Media Releases

Two times Commonwealth Games gold medallist and Westie icon Beatrice Faumuina will spearhead this year's Generation 2 Generation event at the Massey Leisure Centre and Library.

Beatrice will be joining in the action-packed day of games, face painting, book making, story telling and other fun activities on July 11 (10am-2pm).

Supported by the Waitakere City Council and the YMCA, the fourth annual Generation 2 Generation aims to showcase the Massey Leisure Centre and Library and features entertainment for all the family.

Hip hop dance group Limit Break will perform and there will be a giant games room, a book making room, face painting, interactive preschool and family story times, the Waitakere Voices choir and so much more.

Take this chance to experience these fabulous facilities for free and see for yourself what is on offer.

What: Generation 2 Generation

When: Saturday 11 July - 10-2pm

Where: Massey Leisure Centre and Library - corner Don Buck Road and Westgate Drive

30 June

Mayor reaches out to the Pacific

Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey is delighted to be joining a Pacific delegation headed by Prime Minister John Key.

He will accompany the Prime Minister, the Hon Pita Sharples and the Minister of Pacific Island Affairs Georgina te Heuheu on a tour of Samoa, Tonga Niue and Rarotonga from July 7 to 10.

Other delegates include prominent Westies and former All Blacks Michael Jones and Va’aiga Tuigamala.

Strengthening Waitakere’s ties with the Pacific is top of Mr Harvey’s agenda.

“Pacific peoples make up 15 percent of Waitakere City’s population. They are a vital to the wellbeing of our city.

“This is about strengthening that connection. I want to show solidarity with Pacific communities.”

He also wants to use the trip to draw attention to environmental concerns.

Pacific atolls and lagoons are suffering due to climate change and pollution, says Mr Harvey.

“Climate change is a very real and imminent threat in the Pacific. In some areas its effects are already being felt,” says Mr Harvey.

“It’s unjust that the first nations to feel the effect of climate change are those that contribute the least to causing it.”

30 June

Council approves plan

Waitakere City Council has formally approved its Long Term Council Community Plan, which includes its budget for the next financial year.

Waitakere's council controlled rates increase next year is 2.97 percent (or $1 a week for the average household).

External levies (for organisations like MoTaT and the Auckland Zoo), which are outside of the council's control and which it is required by law to collect, amount to 65 cents per week for the average property.

"In most cases people pay more a month for single services like power or telephones than they do for rates and all the services that come with that- things like roads, parks, libraries and so on," says Janet Clews, chairperson of the Council's Long Term Council Community Plan and Annual Plan Committee.

The budget has also been to the Auckland Transition Agency and Audit New Zealand for approval.

Over the next 10 years the budget includes $443.7 million for the extensive development of New Lynn and what is known as the Northern Strategic Growth Area, from Westgate to Hobsonville.

The revitalisation of New Lynn alone is expected to generate 12,000 new jobs.

The budget also includes $1.74 million for redevelopment of the Te Atatu Peninsula Community Centre and $7.1 million to build a new art gallery next to Lopdell House in Titirangi was brought forward in the 10-year plan. After receiving a number of public submissions the Council decided to retain its mobile library bus.

The council received 353 submissions on its plan.

"We put a lot of hard work into getting the balance between being fiscally responsible in tough economic times while still investing in the future growth and development of the area," says Mrs Clews.

She adds that the vast bulk of the Council's budget is being spent on "the basics"- things like roading, parks, libraries and stormwater management.

Full copies of the 10 year plan will be available on this website within the next few days.

30 June

Queens Wharf revamp will benefit region

Some of the Auckland's civic leaders took a tour of Queens Wharf

Some of the Auckland's civic leaders took a tour of Queens Wharf

Auckland's civic leaders have been given a tour of Queen's Wharf, which will be turned into a large public event space in time for the Rugby World Cup.

Pictured outside the old sheds which are to be transformed over the next few years are (from left) Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey, North Shore Mayor Andrew Williams, Franklin Mayor Mark Ball, Manukau Mayor Len Brown and Auckland Regional Council chairman Mike Lee.

Mayor Harvey says the Queens Wharf development is about more than just the Rugby World Cup.

"The Rugby World Cup is just the catalyst for the development of a tired and under-utilised area of our magnificent waterfront.

"This is a chance to create a world class facility that will benefit the Auckland region long after rugby fans have gone home."

The area will become a "live site" throughout the tournament - an open air space for up to 15,000 that will become a magnet for fans unable to get to a game.

30 June

Tram Valley Road re-opens

Tram Valley Rd, in Swanson, has re-opened.

The no exit road was closed by flooding yesterday, after a culvert was blocked.

The 1m high flood waters left around 25 homes isolated and residents were transported to and from their properties by a large truck, supplied by Waitakere City Council contractors.

Council spokesperson Wally Thomas says water was pumped away from the road overnight and it was deemed safe for vehicles early this morning.

Contractors are now working to clear the culvert.

