Media Releases

Social agencies in the Waitakere suburb of Ranui have joined forces in a new initiative to give those living in a local caravan park access to services and support.

The Hub at the Western Heights Caravan Park is a base for community organisations to come into the park and provide services for residents such as Plunket clinics, cooking classes and meetings with careers service advisors, Work and Income and Housing New Zealand.

"This is just a brilliant concept and I am sure The Hub and the organisations that use it will enhance the lives of everyone living here," said Waitakere Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse at its official opening.

"There are many reasons people find themselves in vulnerable situations. We all need help at times in our lives but sometimes we don't know where to turn. The Hub gives you that somewhere to turn."

Several agencies that already visit the park don't have a base to work from and systems to share information, which means some caravan residents may miss out on services they are entitled too.

The project has been developed by the Waitakere City Wellbeing Collaboration Project which aims to implement collaborative projects that make a difference to the wellbeing of the community.

The partners are Plunket, Barndardos, the Waitakere Community Law Service, Monte Cecilia, Ranui Baptist Church, Vineyard Church, Waitakere City Council, EcoMatters Environment Trust, Waitemata District Health Board and the Ranui Action Project.

The park's owners have also given their support by allowing the project to go ahead and providing a space.

The council is supporting the initiative by paying for The Hub's lease for a year and covering the cost of electricity and a phone line.

Council's community development broker will help set up systems and co-ordinate activities at the facility for three months and will work to empower and mentor residents into leadership positions.

29 March 2010

Changes on Brigham Creek Road in April

The NZ Transport Agency wishes to advise that the work on Brigham Creek Road in Hobsonville has been extended and several changes will be taking place during the next month as part of the SH18 Hobsonville motorway project:

From Monday 29 March, traffic will be switched onto the new road layout on Brigham Creek Road but the one-way operation will continue. Instead of going straight on the existing road, three new roundabouts will be in place. Pedestrians and cyclists will then be able to use the new footpath in both directions.
From Sunday 11 April, motorists will be able to travel on Brigham Creek Road in both directions on the new road layout and the one-way operation will be lifted. The intersection of Brigham Creek Road and Kauri Road will operate as a 'stop/go' and a traffic attendant will be in place. The traffic attendant will be directing traffic in this area until Friday 30 April.

The changes are part of ongoing work which started in February on the new Brigham Creek Interchange with SH18. The section of Brigham Creek Road between Kauri Road and Hobsonville Road has been operating as a one-way road during this time, for motorists heading from Hobsonville Road to Kumeu.

The work has been extended to April as a much stronger layer had to be added to the road surface during the reconstruction of Brigham Creek Road. This was not known until the work was underway and the full ground conditions understood. A final layer will also be laid on top of the road to complete the surface.

When fully complete, the Brigham Creek Interchange will provide access on and off the motorway in all directions and will form the connection between Kumeu and the North Shore via Brigham Creek Road.

The NZTA advises motorists to drive slowly as they adjust to the new roundabouts which are one after the other. The area is still a construction zone so motorists should also watch out for trucks using the road. If wet weather or any unforeseen circumstances postpones the work, it will take place on the next fine day.

The NZTA thanks you for your patience and ongoing co-operation while construction on the new SH18 Hobsonville Deviation and SH16 Brigham Creek Extension project continues.

For more information, visit http://www.nzta.govt.nz/projects/upperharbourmotorway or call 0800 520 202.

29 March

Free Entry Maritime Museum

The Voyager New Zealand Maritime Museum is offering free entry to all Waitakere residents throughout April.

Just take along proof of address, such as an addressed bill, and Voyager will waive the galleries admission charge for individuals so you can discover the voyages of exploration, discovery and achievement that created our island nation.

Proudly supported by the ratepayers of Auckland, the 1-30 April free admission offer continues Voyager’s invitation to Aucklanders to discover how our rich maritime heritage has contributed to the development of Auckland and New Zealand.

Please note, charges still apply for Voyager Live heritage vessel experiences, pre-booked groups and school visits, and the offer is not valid in conjunction with any other.

26 March

Time to celebrate Waitakere's unsung heroes

Recipents at last year's Waitakere Community Boards Unsung Hero Award

Audrey Chan was one of the citywide award recipients at last year's Waitakere Community Boards Unsung Hero Award

It's time to recognise those people and organisations that keep our community ticking by nominating them for the 2010 Waitakere City Community Boards Unsung Hero Awards.

Now in their third year, the awards are a chance for local people to celebrate and honour individuals or small groups that have done something worthwhile in their community.

"This is a great way for us to recognise the amazing people in our community that generously volunteer their time for the benefit of others," says selection committee chair and Henderson Community Board member Shirley Savage.

"It's our chance to say 'thank you' for the many incredible things they do which often go unrecognised."

Nominees must be truly 'unsung' and not have received recognition in the past and cannot be part of a formally organised club or society.

Tell us in 250 words all about the person you are nominating, what they do, how long they've served the community and the impact their efforts have on the community.

There will be five winners in each of the four wards, Henderson, Massey, New Lynn and Waitakere. There will also be three citywide awards given to people whose work has benefited the whole Waitakere region.

Nominations open 11 April and close on 11 May 2010.

Send your nominations to:

Waitakere City Council
'Unsung Hero' Community Board Awards
Private Bag 93 109, Henderson
Waitakere 0661
Attn: Barbara Cade

Or email: barbara.cade@waitakere.govt.nz

26 March

Turning the lights on walk and cycleways

Unicyclist entertains at the Turning on the Lights Event for the Project Twin Streams Walk and Cycleway

Unicyclist Tony Melton entertained with his wheel riding skills.

