Media Releases

The Auckland Civil Defence Emergency Management Group have been advised that there is no further tsunami risk to Auckland from the 8.3 earthquake that occurred in the Samoa Islands region this morning.

Wave activity around New Zealand is expected to continue but to decline in height over the next few hours.

There is still a likelihood of strong currents in coastal areas.

Beach areas should now be safe, however people should remain alert for unusual sea activity.

30 September

Tsunami Update 5: Potential Threat Advisory Update

A tsunami alert still remains in place in low lying and coastal areas of Waitakere.

3.40pm:
The Potential Threat Advisory issued by the Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management (MCDEM) remains in place.

MCDEM is assessing information further with the assistance of scientific advisors. Tsunami wave activity is still being recorded at East Cape, North Cape and the Chatham Islands at a similar height to our last report. Smaller wave activity is now also being recorded at Gisborne.

There is now a low possibility of waves higher than those recorded up to now.

The expectation is that waves will continue over the next eight hours but they may be of similar or lesser height.

People are advised to continue to stay away from beaches and low lying areas.

Useful websites:
www.getthru.govt.nz/web/GetThru.nsf/web/BOWN-7GZVAT?OpenDocument
www.civildefence.govt.nz
www.geonet.org.nz/tsunami

30 September

Tsunami Update 4: Advisory still in force

A tsunami alert still remains in place in low lying and coastal areas of Waitakere.

Auckland people are asked to remain vigilant while the Tsunami Advisory - Potential Threat to New Zealand - remains in force.

A tsunami can be a series of waves and the first will not necessarily be the largest. The Tsunami Advisory will remain in force until the expert scientific advice indicates there is no further threat and a cancellation is issued.

The Auckland Civil Defence Emergency Management Group still advises people to keep away from areas below until cancellation of the warning:

Low-lying areas / roads / bridges
Beaches
Estuaries
Marinas and harbours due to fast-running currents
The threat of strong currents also remains

Useful websites:
www.aucklandcivildefence.org.nz
www.civildefence.govt.nz
www.geonet.org.nz/earthquake/
www.getthru.govt.nz/What-to-do-in-a-tsunami.72.0.html

30 September

Tsunami Update (Number 3)

A tsunami alert still remains in place in low lying and coastal areas of Waitakere.

12.50am
A tsunami alert remains in place in low lying and coastal areas of Waitakere.

While the official "warning" status has been downgraded to a "potential threat", people are still advised to stay off beaches and away from estuaries, marinas and harbours due to fast-running currents.

There also remains the remains the potential for high tides and, possibly, large waves. If large waves do occur they may arrive in the next 45 minutes or so. These are unlikely to be larger than one metre.

"People need to remain vigilant and listen to any subsequent Civil Defence advisories," says Bill Morley, Waitakere Civil Defence spokesperson.

30 September

Tsunmai Update: Stay away from beaches

Tsunami Sirens Activated

Tsunami Sirens Activated

11.33am:
Residents are advised to remain off beaches and away from estuaries and low lying coastal areas around Waitakere City.

Tsunami sirens on both the West and East Coasts of Waitakere were activated earlier to alert residents. They have been switched off but people are advised to remain vigilant.

Civil Defence spokesman Bill Morley says people should keep away from the following areas until there is a formal declaration that the threat has passed:

Low-lying areas / roads / bridges
Beaches
Estuaries
Marinas and harbours due to fast-running currents
There remains the potential for high tides, strong currents and, possibly, large waves.

30 September

Update: Tsunami Sirens Activated

Tsunami Sirens Activated

Tsunami Sirens Activated

10.33am:
Tsunami warning sirens around Waitakere City have been activated as a precaution.

Sirens on both the West Coast (around Piha, Karekare and Huia) and the East Coast (around Herald Island and Te Atatu) are sounding an "alert" signal, following the threat of a Tsunami from the Pacific reaching New Zealand.

Waitakere City's Emergency Management (Civil Defence) spokesman Bill Morley says the signal does not, at this stage, mean people have to evacuate.

"This is a first-level alert, which means people are advised to stay off beaches and away from low lying areas."

Local surf club members, Civil Defence staff and other volunteers are helping clear beaches.

People are advised to keep away from the following until cancellation of the warning:

Low-lying areas / roads / bridges
Beaches
Estuaries
Marinas and harbours due to fast-running currents

People also need to:

Turn on their radios and listen to advice from Civil Defence

At this stage homes do not need to be evacuated however detailed advice will come from local authorities and emergency services in the area. People should act on it promptly. "If told to evacuate they should, where possible, take a radio and cellphone with them and check for updates," says Mr Morley.

30 September

Civil defence headquarters opens for disaster awareness week

Take a look behind the scenes of the Civil Defence Headquarters during an open day on October 10.

Take a look behind the scenes of the Civil Defence Headquarters during an open day on October 10.

Take a look behind the scenes at Waitakere City's Civil Defence headquarters on October 10 as part of Disaster Awareness Week.

