Media Releases

Major changes to the road layout in New Lynn will take place over the coming week as construction moves ahead on the rail trench.

From Monday August 3 the intersection at Clark St, Rankin Ave and Totara Ave will be controlled by traffic lights, replacing the roundabout that has been a feature of the town centre for decades.

Additional traffic management measures will be in place for the first few days after the change-over, while motorists adjust to the new layout.

The roundabout is being replaced by a bridge across the future rail trench, removing the interaction between motorists and trains. Until the trench is completed, the intersection is still a level crossing, so motorists and pedestrians are also reminded to stay vigilant about approaching trains.

The Clark/Rankin intersection is one of two level crossings in New Lynn to be replaced by railway overbridges - the second is the level crossing at Ward St and Veronica St, which has now reopened, about six weeks earlier than anticipated.

Ward/Veronica is also still a level crossing until the trench is fully excavated.

Intensive work has been underway in both locations to build the new bridges which will cross the trench once the ground is excavated beneath them. A further two new bridges will be built to cross the trench, significantly improving traffic flows in the town centre.

The changes on August 3 mark a significant milestone for the project, due to be completed mid-2010.

Excavation has begun in earnest and the first of the concrete floor slabs for the trench have been laid.

Motorists are reminded to take extra care in the New Lynn area, to follow the road signs and allow extra time for their journey.

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30 July

Waitakere leads the way in water conservation

Residents using less water are playing their part in preserving our natural resources.

Residents of New Zealand's first eco city are leading the charge on water conservation with an impressive reduction in consumption in Waitakere.
The latest water figures show that in 2009 each Westie is using 157 litres of water per day - five litres less than in 2008, and 10 litres less than in 2007.

These figures come on the back of a determined effort by Waitakere City Council's water division EcoWater to highlight water consumption issues and subsidise conservation efforts.

In addition to offering rebates on urban rain tanks encouraging installation of water-efficient shower heads EcoWater heads conservation education campaigns such as the Water Ambassadors Kids Club.

Waitakere Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse says it is great to see the results of residents' efforts.

"It's important to be careful how we are using our water and I'm proud to see how much this message is being heard and acted on. We're using less and saving on future costs," the Deputy Mayor says.

"It's great to see what our residents can achieve at home with some thought and effort," she says.

The Waitakere City Council has a long term water management goal of reducing water consumption 25 percent by 2025 - or down to 125 litres per person per day.

People drink less than five per cent of the drinking water supplied to their homes, with the rest going down the drain via the toilet, shower, laundry and basins as well as on outdoor uses.

29 July

Explore your local library

Libraries are a great place to learn and have fun.

Escape in to a world of discovery and exploration at your local library - you'll be amazed by what you might find.

Waitakere Libraries is marking Library Week (August 10-16) with a jam-packed calendar of events to highlight the wide range of services libraries have on offer.

"Libraries are more than places where you go to find a book," says Councillor Judy Lawley, chair of the council's Culture and Community Committee.

"Now they are somewhere to read newspapers from around the country, surf the internet, hire an audio CD or DVD, research local history or your family tree, find a book written in one of more than 40 different languages and a place to learn new computer skills through the learning centres."

What hasn't changed, she says, is that libraries are still the heart of their communities, a place to bring everyone together.

No matter what your age or interests, Library Week is sure to have something to offer from authors talks and lectures to kids' events, tours and more.

What's happening at your library?

Waitakere Central - 3 Ratanui St, Henderson

Wednesday, August 12, 12.00pm.Secrets of Oratia Media with Peter Dowling, the managing director of this Titirangi-based publishing company.
2.00pm daily. Library tour look behind the book shelves of Waitakere Central library and visit areas not normally open to the public.
Wednesday, August 12, 10.30am. New Zealand's biggest Storytime. Libraries throughout New Zealand will be holding a special storytime of the book Itiiti's Gift by Melanie Drewery at the same time.
Monday, August 10 and 12 at 10.30am. Introduction to genealogy. Lani Rimington from the Waitakere Branch of the New Zealand Genealogy will give you tips on how to start researching your family history.
Thursday, August 13, 1.00pm. Remains of the Clay. Local history advisor, Robyn Mason presents a lecture on the pottery and ceramics industry in West Auckland. In the JT Diamond Reading Room, level two.

New Lynn - 3 Memorial Drive

Monday, August 10, 10am. Clay Pottery and Bricks Talk and Tour with librarian Robyn Mason. Discover more about the ceramic and pottery industry, one of the most important industries in west Auckland. Meet at New Lynn library.
Saturday, August 15, 6.00pm. Library Lockdown. Youngsters are "locked in" for fun and games for several hours. This event is extremely popular and spaces fill up fast. Bookings essential.