Children dressing up for the Turning on the Lights Event for Project Twin Streams Walk and Cycleway

Children dress up themselves and their bikes for the occasion

People turned out on foot, one, two and even three wheels as the lights were turned on the Project Twin Streams Walk and Cycleway network.

Waitakere Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse had the honour of flicking the switch to illuminate the Lower Opanuku Walk and Cycleway, recognising a project which sees seven kilometres of the network now lit up by energy efficient LED lights.

"It's great to see so many people out with their families, enjoying this fantastic facility," she said.

"The walk and cycleways are an extension of the magnificent work already being done by the Project Twin Streams team to bring the community together to restore our local water ways."

Waitakere City Council have installed the lights to enhance the pathways' use as commuter routes for cyclists and pedestrians especially at peak times. This is the largest LED project in New Zealand.

The lights will be operated by timer to be on for several hours morning and night to guide users when natural light levels are low.

The Light Up At Twilight event as well as turning on the lights, people enjoyed some great entertainment from the Pacific Island culture group CooSaNi, ukulele band Tahini Jam and Henderson hip hop crew Hypnosis.

Unicycle rider Tony Melton was also a big hit and kids got to decorate their bikes, have faces painted and also went in to win some great prizes.

The PTS walkway and cycleways provide links to local streets, public transport, schools and community facilities, town centres, parks, and off-road connections to the north-western cycleway. People can also take in some stunning community artworks along the way.

The 9.4km network runs alongside the Oratia, Opanuku and Waikumete Streams. It was built at a cost of $11.2million and funded by Waitakere City Council, New Zealand Transport Agency and Auckland Regional Holdings.

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

26 March

Sturges Road Bridge construction underway in April

The temporary bridge will be removed in mid-July when the first section of the new Sturges Road Bridge is completed.

Construction will start mid-April on Sturges Road's new bridge.

Sturges Road Bridge is being replaced with a three lane structure that will also feature shared cycle and pedestrian paths on each side.

It is being replaced to allow for electrification of the rail line, something not possible with the previous, ageing bridge.

Work will happen in two stages with one side constructed at a time. Traffic will continue to use a temporary bridge until mid-July when the first half of the new structure will be finished. Traffic will be able to use the first half of that structure until the whole bridge is opened in December.

Throughout the project, traffic movement will be restricted so we encourage you to avoid the area, follow the diversion signs and take alternative routes:

Eastbound Swanson Road traffic: use Metcalfe Road, Munroe Road and Summerland Drive before rejoining Sturges Road.
Westbound Swanson Rd traffic: use Henderson Valley Road, Border Road, Palomino Drive then rejoin Sturges Road.

The construction is a large job and because the bridge runs over a rail line there are restrictions on when contractors can carry out certain activities.

Some of the work is being done during winter so adverse conditions could impact on construction timelines.

Some disruption is inevitable but every effort will be made to minimise it. We thank you for your patience and understanding.

This is a Waitakere City Council project, with support from KiwiRail.

View the project update newsletter.

Information drop in day

Want to know more about the project? Come along to the Sturges Road Bridge Replacement Drop In Day at Sturges West Community House on Saturday, April 10, 2010.

Council staff and the project contractor will be on hand to answer your questions.

For more information call the council's 24-hour call centre.

23 March

The plastic invasion of Auckland

Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey

Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey

By Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey - Last year I stood knee deep in Horahora Creek pulling rubbish out of the mangroves for Project Twin Streams. It was backbreaking work. I filled 20 bags an hour to load onto the Waitemata Harbour Clean-up Trust boat Phil Warren. There were cardboard containers, discarded food, unwanted clothes and even shopping trolleys. But more than anything else, there were hundreds of plastic bags.

At conferences around the world, I show the DVD of Phil Warren team filling bags from Rangitoto, Waiheke and the Whau Stream and river. On March 8, it led 1000 volunteers to Great Barrier Island. They returned with more than 29,000 litres of Auckland's rubbish. Ten workers will go through thousands of plastic bags, dissecting rubbish and analysing the content.

Each one of those bags is six grams of coal and gas. Billions have been deposited in our dumps and landfills. The rest go to our creeks, rivers and waterways. Yet most of them didn't need to be produced at all. When you look at people parking in suburban centres outside dairies or video outlets and returning with one or two items in a plastic bag, you will get my point.

There has been a plastic invasion of Auckland.

Waitakere is trying to do something about it. In 2006 I travelled to Australia to meet the guru of plastic bag bans - Mat Cross. He inspired both me and retailers in Titirangi and Green Bay about the possibility of using alternative bags. That year I proposed the Bags Not project to rid Waitakere of plastic bags.

It has proved an excellent initiative. Businesses including Pak n' Save and The Warehouse have given their support by charging for plastic bags. Shoppers are adopting reusable bags.

On March 26, we launched the latest phase of the campaign. Leading Auckland artists Dean Buchanan, Anna Crichton, Judy Millar and Reuben Paterson contributed their designs to a range of Bags Not Art Bags. The bags are now on sale at The Warehouse and other retailers. Our creative communities are now in the fight to stop plastic bags polluting our pristine West Coast. It's a fight we can't afford to lose. I encourage you all to go out and get yourself an art bag.

23 March

Bags Not! Art Bags Launched

Shopper Jo Ryan checks out the new Bags Not art bags with Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey and artist Reuben Paterson

Bag yourself an art bag at The Warehouse and the Titirangi Festival of Music.