The building will be open from 10.00am to 2.00pm with activities including live displays by civil defence and emergency services.

"This is a great opportunity for people to see a dedicated civil defence operations centre in action," says the Waitakere Emergency Management Manager Bill Morley.

The $2.4 million operations centre at 7 Elcoat Avenue in Glendene opened in 2007 and is recognised as a leading example of its type.

"Its innovative design received regional architectural awards and the building boasts some unique eco-friendly features, including solar water heating and energy generation," he says.

"Civil defence volunteers and emergency services personnel will be on hand to demonstrate equipment capabilities, plus there will be prizes for families and children throughout the week."

Competition details will be advertised and entry forms available on the day.

"Disaster Awareness Week is a national annual event encouraging people to get prepared for an emergency," says Waitakere City Councillor and chairman of the Auckland Civil Defence Emergency Management Group Derek Battersby.

"The Auckland region is the worst prepared of any region for an emergency. It is hoped that the activities and displays planned during awareness week will make Waitakere residents understand the need to be better prepared."

Disaster Awareness Week will promote the Get Ready Get Thru message underlining the importance of having a household survival kit and emergency plan prepared for the entire family.

In a major disaster people should be prepared to cope on their own for three days or more.

28 September

Children to enjoy stories of the Pacific

Ranui Library launches Tala Pasifika storytime sessions for pre-schoolers in October.

Ranui Library launches Tala Pasifika storytime sessions for pre-schoolers in October.

The languages of the Pacific Islands are coming to Ranui Library next month with the launch of the Tala Pasifika storytime series for pre-schoolers.

Every fortnight on a Wednesday morning from October 14 the library will have a story read in a Pacific language.

Each session will see a different culture from throughout the Pacific represented through stories, legends, folklore and activities.

The programme follows a successful Samoan language week programme held across several libraries, including Ranui, earlier this year.

"We had a lot of positive feedback from the Samoan community but also from other people wanting their cultures to be featured," says Waitakere Libraries Multicultural Services Advisor Shivangi Pradhan.

A Pacific educator from the Auckland Museum will come in to the library for each storytime.

For more information go to www.waitakerelibs.govt.nz

28 September

Check Before You Trim or Chop

Under new government legislation, as of October 1 urban Waitakere residents may trim their trees without consent - but the emphasis is on "trim rather than chop".

Infrastructure and Planning Committee chair Vanessa Neeson says that changes to the RMA mean that now people can remove up to 20% of the foliage from the canopy of their trees in accordance with modern arboriculture practice, over one year.

However changes relating to the removal of trees will not apply until January 2012, she says.

"There is a bit of public confusion out there. So it's best to err on the side of caution. If people have any questions, give the council a call and we'll let you know whether or not you need a consent," Cr Neeson says.

She points out that even if a consent if needed, in "99.9%" of cases there is no charge.

"These changes to the RMA do not apply to coastal and rural Waitakere residents - for these properties the rules regarding tree trimming and removal remain the same."

25 September

Get your free reusable shopping bag now

Get a Bags Not! reusable shopping bag and support the push towards a plastic shopping bag free Waitakere.

Do your bit for the environment and look great while shopping with a special reusable Bags Not! shopping bag.

In September, Waitakere City Council launched its Bags Not! campaign towards a plastic shopping bag free city in front of hundreds at special event at Westfield WestCity.

The attractive bags are made from recycled plastic bottles.

The bags are now available for free from:

Main counter at Waitakere City Council's civic centre, 6 Henderson Valley Rd, Henderson
Westfield WestCity customer information kiosk
All Waitakere city libraries.

There is a limited number of bags available so limited to one per customer.

Local retailers interested in getting a supply of bags should contact the Bags Not! team on bagsnot@waitakere.govt.nz or call the council call centre.

Mayor Bob Harvey says it's only fitting that New Zealand's first eco city takes on the challenge of going plastic shopping bag-free.

"Change can start with a city of 200,000 taking a stand. We want to do something about it and lead the way for other cities to follow," he says.

While much of the recent debate has been about whether retailers should charge customers for plastic shopping bags, Mayor Harvey says that misses the real issue at the core of the campaign.

"Every bag is another few grams of crude oil, coal and gas polluting our environment.

"It doesn't seem like much until you realise there are billions of people using and discarding them everyday," he says.

"New Zealanders use more than one billion plastic shopping bags every year. That's about 250 per person. If everyone committed to using just three fewer bags a week, that number would halve."

Plastic shopping bags are recognised worldwide as an environmental hazard. They create litter, clog waterways and are made from non-renewable resources.

It takes up to 1000 years for them to degrade and they float easily in air and water, travelling long distances. Thousands of marine animals die every year after eating discarded plastic bags mistaken for food.

Go to the www.bagsnot.co.nz website for more information on ways to avoid using plastic shopping bags and source more environmentally-friendly options. It's also packed with facts and figures, answers to frequently asked questions and examples of successful plastic bag eradication campaigns around the world.