Massey - Cnr Don Buck Road & Westgate Drive

Tuesday, August 11, 6.30pm. Books for Westie boys: Respected lecturer educator, founder of the Kids' Lit Quiz and Margaret Mahy Medal and Lecture Award winner, Wayne Mills, talks about books to encourage boys to read.

Te Atatu Peninsula - 595 Te Atatu Road

Wednesday, August 12, 10.30am. New Zealand's biggest Storytime. Libraries throughout New Zealand will be holding a special storytime of the book Itiiti's Gift by Melanie Drewery at the same time.

For more information about Library Week visit www.waitakerelibs.govt.nz, phone (09) 839 2260 or drop in to your local library.

29 July

Sustainable transport a smart move

Be smart and consider public transport - it's good for the environment and your wallet.

Waitakere rail commuters will have the chance to become walking billboards promoting the benefits of sustainable transport.

On Thursday and Friday (July 30 and 31) between 7.00am and 9.00am, Waitakere City Council's community sustainable transport and road safety teams will be handing out reusable carry bags emblazoned with messages outlining the reasons to take sustainable forms of transport.

Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse, a regular rail commuter herself, will join the teams distributing the bright orange bags which feature a train logo and the tag lines "Smart Move!"/"Get on Board"/ "Smart for the Environment, Smart for your Pocket".

"The council is committed to promoting and supporting smarter travel choices such as using public transport, cycling or walking," says Cr Hulse.

"Some 40 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions come from our transport behaviour and many households already struggling financially are at the mercy of the volatility of petrol prices.

"Being smart about your travel options is not just good for the environment but good for your budget," she says.

Hundreds of bags will be distributed between 7.00am and 9.00am on Thursday at New Lynn and Glen Eden stations and on Friday at Waitakere Central (Henderson) Ranui, Swanson and Sturges stations.

The bags, which are made from recycled material, are an idea initiated by the council with funding from the New Zealand Transport Agency.

29 July

Waitakere walkways win Golden Foot Award

Project Twin Streams walk and cycleways are popular with all ages.

Waitakere's new network of walk and cycleways scooped a Golden Foot Award this week - acknowledging what the city's pedestrians already knew - our walkways are the best.

The Project Twin Streams walk and cycleway network was judged to be the country's Best Practice Walking Facility at the inaugural Best Practice Walking Awards - run by the New Zealand Transport Agency and Living Streets Aotearoa.

Waitakere City Councillor Linda Cooper says the Golden Foot Award is recognition of the partnership between the council and community that has allowed the Project Twin Streams walk and cycleways to flourish.

"This project of walk and cycleways shows how locally-led urban planning can meet local needs while also contributing toward national ideals such as encouraging sustainable transport and fighting the obesity epidemic," Councillor Cooper says. br>
"Our popular network of walk and cycleways will sit nicely alongside the national cycleway projects the Prime Minister is unveiling," she says.

"I hope this latest accolade will highlight the project's success and help Project Twin Streams secure continued funding after the new Auckland Council is formed next year."

Each day in Waitakere walkers, joggers, dog-walkers and cyclists take to the Project Twin Streams walk and cycleways - a 10km integrated sustainable transport network that provides access to Waitakere's town centres and suburbs and connects people with their natural environment.

Nearly 10 kilometres have been completed since April 2007 and final part of the project will open in April 2010.

Project Twin Streams is a council-community partnership where local community organisations work with residents and groups to restore their local stream and become more sustainable.

Waitakere City Council receives funding from the Auckland Regional Council to carry out Project Twin Streams.

23 July

West Wave set to make splash at business awards

West Wave Aqautic Centre is among the finalists in this years Westpac Waitakere Business Awards

West Wave Aquatic Centre is among the finalists in this year's Westpac Waitakere Business Awards.

West Wave Aquatic Centre is a finalist in three categories of this year's Westpac Waitakere Business Awards.

The popular Henderson leisure facility is a finalist in the Douglas Pharmaceuticals Best Large Business, Bush & Beach Tourism and Leisure Sector and the Airpro Marketing Excellence categories.

Awards organiser Waitakere Enterprise recently announced 30 finalists across 12 categories in this year's awards, which recognise and celebrate outstanding local businesses.

"In today's climate, it is more important than ever to stand out from your competitors," says Waitakere Enterprise chief executive John Wadsworth.

"Businesses have recognised the awards as a valuable way to do this."

West Wave manager Mark Blake says all areas of the business continue to grow and succeed, including fitness, aquatics and 'learn to swim' programmes.

"After winning the Employer of Choice category in last year's awards, we are proud that Waitakere Enterprise has recognised our continuing success over the past year by again naming us as a finalist in three categories," Mr Blake says.