Leading New Zealand artists and illustrators have teamed up with Waitakere City Council and The Warehouse to help rid the west of plastic shopping bags.

Dean Buchanan, Anna Crichton, Judy Millar and Reuben Paterson's artwork feature on limited edition reusable shopping bags in the latest 'Bags Not!' campaign.

The collectable bags, made from 100 per cent recycled plastic bottles, encourage people to make a difference by avoiding plastic shopping bags.

"The bags are our flourishing arts community's contribution to protecting the pristine West Coast," says Waitakere Mayor and campaign champion Bob Harvey.

He will be launching the unique bags at the popular Titirangi Festival of Music's Village Night on Friday, 26 March. They will be available from The Warehouse's four Waitakere stores from 29 March at a cost of $5.99 each.

The collaboration will see a contribution from each bag sold go to the Waitemata Harbour Clean-Up Trust, a charity that removes litter and rubbish from Auckland's Waitemata Harbour and inner Gulf islands.

"Plastic debris makes up 90 per cent of what we collect each year and equates to two million litres of rubbish," says Trust co-founder and coordinator Hayden Smith.

The artists have enthusiastically embraced the council's clean-up initiative to keep the West unspoiled for future generations.

Internationally acclaimed Judy Millar represented New Zealand at the Venice Biennale in 2009 and is the current recipient of the prestigious Creative New Zealand New York Artists Residency.

Karekare contemporary landscape artist Dean Buchanan has exhibited extensively throughout New Zealand and his works can be found in many overseas private collections. His work features on the Henderson rail over-bridge.

Anna Crichton, winner of the 2007 Qantas Media Artist of the Year Award contributes to the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal and Time magazine. She also illustrates for some of the most respected design studios in New Zealand and overseas.

Rueben Paterson exhibits in New Zealand and internationally. In 2009 he was selected for the Australia Asia Pacific Triennial in Brisbane and this year will exhibit at the 17th Biennale of Sydney.

The 'Bags Not! Art Bag' initiative supports The Warehouse's ongoing commitment to encourage the use of reusable shopping bags and reduce the unnecessary use of plastic shopping bags.

Since the nationwide introduction of a 10 cent charge for plastic bags in April 2009 they have experienced a 74 per cent reduction in the use of plastic shopping bags, and New Zealand charities have benefited from the money raised to the tune of over $145,000.

The bags will be available at The Warehouse Westgate, Lincoln Centre, Westcity Mall and New Lynn stores.

Each design comes in a limited edition of 1000.

The 'Bags Not!' campaign was launched before a crowd of hundreds at Westfield West City on September 5 by local rugby icon Michael Jones.

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23 March

Memorial walk honours Te Atatu Peninsula stalwart

Roy Ranby's children David Ranby and Annette Colbert cut the ribbon to Roy - Ranby Memorial Walk

Roy Ranby's children David Ranby and Annette Colbert cut the ribbon to Roy - Ranby Memorial Walk.

The unveiling of The Roy Ranby Walk on Taipari Strand pays tribute to a man who played a pivotal role in the park's development.

Waitakere City Council opened a new section of the Te Atatu Peninsula Walkway at the weekend, naming it after Mr Ranby who was a founding member of the Taipari Strand Sub-committee. He died in June last year, aged 78.

A Noall Street resident since the 1960s, Mr Ranby and neighbour Dennis Collins approached the Henderson Community Board in the early 1990s for funding to turn what was previously a rubbish dump into a passive park.

"Thanks to Roy's tenacity the Taipari Strand was the first 'after-care' site set up in the Auckland region," says long-time reserve advocate and Henderson Community Board chair Elizabeth Grimmer. "We formed the sub-committee so the council, Roy and Dennis could work together to facilitate plantings and install walkways.

"Roy made it his life's aim to restore the area and he worked on the project right up until two weeks before he died."

Concerned about the soil quality of the old landfill site, Mr Ranby advocated all plants be on mounds of soil to give them a greater chance of long term survival. Last October a grove of kowhai and puriri was planted on a bank in accordance with those wishes.

The Roy Ranby Walk runs from Noall Street, opposite Mr Ranby's former house, through Taipari Strand and north to Renata Crescent.

His children David Ranby and Annette Colbert opened the walkway during a community celebration where many local groups including sea scouts, sailing, rowing and kayaking clubs joined in.

About Roy Ranby:

Roy was involved in many activities including Taipari Strand, Meals on Wheels, the Lions Club, Te Atatu Memorial RSA, St Paul's Anglican Church, Taikata Sailing Club, and Te Atatu Resident and Ratepayers Association. He also loved sailing his boat and was a great supporter of the Taikata Sailing Club.

23 March

Hundreds enter logo competition

Logo competition

Hundreds enter Logo competition

Judges for a competition to find a logo for the new Auckland Council will have a tough time choosing a winner from the almost 1500 entries received from throughout the country.

“We are really delighted with the response," says judging panel chair and Waitakere city mayor, Bob Harvey.

“We have a lot to choose from and there are some great ideas, which is exactly what we wanted. We've got our work cut out for us to find a winner."

The winning design will be developed in to the council's new logo to be used on everything from letterheads to buildings.

The panel of Mr Harvey, Hamish Keith, Karen Walker, Bill Ralston, Dick Frizzel, Wayne Pihema and Ema Tavola will spend the next few weeks going through the entries before announcing a winner.