22 September

New Learning Centre feature of refurbished library

The refurbished Titirangi Library opens on October 20

A new learning centre is a key feature of the refurbished Titirangi Library which reopens to the public on Tuesday, October 20.

The community will get their chance to experience the new facilities when the doors open at 10.00am.

"The learning centre is a major boost to the library and extends the number of computers available to the public and these are free to use," says chair of Waitakere City Council's Culture and Community Committee, Judy Lawley.

"It's ideal for those who don't have a computer at home or who have no idea how to use one because at the learning centre, there will be classes to help people learn these skills."

Regular library users will notice several more subtle changes including new carpet, a fresh coat of paint and an upgraded issues desk.

The building has also been extended slightly to allow for the new learning centre, relocation of an enlarged children's area and a new window with views of the Manukau Harbour which will let in more natural light.

The fresh look Titirangi Library will continue to provide Council extended services, enabling customers to can pay council bills, register dogs and obtain Council information and forms.

Also back from Wednesday, October 21 is the pre-school storytime at 10.30am in the children's area. The story will have a Happy Birthday theme to celebrate the new children's area.

The facility has undergone several alterations since it opened in 1965 to cater for the ever-growing needs of the community and this latest work will reduce ongoing maintenance, repair and operating costs.

"We know people are anxious to have their local library back in business and we appreciate people's patience over the past couple of months. I'm sure it will worth the wait," says Cr Lawley.

What: Re-opening of refurbished Titirangi Library
When: Tuesday, October 20. Doors open at 10.00am.

22 September

Schools Trash to Fashion® 2009 Supreme Award Winner

Schools Trash to Fashion® Awards

Congratulations to all those who competed in this year's highly successful Schools Trash to Fashion Awards 2009.

A special mention goes to Rosie Craigie from Massey High School whose entry Queen Neptune, was judged to be the Supreme Award Winner.

Trash to Fashion judge Eilis Galuszewski says that the Queen Neptune was a beautifully crafted outfit.

"Rose Craigie has really stuck to the criteria and has paid very close attention to the detail of her work," she says, "the outfit is definitely recycled/recreated and will biodegrade should she want it to."

This year's event attracted a record 51 schools and over 700 student participants.

21 September

Gaming Machine

Council policy reduces number of gaming machines in Waitakere City

Waitakere introduces sinking lid policy on gaming machines

Waitakere City Council has introduced a policy that will gradually reduce the number of gaming machines in the city.

Planning and Regulatory Committee chair Vanessa Neeson says public feedback has given Waitakere City Council a clear mandate to introduce a sinking lid gaming machine policy.

“When 95 per cent of Westies say they want fewer gaming machines in their community it’s up to the council to act,” Councillor Neeson says.

“So as of October there will be a sinking lid policy introduced in Waitakere – meaning every time a pokie machine is removed or a venue hosting these machines closes these machines will not be replaced,” she says.

“Gradually there will be a decrease in the number of these gambling machines in our community while not impacting significantly on the community groups which benefit from the revenue these machines raise.

“The community can rest assured there will be no sign hanging outside the Licensing Trusts saying ‘we’re out of business’ when this is introduced - there will be virtually no change, community groups will still get their money, ” Cr Neeson says.

Nearly 4600 people made submissions on whether Waitakere should maintain the status quo (a maximum of 501 machines) or introduce the sinking lid policy - 95% preferred the latter.

The changes to the Gambling Venue Policy take effect on October 9.

21 September

Babies wriggling and rhyming in the library

The Wriggle & Rhyme programme stimulates brain activity and movement through song, rhyme and finger plays.

A programme that promotes active movement for under-two year olds will be available at Waitakere libraries from October 12.

Free to Waitakere families, the 30-minute sessions aim to provide positive movement experiences to stimulate brain and body development among youngsters. Each session sees children put through a set of 14 activity guides using a range of music and movement.

Wriggle & Rhyme Active Movement Active Movement For Early Learning is part of the initiative developed by Sport and Recreation New Zealand (SPARC) and delivered locally by Sport Waitakere.

The theory behind the programme is that movement is a child's first language, so it is important to provide babies with whole body movements' right from birth.

Mum, dad and caregivers are welcome to join in too, where they can learn skills to put into practice at home.

While the activities are generally for babies, older pre-schoolers are also welcome to attend Wriggle & Rhyme sessions.

Fifty community libraries are taking part in the Wriggle & Rhyme programme across the greater Auckland region.

Session times at Waitakere libraries. No booking required.

Massey	Mondays	09:30 a.m
Te Atatu Peninsula	Tuesdays	09:30 a.m
Ranui	Tuesdays	11:00 a.m
New Lynn	Wednesdays	09:30 a.m
Waitakere Central	Thursdays	09:30 a.m
Titirangi	Fridays	09:30 a.m
Glen Eden	Fridays	11:00 a.m.