29 June

Flooding has closed Tram Valley Road

Tram Valley Road closed

Tram Valley Road (Swanson) has flooded, leaving around 25 homes isolated.

Waitakere City Council suspects a culvert has either blocked or collapsed, leading to flooding 800mm deep in places.

Contractors are on site with high speed pumps and diggers to remove any obstruction.

Residents and motorists are advised not to try and negotiate the road.

In the case of emergency residents should phone 111 or for general inquires the Council’s 24 hour call Centre on (09) 839-0400.

29 June

Priority lane completes Te Atatu interchange upgrade

A new managed priority lane from the Te Atatu Peninsula began operating this morning (Monday 29, June), signalling the completion of a series of improvements to the interchange at Te Atatu Road on the Northwestern Motorway.

Waitakere motorists can now take advantage of improvements by the NZ Transport Agency which has seen two sets of ramp signals installed, a new managed priority lane, new traffic lights and widening of on and off-ramps to improve capacity and traffic flow. The first phase of work at the interchange began in November last year with work on all five ramps having been completed progressively over the past seven months.

Ramp signals - traffic lights at on-ramps that manage the rate at which vehicles move down the ramp and onto the motorway - help improve traffic flows and safety on the motorway, while enabling more consistent speeds, safer merging and more predictable travel times. The signals operate only when needed during busy periods and remain off at all other times.

Managed priority lanes are special lanes that can be used by certain vehicles to bypass the signals while they are operating. The lanes are open at all times. Light vehicles under 3.5 tonnes including courier vans and utes are not permitted to use the lanes unless there are two or more people in the vehicle. Motorists are advised to look out for signs on the approaches to the on-ramp to show which vehicles can use the lanes.

The managed priority lane on the citybound on-ramp from the Peninsula can be used by trucks, buses, taxis, motorcycles and car-pool vehicles (two or more people per car). Priority vehicles can also access the lane from Te Atatu South by turning right from a new slip lane.

NZTA Acting Regional Director for Auckland and Northland Tommy Parker says that the ramp signals and associated improvements are significant for local motorists, 'The widening of the on-ramp to two lanes on the two citybound ramps from Te Atatu South and from the Peninsula has meant a priority lane could be created at this key interchange, which had been only partially signalised for years. Now this gives priority vehicles the advantage of faster access to the motorway during peak times,' he says.

There are now eight ramp signals operating on the Northwestern Motorway between Newton Road and Te Atatu Road. Ramp signals at Lincoln Road and Royal Road will be completed and commissioned over the next two months. The ramp signals will improve a number of capacity and safety issues on the Northwestern Motorway and are being co-ordinated with Waitakere City's planned improvements to Lincoln Road and Te Atatu Road. A priority lane is also being installed on the Lincoln Road citybound on-ramp.

The operations at ramps on the Southern Motorway since 2007 have achieved significant peak period improvements, with a 15% gain in travel speeds and a 5 to 15% increase in the rate of vehicles flowing on the motorway.

For more information visit www.nzta.govt.nz/rampsignalling/

26 June

Wanted: writers to uncover West's unique history

The JT Diamond Essay Competition to uncover the West's heritage.

By international standards Waitakere might be considered a young city, but there is no denying that the West possesses a unique and fascinating history.

From its hardy indigenous people, to the gum fields and vineyards which brought the first European settlers to Waitakere in numbers, the city is bursting with stories just waiting to be told.

And it is tales of local history that the JT Diamond Essay Competition aims to uncover.

Coordinated by the West Auckland Historical Trust and Waitakere Library and Information Services, the annual event offers adults (excluding professional writers) and students a chance to write essays in numerous categories relating to the city's history.

For the first time in 2009 a new category - The Morris Photographic Prize - will be added to the JT Diamond Essay Competition.

The category will be an award for an essay which uses as its starting point an historic photograph from the Waitakere library's collection and compares it with a photograph of today, linking the past with the present to make a record for the future.

Councillor Judy Lawley, Chair of the Culture and Community Committee, says it's fantastic to see the competition extended again.

"This wonderful opportunity for writers becomes more significant each year," she says.

"We've had the diamond prize donated by Franich Jewellers and the tremendous growth of the children's section involving our schools and now a new prize. This is all part of remembering and celebrating the heritage of the West."

Entries are open until August 21, 2009.

For the full details of the JT Diamond Essay Competition including accepted topics, entry forms and prizes, visit a branch of the Waitakere Libraries, go to www.waitakerelibs.govt.nz, or call the West Auckland Historical Society on 09 836 5917.

26 June

Graffiti removal programme extended

Community work offenders clear graffiti from rail corridor.

A groundbreaking pilot programme that uses offenders to beautify graffiti-prone areas of the Henderson rail corridor has received Ministry of Justice funding to extend into neighbouring Sunnyvale.

Running since July 2008, the scheme uses community work offenders, who have been ordered by the courts to complete reparation sentences, to remove rubbish and graffiti and undertake landscaping work to help deter future tagging.