The competition is being run by the Auckland Transition Agency, which is responsible for preparing for the transition to the new regional authority which comes in to effect on 1 November, 2010

For more information go to www.aucklandcouncillogo.co.nz

22 March

Park for free at Sturges station

Councillor Mike Jolley is calling Henderson residents to make use of the park and ride facility at Sturges rail station.

Councillor Mike Jolley is calling Henderson residents to make use of the park and ride facility at Sturges rail station.

Sick of battling the traffic to get to work? Avoid the stress and save on parking and fuel by taking advantage of the free park and ride facility at Sturges rail station.

With 170 carparks and easy access off Swanson Road this is an ideal location for Henderson commuters.

"For people that have to drive from somewhere to Henderson to connect with a train, it's not that easy to get long term parking in central Henderson," says Councillor Mike Jolley.

"Sturges park and ride is the ideal alternative as it's just a few minutes from the centre of town, has great access of Swanson Road, with modern facilities and best of all it's free.

"I think most people would be keen to save a bit of money on fuel and parking by giving park and ride a go. And of course we want to encourage people to use public transport as an alternative to clogging the roads."

Features include:

24-hour camera surveillance
Toilet block for patrons
Covered seating areas for those waiting to be picked up
Bike stands.

Sunnyvale station park and ride also has 24-hour camera surveillance along with 102 free carparks.

Park and rides are an essential part of the council's travel demand management programme to encourage alternatives to travel by car. The programme includes school and business travel and neighbourhood accessibility plans, cycleways, improving footpaths, and improving bus and rail infrastructure.

Sturges Park and Ride is located at 76 Swanson Rd.

For more information, contact us.

15 March

Open artist inspired by nature

Artist Jenny McLeod uses a kiln to fuse and slump sheet glass for her creations.

Artist Jenny McLeod uses a kiln to fuse and slump sheet glass for her creations.

The Waitakere Artists Open Studio Weekend is fast approaching so bring your friends along to visit some of the west's most celebrated artists.

More than 38 home studios and 10 galleries featuring clusters of artists will be throwing their doors open on 27 and 28 March to give visitors a rare chance to meet and talk to the artists as well as buy their work.

Artistic techniques can also be viewed first hand and cover a diverse range of media including sculpture, ceramics, jewellery and glass.

Renown glass and mixed media artist Jenny McLeod will be open the doors of her Henderson home studio on the Saturday.

"In past years I have had students and budding artists who want to learn the techniques and equipment I use while others, including my neighbours, come out of interest," says Jenny.

Raised on a Whitianga farm the Coromandel and nature are constant reference points in Jenny's work and she incorporates a variety of materials, including New Zealand native fibre, harakeke or flax as well as pumice and concrete.

"I enjoy working with these materials and am inspired by their natural quality and the unlimited possibilities of combining them with glass," says Jenny.

"For wall hangings I use a lot of copper to thread my necklace formations and use flax ties on some of my more traditional pieces."

This breast plate mixes glass with natural fibres and päua.

This breast plate mixes glass with natural fibres and päua.

Jenny has two six cubic foot kilns in her workshop which gives her the control required to fuse and slump sheet glass. A complicated procedure, Jenny's description belies the level of skill and expertise required to produce each masterpiece.

"For a bowl I will first draw a pattern in the sand inside the kiln. I then lay a cut-glass disc on the sand and when it reaches a molten state it sinks into the pattern. My second firing is not as hot, as I want to retain the pattern."

Admission is free and an official map with venue locations will be available at local galleries or on the council website.

There are also planned mini-bus tours which will be visiting five home studios. The tour costs $15 and will leave from the Corban Estate Arts Centre at 10:30am and 1:30pm each day. Limited tickets so bookings are essential.

For further information, or to make a booking, contact us.

15 March

New education programme to reduce graffiti vandalism

A new education programme aimed at reducing graffiti in Waitakere City has been launched by the New Zealand Police and Waitakere City Council as part of the Auckland Region Graffiti Free Project.

Tag Free Kiwi is an education programme for Years 7-8 and Years 9-10, which aims to reduce graffiti vandalism by encouraging young people to develop pride and respect in themselves and in their community.

The programme engages children and young people to explore a range of alternative creative expression including urban art, drama and role play.

It raises awareness of the difference between graffiti vandalism and urban art through a series of local and international photographs and DVD presentations by Auckland urban artists.

The consequences of graffiti vandalism on victims and the community are explored and the penalties of offending explained.

Gill Palmer of Police National Headquarters, says it is surprising how many students are unaware that graffiti vandalism is a crime.

"During the pilot phase, we were shocked at how many young people have no understanding of the criminality of graffiti vandalism and when they found out, they were equally as shocked about the penalties," she said.

The Tag Free Kiwi programme will be offered to all Auckland intermediate and secondary schools through the Police Education Officers.

The Auckland Region Graffiti Free Project (ARGFP), which takes a multi-agency collaborative approach to the management and prevention of graffiti vandalism, recognises there is no single answer to graffiti vandalism, and bases its work on a three 'E' approach: Eradication, Enforcement and Education. The Tag Free Kiwi education package serves to address this very important third element.

"We expect that the Tag Free Kiwi programme will have an immediate effect on many students who have not previously understood the consequences of their actions or thought about the lack of respect their graffiti vandalism shows to property owners," says ARGFP coordinator, Stewart Andrews.

Any young person wishing to report anonymous information regarding graffiti vandalism or any other matter can call the independent Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.

12 March

Mixed reaction to Local Board and Ward decision

Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse.

Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse.