"It's a reflection of the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in running this fantastic community asset."

West Wave has scooped a number of national accolades in recent years, including the New Zealand Recreation Association's 'Outstanding Pool Award' and the New Zealand Swim Coaches and Teachers Association's 'Swim School Promotion Award' in 2008.

The winners will be announced at the Westpac Waitakere Business Awards Gala Dinner in October.

For a full list of finalists and categories visit: www.waitakereenterprise.co.nz

17 July

The Waitakere Water Ambassdors Kids Club proving popular.

Kids embrace water advocacy for the city

Hundreds of Waitakere kids are joining a groundbreaking online club to spread water conservation messages to their family and friends.

Believed to be the first of its kind in New Zealand, the Waitakere Water Ambassadors Kids Club has blossomed to 440 members since it started back in March.

The club is aimed at environmentally-minded five to 10 year-olds interested in preserving the precious water resource many of us take for granted. It provides opportunities for the kids to learn and appreciate how our water systems work and how they connect to the environment. The club has already held its first social get-together, where the children were able to contribute their ideas.

"After joining the kids club, I came to know the importance of saving water," says six year old Avineet Narayan. "I check for leaks from taps. I also make sure that the taps are turned off when not in use. I always use a bucket and sponge to wash the car. The water goes directly to the grass. That way our streams and beaches do not get soapy water through the stormwater system."

To become an ambassador, kids just need to register on the specially designed website, www.waterambassadors.co.nz. New members receive a welcome pack full of information, games and puzzles they need to encourage them, their family and peers to become more water-efficient.

Annalyse Lee, aged 10, is keen to pass on her new-found knowledge: "At my house I help to be water wise by having shorter showers. Also, we have this thing where we have asked our family members to put the plug in when shaving. As a result of this we have found that our water bill has come down."

The site also features club updates on social events, information on how to use less water, activities and competitions. The Pump it! page hosts ideas, creative writing, photographs and artwork from the kids.

Planning is underway to develop a slightly different programme to enable teenagers, adults and businesses, keen to advocate for water conservation, to share their passion and successes online.

16 July

Temporary closure for Titirangi Library

Titirangi Library

The Titirangi Library will be closing be closed for refurbishment for approximately two months from Tuesday, July 28.

The doors will closed at 5.30pm with staff having a few days to clear out the building before construction starts.

The result will be a much improved facility for the local community.

A small extension to the side of the existing building will allow for the addition of a new learning centre offering more computers for public Internet access. It will also allow for an enlarged and relocated children's area and extra floor space for collection and materials, while letting in more natural light and providing a better view of the Manukau Harbour for visitors to enjoy.

The refurbishment includes new carpet, a full re-paint of the interior and the upgrading of all services to reduce ongoing operating, maintenance and repair costs.

During the closure period, the external returns slot will remain open for the easy return of borrowed items.

Councillor Judy Lawley, chair of the council's Culture and Community Committee, says the library is well used by local residents, who will benefit from the extra space created by the refurbishment.

"Titirangi Library has always been popular since it opened in 1965 and the continuing growth of the community has meant that a number of alterations have had to be made over the years," she says.

"But while these latest alterations mean a temporary loss of service, the short-term inconvenience will be outweighed by the longer-term benefits to the community of having an improved and more attractive library to enjoy."

15 July

Mayor Bob Harvey pays tribute to Dr Seddon Bennington

Mayor Bob Harvey has paid tribute to a remarkable leader.

Waitakere Mayor and Te Papa board member Bob Harvey says Dr Seddon Bennington's death is a tragic loss to this nation and to our national museum.

Harvey, who worked with Bennington as a board member for the past three years, is devastated at the loss of this remarkable leader.

It comes at a time when Te Papa is announcing one of the most successful years in its history.

"His leadership and vision have been the backbone of this museum," says Mayor Harvey.

"Seddon's astute sense of what will be successful in a very complex and difficult field has made New Zealand's premier museum Te Papa a world leader and a showcase for our history and culture."

Mayor Harvey had been working with Dr Bennington on a project to bring the successful Whales (Tohora) exhibition to the Auckland Region for the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

"The success of Te Papa in the last decade rests with this outstanding leader and he will be greatly missed by all board members, past and present, and the staff of the museum."

Mayor Harvey's term on the Te Papa board finishes at the end of July.

15 July

Council says, give people a voice

Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse, Mayor Bob Harvey and Councillor Janet Clews presented the council's sumbission this morning

Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse, Mayor Bob Harvey and Councillor Janet Clews presented the council's submission.

Waitakere City Council has presented its vision for the new Auckland super city - a city where local people have a powerful voice in local democracy.