For more information about Active Movement go to www.sportwaitakere.co.nz.

2009 Infratil-Waitakere City Council Community Awards celebrated

All smiles for the United Piha Lifeguard Service, the supreme winner at the 2009 Infratil-Waitakere City Council Community Awards.

All smiles for the United Piha Lifeguard Service, the supreme winner at the 2009 Infratil-Waitakere City Council Community Awards.

The United North Piha Lifeguard Service was supreme winner at the 2009 Infratil-Waitakere City Council Community Awards announced recently.

The annual awards celebrate the work of voluntary groups and organisations throughout Waitakere and were presented at a ceremony in the Council chambers.

The United North Piha Lifeguard Service, which also won the Sport and Leisure category, was described by Culture and Community Committee chair Judy Lawley as “thoroughly deserving” of the recognition that comes with the award.

“I’m extremely pleased to see the United North Piha Lifeguard Service win this award - they are rescuing people and saving lives daily throughout the summer at Piha and this goes some way to showing how much Waitakere appreciates their efforts,” Cr Lawley says.

“And while there is only one supreme winner, these awards are about honouring all the organisations that enter - it’s one of the rare occasions where our community organisations are publicly showcased and thanked.”

The full list of winners is:

Heritage and Environment: West Auckland Historical Society
Health and Wellbeing: West Auckland Parents Centre
Arts and Culture: Pacifica Mamas Arts and Culture Trust
Sport and Leisure: United North Piha Lifeguard Service Inc.
Educational and Child Youth Development: Carey Park Adventure Camp Trust Board

Also under this category - Highly Commended: Leataata Ole Lumanui Trust Pasifika Preschool

Overall Supreme Winner: United North Piha Lifeguard Service Inc.

17 September

New Lynn redevelopment funding secured and celebrated

Waitakere City Council said thanks to its partners in the massive New Lynn redevelopment project which has now secured all funding.

Waitakere City Council has thanked its partners in its biggest ever project - the redevelopment of New Lynn.

The $300 million project involving the undergrounding of rail, road improvements and town centre development, is larger than Eden Park's upgrade and the number of public funders for this single project is rare for New Zealand.

Following confirmation of all funding for the project, Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey hosted about 50 representatives from KiwiRail, Auckland Regional Transport Authority, the New Zealand Transport Authority, the Auckland Transition Authority, Watercare and Fletcher Building.

"This project is the result of persistence and passion over many years," Mayor Harvey said. "It's also what true partnership looks like. Waitakere has generated a vision and a project far bigger than itself and we couldn't have done it without our partners' commitment, competency and of course cash.

"I want to thank you all and I think we can and should be very proud that New Lynn is well on its way to becoming a vibrant and people friendly town centre and a place where people will want to live, work and play."

There are three phases to the project - the rail trench, the railway station and a variety of road improvements. KiwiRail has committed $140 million to the trench and Waitakere $69 million to the trench and road upgrades. ARTA is contributing $13.6 million to the new station and Waitakere $22 million. NZTA and Watercare provide the balance.

KiwiRail's deputy chair, Paula Rebstock spoke and read a congratulatory message from Transport Minister Steven Joyce who was unable to attend the event.

"One of the key issues for transport is getting the right balance of local, regional and national input and ensuring transport infrastructure projects are successfully matched with land use development," Mr Joyce said. "New Lynn has shown the way - and the importance of that investment mix. Congratulations to everyone working together to successfully manage and deliver what is a very challenging project."

Trains are expected to be running underground early next year and Waitakere City Council's work to transform the streetscapes (which began this week) will be finished towards the end of 2010. This will make the area much safer for pedestrians and will create an integrated town centre.

16 September

SH16 interchange improvements unveiled

Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse says council wants to work with NZTA to minimise the impacts of the interchange upgrades.

The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) unveiled plans to complete the Western Route at a meeting with Waitakere City Council today, the same time as potentially-affected property owners were being delivered information about the project.

Councillors expressed surprise that they were hearing about the project for the first time.

The plan to upgrade the North-Western Motorway also includes improvements to the Te Atatu, Lincoln and Royal Road interchanges.

"This council has lobbied for more than a decade to upgrade the interchanges so we are pleased to see it happening, but I am concerned at the scale of the impact the project will have on property owners," says Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse.

NZTA estimates that 83 properties could be affected.

Councillors want more work done to reduce the impact the works will have on the community, particularly to the number of properties that may need to be removed.

"The council want to work with NZTA to try and minimise those impacts and support those who may lose their homes."

She says the area around Lincoln Road, in particular, is an important commercial hub in the west, so the interchange upgrade is needed to support the economic development.

While the timing of construction will depend on the statutory approvals process, likely to take all of 2010, NZTA says work on the Lincoln Road interchange could start as early as next year.