Waitakere City Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse said today she had a mixed reaction to the Local Government Commission's decision on local boards.

"Many people in the community wanted two separate boards and the commission has listened and acted on that," she said.

"That's great. However there is some concern the rural / urban split might make it hard for the boards to work together. I sincerely hope that's not the case and they can collaborate for the good of the area as a whole."

Councillor Hulse added there were some reservations about the commission's decision to make West Harbour, Hobsonville and Whenuapai part of the Albany Ward.

"We have done some great work in that area for the good of the region and we need to ensure plans and aspirations do not get lost in translation."

Councillor Hulse said she was delighted Glen Eden is now in the Waitakere Ward.

"Overall it's a bit of a mixed bag but as we always do in the west, we will move forward with good grace and an intention to continue to represent our people in the best way possible.

12 March

Logo competition closing soon

Entries for a logo for the new Auckland Council must be in on March 19

Entries for a logo for the new Auckland Council must be in on March 19.

Aucklanders wanting to contribute their ideas on the Auckland Council's logo have just a few days to put in their entries.

Judging panel chair Bob Harvey says hundreds of entries have been received so far.

"There is a big variety of designs with a lot of good ideas and some interesting gems amongst them. I know it is going to be a difficult task to find a winner.

"But we want more entries - it doesn't matter if people are not designers, although we certainly welcome entries from professionals. It is about the core idea, the base concept, which is the most difficult part of the process," he says

" Once we have found our winner, we will take the concept and develop it to be displayed on everything from the new council's letterheads to its headquarters." The competition closes Friday, 19 March at 5pm.

Details are available on www.aucklandcouncillogo.co.nz or by calling (09) 307 7274 for those in the Auckland toll-free calling area, or 0800 80 60 40 toll free for other areas.

11 March

Heritage Fund preserving Waitakere's past

Cr Judy Lawley (left) with Fiona Edgar

Cr Judy Lawley (left) with Fiona Edgar, who received a grant from the Waitakere City Council Heritage Fund to install rain tanks at her historical Henderson home.

A book on the history of Titirangi and heritage style water tanks on an historical Henderson property are among the 20 projects to receive grants from the Waitakere City Council Heritage Fund.

A total of $54,000 in grants has been allocated from the 2009-10 fund, which demonstrates the council's commitment to the ongoing preservation of the west's precious cultural heritage resources.

"The whole community benefits in the long run by the efforts of those who receive grants for these worthwhile projects," says chair of the council's Heritage Fund Allocation Sub-Committee, Judy Lawley.

"These projects play an essential role in improving peoples' understanding and access to our heritage as well as preserving our history for future generations."

Fiona Edgar received $5000 to restore the heritage-style water tanks at her Category II heritage home in Henderson which badly burned in a fire in the late 1970s. The two-storey Victorian villa was built in 1893 and was once the family home of internationally renowned botanist Lucy Cranwell.

"I bought the house in 1997 when it was valued for demolition," says Fiona. "I have always been interested in history so instead of developing the half acre site into townhouses, as my friends suggested, I decided to restore it.

"Some might think it's a crazy idea as a project like this doesn't come cheap so it's fantastic to get some kind of support. It makes a big difference," she says.

The fund is not just about maintaining bricks and mortar. It also helps with community education projects that preserve the character of the region such as oral histories.

The Waitakere Ranges Protection Society will use its $3000 to develop an oral history documenting the importance of the Waitakere Ranges and the people who have contributed to its preservation. Interviewees will include local personalities Jonathan Hunt, Mayor Bob Harvey, Marianne Simpkins, John Walsh and Dave Harre and will be stored at the Waitakere Central Library.

McCahon House Trust's $4000 allocation will support the development and promotion of its education programme for schools and tertiary organisations. The money will also help further develop its programmes and raise awareness about McCahon House in Titirangi.

The Waitakere Heritage Fund provides owners of heritage buildings and local museums help to restore and appropriately manage their heritage resources. It also aids local marae and owners of heritage trees and archaeological sites.

9 March

Concern expressed at plan change misinformation

Proposed plan changes aim to ensure appropriate activities are carried out in the ranges, not enable retail activity.

Waitakere City Council today expressed its concern at the amount of misinformation and scaremongering circulating about its notified plan changes in regards to the Waitakere Ranges.

"The Plan Changes are not about more subdivision," said Planning and Community Services Group Manager Philip Brown. "They are about recognising there are some limited activities that support local communities and visitors. The rules need to target appropriate activities and give certainty for everyone. They do not enable retail activity across the Heritage Area."

Plan Change 36 covers the whole Heritage Area and addresses each zone specifically through policies and rules. There is a focus in the Foothills Environment, with other provisions amended for the Coastal Villages, Waitakere Ranges and Bush Living Environments.

"In the Coastal Villages, Waitakere Ranges and Bush Living Environments (zones) retail is limited to extensions to existing activities such as dairies and cafes and to art galleries (with Resource Consent required)," said Mr Brown. "New cafes are a discretionary activity, which means that Resource Consent is required. All other retail must qualify as a home occupation within the existing operative rules of the District Plan. All other forms of retail are non-complying. The Plan Change proposed here removes elements that are not working or provides more clarity."

As a discretionary activity the council will have to consider whether anyone is affected by the proposal. That decision is made in accordance with the requirements of the Resource Management Act 1990 which was amended in 2009.

Council has proposed farming is permitted in the foothills as it is a rural activity, although intensive farming involving animals in buildings is a discretionary activity and would require Resource Consent.

