The plan, also known as the Long Term Council Community Plan
(LTCCP), sets out the council's key priorities and projects over the
next 10 years, and their estimated costs.
Best for the West - Waitakere's Draft 10 Year Plan (2009/19) also
identifies the main issues the community is encouraged to consider
when making a submission, and asks specific questions on each of
these.
The key issues are:
the potential disposal of surplus land
the refurbishment of Wilsher Village - a housing for the
older persons facility in Henderson
the council's contribution to Rugby World Cup 2011
on-street paid parking
possible change to mobile library service
a plan to retrofit the city - insulating 20,000 homes by
2020 to ensure houses are warmer and dryer and provide an
healthier environment for people
There is also an overview of proposed changes to council fees and
charges, and some financial policies.
"These are extraordinary economic times and we have taken a hard
look at all council expenditure and cut back on non-essential
spending, while still investing in the future growth and development
of the city."
"Given the uncertainties around the
Royal Commission recommendations
and process, it's important that we continue to plan for and provide
Waitakere's core council services, as well as make progress on major
urban development projects for the long term benefit of the people
of Waitakere and the wider Auckland region," says Cr Clews.
The plan also incorporates a draft budget for 2009/10 which shows an
indicative rates rise of 2.98 percent (around $1 per week for the
average residential property). This is well below the more than 7
percent which had been signalled in our previous annual plan.
Submissions close Friday, May 1 at 5pm.
Making a submission is easy.
Download a submission form or
make a submission online.
Use the reply paid submission form in the special edition of
the council's newsletter, Waitakere News, delivered later this
week.
Trains, planes and automobiles are part of the school
holiday storytime at Waitakere libraries.
Stories about trains, planes and automobiles feature in Waitakere
Library and Information Services' school holiday storytime sessions
starting next month.
The transport-themed sessions are aimed at children aged four to
eight years of age and will be held at all libraries once a week.
Royal Commission announcement met with caution by Waitakere
Waitakere City Council has reacted with caution to today's
Royal Commission announcement on Auckland's future governance.
Just minutes after leaving a presentation on the report's findings,
Mayor Bob Harvey said
Waitakere as an entity would be retained with boundaries generally
in tact.
"The commission has obviously recognised the need for distinctive
communities to retain their unique identities rather than becoming
one big homogenous glob."
Mayor Harvey said the report which runs to more than 800 pages
needed further analysis before a detailed response could be given
however he said the commission had obviously studied and learned
from the mistakes of forced amalgamations made in places such as
Vancouver.
Mayor Harvey said an overarching unitary authority with powers to
rate and then allocate money to smaller councils gave him real cause
for concern.
"I find it difficult there is taxation without direct
representation," he says.
"We really do have to look at whether local councils should be able
to rate and spend accordingly rather than having funding decisions
made remotely.
"The ball is now very much in the government's court in terms of
what it does with it. Obviously we look forward to discussing with
them the implications of any changes. The real work starts now."
25 March
Royal Commission on Auckland Governance report delivered to
Government
Royal Commission on Auckland Governance report delivered to
Government
The Royal Commission on Auckland Governance has today delivered its
report, some days earlier than the scheduled reporting date of 31
March.
The report was presented to the Governor-General at his temporary
official residence, Vogel House, by the Chair of the Royal
Commission, Hon Peter Salmon, QC. The other Commissioners, Dame
Margaret Bazley and Mr David Shand were also present.
The Governor-General, Hon Anand Satyanand, thanked the Commissioners
for their service and formally delivered the report to the
Government.
The Secretary for Internal Affairs, Brendan Boyle, said this Royal
Commission, like others before it, has provided citizens with a way
of influencing the development of public policy on a critically
important issue, and provided government with independent and
informed advice.
“The Report is a substantial document of more than 700 pages,” said
Brendan Boyle. “Ministers have committed to releasing the report as
soon as possible to the public, but they will require some days to
consider it. Further announcements about the Government’s response,
and the timing of release, will be made later.
Issued at 4.46pm, by the Department of Internal Affairs.
25 March
Brian Neeson returns to politics
Former MP Brian Neeson returns to the political arena when he
attends a Waitakere City Council meeting tonight (Wednesday).
In a break from tradition, Waitakere
Mayor Bob Harvey will adjourn a formal Council meeting and
conduct a small welcoming ceremony for Mr Neeson, who was recently
successful in a by-election to fill a vacancy on the
Massey Community Board. Mr
Neeson completes his official swearing in at a Massey Community
Board meeting next week.
In the audience tonight will be wife Vanessa, a long-time Waitakere
City Councillor. Adding to the family connection, Mr Neeson comes
onto the community board to replace their son Michael, who resigned
to pursue a career overseas.
"It's good to be back in public service," says Mr Neeson. "This ward
has some huge challenges, particularly in managing growth around the
Westgate and Hobsonville areas in the next few years. I'm determined
that any expansion doesn't compromise the lifestyles of people who
currently live here."
"I think community boards have to raise their sights above bus-stops
and give-way signs and really work constructively and engage with
Councillors from the area on the big issues," he says.
