Getting Started with Downtown+ Dunedin

Ready to contribute to the Dunedin community? This guide walks you through creating your account and accessing Downtown+ features.

Starting Point: The Contribute Page

Visit the Contribute page to see three options:

1. Sign In – For existing users
2. Join Community – Create a new account
3. Continue as Guest – Quick submissions (limited features)

Creating a New Account

Step 1: Click "Join Community"

Choose your signup method:

• Email and password
• Google account (OAuth)

Step 2: Fill Out the Form

Provide:

• First and Last Name
• Email Address
• Password (minimum 6 characters)

Step 3: Verify Your Email

• Check your inbox for a 6-digit verification code
• Enter the code (auto-submits when complete)
• You'll be automatically signed in and redirected to your Dashboard

Tip: Check spam folder if you don't receive the code. Click "Resend" if needed.

Signing In (Existing Users)

Navigate to the sign-in page and enter your credentials. Forgot your password? Click "Forgot password?" to reset it.

Continue as Guest

Use the public submission page for quick submissions without an account. Note: You cannot manage submissions or create profiles as a guest.

Your Dashboard

Your Dashboard has four sections:

1. News – Add and manage news articles
2. Events – Post and track community events
3. Deals – Add and manage deals/special offers
4. Profiles – Create business or individual profiles

Each card shows your contribution count and pending/rejected status indicators.

Creating Your First Profile

Click "Add Profile" to choose:

• Individual Profile – For freelancers, consultants, artists (1 per user per downtown)
• Business Profile – For restaurants, shops, services (unlimited)

Complete the form with your information and submit. High-quality submissions may be approved immediately, while others will be reviewed within 2-4 business days.

Managing Contributions

From your Dashboard, click "Your [Type]" to view submissions. Each shows:

• Status – Current state of your submission
• Edit and delete options
• Submission date

Understanding Submission Status:

• Approved – Your submission is live and visible to the public immediately
• Pending – Awaiting manual review (typically 2-4 business days)
• Rejected – Did not meet guidelines (reason provided)

You'll receive notifications when your submission status changes.

Account Settings

Access via the "Settings" button to:

• Update your name, email, password
• Manage notification preferences
• Delete your account (permanent)

Getting Help

Click "Contact Us" from the Dashboard for support. Response time is typically 24-48 hours.

Common Questions:

Q: Why was my submission rejected?
A: Check your dashboard for the specific reason. Common issues: incomplete information, inappropriate content, or duplicates.

Q: Can I edit approved submissions?
A: Yes, but edits may require re-approval.

Next Steps

1. Create your first profile – Start with a business or individual profile
2. Share an event – Post community events, workshops, or gatherings (requires a claimed profile)
3. Submit a news article – Contribute local news and stories (account only)
4. Post deals – Special offers and promotions (requires claimed and verified business profile)

Welcome to the Downtown+ Dunedin community!

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