The plan involves:

Adding an extra lane on SH16 in each direction between St Lukes and Westgate to allow for buses to use the motorway shoulder
The causeway will be raised and the adjacent North Western cycleway widened
This will help alleviate flooding problems
Improvements to the Te Atatu, Lincoln and Royal Road interchanges

NZTA says the project will help improve traffic flows and safety and allow the important east-west link to function better.

The agency is holding several community information days for residents to find out more about the project:

Saturday 26 September - 11am-3pm at Pasadena Intermediate, Pt Chevalier
Wednesday 30 September - 3.30-7.30pm at Te Atatu Community Centre
Saturday 10 October - 11am-3pm at Te Atatu Community Centre
Saturday 3 October - 11-3pm at Royal Road School, Massey.

For more information about the project go to www.nzta.govt.nz/SH16

15 September

Consultation in the Glendene and Kelston communities

Waitakere City Council is calling for input from Glendene and Kelston residents to help assess the need for new facilities in their communities.

Councillor Judy Lawley says the council is looking to gather community perspectives on the assets, strengths, needs and gaps of the Kelston and Glendene communities.

"Finding out what facilities the community thinks it needs - by hearing from the people who live there - really helps create a clear picture for the council to base its decisions on," Councillor Lawley says.

In addition to conducting public surveys over the next several weeks the council has organised two creative discussion forums.

Kelston: Thursday, September 24, Kelston Boys High School Auditorium, 6-8pm.
Glendene: Monday, September 28, Kelston Community Centre, 1-3pm.

14 September

Carrying the torch for peace

A global peace movement is set to take its first steps in Waitakere.

Mayor Harvey will host the lighting of the nuclear abolition torch at Glen Eden Intermediate this week.

Mayor Bob Harvey will host the flame lighting ceremony for the World March for Peace and Non-violence at 12:15pm on September 17.

It will take place in front of a full assembly at Glen Eden Intermediate School.

Lighting the 'nuclear abolition torch' at the school has special significance, says Mayor Harvey. "This flame is a message about what kind of world we want these children to inherit.

"It is also a challenge. Our homes, neighbourhoods and schools are responsible for passing on a peaceful culture. But our children will be responsible for living it. They have to make a peaceful future a reality."

The World March for Peace and Non-violence will go to more than 90 countries. It is supported by the 3000 member cities of Mayors for Peace, of which Mayor Harvey is Vice President.

The torches will travel from Waitakere to the Andes Mountains in South America before being presented to the United Nations.

New Zealand has been chosen as its starting point because of its peaceful legacy, says the New Zealand Coordinator for the World March Alyn Ware.

It led the world in going nuclear free and is the only country with a Minister for Disarmament, he says. "However there is still violence and injustice in our country that needs to be addressed.

"We hope the march will publicise the many positive initiatives that are promoting peace, resolving conflicts and preventing violence in our homes, schools and communities - across the nation and around the world."

Mayor Harvey says Waitakere's legacy as an Eco-City and a Peace City makes it the perfect place to launch the march. "Peace is at the heart of who we are in Waitakere. We want to take those principles to the world.

"Change can start with a city of 200,000 Westies making a stand."

The flame lighting ceremony will also feature a performance by Sala-Marlene Tyler, the Play it Strange Peace Song competition winner.

11 September

New Lynn to get new walkways, cycleways and lighting

Click to enlarge

Work about to begin to create new walkways, cycleways and lighting in New Lynn.

As part of the redevelopment of New Lynn, Waitakere City Council is making improvements to the area's roading network and providing new walkways, cycleways and lighting.

Work begins on Wednesday, September 16, in Clark St.

The work will be completed in sections to minimise disruption and a deep sewer line is being built by Watercare at the same time.

Motorists are advised to expect delays and use alternative routes if possible.

In some cases traffic will be diverted but businesses in the area have been assured access routes will be open or alternative routes provided.

The benefits from the improved transport infrastructure in New Lynn will be significant. Travel will be more efficient and it will be much easier to get around the area generally.

Eventually New Lynn will be a major sub-regional centre making it not just a desirable place to live but a sought-after place to locate business and create new jobs.

The council has a number of plans for the area including the redevelopment of the block between Great North Rd, Totara Ave and Memorial Drive as New Lynn's character precinct (Merchant Quarter), residential intensification and an integrated mix of retail, commercial and residential land uses within the town centre linked through safe pedestrian and cycle connections.

The work will finish in October next year.

9 September

Books in the Wild is back

Students reading books

Waitakere College students Ashley Shaw, 14, (left) and Kaley Maddren, 13 are among students signed up for this year's Books in the Wild programme.

Are you crazy about reading? Waitakere Libraries' innovative literacy competition, Books in the Wild is back and this year it promises to be bigger, better and wilder than ever.

Now in its third year, the competition has been opened up to all secondary school students (Year 9 to 13) across Waitakere and a question and answer category has also been added.

"Books in the Wild is about generating excitement about reading among teenagers and encouraging them to read and enjoy good quality literature," says Robert Baigent, Children's and Teens' Services Librarian for Waitakere Library and Information Services.