"The existing management of development in Titirangi is unclear which is why Council wants to provide some certainty", says Mr Brown. The new rules are more restrictive on buildings in the village and a range of further assessment criteria and standards have been proposed to ensure development performs well."

Extending the commercial zone of the village to include South Titirangi Rd as far as the new commercial offices below Toby's is recognition by the council, following community consultation, that around the periphery of the commercial zoned village there are many existing non-residential activities. This needs to be managed accordingly and a clear boundary for the village is needed. The existing management of development in Titirangi is unclear which is why Council wants to provide some certainty. The new rules are more restrictive on buildings in the village.

"Oratia is a rural village whose community indicated it wanted some limited opportunities for a rural neighbourhood," says Mr Brown. "This was a key outcome of the Oratia Local Area Plan. Council has proposed that any activities in the village are designed within an orchard landscape setting and the rules are particular in achieving a style of development unique to a rural village. The focus is on activities that serve that local community."

Council is keen to receive feedback from the community on the proposed Plan Changes. People are encouraged to have their say and raise any issues through the formal submission process. Submissions will be received until Friday 12 March 2010.

"Council has an open mind about the proposals contained within the proposed Plan Changes," says Mr Brown. "We welcome the help from the community in shaping the final outcome".

Once submissions close there will be a hearing to determine Council's position. Submitters will be able to present their views. Once Council makes its decision people can lodge appeals with the Environment Court if they are not happy about the result.

8 March

Glendene Fun Family Day - March 13

Get the family together and come to what promises to be a fantastic day out in Glendene where families and the kids can enjoy sausage sizzles, sports games, magicians, face painting and more.

The Glendene Fun Family Day will be held at Glendene School on March 13 (10am-3pm) and is designed to foster community spirit in the area - as well as just being plain, good old-fashioned fun.

Culture and Community chair Judy Lawley says the day will be a great opportunity for people to participate with their families in a social event in their neighbourhood.

"Congratulations to Glendene's community leaders for getting this day going - it is bound to be the first of many and is part of the community spirit that we're seeing all over Waitakere - community gardens, street barbeques, and a huge range of events," Councillor Lawley says.

There will be prizes and giveaways, including family passes to West Wave Aquatic Centre, awarded throughout the day.

Make sure you bring your togs too as Glendene School will have its pool open.

HealthWEST will have the WOW bus there providing free health checks.

Date: March 13
Time: 10am - 3pm
Venue: Glendene School, 60 Barrys Road, Glendene

5 March

MUL shift will boost development potential

Cr Linda Cooper says the MUL shift brings certainty in terms of development potential

Waitakere City Council today welcomed the Auckland Regional Council's decision to make the Metropolitan Urban Limit shift in the north west of its city operative – a move that will create around 30,000 jobs in the area.

"The announcement brings certainty to the region in terms of development potential," says Waitakere City Councillor and chair of the Northern Strategic Growth Area Urban Development Committee Linda Cooper. "It ensures regional economic growth and a number of social and transport benefits for the Westgate to Hobsonville area and its immediate community."

The MUL shift (operative on March 12) frees up an extra 435 hectares for strategic urban development and means the area is now very much ‘open for business'. Of that 435 hectares 125.5 will be industrial, 30.5 commercial and 95 residential. Seventeen hectares will be used for community facilities, including a library and 36 for mixed use with roads and reserves taking up160 hectares.

About 20,000 jobs will be created by industrial development at Hobsonville Village and the airbase with another 10,000 at Westgate, a new town centre (linking over the road with the current centre) which will also offer shopping, business, education and community and leisure services. Cycle, pedestrian, motor vehicle and public transport will be integrated and connected and the development will be one of the most significant and complex projects in New Zealand.

While some of the council's plans and changes to its District Plan are the subject of appeals the work in the background is well advanced. The extension to State Highway 18 is well on track and the Hobsonville Land Company has begun earthworks for its major residential development. Plans are also well underway for Yard 37, New Zealand's superyacht precinct in Hobsonville.

NZRPG (New Zealand Retail Property Group) has been one of council's partners in the proposed development of the area for several years and the MUL shift confirmation is a significant milestone in the planning process according to its chairman Mark Gunton.

"It gives us the confidence to press on with the land's development and following seven years in the planning process we, on behalf of the owners of 40 hectares of town centre zoned land, are looking forward to a year of progress in 2010," he says.

"We are excited by the huge opportunity before us to deliver a major retail and commercial centre at Westgate. The site is superbly located on the motorway due for completion in late 2011 and we are aiming to have the development well underway by that time."

NZRPG's proposals to Waitakere City Council for the new Westgate town square area show it would be equivalent to the Melbourne central town square in the public space provided and a "traditional main street" feel.

"Westgate will be a convenient and comprehensive town centre serving an already large and growing population," says Mr Gunton. "We have huge interest in businesses looking to establish or expand their operations in the town and we look forward to finally providing for this demand. It is great to have the support of Waitakere City Council in this project and to have it further endorsed by the ARC."

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View MUL extension (Size 320K)

3 March

Passionate people wanted as park rangers

Are you passionate about your local park? Why not become a park ranger.

Are you passionate about your local park? Then join Waitakere City Council's volunteer park ranger programme.

Rangers are the eyes and ears of the community, reporting to the council's parks team on any issues that arise.

Rangers are encouraged to build relationships with local people and groups to promote safer parks and educate them on park use.

People with a love of gardening may be interested in becoming a park ranger and looking after a garden in their local park.

