation assessment “with flying colours”.

She said customer feedback was that the council was a forward-thinking council, and employees appreciated its family first culture.