"We've been delighted with the way local Year 9 and 10 students have embraced the competition in the first two years and decided to open it up to all secondary school students."

Throughout September 600 Books in the Wild books will released into local schools.

Students are encouraged to take up the challenge to hunt down and read the titles and register them online before releasing the books back into the wild for others to find.

The 10 different titles are chosen to appeal to a wide range of tastes and for the first time ever include a graphic novel.

Last year 300 students took part and each registered book was read an average of 1.98 times. The most popular book was Finding Violet Park by Jenny Valentine, closely followed by Northern Lights by Philip Pullman.

Books were found all over the region from New Lynn and Henderson to Bethells Beach and Piha and in some unusual locations including bus and train stops, the cinema and the seat of a Helensville-bound train.

There are great prizes up for grabs this year.

Each time anyone registers a book they go in to the draw to win an iPod Nano. Those who read a book and then answer a question about the book go in to a separate draw, also to win an iPod Nano.

The grand prize of an X-Box 360 and games will go to the person who registers the most Books in the Wild books. If there is more than one person who register all ten books, the first name drawn from the total entries will win the Xbox 360.

To find out more www.booksinthewild.co.nz, email kidz@waitakere.govt.nz or ask at your community or school library.

9 September

eDay is nearly here!

eDay - Clean up NZ's e-waste logo

eDay is coming.

Waitakere City Council is reminding people to recycle their old computers, cameras and mobile phones for free this weekend.

eDay 2009 is on this Saturday 12 September and Waitakere residents can take e-waste to the New Lynn Community Centre Carpark (9am-3pm).

Electronic waste recycling recovers and reuses valuable resources and reduces toxic material going to landfill – benefitting our environment.

For more information please visit www.eday.org.nz

7 September

Inorganic items collected using the new inorganic collection system

Waitakere residents who have used the new inorganic rubbish collection system have given it a thumbs up.

Thumbs up for new inorganic collection

Waitakere City Council's new inorganic collection system has been given a big thumbs up by those who have used it.

In 2009 council introduced a user pays system whereby residents pre-book their inorganic collection via a website www.inorganiccollection.co.nz or through the council.

An online council poll answered by over 400 residents who used the system this year revealed it is easy to use, fast and efficient, and has greatly reduced illegal dumping in the city.

Planning and Regulatory Committee chairman Councillor Vanessa Neeson says the overwhelmingly positive public response is a great sign that the new inorganic collection system is working.

"Eighty per cent (80%) of respondents told us they would describe the new system as 'excellent -prompt, clean and efficient', while another 16% said the service met their expectations - a mere 4% said it didn't," Cr Neeson says.

"Further, since the new system was introduced there has been a marked decrease in illegal dumping in the city -- and that's great news."

"This poll is highly encouraging - 96% of people are telling us the system works well," Cr Neeson says, "but I believe we can still improve as small issues are ironed out and as residents become more familiar with the new system."

Residents should check the website, www.inorganiccollection.co.nz, in December for their suburb's inorganic collection dates for 2010.

The full survey is below.

Inorganic Waste Collection Service

Topline Results

1) How did you hear of the new service

		Count	Column N %
Heard of new service from....	news/editorial in newspaper	119	27.7%
	newspaper advertising	164	38.2%
	flyer delivery	280	65.3%
	other	72	16.8%
	Total	429	100.0%

2) Do you believe anyone wanting to find out about this service would find the amount of advertising

		Count	Column N %
Amount of advertising....	Adequate	341	79.3%
	Inadequate	89	20.7%
	Total	430	100.0%

3) Did you find the advertising content for this service

		Count	Column N %
Quality of advertising....	Clear and Easy to understand	371	86.3%
	Somewhat confusing	48	11.2%
	Difficult to follow and very confusing	11	2.6%
	Total	430	100.0%

4) Did you find the booking service web site

		Sample: Rated Booking Service
		Count	Column N %
Booking Service....	Easy to use and self explanatory	344	90.5%
	Somewhat confusing	30	7.9%
	Difficult to follow and very confusing	6	1.6%
	Total	380	100.0%

Note: 50 respondents did not answer this question. They are excluded from the total.

5) If you had reason to telephone our 24 hour call centre over this new service did you find the information they provided you

		Sample: Rated Call Centre
		Count	Column N %
Call Centre Response....	Very helpful and answered my questions	81	59.6%
	Adequate	49	36.0%
	Unhelpful and could not answer my questions	6	4.4%
	Total	136	100.0%

Note: Only 136 respondents answered this question. Assume the others had no reason to use the Call Centre, and are therefore excluded from total.