Mayor Harvey describes the Neeson family influence in the City as
"immense".
"Collectively they have served their community for decades", he
says.
"I respect Brian hugely for his experience, passion for the west and
wisdom. It will be great working with him again."
Mr Neeson, who is also a current member of the Waitemata District
Health Board, received 2618 votes, almost 1000 more than his nearest
rival.
24 March
Community board award earns praise at national conference
WCC community board members pictured at the New Zealand Community Board conference with Prime Minister John Key and Mayor of Christchurch Bob Parker (at rear).
An event celebrating the grassroots volunteers that make
Waitakere tick earned the city's four community boards special
recognition at the 2009 Community Boards Conference in Christchurch.
The Waitakere City Community Board 'Unsung Hero' Awards were highly
commended in the partnerships category of the Best Practice Awards,
held at the culmination of the conference.
The conference also celebrated 20 years of community boards in New
Zealand and was attended by Prime Minister John Key.
"They don't often give out highly commended awards so this was a
real thrill," says Waitakere Community Board deputy chairperson and
chair of the 2008 awards committee,
Christine Shepherd.
"It's also nice to be recognised for something that celebrates
people working to make a difference at the grassroots levels of our
community. This is very much in line with the work of community
board members."
The Waitakere City Community Board 'Unsung Hero' Awards were
launched last year as a way to recognise those individuals who do
things for their community just for the satisfaction of helping
others or making their community a better place to live.
Each of the wards, Henderson, New Lynn, Massey and Waitakere, had
five recipients and the calibre of the nominations last year was so
high that two special citywide awards were made.
Representatives from each four community boards attended the
national conference.
23 March
Henderson South Primary School pupil Kalele Faimalie-Malutafa, 10, puts the finishing touches to his spiky looking creation
Creative approach to cultural acceptance
Small hands made light work of a fun programme promoting positive
race relations in Waitakere City.
Three classes of Henderson South Primary School students were among
those encouraged to focus on what people have in common rather than
highlighting their ethnic differences.
One way they did this was by making clay figurines to reinforce the
message that irrespective of ethnic background, people have the same
needs of food, water, shelter and family.
From rotund Buddha-like figures to cool looking dudes with funky
hairdos, the children took to the task with gusto and creativity.
Earth People was developed by Wellington City Library two years ago
and this year Waitakere City Council libraries in association with
the Human Rights Commission, decided to support it by introducing it
to local schools.
As well as making figurines, the
libraries' multicultural services
advisor visited the schools and spoke to children about how accent
and appearance can alter our perceptions of each other.
Participating Waitakere schools were: New Lynn, Ranui, Henderson
South and Tirimoana primary schools.
20 March
Draft Plan for Consultation
Councillor Janet Clews
Waitakere City Councillors today formally adopted their draft
Long Term Council Community Plan (2009-2019) for public
consultation.
The draft plan contains projects and priorities for the next 10
years and also includes the Annual Plan (budget) for the 2009-2010
financial year.
The focus of the long-term plan is on major infrastructure and
population growth-related projects, particularly around
New Lynn and
in the north of the City (around Westgate and Hobsonville). Those
areas will need to cater for thousands more residents and associated
development in future years.
Janet Clews, is chair of the
Long Term Council Community Plan
and Annual Plan Committee. She says staff and Councillors have
put in a "huge amount of effort" over recent months to bring
together a plan which is both affordable and delivers on important
growth-related projects.
The draft budget for 2009-2010 shows an indicative rates rise of
2.98% (or around $1 per week for the average residential property).
This is well down on over 7% which was signalled in the Long term
Council Community Plan.
Public consultation on the Draft Annual Plan opens on March 31 and
continues until April 30.
19 March
Are you eligible for a rates rebate?
Waitakere ratepayers are urged to check if they are eligible for a rates rebate - pic courtesy of NZ Herald
With purse strings getting ever tighter in tough economic times,
Waitakere ratepayers are urged to check if they are entitled to a
rates rebate.
Waitakere City Council administers the Rates Rebate Scheme on behalf
of the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA). The scheme aims to give
financial relief to low income earners.
Applications for the 2008/09 rating year close on June 30, with
those eligible able to claim a rebate of up to $530 depending on
individual circumstances.
"We get several thousand applications each year but there could be
many more people out there not aware of the scheme," says Ross Clow,
chairperson of Waitakere City Council's Finance and Operational
Performance Committee.
"This can really help ease the burden on the likes of
superannuitants and low income families."
In 2006 DIA estimated that around 8000 Waitakere ratepayers could be
eligible for the scheme.
The rebate is calculated based on people' income, and the total
amount of rates they pay (including WCC, Auckland Regional Council
and water rates), and the number of dependants.
The income eligibility threshold is $21,180 although those that earn
more than this could still receive a rebate based on their
individual circumstances.