A New Zealand first, the project is managed by Waitakere City Council’s Safe Waitakere team and involves the Department of Corrections, KiwiRail and the Auckland Regional Graffiti Free (ARGF) Project. Resene and the Tag Out Trust are also continuing their support for the initiative by providing recycled paint and equipment and sponsoring artwork for junction boxes.

Waitakere City councillor and Tag Out Trust chairman Derek Battersby says the programme has had a significantly positive impact on the local environment.

“The programme has been successful in keeping the Henderson rail corridor 99 per cent clean over the past 10 months - and from that perspective alone, it’s been a hugely worthwhile venture,” he says.

“This initiative is also a great example of how people can work together to achieve a common goal - beautifying an area of the city that often bears the brunt of the spray can. It’s been a win-win for everyone involved and no doubt rail commuters are appreciating the difference also.”

The beautification work is undertaken off-peak on Sundays (weather permitting) by a team of 14 community service workers and two supervisors. Workers and supervisors follow a rail corridor safety plan developed by the council and KiwiRail. The council also provides such services as free rubbish removal and landscaping advice.

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25 June

Waitakere Submission off to Select Committee

The council has completed its submission to the Select Committee on Auckland Governance.

Waitakere City Council has unanimously approved its submission to the Select Committee on Auckland Governance.

Some key aspects of Waitakere's submission are:

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

Mayor Bob Harvey says Waitakere, along with other councils, does not oppose the concept of re-organisation in Auckland. "The region faces massive problems and challenges, particularly in the areas of public transport, regional planning and so on," he says.

"But there is a real risk that the Government throws the baby out with the bathwater and simply takes away the power of local communities to determine what is important to them."

Waitakere's submission states: "The Bill does not match the innovation of the bold move to a one city-region and thus runs the risk of not delivering the gains that purportedly drive this reform."

"Basically if local boards are not given sufficient powers and functions to deliver locally then the Auckland Council will get bogged down and will not be able to concentrate on the major regional issues," says Mayor Harvey. "Local boards must be able to make real decisions in consultation with their communities, not just follow prescribed orders."

Waitakere's deputy mayor, Penny Hulse, points to recent, independent, polls which show the majority of Aucklanders are against to the Government's plans.

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

She says the submission looks closely at the purpose of the proposed Community Councils (local boards). "If the Government gets that wrong and effectively neuters local democracy then Auckland will go backwards," she says.

"The balance has to be struck between the Auckland Council setting policy and vision and the local councils delivering what their residents want and need."

24 June

Red hot demand for green advice

Demand for online information about making homes sustainable is booming.

Demand for online information about making homes sustainable is booming.

Waitakere's Sustainable Home Guidelines are proving to be a massive hit - literally.

Internet traffic to the council's website section on sustainable homes and living shows a phenomenal appetite for information on green, efficient living.

Each day the Sustainable Home Guidelines are read by 120 people - who seek information on issues ranging from efficiently using appliances, to designing your house to gain maximum solar benefit, to running an efficient composting system.

In the 10 months to May this year, more than 15,000 people downloaded practical and free advice on home insulation.

"People are clearly understanding that building a more sustainable home or retrofitting their existing home will save them money in the long run as well saving the environment", says Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse.

Access the Sustainable Home Guidelines.

The guidelines - which have been revised this year to incorporate the latest research on building science and updated utility prices and charges - is presented in a jargon-free, public-friendly style ensuring everyone can utilise the information.

The guidelines are also available in book form from the council for $35.

The Waitakere City Council also offers an Eco Design Advisor service.

This free and independent service provides home owners with tailored, face-to face, practical advice on designing or renovating their homes to be more comfortable, healthier, cheaper to run, and kinder to the planet.

Just contact the council's 24-hour call centre, and ask to speak to the Eco Design Advisor.

24 June

Maori legend and music for Matariki

Musician Anna Coddington performs at Waitakere Central Library next week.

Musician Anna Coddington performs at Waitakere Central Library next week.

Waitakere Libraries is celebrating Matariki with two sparkling events next week.

On June 29 and 30, storyteller Rewi Spraggon and sound maker Riki Bennett will be at Waitakere Central library in Henderson for storytime.

They will present The Legends of Maui - Te Ika, one of the many stories about the legendary demi-god Maui. The story talks about his many achievements from childhood.

Rewi and Riki, who also present a show on Maori TV, will take you on a journey back in time with the emotional sounds of Taonga Puoro (traditional Maori instruments) and the contemporary sounds which influence this epic tale.

They will be at the library at 1pm on both days.

The second event is a performance by one of New Zealand's leading Maori female musicians, Anna Coddington, also at Waitakere Central Library.

With the release of her self-produced debut album, The Lake, in 2008, Anna has starting to establish herself as more than a blip on the New Zealand music radar. She's toured New Zealand several times and is attracting positive support from critics.

"From the opening note I was captivated by the sincerity of Coddington's voice and the sophistication of her lyrics," said a reviewer for www.texture.co.nz

She performs on Tuesday, June 30 at 12.30pm.