6) Did you find the actual collection

		Count	Column N %
Actual Collection	Excellent - Prompt, clean and efficient	344	80.0%
	Satisfactory - meeting expectations	69	16.0%
	Poor - below expectations	17	4.0%
	Total	430	100.0%

7) During the new collection did you experience any illegal dumping on your property, or scavenging of your waste from your property

		Count	Column N %
Illegal Dumping	Yes	24	5.6%
	No	406	94.4%
	Total	430	100.0%

8) Now you have used the new service please compare it to the previous street collection of inorganic waste. Is the new service

		Count	Column N %
Comparison with old service	Far better than the old service	258	60.0%
	Compares about the same to the old service	80	18.6%
	Much prefer the old service	92	21.4%
	Total	430	100.0%

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7 September

Waitakere to go plastic shopping bag free.

Waitakere says "Bags Not" to plastic shopping bags

Waitakere is the first New Zealand city to declare a goal of going plastic shopping bag free.

Its 'Bags Not!' campaign was launched before a crowd of hundreds at Westfield WestCity on September 5.

Local rugby icon Michael Jones took the stage to support what he called a "great cause." Kelston's award winning Unison dance crew, Project Twin Streams Song Quest winner Abootu and reggae duo Rootswest performed.

Mayor Bob Harvey says the launch was a fun way to start work on a serious environmental mission.
"Every bag is another few grams of oil, coal and gas polluting our environment. It doesn't seem like much until you realise there are billions of people using and discarding them every day," he says.
"Change can start with a city of 200,000 taking a stand. We want to do something about it."

Plastic shopping bags are recognised worldwide as an environmental hazard. They create litter, clog waterways and are made from non-renewable resources.
It takes up to 1000 years for them to degrade and they float easily in air and water, travelling long distances. Thousands of marine animals die every year after eating discarded plastic bags mistaken for food.

Thin 'singlet' bags used by the majority of retailers pose the biggest environmental threat.

Mayor Harvey says all cities and countries should take steps to cut their plastic shopping bag use.

"Many cities and countries have already banned or taxed them," he says.
"It's only right that Waitakere, New Zealand's eco city, addresses the issue on its own doorstep and leads the way for other Kiwi cities to follow. New Zealanders use more than one billion plastic shopping bags every year. That's about 250 per person. If everyone committed to using just three fewer bags a week, that number would halve."

The Bags Not! website - www.bagsnot.co.nz - provides information on ways to avoid using plastic shopping bags and source more environmentally-friendly options. It's also packed with facts and figures, answers to frequently asked questions and examples of successful plastic bag eradication campaigns around the world.

Tips for reducing plastic bag use

Individuals:

Carry a reusable bag when you go shopping. So you don't forget, put the bag back in the car as soon as you unload your shopping or keep your car keys in it./li>
Say 'no thanks' to plastic bags if you are only buying one or two items
Line your household rubbish bin with newspaper and compost your food waste

Retailers:

Sell alternative or reusable bags that promote your business and your environmental stance.
Train staff to help customers say no to plastic bags and yes to any alternatives you may stock.

Did you know??

An estimated one trillion plastic bags are consumed worldwide every year.
China is expected to save 37 million barrels of oil each year as a result of its ban on free plastic bags.
Less than one percent of bags are recycled. It costs more to recycle a bag than to produce a new one.
Plastic shopping bags photodegrade. Over time they break down into smaller, more toxic petro-polymers, which eventually contaminate soils and waterways.

4 September

Government delivers Auckland lite

Mayor Harvey is underwhelmed by today’s announcement on the future of Auckland Governance

Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey describes today's announcements on the future of Auckland Governance as "underwhelming".

"When we wanted a full strength beer they have delivered local government lite," he says.

The decision to retain up to 30 local boards means they will be too fragmented and small to make a difference, he says.

The Auckland Council will decide a funding policy for the boards and the criteria by which that money will be allocated.

"So the Auckland Council holds the purse strings," says Mayor Harvey.

"Unless local boards are given real decision making power and funding to go with that they will be little more than sewing circle meetings."

He adds the process of getting to this point has been "completely undemocratic".

"It began with the rejection, in a matter of days, of the Royal Commission's findings, was repeated when the Government tossed out Maori seats before their own Select Committee had reported back.

"We presented a detailed and well researched report to the select committee on the second Auckland Bill. We were told our representation was welcomed and made a lot of difference. Despite the flattery, we were largely ignored.

"It's clear that this reform is driven by political ideology rather than any genuine attempt to consult meaningfully and design a structure that will make Auckland a truly international city."

Waitakere City Council staff will continue to deal openly and constructively with the Auckland Transition Authority.

3 September

Mayor Bob Harvey is aghast that New Zealand's child health and safety figures are among the worst in OECD.

Waitakere Mayor disgusted at child well-being ranking

Mayor Harvey is "aghast" that New Zealand's child health and safety figures are among the worst in the OECD.

It was also one of the lowest spenders on young children in the 'Doing Better for Children' OECD report, he says.

"Last week I was able to attend the christening of my grandchild - it made me realise again that there is nothing more worthwhile than working for our children.

"It is personally devastating to see that the health and safety of our children is so compromised. It is a black mark on us all in New Zealand."