Mayor Bob Harvey, Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse and Councillor Janet Clews this morning fronted the council's submission to the Local Governance (Auckland Council) Bill select committee, which met at the Trusts Stadium.

The committee praised the council for the quality and clarity of its submission, particularly how it had amended the legislation to back up its ideas.

The council raised concerns that the government's current plan lacked effective local representation.

It was also opposed to regional elections, asking instead for 20 councillors elected from six wards.

Mayor Harvey says bold, innovative and visionary leadership will be needed to ensure a successful transition.

He explained that the "Waitakere way" of running a city was not parochialism but a successful model of local governance developed over 20 years that could be integrated in to the new structure.

He is determined not to let the lessons learned in the 20 years of Waitakere City be forgotten.

"In Waitakere we have been bold, expansive and totally involved with our diverse communities. We have made consultation an art form.

"I fear this will be lost if the super city is created as a monster entity that disenfranchises communities and ignores those in need."

Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse says there is consensus government's "super city" concept needs an overhaul.

"It's not going to work in its current form. This has been a wake up call for government."

The select committee's most important task is deciding the role of community councils (local boards), she says.

Key points of Waitakere's submission:

All Auckland Council members should be elected from wards (there should be no 'at large' representation other than the Mayor);
There should be six wards for the election of 20 Auckland councillors, with each ward electing a number of Councillors that is proportional to the population within the ward;
The Mayor, and all Auckland Council and local board members, should be elected for a four year term using the STV voting system;
Maori representation on the Auckland Council and throughout local government in New Zealand is supported, with the method and level to be determined by the Government;
Local boards should be renamed as "Community Councils" and they should be empowered to make decisions on local issues.
The legislation should ensure that sufficient funding and resources are provided to the Community Councils (local boards) by the Auckland Council;
The number of local boards should be between 12 and 20.

Note: You will need to have Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on your computer in order to view and print these documents. For help opening PDF files or tips on copying information see Helpful Tips.

Waitakere City Council's submission to Select Committee (Size 584K)
Key points of Waitakere's submission (Size 1006K)

13 July

Challenge your thinking on culture and sustainability

Symposium will consider sustainability through the lens of traditional knowledge and contemporary Maori thinking.

Come and hear leading cultural experts, academics and performers at our three-day symposium Nga Korero Tataki (Leadership Conversations) - New Thinking for Old Leadership this week.

Held in the council chambers at 7pm on July 14, 15 and 16, the series considers sustainability through the lens of traditional knowledge and contemporary Maori thinking.

Speakers include Tainui negotiator Tukoroirangi Morgan, lawyers Annette Sykes and Tama Potaka and performers Tama Waipara and Whirimako Black.

"This is one of the keynote events of this year's Matariki festival and we're really excited by the calibre of speakers we have lined up," says event organiser and the council's Maori relationships officer, Rewi Spraggon.

He says while presented from a Maori perspective the central issue of sustainability is something all New Zealanders can relate to.

July 14
He Oranga Kauneke (Living that progresses growth)
Speakers include Bobby Newson of the Families Commission, television presenter Riki Bennett, Te Hira Hawke and a performance by Tama Waipara.

July 15
Te Ao Me Te Ao (The Maori world and the world)
Is sustaining culture the same as culture enabling people to live more sustainably? Speakers include Kingi Gilbert, Te Arepa Kahi and John Panaho. Performance by Andrea Tunks.

July 16
Nga Aka o Te Tiriti (The Roots of the Treaty)
Is the Treaty of Waitangi a foundation, a mill stone or a launch pad towards sustainability in Waitakere, New Zealand and the world? Speakers include Annette Sykes, Tama Potaka, Tukoroirangi Morgan and Sonny Tau. Performance from Whirimako Black.

This event is part of the Matariki Festival 09, celebrating Maori New Year with a range of events and activities across Tamaki Makaurau. Proudly supported by New Zealand Post. Go to www.matarikifestival.org.nz for more information.

13 July

Latest poll supports Waitakere City submission

Hundreds marched through Henderson in April to protest over the government's plans for Auckland governance.

A just-released survey of its residents supports Waitakere City Council's submission to the select committee looking at governance changes in Auckland.

The Council will appear in front of the select committee this week. Today it released a telephone poll of 400 people aged 18 and over.

The results show a massive 86 percent of Waitakere residents want the proposed 'local boards', which will replace the region's councils, to be able to make key decisions and receive funding to implement them.

The bill which is being deliberated on by the select committee currently restricts the powers and functions of the local boards.

"The fact is that 20 to 30 powerless little boards won't work, will be expensive to run and will not deliver democracy or better services than the model we have proposed," says Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse.

"They need real grunt to continue the good community work of the current local councils."

"We can only hope that the select committee listens to the logic of the arguments we are putting forward and takes account of the huge weight of public opinion," she says.