22 June

Waitakere's community heroes recognised

Audrey Chan recieved one of three Citywide Awards at the Waitakere Community Board Unsung Hero Awards on Friday.

Audrey Chan received one of three Citywide Awards at the Waitakere Community Board Unsung Hero Awards on Friday.

Waitakere's community stalwarts took centre stage at the 2009 Waitakere Community Boards Unsung Hero Awards.

The recipients were honoured at a special ceremony held in the Waitakere City Council chambers on Friday night (June 19).

Now in their second year, the awards recognise the efforts of the city's community volunteers. Twenty three people received an award, five from each of the four wards and three citywide awards, presented to people whose work has an impact across the whole of Waitakere.

"It's important to recognise the wonderful people in our community that volunteer their time and passion to a wide range of organisations, for the benefit of others," says convenor of the awards panel and Henderson Community Board member Shirley Savage.

"There are some incredible people doing incredible things in Waitakere without fanfare. This is our chance to say 'thank you' and 'what you do is really appreciated'."

She says the calibre of the people nominated and the diversity of organisations they represent meant tough choices for the judges.

And the winners are:

Massey

Jean Webster: Volunteer and fundraiser for range of groups including Ranui Plunket. Jean is a previous member of the Massey Community Board and caregiver at Spectrum Care Trust Home.
Barbara Fletcher: Leader and volunteer of the Massey Group of La Leche League, helping mothers and parents with newborn babies.
Lyn White: Volunteer with swimming and Brownies in the Massey area for more than 30 years.
Bob Jessopp: A volunteer with the Playhouse Theatre and Waitemata Theatre, Museum of MOTAT and setting up a science fiction club in Kelston.
Linda Lewis: Volunteers with the Herald Island Community Patrol and neighbourhood support groups.

Henderson

Zita Kay: Volunteer at West Auckland Hospice for 21 years.
Dick and June Wouters: Volunteers with the Friendly Support Network supporting immigrants' welfare, and heavily involved with resident support at the Ons Dorp retirement home.
Jillian Creamer: Founding member of the Henderson Baptist Church childcare programme and for the past decade a dedicated fundraiser and volunteer.
Andrea Partington: A volunteer with Victim Support in Waitakere since 2000, Andrea provides practical and emotional support to victims of crime and trauma, often immediately after an incident occurs. In 2004 she trained as a 'homicide worker' and was also chosen to take part in a pilot project to support those bereaved by suicide.
Ron Crawford: A volunteer with Victim Support in Waitakere since 2005, Ron combines running his own business with the demands of his role with Victim Support. Trained as a homicide worker in 2006 and in 2007 joined the pilot project to support those bereaved by suicide.

New Lynn

Aline Radovan: Volunteer assistant and coordinator of West Auckland Diabetes group.
Mike Brennan: Volunteer caretaker of retirement units in New Lynn. Mike helps other tenants with maintenance and recycling, as well as assisting stroke patients.
Neil Turner: President of the Glen Eden Athletics Club for more than 10 years. Neil's leadership and fundraising efforts have been invaluable to the club.
Billie (surname withheld): Volunteer security patroller in the New Lynn business area LynnMall. She also works with youth and community groups.
Lyn Brown: For 12 years has run the herb group associated with the Auckland Herb Society and treasurer since 2000. A coach, umpire, player and organiser with Waitemata Hockey Club since 1968, and still umpires the North Shore competition.

Waitakere Award

Sharon Davies and Chris Bindon: For their work within the Swanson community, including tree plantings days, and with Keep Waitakere Beautiful and Forest & Bird. They are also involved in the Swanson Station Trust.
Robert and Rachel Burrowes: Established the WiKarekare Trust to introduce a wireless internet connection to the Karekare community.
Dorothy Miller and Lois Tallot: Volunteers and organisers of Selwyn Group, which offers exercise programmes and social events for seniors living in Swanson.
Pat LaRoche: The coordinator for Piha Coastcare, volunteers dedicated to the preservation of Piha's unique coastal environment.
Simon Brown: For services in improving water quality in coastal communities. He is one of the representatives on the Piha Karekare Local Water Agenda Group.

Citywide Award

Jorge Mendez-Cunha (Massey): For his work with the Latin American community offering translation services, and the voice of Utopias - a Spanish radio programme. He also a volunteers at Ronald McDonald House bringing together other Latino families to entertain the resident families.
Audrey Chan (New Lynn): Over many years has organised fundraising events for a range of worthy causes including Paralympics New Zealand, flood relief in China, surf lifesaving and the West Auckland Health Services Foundation. She is also the organiser and MC of the highly successful Moon Festival.
Lyn MacDonald (New Lynn): Volunteer for Bird Rescue for more than 20 years, Lyn has cared for thousands of sick and injured birds.

22 June

Last chance to make your voice heard on the super city

Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse

Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse

Don't let Waitakere City go "quietly into the night".