Social Development Minister Paula Bennett announced a 'Never Shake a Baby' campaign today after the 'Doing Better for Children' report release.

The campaign is a start towards getting our child abuse statistics down, says Mayor Harvey.

It complements a Waitemata District Health Board and Plunket backed 'Shaken Baby Syndrome' initiative already underway in Waitakere.

"Every parent needs to know what it means to shake a baby. Sometimes babies cry inconsolably and you've just got to walk away and get some help," he says.

"It's great to see Government recognising the permanent brain damage you can inflict on a baby.

"We will be looking to help in any way we can with the 'Never Shake a Baby' campaign."

Waitakere has led efforts to fight child abuse since adopting its 'First Call for Children' policy in 1993.

New Zealand's continuing shocking child abuse statistics saw Mayor Harvey form a Mayoral Taskforce against Family Violence in 2007.

It has brought together a wide range of community leaders to combat family violence in this community.

"Waitakere has placed children at the centre of its civic life, and we are working with the whole sector," he says.

"Our response to these devastating and continuous negative abuse statistics is making a difference. In local government leadership, the least you can do is bring together everyone who has a good heart and attitude and do the best you can."

"We are leading with the help of some incredibly brave and hardworking people. Together we can and must eliminate this scourge which is seeing our women and children killed."

Waitakere Family Violence Initiatives:

Funding towards an early intervention programme with Hoani Waititi Marae.
The Mayoral Taskforce is working with the Waitemata District Health Board and Plunket on the "Shaken Baby Syndrome" campaign. It features three simulator babies with clear skulls that light up when you shake them, showing the brain damage caused by shaking a baby.
Waitakere is currently holding "No Sweat Parenting" events, hosted by Pio Terei. Pio speaks across the age and ethnic spectrum, giving "choice ideas for raising your kids and fun ways to build awesome families". Packed out events were held in Ranui and Massey this week. A range of parents and grandparents from all walks of life attended. The next event will take place at Hoani Waititi Marae on Wednesday 9 September.
Judge Mather at Henderson District Court chairs Waitakere Anti-Violence Essential Services, better known as WAVES. It works with groups like Waitakere Abuse, Trauma and Counselling Services, Pacific Island Safety Prevention Project, Viviana and Man Alive to respond to the needs of families and bring rates of violence down.
Police Area Commander, Inspector Gary Davey, has made family violence a key priority.
Council has funded large billboards featuring the "Family Violence - It's Not OK in Waitakere" message. Currently, four generations of the Wehi wh„nau from Te Waka Huia kapa haka group feature, taking a courageous stand against family violence.

3 September

Agreement to preserve Hobsonville's heritage

These brick kiln floors are among the heritage features in Limeburners Bay.

Plans to develop a heritage trail in Hobsonville have been endorsed by Waitakere City Council.

The council's Infrastructure and Works Committee has agreed to a service level agreement with the Hobsonville Heritage Trust for the design and construction of a trail that will highlight the area's rich history.

The agreement will see the trust receive a one-off payment of $300,000 for which it will have to:

Develop a landscaping plan for Limeburners Bay and obtain building and resource consents for a Hobsonville Heritage Trail;
Apply for and obtain an authority to modify an archaeological site (uncover the kiln floors, re-cement in the bricks; and install drainage and fencing where appropriate); and
Construct the heritage trail and install interpretive signage and prepare heritage brochures that will explain the significance of heritage sites in Hobsonville.

The $300,000 is the balance of compensation paid to the council for the demolition of Sinton House by the New Zealand Transport Agency to allow for the construction of the new SH 18 motorway.

"This is a public/private partnership where the council acquires land through the subdivision process but a private trust adds value, in this case through the development of a heritage trail," says committee chairman Derek Battersby.

Council officers are negotiating with the landowner as part of the planned development of that site, to acquire the land adjacent to the esplanade reserve that has archaeological features associated with it.

The proposed subdivision will require the approval of the council, Auckland Regional Council and the New Zealand Historic Places Trust. The archaeological features were given additional protection by the New Zealand Historic Places Trust last year to include the post-1900 features of the site along the coastal foreshore under the Historic Places Act 1993.

An archaeological assessment of the area conducted by the council last year highlighted the heritage significance of Limeburners Bay and the archaeology is more extensive than first thought.

The bay contains the remains of Carder's and Holland's heavy clay pottery works, and the R.O Clarks Ltd works and is regarded as the birthplace of ceramics in Waitakere, before the industry shifted to New Lynn.

The two companies operated in the area between 1863 and 1929.
In 1885 R.O Clarks was producing up to 60,000 bricks a week that as one advertisement said at the time "generally acknowledged as the hardest bricks in Auckland".

The Hobsonville Heritage Trust was established by a group of local residents for the sole purpose of preserving heritage in the area.

Private-public partnerships like this have proven successful on several projects throughout Waitakere, including Olympic Park in New Lynn where the fundraising ability of an independent charitable trust meant much more was able to be done there, like the inclusion of artworks.