"We have almost 600 parks in Waitakere and it's impossible for our staff to be everywhere at once, so we want the community to let us know what's happening in their parks," says Councillor Brenda Brady.

"This could be a great way for families to do something together, a way for people to build stronger connections with their community and to meet new neighbours."

"If you love your parks and want to help, we want to hear from you."

The scheme encourages residents living near parks and people interested in taking on a more active role in their management.

The number of volunteer park rangers has declined recently as people move house or take on other commitments, so the council is looking to recruit fresh talent.

If you are interested in becoming a park ranger come along to the information evening being held at the Council Chambers on Thursday 18 March, 6.00pm - 7.00pm. Interested people will need to complete a short application form and give consent to be police vetted.

For more information please contact us or email parks@waitakere.govt.nz or download the Community Park Rangers information brochure.

3 March

Shining a light on Project Twin Streams Walk and Cycleways

A fun-filled event on 19 March will mark the turning on of new lights on the Project Twin Streams Walk and Cycleway network.

Bring the family, a picnic and your bike to Henderson Park on 19 March for Light Up At Twilight - an evening of fun to mark the switching on of new lights on the Project Twin Streams Walk and Cycleway network.

At around 7.45pm, Waitakere Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse will flick the switch to illuminate the Lower Opanuku Walk and Cycleway.

But before that there is to be plenty of entertainment to sit back and enjoy including music and dance performances. There will also be face painting, a bouncy castle, art events and fun bike activities.

Get dressed up and decorate your bike - you could win some great prizes or take a short bike and walk trek along the pathway.

The council have installed LED lights on about seven kilometres of the network to enhance the pathways' use as commuter routes for cyclists and pedestrians using them at peak times when it is still dark. This is the largest LED project in New Zealand.

The PTS walkway and cycleways provide links to local streets, public transport, schools and community facilities, town centres, parks, and off-road connections to the north-western cycleway. People can also take in some stunning community artworks along the way.

The 9.4km network runs alongside the Oratia, Opanuku and Waikumete Streams. It was built at a cost of $11.2million and funded by Waitakere City Council, New Zealand Transport Agency and Auckland Regional Holdings.

What: Light Up At Twilight
When: 5.30pm-9pm, Friday 19 March. Lights turned on at 7.45pm.
Where: Field three, Henderson Park, Henderson.
Cycle or walk via the Lower Opanuku Walk and Cycleway. Carparking available at Corban Estate Art Centre.

To find out more about the network go to www.projecttwinstreams.org.nz.

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Download the Light Up At Twilight Flyer (Size 1055K)
Download the fun map of the walk and cycleway (Size 1042K)

2 March

Roadworks on Great North Road

During March Waitakere City Council is carrying out road works on a section of Great North Road.

The road between View Road and Edmonton Road will be resurfaced, and new footpaths and kerbs installed. The work is scheduled to finish by the end of March, weather depending.

The work will be carried out in two stages:

Stage one: between View Rd and 4333 Great North Rd.
Stage two: from 4333 Great North Road to Edmonton Rd.

The council has sent letters to all affected residents and staff are meeting business owners individually to explain the work programme.

The road will be accessible at all times but traffic flows will be restricted and people should expect delays. Please take alternative routes if possible.

Council regrets any inconvenience this work may cause and asks people to be patient.

For more information contact us.

1 March

Public feedback sought on the CCO Discussion Document

Feedback sought on CCO Discussion Document

The Auckland Transition Agency has released its CCOs (Council-Controlled Organisations) Discussion Document for public feedback.

The document outlines the proposals of the ATA for CCOs in the new Auckland Council structure and looks at the perceived advantages and disadvantages.

Feedback closes at 5pm Friday March 26.

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Read the Discussion Document (Size 421K)

This document is also available on the feedback website www.discussiondocuments.co.nz.

1 March

Train tracks move off the road in New Lynn

Click to enlarge

Transport minister Steven Joyce cuts the ribbon to open KiwiRail's $160 million rail trench.

Two of New Lynn's notorious level crossings have been eliminated today, with trains using KiwiRail's $160 million rail trench from this morning.

The duplication and lowering of New Lynn's railway into an 8m-deep, 860m-long trench is seen as the key to unlocking the future development of the town centre, improving transit through the area and enhancing the passenger transport network by separating roads from rail.

Minister of Transport Steven Joyce joined Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey, KiwiRail Chairman Jim Bolger, ARTA board member Mike Williams, invited guests and commuters on the first Britomart-bound train to leave Henderson at 5:45am.

KiwiRail Chairman Jim Bolger says the rail tracks have been like a "Berlin Wall" cutting through the heart of New Lynn, and the replacement of the infamous Clark Street/Rankin Ave roundabout with a bridge is an example of the benefits of separating roads from rail.

"The long-term benefits of this upgrade will be critically important to the future development of New Lynn," says Mr Bolger. "Rejuvenation of the Auckland urban rail network is absolutely vital to help meet the economic and environmental challenges of the future and nowhere is this more pertinent than in New Lynn."

Waitakere City Council has built an additional two new bridges as part of the redevelopment of New Lynn town centre and the Auckland Regional Transport Authority is well underway on the construction of a new station and bus interchange.

The opening of the trench comes after 18 months of intensive construction using innovative techniques. The trench walls were built underground using a diaphragm wall methodology that is still uncommon in New Zealand, followed by the excavation of 89,000 cubic metres of earth - predominantly clay - over six months.

Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey says the trench, station and roading improvements will see New Lynn well on its way to becoming a vibrant and people-friendly town centre where people will want to live, work and play.