That's the message from Waitakere Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse as super city legislation looms.

"Westies can't just go quietly into the night. We have to show the government they can't trample over local democracy.

"We have a proud, strong community. Let's stand up and make our voice heard."

Submissions on the Local Government (Auckland Council) Act must be made before Friday, 26 June.

It will decide the shape and structure of Auckland's politics for decades to come.

Waitakere City Council has raised strong concerns with the act.

Key issues include:

That the proposed election at large model is flawed.
Maori should have a clear say at the new council.
There should be between 12 and 20 community boards rather than the proposed 20 to 30.

Deputy Mayor Hulse says many community groups need to put pen to paper and make their views heard.

This select committee process will be the only real chance for residents to have a say, she says.

"This radical change has been foisted upon Auckland with zero consultation.

"This is our chance to tell the select committee what we think. We have to the have a say on the make up of our future city."

Waitakere City Council's submission to the select committee will be considered at the council meeting on Wednesday, 24 June.

Select committee submission forms are available at www.parliament.nz.

19 June

Council steps in to save Enviroschools in Waitakere

Waitakere City Council has extended a lifeline to keep the Enviroschools programme in the west afloat, increasing its funding to the programme by $90,000 over two years.

The national programme, currently joint funded by central government and councils, was facing an uncertain future after the Ministry of Education announced it was pulling funding from the programme in December.

Waitakere Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse said once again, local government is stepping in to support programmes that central government has dropped.

"The Government has said that councils could continue to support Enviroschools and naturally we were concerned that without our support the programme may well fall over.

"It's ironic that at a time when we have a government wanting Auckland councils to butt out of things not considered core council business, it is local government left to pick up the slack in this regard," she says.

Waitakere's Long Term Council Community Plan (LTCCP) and Annual Plan Committee recommended that it provide an additional $30,000 in 2009/2010 and an additional $60,000 in 2010/2011 to the EcoMatters Environment Trust, which currently delivers the programme to some Waitakere schools.

The extra funds are on top of the $30,000 the council already gives to the programme.

"Obviously we hope the Government will see sense and reconsider its decision but we want to ensure the programme's survival in the West for the next two years at least," says Cr Hulse.

She says whether it extends beyond that time is for the new Auckland Council to decide.

There are 26 Waitakere schools involved in the Enviroschools programme with the EcoMatters Environment Trust providing a facilitator to support eight of these.

There are two schools currently without a facilitator and the others are serviced by a range of agencies including the Auckland Regional Council and Team Solutions (University of Auckland), which also provides professional development for schools on behalf of the Ministry of Education.

If the Government sticks by its decision to cut funding it will mean that 12 of the 26 Waitakere Enviroschools will be without a facilitator from January. These include the 10 currently serviced by Team Solutions and the two without a facilitator.

EcoMatters Trust has assessed that to provide these additional 12 schools with the same level of support would cost $60,000.

The council will formally adopt its LTCCP on June 30.

19 June

Swine flu precautions should be taken

Sneeze in to a tissue not your hand to reduce risk of spreading swine flu

As the prospect of swine flu spreading increases, Waitakere City residents are being urged to take a few commonsense precautions and to listen to public service announcements carefully.

Some estimates say that as much as 60% of the population could be affected by the H1N1 virus, otherwise known as swine flu.

Derek Battersby, who heads Waitakere City Council's Emergency Services Committee, says that if large numbers of people need to be quarantined in their homes, then they should have some simple plans in place.

"People should think about stocking the cupboards with good, healthy food to last a week or so," he says.

And Mr Battersby says that friends, family and neighbours should keep in contact with those who do come down with the illness via telephone and be on hand to assist if needed.

He also urges people to follow Ministry of Health guidelines and suggestions which include:

Wash and dry your hands frequently
Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds and dry them for 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand rub.
Wash your hands before preparing food and eating or smoking; after coughing, sneezing, wiping children's noses, visiting the toilet or changing nappies.

Cover your cough and sneeze

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and put your used tissue in a bin. (If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve - not your hands.)

Remember to:

Wash your hands afterwards
Avoid touching your nose, mouth or eyes. Germs spread that way
Stay away from other people if you or they are sick

If you become unwell:

Stay away from other people.
Try to stay a metre away from sick people to reduce the spread of germs.
Reduce time spent in crowded settings.

Contamination and cleaning
Regularly clean flat surfaces such as bathroom sinks, bedside cabinets, desks and table tops where germs can live for up to 48 hours. Wipe them down with a household disinfectant.

If you've got flu symptoms:
Stay at home for seven days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer.

Meanwhile the council has a pandemic response plan, developed during the SARS and Bird Flu scares several years ago and is monitoring the situation daily.

"The Ministry of Health is the lead agency for the swine flu and along with everyone else we will be taking direction from them," Councillor Battersby says.

"But we have plans in place to keep critical business services such as water and rubbish collection going and if necessary close public buildings such as libraries and community centres."

For further information, go to www.moh.govt.nz or phone the Swine Flu hotline on 0800 611-116.