Things to remember
When applying for a rebate it is important to provide the right
information, including:
Details about your gross income for you and any partner/joint
homeowner living with you for the tax year ending March 31, 2008
Your regional council rates bill if you have it
You cannot apply for a rates rebate if:
The property is a farm or is used primarily for commercial,
industrial or business purposes
If have already applied for a rates rebate in the current rating
year ( since 1 July 2008) or;
The property is a rental
Applications can be lodged, in person, at any Waitakere library,
except Waitakere Central in Henderson, or at the council's offices
at 6 Henderson Valley Road.
Charlotte Johannsen will perform
alonside Shona Laing at the Waitakere Songwriters Showcase
on 25 March
The idyllic West Auckland haven of Titirangi comes alive this month
with an impressive line-up of entertainers for the annual Titirangi
Music Festival.
The festival showcases an exciting array of genres, from brass music
and jazz to rock 'n roll, dub, electronica, acoustic music and even
a ukulele concert.
Titirangi is a melting pot of musical and creative talent, which
will be showcased throughout the festival alongside international
and nationally respected acts, providing a truly melodic experience
for all to enjoy.
The festival is designed to entice people of all ages, cultures and
musical preferences. So head along and soak up the feel good vibes
of the Titirangi Festival of Music which runs until March 29.
Waitakere City Council is among supporters of this year's festival.
Hardware Cafe Jazz Club
Date: Thursday 19 and 20 March
Time: From 8.30pm
Location: The Toolroom Bar (under the Hardware Cafe in Titirangi
Village)
Tickets: Gold coin donation
The Toolroom Bar, beneath the Hardware Cafe, is a hidden gem of the
Titirangi Village. Only open during the Festival, make the most of
this opportunity to enjoy fresh grooves with some of Auckland's
hottest jazz talent in one of Titirangi's best-kept locations. Two
nights of jazz, funk and swinging styles, hosted by Cat Tunks.
Folk-Song Storybook
Date: Thursday 19 March
Time: From 7.30pm
Location: Artisan Wines Acoustic Cafe - Top of Lopdell House, 418
Titirangi Road
Tickets: $15 (or $20 at
the door)
Come and enjoy a journey through New Zealand's unique folk-music
heritage, presented by the Titirangi Folk Music Club.
Village Night
Date:
Friday 20 March
The village will come to life with four great music gigs happening
simultaneously. The Hardware Cafe will stay open to allow music
lovers to grab a seat to enjoy several fabulous acts, including Nat
Rose, Club Manouche, Te Aratoi and the Tamani Drummers. From 6.30pm.
Free entry.
Head to the Toolroom Bar to catch Cat Tunks hosting the Hardware
Cafe Jazz Club alongside some of Auckland's hottest new jazz
talents. From 8.30pm. Entry by donation.
Jazz quartet, Peta and the Pois will be performing at the Titirangi
RSA from 7.30pm playing some great, easy listening numbers. Tickets
$10 from the RSA.
Round the night off by visiting the Sounds-Local stage in the
Artisan Wines Acoustic Cafe, top of Lopdell House featuring a
showcase of local acts including Kawiti, Phil Toms (Herbs, Hattie
and the Hotshots) and his band the Electric Car, Richard Inglemells,
Fiona McEwen, alongside rising local talent, The Calico Brothers and
Dianne Swann and The Bads. From 7.30pm. Tickets $10
Ukelele Heaven
Date: Saturday 21 March
Time: 7.30pm
Location: Artisan Wines Acoustic Cafe - Top of Lopdell House, 418
Titirangi Road
Tickets: $15 adults, $5 children
NZ Ukulele Festival founder Kevin Fogarty presents a fun-filled
night of ukulele sounds alongside touring Irish Ukulele virtuoso,
Jon Sanders, with APRA award-winners and Waitakere residents, The
Nukes, a combined children's Ukulele orchestra and more.
Waitakere Songwriters Showcase
Date: Wednesday, 25 March
Time: 8pm
Location: Titirangi Memorial Hall, Top of South Titirangi Road
Tickets: $20 (or $25 at
the door)
Titirangi welcomes back one of its favourite daughters in Shona
Laing. Laing is making a special and rare guest appearance to
present a mix of old and new songs from classics such as Glad I'm
not a Kennedy and Soviet Snow to a song inspired by living in the
Waitakeres.
The evening also features The Magnets and singer-songwriter
Charlotte Johansen.
New Adventures In Jazz
Date: Thursday 26 March
Time: 8pm
Location: Titirangi Memorial Hall, Top of South Titirangi Road
Tickets: $20 (or $25 at
the door)
Brilliant young jazz musician, Lewis McCallum, leads the Lewis
McCallum Orchestra, mixing rich jazz sounds with dance beats and 70s
funk, and performing alongside the slinky jazz, roots and soul
grooves of West Coast locals, Black Sand Diva.
Lion Rock Roots
Date: Friday 27 March
Time: 8pm
Location: Titirangi Memorial Hall, Top of South Titirangi Road
Tickets: $25 (or $30 at
the door)
Expect a non-stop roots fest when dDub and Tahuna Breaks hit the
stage. One of Aotearoa's most loved live acts, dDub provide an
energetic and uplifting musical experience.