Waitakere's submission also urges that all Auckland Council members should be elected from wards and there should be no 'at large' representation other than the Mayor. Respondents in the survey agree, with 78 percent wanting the ward-based system introduced.

On the issue of Maori seats on the new Auckland Council there was almost an even split: 42 percent support the idea with 44 percent opposed. A further 14 percent had no opinion.

The poll was conducted by Phoenix Research.

Editor's note

Main points of Waitakere's submission:

All Auckland Council members should be elected from wards (there should be no 'at large' representation other than the Mayor)
There should be six wards for the election of 20 councillors, with each ward electing a number of councillors that is proportional to the population within the ward
The mayor, and all Auckland Council and local board members, should be elected for a four-year term using the STV voting system
Maori representation on the Auckland Council and throughout local government in New Zealand is supported, with the method and level to be determined by the Government
Local boards should be renamed 'Community Councils' and be empowered to make decisions on local issues
The legislation should ensure that sufficient funding and resources are provided to the Community Councils (local boards) by the Auckland Council
The number of Community Councils should be between 12 and 20.

Waitakere City Council Survey III on Auckland Governance

July 2009

Topline results

A telephone survey of a random sample of 400 Waitakere City residents aged 18 and over, conducted between 4 and 6 July 2009.

Technical note: Data are weighted by sex and age to ensure even representation of these groups.

Q1)	As you may have heard, in October next year, the government will combine the seven current city and district councils in the Auckland region, and the regional council, in to one new Auckland Council, or 'Super City'. From what you have read, seen or heard, how in favour or opposed are you to the formation of the one Auckland Council?

		Count	Column N %
Attitude to Super City	Strongly in favour	36	9.0%
	In favour	101	25.3%
	Opposed	113	28.3%
	Strongly opposed	78	19.4%
	No opinion	72	18.0%
	Total	400	100.0%
Attitude to Super City	Strongly in favour / in favour	137	34.3%
	Strongly opposed / opposed	191	47.7%
	No opinion	72	18.0%

Previous results (April 2009) In favour of Government decision for new Auckland Council
	Total Waitakere
Number of Respondents	401
In favour	34%
Not in favour	47%
No opinion	15%
Not sure / don't know	04%
Total	100%

Q2)	Various views have been expressed by people regarding the Auckland Super City. As I read out the following statements, please tell me if you strongly agree, agree, disagree, strongly disagree, or have no opinion.

		Count	Column N %
The new Auckland Council should focus on making decisions that affect the whole region	Strongly agree	135	33.7%
	Agree	160	40.1%
	Disagree	40	10.0%
	Strongly disagree	25	6.2%
	No opinion	41	10.1%
	Total	400	100.0%
Focus on regional decisions	Agree / Strongly Agree	295	73.7%
	Disagree / Strongly Agree	65	16.1%
	No opinion	41	10.1%

		Count	Column N %
The proposed local boards should be able to make decisions that affect the local area, and receive funding for this	Strongly agree	179	44.8%
	Agree	165	41.3%
	Disagree	24	5.9%
	Strongly disagree	9	2.4%
	No opinion	23	5.7%
	Total	400	100.0%
Local boards for local decision	Agree / Strongly Agree	344	86.0%
	Disagree / Strongly Agree	33	8.3%
	No opinion	23	5.7%

		Count	Column N %
All of the councillors on the new Auckland Council should be elected by people in their local area (that is by Ward) rather than elected by people across the whole region (that is At Large)	Strongly agree	177	44.3%
	Agree	134	33.5%
	Disagree	34	8.4%
	Strongly disagree	21	5.1%
	No opinion	34	8.6%
	Total	400	100.0%
Ward rather than At Large	Agree / Strongly Agree	312	77.8%
	Disagree / Strongly Agree	54	13.6%
	No opinion	34	8.6%

		Count	Column N %
There should be Maori seats on the Auckland Council in addition to the 20 councillors already proposed	Strongly agree	78	19.6%
	Agree	90	22.4%
	Disagree	86	21.4%
	Strongly disagree	91	22.6%
	No opinion	56	14.0%
	Total	400	100.0%
Maori Seats	Agree / Strongly Agree	168	42.0%
	Disagree / Strongly Agree	176	44.0%
	No opinion	56	14.0%

Sample Description

	Raw number	Unweighted	Weighted
Male	188	47.0	47.7
Female	212	53.0	52.3
Total	400	100.0	100.0

	Raw number	Unweighted	Weighted
18 to 29 years	57	14.3	22.3
30 to 44 years	132	33.0	34.5
45 to 59 years	106	26.5	25.0
60 years or over	105	26.3	18.2
Total	100	100.0	100.0

10 July

Auckland Regional Emergency Management

MetService issues a severe weather warning

The Auckland Region Emergency Management Office reminds Aucklanders to stay up-to-date with weather forecasts over the next 48 hours.