And he says the clay on which New Lynn was built can't be forgotten.

"It was the art of clay that gave New Lynn its beginnings, and today we celebrate a new beginning for New Lynn that again has been carved from thousands of tonnes of clay," says Mayor Harvey. "This rail trench will revolutionise this town centre and ensure it is a sustainable commercial and community hub for generations to come."

The Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA) is looking toward to the opening of the new station in September as a major improvement for New Lynn commuters who have been patient with the many changes occurring as the project progresses.

ARTA Chairman, Rabin Rabindran said "New Lynn station is one of the busiest stations on Auckland's rail network, and with projected population growth in the region, the station will be a pivotal hub in Auckland's transport network.
"Its development will allow for more frequent and reliable passenger rail services in the west whose population can already lay claim to being one of the biggest public transport users in the west."

When the second track is laid through the trench in June the Western Line Duplication Project will be complete, improving the capacity and reliability of Auckland's rail network.

"Having a full section of double track on the entire western line will have service performance benefits because trains will not be delayed waiting for another train travelling in the opposite direction through single track sections, resulting in fewer delays and cancellations for customers." Mr Rabindran said.

A temporary station will operate inside the trench until the opening of ARTA's new station in September. Access is from Hetana St and Memorial Dr - for more information on travelling by train see maxx.co.nz

1 March

Mayor Harvey praises Auckland tsunami response management and volunteers

Mayor Bob Harvey

Mayor Bob Harvey pleased with Auckland response to tsunami alert.

Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey says he is "overwhelmingly pleased" with how yesterday's tsunami response has been handled.

"This was the first major test of the new Waitakere tsunami siren system, and while it was not necessary to activate the warning sirens today, the planning and supervision of the response has been fantastic.

"Auckland and New Zealand can take their hats off to our civil defence response staff and volunteers."

Mayor Harvey, a strong advocate for the introduction of the Waitakere tsunami siren system, says it is right that civil defence staff have maintained the warnings in place through the day.

"Secondary waves can be as big or bigger than the first one, so it is important that surfers, boaties and swimmers are warned to stay away until all danger has passed."

"Sadly we have learnt that tsunami have the potential to be deadly. If in doubt, don't go out on the water."

Mayor Harvey said he was concerned to hear that people have been demanding the right to go swimming or boating, disregarding the advice of civil defence volunteers working on the ground at beaches and boat ramps.

Speaking on behalf of Auckland's mayors, he said, "We realise it's an inconvenience on a sunny Sunday, but I am adamant that this kind of irresponsible behaviour is just plain stupid - there's no excuse."

Mayor Harvey praised and thanked volunteers for putting up with irresponsible behaviour.

"The civil defence authorities are the experts and people should listen to their advice."

"It's been a sleepless night but Auckland can be proud of this tsunami response."

FFor information on Waitakere's tsunami siren warning system.

1 March

Kohu Road ice cream licks the sweet taste of success

Mayor Bob Harvey helped local children officially open Kohu Road Ice Cream's new creamery.

Mayor Bob Harvey helped local children officially open Kohu Road Ice Cream's new creamery.

Greg Hall and the Kohu Road Ice Cream company have got the luxury ice cream market licked, despite the recession. And all of the company's employees are enjoying the sweet taste of success.

After just two years in business and small beginnings in Greg's basement in Kohu Rd, Titirangi, the company's annual turnover is now more than a million dollars. Today it officially opened a new, bigger creamery in New Lynn, complete with 10 full time employees who are shareholders.

"One of the foundations of Kohu Road is that we all work together and I don't mean the old cliché of teamwork," says Greg. "I mean we are colleagues on the same level and no one is more important than anyone else. I am not the boss and we each take leadership when needed. It's all about trusting each other. So a natural extension of that structure is that everyone is an actual owner by way of shares. This cements the idea that it's about our company and not 'Greg's company'."

It's like the difference between renting a house and owning your own home, Greg adds. "You're always going to look after your home and do a bit extra if it's yours rather than someone else's."

The factory is in the Portage Rd Business Park, the old Astley Tannery, and its 660 square metres means much more room than Greg's basement or the company's last location, a commercial kitchen in Newton - including room for expansion.

"When we ran out of room we were really keen to come back west. Waitakere City Council understands manufacturing and New Lynn is a great location with excellent road connections," says Greg.

"On top of that the redevelopment plans for the town centre are really exciting. It's certainly an area on the up and up and we are very enthusiastic about our new base and our future."

Waitakere City Council is one of several partners in the multi million dollar redevelopment of New Lynn which involves huge improvements to rail infrastructure, roading and footpaths and a revitalised town centre.

"When we began planning the rebirth of New Lynn many years ago attracting businesses like Kohu Rd was top of mind," says Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey who officially opened the new creamery. "Greg and his team are a true business success story and it's significant the opening is just before the first train goes into the underground trench in New Lynn because now is the start of a very bright future."

The creamy and rich Kohu Road ice cream has taken the luxury ice cream market by storm. It's won several awards, supplies 200 stores here and in Australia. The ice cream is made by hand using only the freshest, highest quality ingredients and has no artificial colours or flavours. The new premises have an open plan office area, a glassed-in production area, numerous freezers and a sales and tasting room which is open to the public.

"We've got the best of both worlds really," said Mr Hall. "The nice newness of the space while still retaining the old building's character."

The official opening of the new factory was held in conjunction with a Waitakere Enterprise Business After 5 gathering, held on the last Friday of each month at different business venues across the city as a networking opportunity.