The Final Concert - Live with George
Date: Saturday 28 March
Time: 8pm
Location: Titirangi Memorial Hall, Top of South Titirangi Road
Tickets: $25 (or $30 at
the door)
The Recloose Live Band is travelling up-country to join the
Festival's finale. Fresh from winning 'Best Electronica album' at
this year's NZ Music Awards, Recloose will headline a great night of
dance beats, including Toro Toro Dance company, Dick 'Magik' Johnson
and Baitercell. Broadcast live on George FM.
19 March
Switch off for Earth Hour
Waitakere City Council is supporting earth hour by turning off non-essential lights at its Waitakere Central offices
Waitakere City Council is joining the global campaign highlighting
climate change by switching off unnecessary lights in support of
Earth Hour on March 28.
From 8.30pm, all non-essential lights at the council's
Waitakere
Central offices and the Trading Place public car park building will
be switched off for 60 minutes.
It's an action that will be replicated by millions of people
throughout the world as part of the second World Wildlife Fund Earth
Hour event, which aims to highlight the need to take action on
climate change.
Waitakere Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse is urging Waitakere residents to
play their part in Earth Hour in their own way whether it's turning
off lights or enjoying a candlelit dinner or barbecue with family
and friends.
"This is a simple and fun way to highlight what is an extremely
serious issue," says Cr Hulse.
"Waitakere has led the way with environmental initiatives and
commitment to sustainability and I want to encourage all Waitakere
residents to play their part in this worldwide event."
The council is also encouraging local restaurants and cafe owners to
use Earth Hour as a way to examine their own energy use and to make
a change.
Ways they can conserve energy and save money include: organise a
candlelit dinner for customers; changing lights in dining areas to
enclosed compact fluorescent bulbs; installing motion sensors in
toilets and store rooms to activate lights; checking fridges and
freezers are sealed correctly; and insulating water pipes.
"Making a commitment to Earth Hour costs you nothing but a flick of
a switch can make a big difference," says Cr Hulse.
Pledge your support for Earth Hour by going to
www.earthhour.org
where you can also enter a draw to win a Toyota Prius.
What else is happening?
Ecobulb giveaway
In the week leading up to Earth Hour, Waitakere City Council is
giving away 10,000 13-watt eco-bulbs donated by EnergyMad. It will
also give away 1000 halogen downlights.
Giveaways will be at the following venues or groups:
Henderson Transport Interchange on the Link Bridge (4.00pm - 6.00pm
on 26 March and 7.30am - 9.00am 27 March)
EcoMatters Environment Trust
Project Twin Stream partner organisations
UNITEC Waitakere Campus 23-27 March in the library and at student
services on 27 March between 10.00 -12.00 noon)
LynnMall on 28 March.
Te Whanau O Waipariera Trust. Those working with family groups in
the community will hand out the bulbs during their regular home
visits during the week
Unitec library (all week) and at student services (27 March 10.00am
-12.00pm) Henderson Campus
18 March
Mayor Congratulates Warehouse
Waitakere is keen to wipe out the environmental pollution of
plastic shopping bags.
Waitakere is keen to wipe out the environmental pollution of
plastic shopping bags. Waitakere Mayor
Bob Harvey, who is leading a campaign to massively reduce
plastic bags in his City, congratulates The Warehouse chain on its
initiative.
The warehouse plans to charge 10cents per plastic shopping bag at
its stores, with proceeds going to local community projects. The aim
is to reduce the amount of bags customers use. Mayor
Harvey last week hosted a forum, attended
by around 50 retailers, which unanimously agreed to work to reduce
consumption of plastic shopping bags and eventually eliminate their
use all together.
"Plastic bags are an environmental disaster and that is being
recognised around the world in places like the UK, Australia and
even India," Mayor Harvey says. "Now the idea is taking off here and
to have one of the country's largest retail chains taking the lead
is just fantastic."
Among those in attendance at the Waitakere forum were large
companies Progressive Enterprises, Foodstuffs, Gull, and Westfield
as well as local business operators and business associations.
"This has to be a partnership with business," said Mayor Harvey.
He says many retailers are already doing their bit to reduce
their plastic bag use, from simply asking customers to make the
choice about whether or not they want a plastic bag to being part of
a national accord to reduce plastic bag usage and providing more
environmentally-friendly alternatives.
"And a charge of, say, 10 cents per bag will certainly make
shoppers think twice."
It is estimated that New Zealanders consume around 1 billion
plastic shopping bags every year, and that over 40,000 plastic
check-out bags are dumped in New Zealand landfills every hour. "The
many millions more end up clogging our streams and harbours, killing
wildlife, or simply blowing around our streets," Mayor Harvey says.
He adds that simply using a cloth bag or some other alternative can
save at least six plastic bags a week.
17 March
Auckland water network suppliers work together
This year Auckland recognises World Water Day on a regional basis as
the suppliers of bulk and retail water work together to get
important conservation messages out to the public.
Auckland's population is expected to double within the next two
decades and this increase in density and urbanisation places
pressures on water and wastewater infrastructure. With population
growth and current demand of 300 litres per person per day (combined
domestic and industrial use), Auckland may need a new water source
within 24 years. Wise use of drinking water may move the timing of
such a source and the significant costs associated with building and
operating a new water supply and treatment plant.