MetService expects the Auckland region to be hit by severe weather between midday Saturday and midday Sunday.

Harry O'Rourke, Group Controller for the Auckland Region Civil Defence Emergency Management Group, advises people to be prepared for severe weather in the Auckland region. The Auckland Region Emergency Management Office and local authority emergency management offices throughout the region are monitoring the weather situation.

"It is a good time to check your emergency survival kit and update your household emergency plans. Make sure your battery-powered torches and radios are working and check the expiry dates on all food in your emergency survival kit," said Harry O'Rourke.

An emergency survival kit should have:

Food and water for 3 days or more
Battery powered torch and radio
First aid kit / medication
Supplies for pets

If you live in low-lying areas prone to flooding, you should have a getaway kit ready in case you need to move to higher ground. If you have stock in low-lying areas move to higher ground.

Your getaway kit should have:

Essential items from your emergency survival kit
Family documents .e.g. passports and drivers license
Personal items .e.g. medication and toiletries

Listen to your radio for civil defence information or any information relating to severe weather.

Check the Yellow Pages for more information.

For more information please visit:

Before the severe weather hits you should:

Check your drains and spouting to make sure they are clear of blockages.
Pick up debris around your house that could become airborne.
Move rubbish bins to shelter.
Bring pets inside.
Boaties are recommended to check their moorings.
Listen to your local radio station for information.
Check on your next door neighbours.
If the severe weather hits we would recommend:
People stay at home, stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.
Open a window on the side of the building away from the wind. This will relieve pressure on the roof and help prevent it lifting.
Close all curtains to slow down flying glass and airborne objects.
Stay away from doors and windows. If the wind becomes destructive, shelter further inside the house.
Power and phone services may be disrupted. We recommend you have a torch and a battery-powered radio so you can listen to weather alerts. You also may want to have a gas cooker ready.

Background information:

Severe Weather Warning criteria

MetService will issue a Severe Weather Warning whenever there is an expectation that any of the following weather conditions will occur within the next 24 hours:

Widespread* rainfall greater than 50 mm within 6 hours or 100 mm within 24 hours;
Widespread* snowfall below 1000 metres on the North Island or 500 metres on the South Island with a snow depth of 10 centimetres within 6 hours or 25 centimetres within 24 hours;
Widespread* severe gales with a minimum mean speed of 90 km/hr or frequent gusts exceeding 110 km/hr.
Widespread" means over an area of 1000 square kilometres or more.

View the Civil Defence Emergency page on our website for more information.

8 July

Councillors do not support Remuneration Authority plan to let them claim a fee for attending meetings on Regional Governance

Councillors reject meeting fee proposal

Waitakere City councillors have voted against a Remuneration Authority proposal which would see them paid a fee when attending meetings on changes to Auckland governance.

The recommendation by the government- appointed authority involves cutting the pool for elected members' salaries, which it increased for the 2009-10 year and introducing payments for meetings attended.

The council's Finance and Operational Performance Committee has said while it does not support the proposal should the authority go through with the changes it requests that the following rules apply to the distribution of the new pool:

A meeting fee of $233 per half day to be paid to the Mayor, councillors and or community board members involved in any meeting, workshop, joint meeting or other event called for the purpose of discussing regional governance changes.
That the council's approved expenses rules also apply to these meetings.

Legislation does not allow the mayor's salary (set by the authority) to be exceeded and meeting fees cannot be paid to community board members.

"We just don't think this is fair," says committee chair Councillor Ross Clow.

"If the authority wants to set aside a funding pool specifically for elected members to attend meetings on regional governance those fees shouldn't just be paid to councillors but to the mayor and community board members too, who may be required to attend those meetings."

Mr Clow says this latest proposal has taken councillors by surprise, particularly as they had not wanted to accept the general salary pool increase in the first place.

Waitakere's elected members have not had a pay increase since 2007.

The authority will make its determination by the end of this month.

7 July

Challenge your thinking on culture and sustainability

Matariki Festival 2009

Some of New Zealand's leading cultural experts, academics and performers are part of an impressive line up for a three day symposium on cultural and environmental sustainability hosted by Waitakere City Council next week.

On the evenings of July 14, 15 and 16 the council hosts Nga Korero Tataki (Leadership Conversations) - New Thinking for Old Leadership, the series aimed at examining how traditional knowledge fits alongside modern Maori thinking to enable people to live more sustainably.

"This is one of the keynote events of this year's Matariki festival and we're really excited by the calibre of speakers we have lined up," says event organiser and the council's Maori relationships officer, Rewi Spraggon.