18 June

Waitakere recommends 2.97 percent rates increase

The continuation of the mobile library service is among recommendations of Waitakere's LTCCP and Annual Plan Committee.

The continuation of the mobile library service is among recommendations of Waitakere's LTCCP and Annual Plan Committee.

Waitakere's Long Term Council Community Plan (LTCCP) and Annual Plan Committee has recommended a council controlled total rate increase of 2.97 percent ($1 a week for the average household) for the 2009-2010 financial year.

External levies outside of the council's control which it is required by law to collect amount to a further 1.98 percent (65 cents per week).

The full council will consider the recommendation on June 30 after the plan and budget has been to the Auckland Transition Agency and Audit New Zealand for their approval.

Over the next 10 years the budget includes funding of $443.7 million for the extensive development of New Lynn and the Northern Strategic Growth Area (NORSGA) from Westgate to Hobsonville. The revitalisation of New Lynn is expected to generate 12,000 new jobs and the NORSGA development is one of the most significant and complex projects in New Zealand offering many lifestyle benefits to the people of Waitakere and the Auckland region and major opportunities for the development of the community.

The development of these growth centres and associated infrastructure are central to the council's target of providing for 60 percent of local employment for the city's residents.

The budget also includes $1 million for the McLaren Park / Henderson South community facility, a Rugby World Cup contribution of $795,000 in year two of the plan and $1.6 million in year three, a $300,000 upgrade of the Corban Art Estate, $30,000 for the Waitakere City Orchestra and a continuation of the mobile library service following submissions on those projects from the community.

Altogether the council received more than 350 submissions to the LTCCP with many submitters taking the opportunity to have their say in front of the committee.

Committee chair Councillor Janet Clews says the budget and plan are the culmination of many months of work and community engagement.

"We put a lot of energy, hard work and thought into striking a balance between being fiscally responsible in tough economic times while still investing in the future growth and development of the west," she says.

"We still need to invest in infrastructure to unlock employment and economic stimulus and to deliver what we must, for now and future generations."

18 June

Matariki festival lights up the west

Matariki Festival 2009

Matariki Festival 09

Art, music, film and thought-provoking insights on environmental and cultural sustainability make up an impressive line up for Matariki celebrations in Waitakere this year.

The Matariki Festival 09 runs 24 June - 24 July with events across the Auckland region and whatever your artistic tastes, you will be spoilt for choice this year.

"Matariki is without a doubt one of the highlights of the region's cultural calendar," says chair of Waitakere City Council's Culture and Community Committee, Judy Lawley.

"As well as exposing the community to a rich and diverse range of traditional, arts, crafts and entertainment the festival is a chance to learn more about the cultural significance of Matariki to Maori."

In Waitakere the month of celebration kicks off on June 26 with a spectacular opening night, Te Marama o Matariki (The Light of Matariki) at Corban Estate Arts Centre (CEAC) in Henderson.

It will feature outdoor sculptures, a pyrotechnic and fire interpretation of Matariki. It also marks the start of an exhibition of the same name, running June 27 to August 9.

Featured artists include Richard Wedekind, Tracey Tawhaio, Toi-Te-Rangiuaia, Todd Douglas, Brydee Rood, Tanya Ruka, Penny Howard, Tony Brown, Isla Osborne, Ronald Andreassend and Anne Field.

CEAC also hosts a Maori film night on July 3, featuring a series of short films in association with the Wairoa Maori Film Festival Society. Titles include Tangaroa God of the Sea, Shadows, Journey to Ihipa, Patu Ihu, Aphrodite's Farm, Graffiti of Mr Tuipaia and Tuia.

Waitakere's signature event of the festival is Nga Korero Tataki (Leadership Conversations) - New Thinking for Old Leadership on July 14, 15 and 16 at the Waitakere City Council chambers.

Organised and hosted by the council, this symposium explores the concept of environmental and cultural sustainability through contemporary and traditional Maori thinking. A great line-up of speakers is being put together for what is sure to be a series that will challenge people's thinking.

If you love music then the Matariki Music Night at Corban Arts Estate on July 18 is the place to be. This is a rare chance to enjoy the talents of some of the country's leading Maori performers, including Tama Waipara featuring songs from the album Sir + Plus and the Requirements, Maisey Rika, Horo Horomona, Mahina Kaui, Selector Exile, and VJ Aue.

There are plenty of art events for children throughout the month. The sparking stars of Matariki, Nga Ramarama Whetu o Matariki on July 21 sees Hoani Waititi Marae working with local köhanga reo on an event that will see children producing masks depicting the whänau of Matariki.

West Coast Gallery in Piha also has a school arts programme, Te Ahurei o Matariki while the Te Whanau O Waipareira Trust will hold Pikihia Nga Maunga Climbing Those Mountains - a forum with a positive message for youth.

Waitakere's Matariki events are a part of Auckland's regional Matariki Festival, celebrating Maori New Year with a range of events and activities across Tamaki Makarau. To find out more about what's going on visit www.matarikifestival.org.nz.