Preliminary investigations indicate that if the Auckland region were
to reduce water demand by at least 15 percent of 2004 levels by
2025, it would be possible to defer infrastructure expenditure of
around $300 million on the next major water source.
Water efficiency improvements are already underway with Auckland's
water operators and regional demand this summer is 5.5 percent less
than last year's summer. It appears that water conservation messages
are being heard and actioned by some residents and businesses,
helping to save money and the environment. However, there are still
many residents unaware of how they can use drinking water more
wisely in and outside the home, yet it can be surprisingly easy to
conserve.
Over the 17th and 18th of March an advertorial will appear in
suburban newspapers outlining top tips on how to achieve drinking
water savings at home, for both indoor and outdoor use. They include
recommendations ranging from turning off the tap while brushing
teeth and following water-wise gardening practices to installing a
rain tank or barrel.
World Water Day on Sunday 22 March is an official international day
sponsored by the United Nations.
Residents can contact their local
call centre for information on how
to minimise drinking water use:
Metrowater - (09) 624 4800
Manukau Water - (09) 262 8989
North Shore City Council - (09) 486 8600
United Water - (09) 295 0515
Rodney District Council - 0800 426 5169
16 March
Gambling venue submission deadline extended
Not too late to have your say on council's review of its Gambling Venue Policy
Waitakere City Council has extended the deadline for feedback on the
review of its Gambling Venue Policy, until 5pm, Wednesday, March 25.
Public opinion is being sought on the best way to manage the number
of gambling venues and machines in the city.
The council is currently looking at adopting one of two options for
its reviewed policy and wants public feedback on those options.
The options are:
Retaining the status quo
This would limit the number of gaming venues in the district to 38
and the number of Class 4 gaming machines, commonly referred to as 'pokie
machines', to 501 (including those in betting shops).
Introducing a sinking lid policy
This would mean that if an establishment closed or removed their
gaming machines, the council would not give the operator consent to
re-introduce machines at that or any other location within the city.
This would lead to a natural reduction in the number of gambling
outlets.
Submissions will now close 5pm, Wednesday, March 25.
A comprehensive information pack with a submission form is available
from:
More than 500 local school children will take an artistic approach
to race relations this week as part of Earth People activities,
supported by Waitakere Libraries & Information Services.
Earth People was developed by Wellington City Library and focuses on
what people have in common rather than highlighting our ethnic
differences.
Waitakere Libraries & Information Services, in conjunction with the
Human Rights Commission, is working with several local schools on
Earth People activities.
Eight to 10-year-olds at New Lynn, Ranui, Henderson South and Tirimoana primary schools are moulding small clay figurines as a way
to reinforce the message that irrespective of ethnic background,
people have the same needs of food, water, shelter and family.
The library services multicultural services advisor Shivangi
Pradhan will visit the schools and talk to the children about how
accent and appearance can alter our perceptions of each other.
"Waitakere is a cosmopolitan city where more than 140 different
languages are spoken. It is essential to develop the understanding
of inter-cultural relationships to help create a harmonious and
peaceful city," says
Councillor Judy Lawley.
13 March
Getting down to business
Draft Waitakere Economic Strategy consultation closes 3 April
People who live, work or do businesses in Waitakere are being asked
to share their views on the city's draft economic wellbeing
strategy.
The consultation process provides an opportunity to provide feedback
on the strategy and suggest alternative approaches to economic
wellbeing issues.
The strategy focuses on key areas such as land and infrastructure
development, business investment and support that will boost the
local economy and create more jobs. It also seeks to enable better
educational achievement and skills and to encourage visitors and
talent to the city. It continues to build on Waitakere's strengths
in such industries as screen production and boatbuilding.
Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey says: "In the 20 years of Waitakere
City's existence we have sought to continually transform ourselves
into a stronger and more resilient city. The economy and providing
for local jobs has always been a priority. This economic strategy
shows how our commitment to economic transformation will continue.
"We have had many major successes, with new infrastructure and
industries, and new business areas are being planned in the north of
the city. We need to continue building on these successes, so we
want to hear from people at the coal-face, to make sure we are on
the right track for the future."
The council will be discussing key priorities of the strategy during
March with representatives of the city's business, community,
government and education sectors.
However, comment on the strategy is invited from anyone living,
working or running a business in Waitakere. Feedback can be made in
several ways:
By filling out the feedback form at Waitakere City Council (6
Henderson Valley Road, Henderson) or at a Waitakere library
By requesting an information pack and feedback form from the
council's 24-hour call centre and mailing the form back
to the council at Draft Waitakere Economic Wellbeing Strategy,
Private Bag 93109, Henderson 0650.
By faxing the feedback form to the council on 09 836 8001.
By emailing feedback using the online form at
'Have Your Say'
The consultation period for the draft Waitakere Economic Wellbeing
Strategy closes on 3 April 2009.
12 March
Retailers support a plastic shopping bag-free future for Waitakere
Waitakere is keen to wipe out the environmental pollution of
plastic shopping bags.