He says while presented from a Maori perspective the central issue of sustainability is something all New Zealanders can relate to.

"How does traditional thinking fit in to the modern world, how the Treaty impacts on our aspirations as a culture and what we have to do to make a change is something we have a stake in," says Mr Spraggon, who is also spokesman for the region's Matariki Festival 09.

"We hope people will be challenged to think outside the square and leave wanting to provide a new style of leadership to their own communities," he says.

The series is being facilitated by Shane Taurima, the presenter of TVNZ show Marae.

Believed to be the first event of its type held in Auckland, the symposium will have a different focus each night.

July 14
He Oranga Kauneke (Living that progresses growth)
Living with change we want to occur. Speakers include Bobby Newson of the Families Commission on urban drift and Maori TV presenter Riki Bennett on health and traditional herbal medicines.

July 15
Te Ao Me Te Ao (The Maori world and the world)
Is sustaining culture the same as culture enabling people to live more sustainably? Speakers include Aroha Mead, a senior lecturer at Victoria University, cultural performer and interactive entertainment producer Kingi Gilbert and actor/director Te Arepa Kahi.

July 16
Nga Aka o Te Tiriti (The Roots of the Treaty)
Is the Treaty of Waitangi a foundation, a mill stone or a launch pad towards sustainability in Waitakere, New Zealand and the world? Lawyer Tama Potaka and Judge Carrie Wainwright of the Maori Land Court among those speaking.

There will also be performance throughout the series from the soulful Whirimako Black and Andrea Tunks.

This symposium, sponsored by New Zealand Post, follows last year's successful WICI (Waitakere Inform Challenge and Inspire) series which looked at the challenges of the future and encouraging the community to be the architects of change.

What: Nga Korero Tataki (Leadership Conversations) - New Thinking for Old Leadership
When: 7.00pm, July 14, 15 and 16.
Where: Waitakere City Council chambers, 6 Henderson Valley Road, Henderson. Entry by gold coin koha.

This event is part of the Matariki Festival 09, celebrating Maori New Year with a range of events and activities across Tamaki Makaurau. Proudly supported by New Zealand Post.

Go to www.matarikifestival.org.nz for more information.

7 July

Planting peace

Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse, left, and Councillor Linda Cooper dug in to help plant olive trees at Waikumete Cemetery

The New Zealand Muslim Association met with Waitakere's political representatives at Waikumete Cemetery to plant 25 olive trees on June 27.

Waitakere City Councillor Linda Cooper says in a world where we hear so much negative commentary, the planting was a wonderful expression of hope and harmony for all people.

"In such an ethnically diverse city, small acts of cooperation like this have great symbolic value," Councillor Cooper says.

'The trees, which were chosen because they are a recognised symbol of peace, are a welcome addition to what is already a beautiful park-like place of rest," she says.

"Our cemetery staff do a magnificent job of looking after it and work closely with all groups to make sure their cultural needs are met."

The planting day helped enforce the special relationship that the Waikumete Cemetery team shares with the Muslim community - as indeed it has with many different cultures.

Waikumete is a unique cemetery set in over 300 acres of rolling land. Since its opening in 1886 it has held great significance for the people of Auckland and more recently Waitakere. It is one of the biggest cemeteries in Australasia and embraces many different cultures and communities.

Joining New Zealand Muslim Association members on the day were Councillor Cooper, Waitakere Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse and Minister of Ethnic Affairs Pansy Wong.

7 July

Glen Eden taking care of business

Boosting business and creating a buzz about Glen Eden are priorities for Waitakere's newest Business Improvement District (BID).

Business and property owners now pay a targeted rate that is collected by Waitakere City Council.

The money will be used to pay for a town centre manager who will be responsible for raising the profile of Glen Eden through shopping promotions and events, and seeking out opportunities to bring shoppers and new businesses to the area.

The funds will also help support those promotions but cannot be used for capital improvements such as new buildings.

BIDs are a way to promote business creation and development and increase employment in local business communities. The programme may also involve community development and heritage conservation. They also contribute to economic growth, employment opportunities and prosperity in the city and are the council's primary vehicle for local economic and business development initiatives.

Glen Eden Business Association chairman Ian Burkett says becoming a BID allows the business community to take a leading role in the kind of town centre it wants to achieve.

"This will give us as business owners a greater say in how the town centre is developed in the future. The success of this is up to us."

The other challenge town centres like Glen Eden face is how to attract and keep customers in the face of the marketing dollars and glitz of large shopping malls.

"It's a constant struggle for small centres like Glen Eden to compete against the large malls but we can't dwell on that, we have to look to do what we do and do it well and get the local community involved too.