Matariki Festival 09 is proudly supported by New Zealand Post.

What is Matariki?
Matariki is the Maori name for the star cluster commonly known as Pleiades or The Seven Sisters. When translated Matariki it means tiny eyes or eyes of god. It is often referred to as Maori New Year.

See the Matariki Festival 09 page for a programme of events in Waitakere.

17 June

Ranui Library

Library's temporary closure a precaution

Waitakere City Council temporarily closed its Ranui library yesterday morning, as a precautionary measure, following an outbreak of swine-flu.

Yesterday the nearby Ranui Primary school was shut following a number of confirmed cases. Several students visited the library, which raised concerns about possible transmission.

Council spokesperson Wally Thomas says the Council did not want to be alarmist, but took a conservative approach and decided to close the library until advice from Ministry of Health was received.

"The library is a gathering place and focal point for the Ranui community, so we thought it best to close it until we had more information," he says. "We also wanted to ensure that library staff were not being unduly put at risk."

This morning the Council was told by the Ministry that the library could remain open.

Mr Thomas says the Council responded in line with its comprehensive "Pandemic Response Plan", first developed during the SARS and bird-flu scares several years ago.

It will continue to monitor the situation.

For further information on the swine-flu go to: http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf

17 June

Stand up and be counted on super city, says Mayor Bob

Mayor Bob Harvey

Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey is urging Westies to have their say on the proposed Auckland super city.

Submissions on the second Local Government (Auckland Council) Bill close on June 26.

It will decide the shape and structure of local government in Auckland for decades.

Not making a submission means not having a say on the future city, says Mr Harvey.

"This bill is going to radically change how Auckland is run. It's going to change our lives.

"People need to address and engage this issue like their lives depend on it. Because they do."

In its current form, the bill proposes a super Auckland council with 20 to 30 community boards.

The council would have 12 councillors elected from wards and eight elected regionally.

Waitakere City Council's key issues are:

The proposed regional councillor model is flawed
There should be specifically assigned Maori seats
There should be between 12 and 20 local boards instead of the proposed 20 to 30.

Mayor Harvey says the government needs to hear a wide range of Waitakere perspectives.

"We have to ensure that all the issues are covered.

"This is the last and most important chance to have a voice. This opportunity will not come again."

Waitakere City Council will be making its own submission to the select committee.

Select committee submission forms are available at www.parliament.nz.

Advice on making a submission will be given at the Waitakere Open Door Forum this Friday, June 19 from 10am to 5pm at the West Wave Aquatic Centre in Henderson.
Envelopes, paper and stamps will be supplied.

16 June

Deadline for submissions looms

The deadline for submissions on the Local Government (Auckland Council) Bill is just 11 days away. Photo: Waitakere City Council buildings

Deadline for submissions on the Local Government (Auckland Council) Bill looms

The deadline for submissions on the Local Government (Auckland Council) Bill is just 11 days away.

The Auckland Governance Legislation Select Committee is the chance for people to have their say on the bill which outline the structure and local representation provisions in the new Auckland Council.

Submissions close on Friday, 26 June.

For further information:

Auckland Governance Legislation

How to make a submission

15 June

Pedestrian overbridge art highlights Swanson's heritage

Old tales of rail in Swanson and extracts of West Auckland literature will feature in an innovative artwork to adorn a new pedestrian overbridge planned for Swanson Rail Station.

Waitakere City Council's Culture and Community Committee approved a concept design by Titirangi graphic artist Luke Wood to incorporate into the bridge.

Wood's design is a text-based digital artwork which uses modern sign board technology which will enable words to scroll across the deck of the bridge, creating a constantly moving and changing work.

It has the potential to be utilised to feature up to date rail service information.

The committee also recommended that the Infrastructure and Works Committee approve the work be developed and implemented from the rail station precincts upgrade budget.

"Incorporating art into the bridge is not just about making it look pretty, there are some very real and practical reasons at the core of this project," says committee chair Judy Lawley.

"A bridge over the rail line is necessary to ensure safety of rail commuters so it has to be built. But we don't want it to be a bulk standard bridge."

She says this way the artwork adds interest for users and highlights Swanson's heritage and its connection to the railway.

KiwiRail (formerly ONTRACK) will install lifts at the bridge rather than long access ramps to enable disabled access. This will help to soften the visual impact of what is a large structure. The Auckland Regional Transport Authority will maintain the lifts.

A contract for the construction of the overbridge is about to be let with work expected to begin in about two weeks. Planned completion is around the end of the year.

12 June

Mayor hails effort to teach peace

Deep Parmar, left, and Teancum Lopati play with baby Olivia Ware during a Roots of Empathy Lesson.

Deep Parmar, left, and Teancum Lopati play with baby Olivia Ware during a Roots of Empathy Lesson.

Changing the world, child by child, is Mary Gordon's mission.

Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey says her next task is changing the culture in New Zealand schools.