More than 50 Waitakere retailers today
unanimously endorsed a council objective to work towards the
elimination of
plastic shopping bags in the city.
Hosted by Waitakere Mayor
Bob Harvey and attended by a wide variety of retailers, the
forum resulted in an agreement to work together to reduce the
distribution and consumption of plastic shopping bags and eventually
eliminate their use all together.
Among those in attendance were large companies Progressive
Enterprises, Foodstuffs, Gull, Westfield and the Trusts, as well as local
business operators and business associations.
Following today's meeting, a working party will be established
to
progress planning for the initiative.
"This has to be a partnership," said Mayor Harvey. "It is this
generation's responsibility to the next generation to do this.
"We don't want to be draconian about this sort of thing. It has to
happen by goodwill," he says. "Westies will do anything if you ask
them and nothing if you tell them."
Many of those who attended are already doing their bit to reduce
their plastic bag use, from simply asking customers to make the
choice about whether or not they want a plastic bag to being part of
a national accord to reduce plastic bag usage and providing more
environmentally-friendly alternatives to their customers.
The Waitakere suburb of Green Bay is already well on track with a
plastic bag free campaign run by the Green Bay Residents' and
Ratepayers' Association last year having already been taken up by
the majority of retailers.
Leading Australian environmentalist Matt Cross, coordinator of the
Huskisson Plastic Bag Free Campaign in New South Wales, says
Waitakere's status as an eco city means that the transition may not
be as hard as some retailers think.
"You already have a motivated and powerful ally in the council with
its environmental vision and I suspect those who live in Waitakere
would be expecting something like this - it will not be that scary
to them."
He says while retailers and councils can lead the way, the success
of any campaign has to be consumer-driven and therefore educating
the local community will be the biggest challenge.
The Green Party's Waitakere spokesperson Kath Dewar also addressed
the forum and says eliminating plastic shopping bags will have
economical and environmental benefits.
She told the audience that New Zealand consumes 1 billion plastic
shopping bags every year, including an estimated 43.8 million in
Waitakere City and that over 40,000 plastic check-out bags are
dumped in New Zealand landfills every hour.
Ms Dewar added that using a
cloth bag
can save the use of around six plastic bags a week.
11 March
Neeson wins Massey Community Board byelection
Brian Neeson
Former Member of Parliament Brian Neeson is returning to politics
after being declared the winner in
Massey Community Board
by-election.
Final results have Mr Neeson receiving 2618 votes, 999 more than his
nearest rival, Leigh Morrow (1619 votes).
Eight people stood for the position vacated by former board member
Michael Neeson. About 22 percent of eligible voters in the Massey
ward voted in the by-election. Voting closed at midday today.
Final results are as follows:
NEESON, Brian Independent 2618
MORROW, Leigh 1619
JESSOPP, Bob 1090
PERRI, Karen Green Party 625
ALBERT, Arthur Independent 513
MAURICE, Gayleen Jacqueline Independent 470
WEBSTER, Jean Independent 359
SMITH, Graeme 260
Massey Community Board chairman John Riddell congratulated Mr Neeson
on being elected to the board.
"With the experience that Brian brings to the board as a former MP
and a current Waitemata District Health Board member, Massey ward
residents will be well served by a group of people with a wealth of
experience in business and service to the community."
12 March
Waitakere mayor and retailers meet to discuss overuse of plastic
shopping bags
Waitakere is keen to wipe out the environmental pollution of
plastic shopping bags.
Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey is today meeting with local retailers
to address "the indiscriminate use of plastic shopping bags" in the
city.
Major supermarket groups Foodstuffs and Progressive Enterprises
and petrol station chain Gull are amongst the retailers who will be
attending the event.
Mayor Harvey was keen to bring together local retailers to talk
about the environmental issues surrounding plastic shopping bags and
to hear their thoughts and ideas on how these issues can best be
addressed locally.
Attendees will also hear from leading Australian environmentalist
Matt Cross - coordinator of the Huskisson Plastic Bag Free Campaign.
Huskisson is a seaside town on the edge of New South Wales'
picturesque Jervis Bay and became Australia's first mainland coastal
plastic bag free town in 2003.
"There's no doubt that plastic bags are an environmental concern,
not only in Waitakere and New Zealand but also globally," Mayor
Harvey says.
"We use more than 800 million supermarket bags a year in this
country and the impact on our natural environment and our landfills
is very evident."
Mayor Harvey, who has for many years volunteered his time to
harbour clean-ups, says plastic bags account for about five percent
of all rubbish removed from the Waitemata Harbour each year.
"Plastic bags that are thrown out on the streets are getting
washed into rivers, streams and stormwater drains and out to our
harbours, damaging our ecosystems and endangering our wildlife," he
says.
"As an eco city, we can not stand by and let this sort of
environmental pollution continue unchecked.
"While some retailers have taken steps to reduce their use and/or
offer more environmentally-friendly alternatives, there's so much
more we could - and should - be doing."
A recent survey indicates that Waitakere residents are ready to
support a local 'plastic bag free' initiative, with 80 percent
agreeing that the council should be working with supermarkets to
eliminate plastic bag usage.