"This is not just about the bottom line for business but making Glen Eden the hub of the community. If the business community is successful then the community will thrive too."

Waitakere City Councillor and the former Mayor of Glen Eden, Janet Clews, says the new BID has the potential to breathe new life into the town centre.

"Glen Eden is a busy town centre already but some businesses are struggling, even more so in these tough economic times and they need to work together if they are going to survive."

Glen Eden is the second BID established in Waitakere; the first in Te Atatu Peninsula has been operating for just over a year.

Progress continues on establishing BIDs in other centres including Henderson and New Lynn.

Before setting up a BID, property and business owners vote in a poll conducted by the council to determine the level of support. A minimum of 60 percent of returned ballot papers need to favour the plan before a BID being established can go ahead.

6 July

Out now: West - The History of Waitakere

West: The History of Waitakere

New book West: The History of Waitakere was officially launched by Mayor Bob Harvey on Friday evening, along with 300 guests who packed the council chamber. It is already receiving rave reviews in the country's media.

Now in stores, the book was originally planned to mark the anniversary of the naming of the city, but, ironically, is now being released at a time when it looks like local governance of the West is coming to an end.

The New Zealand Herald described West as "a hefty and lively account of an idiosyncratic chunk of New Zealand."

Packed with illustrations from the city's archives and other sources, West has been written and presented in a sparkling and accessible manner.

It marks a historic moment for the area and is a very timely look at its past, present and future.

Whether you're an Outrageous Fortune fan, surfer, walker or trainspotter, it is a fascinating read.

Generation after generation of New Zealanders have been captivated by Auckland's West.

Dynamic and distinctive, Waitakere is a city of firsts: Croatian and Dutch settlers, wine industry, vibrant arts community, the Eco City, Project Twin Streams, smokefree and a commercial film industry.

It is this strong and proud identity, built on its pioneering determination, which sets Waitakere apart.

It's long been a region for the passionate, the determined, the resourceful, the individualistic and the visionary.

Indeed many of Waitakere's most colourful characters are profiled - from the passionate bureaucrat Tim Shadbolt, to the notorious Don Buck.

West also details the physical evolution of Waitakere, from the formation of its dramatic and rugged coastline to its bush-clad ranges to fertile hill slopes nurturing orchards and vineyards.

In fact, this book covers it all, from the days of pre-European culture and early land negotiations to contemporary politics and lifestyles.

A range of writers, all with an affinity for the West, have contributed to the book including Mayor Bob Harvey.

RRP: $79.99

1 July

Councils agree on planning provisions for boat building cluster at Hobsonville

Agreement paves way for boat building cluster development at Hobsonville

An Environment Court appeal relating to development on the former Hobsonville Airbase land has been resolved following negotiations between Waitakere and North Shore city councils.

The North Shore City Council had appealed Waitakere City's decision on Proposed Plan Change 13, which enables the development of a marine industry cluster at Hobsonville.

North Shore City Council Regulatory Committee Chair Callum Blair says that the Plan Change had not fully recognised and provided controls over the potentially adverse effects of the large new buildings needed by the marine industry on part of the old Hobsonville airbase site.

"We were concerned that the visual effects of these buildings would have affected Waitemata Harbour views from Beach Haven and other coastal suburbs, which are directly across the water from Hobsonville," he says.

The two councils have now agreed on additional provisions, which include ensuring that new buildings have a variety of heights and shapes, and that existing and new vegetated buffers will be in place to help screen and provide visual interest to any new buildings when they are seen from the Waitemata Harbour and North Shore locations such as Beach Haven.

The Plan Change, which will allow development of approximately 20 hectares of land for marine industry purposes, is part of Waitakere City Council's strategy to foster economic growth in the west and the employment of people from local communities.

Councillor Vanessa Neeson, chair of the Waitakere City Council's Planning and Regulatory Committee, is pleased with the resolution.

"The plan change amendments provide an improved policy and rule framework that addresses the issues raised by the North Shore City Council," she says.

"They can now see the creation of some of the employment opportunities in Hobsonville on the horizon, with over 2000 direct jobs expected to be created when the entire marine industry area is operating."

North Shore City Councillor Callum Blair says that his council supported the proposal for a marine industry cluster at Hobsonville, but there was considerable community concern over the potential visual impact of large boatbuilding sheds where they could be seen from North Shore City residential areas.

He says that he and local councillor Ann Hartley are very pleased with the outcome of the appeal, especially since the two councils were able to reach agreement without recourse to an Environment Court hearing.

Waitakere Properties Limited is also pleased with the appeal resolution, its chief executive Greg Parker says the negotiated improvements to the District Plan place Waitakere Properties in a strong position.

The concept plan is complete and WPL will lodge resource consents for the marine industry area he says.