A number of countries, cities and communities around the world
have already taken action to deal with the issue and minimise the
indiscriminate consumption of plastic bags. These actions range from
imposing legislative bans on lightweight shopping bags (as done by
South Australia, India and China) or levies on bags, to encouraging
voluntary bans.
Some New Zealand communities have already taken a stand on
plastic bags. In Wanaka, for example, a 'Bag the Habit' campaign has
persuaded nearly half of its residents to kick the plastic bag habit
and the town is still working towards a total plastic bag free zone.
Nine New Zealand towns and cities are now also recycling supermarket
and bread bags.
Waitakere's Green Bay community declared itself plastic bag free
in April last year. It was an environmental move promoted by the
Green Bay Ratepayers and Residents Association (GBRRA) and the
council and backed by all 24 retailers in the suburban shopping
area.
Mayor Harvey is hoping that one of the main outcomes of today's
forum will be a commitment by Waitakere retailers to work towards a
plastic shopping bag free Waitakere.
11 March
Waitakere planning for parking
Community feedback sought for draft
parking plans.
Waitakere City Council is seeking community feedback on draft
parking plans for the city and some of its town centres.
The council's Policy and Strategy Committee has approved the draft
Waitakere City Parking Plan and the draft New Lynn, Henderson and
Massey North-Westgate Parking Management Plans to go out for public
consultation.
The drafts set out some of the ways the council plans to manage
provision of parking in the city over the next 30 years to support
intensified development in town centres through efficient use of
available land and to encourage use of public transport.
Committee chairman Penny Hulse says it is important to improve
the effective management of parking in the city if Waitakere is to
have thriving high density town centres and growth corridors.
"We need to find ways of making best use of the limited available
land in our town centres and growth corridors in order to encourage
the level of development that will increase local employment
opportunities. This includes ensuring that parking is fully utilised
as well as encouraging business close to public transport
interchanges."
Among the management options outlined in the plans are limits to
parking provisions in new developments, shared parking, provision
for bicycle and motorcycle parking, new parking buildings and paid
parking.
The possible introduction of paid parking in the future has been
identified as a key issue for consultation in the council's draft 10
year plan (2009-19). The submission period runs from March 31 to
April 30.
Detailed consultation on the draft Waitakere City Parking Plan and
the draft New Lynn, Henderson and Massey North-Westgate Parking
Management Plans will take place in April/May.
10 March
Councillors want rethink on pay rise
Councillor Ross Clow
Waitakere City councillors want the Remuneration Authority to
rethink a decision that would see them receive a pay rise in the
next financial year (starting July 1).
A resolution by the council's
Finance and
Operational Performance Committee asked that the
government-appointed authority reconsider increasing the
remuneration pool out of which elected members' salaries and some
expenses are paid.
"In light of the current financial climate, the pressures being
placed on our communities and the council's own fiscal position we
are urging the authority to reconsider its decision," says
committee chairman Ross
Clow.
He says elected members are reluctant to accept a pay rise
considering the hard times many of their constituents are
experiencing.
But they may not have a choice.
The Remuneration Authority advises how much councils must pay the
mayor and a pool from which the council must recommend back to them
the allocation of payments for other elected members, including
councillors and community board members. The authority makes the
final decision on all payments.
The council has to give the Remuneration Authority valid reasons why
for the size of the pool to be reconsidered or not applied.
10 March
Announcing our Water Ambassadors Kids Club
The new Waitakere Water Ambassadors Kids Club
Waitakere's young people can lend their voice to the water
conservation message by joining the new Waitakere Water Ambassadors
Kids Club.
Believed to be the first of its kind in New Zealand, the club has
been developed by the council and is
aimed at environmentally-minded five to10 year-olds interested in
preserving the precious water resource many of us take for granted.
"We all know children are the future of Waitakere and many already
know about what a precious resource water is and are keen to use
that knowledge to act more sustainably in their own lives and to
encourage their families to follow suit," says
Councillor Linda Cooper.
"They're turning off the tap when they brush their teeth and
switching off lights and appliances when they leave the room.
They're a great example to the older generations."
To become an ambassador, kids just need to register on the specially
designed website, www.waterambassadors.co.nz, which goes live on
March 18. New members will receive a welcome pack full of
information they need to encourage them, their family and peers to
become more water-efficient.
The site will also feature club updates, information, activities and
competitions as well as information on local events with a water
focus that will be fun for all the family.
"Ambassadors will be encouraged to share their sustainability
enthusiasm with their peers and parents. Children who care for and
appreciate our natural resources are powerful advocates," says Cr
Cooper.
"Some of them might grow up to be city leaders one day and we need
their help to ensure we live in a world that is able to sustain us."
10 March
A community growing together
Rising food and fuel prices coupled with the global economic
crisis is making it difficult for the average Kiwi to get their
recommended "5-plus a day" dose of fresh fruit and veges.
Of course in the good old days a lot of people grew their own
produce in the backyard but in the 21st century there are plenty of
horticultural-challenged people who don't have a clue where to
start.
But help is at hand in Waitakere, where community gardens are
popping up across the city.
While not involved in the day to day running of these gardens the
Waitakere City Council has assisted by making land available to
establish the gardens in Ranui and Oratia.
Recognising the benefits of growing your own produce has on the
wallet, the environment and people's health, the council has also
entered in to a partnership with the Eco Matters Trust, which has
appointed a community garden facilitator.
Brooke Walker has been in the role for about five weeks and her job
is to gather information about the various community and
neighbourhood gardens in the city and to coordinate the activities
of those wanting to develop their own edible gardens.
"There is a lot of knowledge and skill out there that a lot more
people could tap in to and eventually it would be good to see a lot
more gardens established," says Brooke.
The EcoMatters Trust has its own community garden at its
headquarters e at 1 Olympic Place and there are several other
gardens throughout the city.
This site has 18 plots which are tended to by a mixture of family
and community groups.
It's coordinator is Jon Morgan, a man affectionately known as Green
Jon, who says the garden is about sharing knowledge and a love of
the environment.
"Our objective is for people to grow their own produce but also for
them learn the skills and knowledge needed to eventually set up
their own garden at home. While it's early days yet I am really
pleased with how the garden is developing.
Jon says as well as individual "plots" within the garden, there is a
border full of silverbeet which anyone can help themselves to.
Ranui Community Garden - Marinich Reserve, Marinich Drive, Ranui
Run by the community-based Ranui Action Project, this garden is
run along similar lines others and already has a waiting list for
those wanting plots.
"We have a mix of school, community and whänau groups taking plots,"
says Community Garden coordinator Emma Cohen.
"A part from the obvious financial benefits of growing their own
produce we have a real education focus at the garden through running
workshops on a variety of topics including growing organically and
how to make your own compost."
Gardeners also receive a regular newsletter with upcoming events,
planting guides and recipes.
Both Jon and Emma say the current economic climate make it a perfect
time for people to think about establishing a garden.
"We saw a definite peak in interest when the fuel prices started
shooting up," says Jon.
Contacts:
Oratia Edible Garden
Jon Morgan (Green Jon), Project Twin Streams Oratia Coordinator
09 838 4820 or email:
Oratia@mphs.org.nz
Massey Community Board by-election voting closes 11 March.
People living in the Massey Ward of Waitakere City Council have just
a few days left to cast votes in their
community board by-election.
Ballot papers must be returned by noon on Wednesday, 11 March so
people are encouraged to post them back as soon as possible.
Completed voting papers may also be dropped off at voting boxes at
the Council offices at Waitakere Central up until that time.
"Although the voting period has nearly closed it's not too late -
people can still enrol and vote. However, they will need to complete
special voting papers now, " Electoral Officer Darryl Griffin says.
For last minute advice and information visit the electoral office at
Waitakere Central or phone (09) 836
8000 ext 8712 or email
ElectoralOffice@waitakere.govt.nz
4 March
New roof for historical rail station
Restoration work on the historical Henderson Railway Station has begun with contractors currently replacing the roof.
Work is underway to return the historical Henderson Railway Station
to its former glory.
Contractors started on essential repairs to the Railside Avenue
building about two weeks ago and are replacing the roof. The current
structure was built in 1912, although the original station, which
comprised of a passenger platform shelter shed, a cart dock and
goods shed was built in 1897.
Waitakere City Council last year made a $50,000 grant to the
Henderson Heritage Trust to re-roof the building to keep it
weathertight and to reduce the risk of it deteriorating further and
becoming a target for vandals.
The old railway station building is listed as a Category 1 heritage
item.
The KiwiRail Group is currently finalising details of the lease for
the station building, which sits within the rail corridor, with the
heritage trust. Once this is completed it will enable the trust to
restore the entire building.
Having a lease would also mean it could apply for additional funding
from charitable trusts to carry out the restoration.
The trust has signalled that the refurbished station building could
then become functional once again, perhaps as office space, a cafe
of information centre.
Henderson Heritage Trust has worked in partnership with the council
to achieve the successful restoration of several local buildings
including, Falls Hotel and St Michael's Chapel.
The re-roofing project is expected to take a further three weeks,
weather-permitting.
1 March
Wheelie bins the way to go
The 140 L recycling
bin has been a resounding success.
In 2005, Waitakere City Council began rolling out a somewhat
controversial kerbside recycling system. The large 140 litre blue
and yellow wheelie bin allowed a fortnightly collection method where
recyclables would be delivered "commingled" back to the Waitakere
Transfer Station, where a large newly built sorting facility would
separate them.
The method was initially subject to scepticism by some residents who felt they
could not manage the larger bins and said they had no room on their
properties for them.
In addition, the council was subject to criticism from the national
lobby group The Packaging Council of New Zealand, which took issue
with the potential for a decline in the quality of glass they were
used to having delivered back, subsidised by ratepayers.
However the system, which has since been adopted by neighbouring
Auckland and Manukau, has been a resounding success.
Latest figures show the volume of recycling has increased by just
over 30% and costs have reduced by approximately $420,000 per annum.