Ms Gordon visited Glendene School with Mr Harvey and the Minister of Social Development and Employment Paula Bennett on June 11.

The decile three primary school was one of 30 in Auckland to pilot the groundbreaking Canadian educator's Roots of Empathy programme.

An expansion to 60 schools across New Zealand is underway this year.

Mr Harvey says Roots of Empathy is a key tool in the struggle against family violence.

"Family violence is a scourge on New Zealand society. This is a great initiative that can stop it before it rears its ugly head.

"Left unchecked, schoolyard aggression can ingrain habits which wreck lives.

"With the help of people like Mary, we can set these kids on the right path in life."

Ms Gordon launched Roots of Empathy 13 years ago to help children understand others' feelings.

Students are asked to observe the emotions and development of an infant brought into their class every three weeks.

Studies have shown the programme helps children reduce their aggression and develop compassion and empathy.

It is run in New Zealand, Canada, the United States and the Isle of Man.

Ms Gordon's visit to Glendene School is organised by the Peace Foundation.

Mr Harvey is president of the foundation.

She made a presentation on the programme on level two of Waitakere City Council at 5pm on June 11.

For more information see www.rootsofempathy.org.

Click here to see the NZ Herald's front page coverage of the Waitakere Roots of Empathy Programme.

12 June

Be afraid...be very afraid

By Penny Hulse Deputy mayor of Waitakere City.

Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse

Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse

Over recent months the National/ACT government's moves to trample all over democracy by creating their own version of a "Super City" in Auckland have, rightly, caused alarm up and down the country.

But as the NZ Herald editorial yesterday (June 11) points out, much worse could still be to come.

The Minister of Local Government, Rodney Hide, is proposing an even more radical shake-up which would see Councils' everywhere having their powers stripped back to the provision of "core services" only.

In many ways that statement alone shows how little the Minister of Local Government understands his own sector.

For example, in Waitakere over 80% of our expenditure is on the basics- things like stormwater, wastewater, parks, libraries, pensioner housing, roads, streetlighting, footpaths, animal control, emergency management (civil defence) and so on.

We can do the traditional three "R's" (roads, rates and rubbish) with our eyes closed. That's the easy bit. But in the 21st century towns and cities are about much more than that.

"Core business" should also be about economic development and building vibrant, sustainable, communities that people are safe and prosperous in.

The arts and cultural related programmes are also in the Minister's sights. Yet a major 2008 research project headed "New Zealanders and the Arts: Attitudes, Attendance and Participation" showed that the majority of New Zealanders support public funding of the Arts. At least 70% of adults agreed that:

the arts should receive public funding
my local council should give money to support the arts
my community would be poorer without the arts
the arts contribute positively to the economy

As the self-proclaimed "Minister for Ratepayers" perhaps the Minister could be more effective if he looked at removing GST on rates (and water rates). This charge is, after all, simply a tax on a tax.

In Waitakere's case that accounts for over $18million a year collected and shelled over, straight into Government coffers.

While long on rhetoric and short on detail, the Minister's comments do however point to an entrenched ideology. One only has to go to the ACT website to see what they have planned for local government.

Among other draconian measures are the following. I quote:

Roads and piped water will be supplied on a fully commercial basis.
Promote contracting out of many council services.

That is a pretty clear pointer to one thing: privatisation.

The neat bundling up of water services into a stand-alone entity as is happening under the Super City will make it ripe for sale. And without public ownership of such a basic necessity as water we will all be at the mercy of some, no doubt overseas-owned, corporate.

After all, that is exactly what has happened in the United Kingdom, France and South America.

The commercialisation of roads is simply code for tolls. That is a concept the public at large has very strong opinions on. Yet is seems none of us will have much of a say at all.

And contracting out of services is little better than a sell-off. Again, the Minister hasn't yet revealed details of what those services might be, but don't be surprised to see things like libraries, swimming pools and perhaps even cemetery operations run and managed by private enterprise.

At the moment, as is the case with Manukau City's free public pools policy, there is recognition that there is a "public good" component to those services. That will go out the window when the imperative becomes profit.

And good-bye to the hundreds of millions of dollars that are spent in local communities on local contractors and businesses. "Super contracts" in the Super City will only be the preserve of big business.
Clearly the agenda to corporatise local government in this country is well underway.

And, surely, if Mr Hide values democracy he should have stood an ACT candidate in every local body election in the country and let the people decide whether they supported his views. Instead he slid into Parliament with just 3.65% of the vote and is now intent on forcing his will on us all.

11 June

Council welcomes funding boost for youth project

The SUSS It space in Henderson is a place where the city's youth can go for support and advice.

The SUSS It space in Henderson is a place where the city's youth can go for support and advice.

Waitakere City Council says a government funding boost for its Youth Action 4 Change Youth project will enable more young people to initiate positive change for the city's youth.

Youth Affairs Minister Paula Bennett today announced the successful recipients of the Ministry of Youth Development's Youth Development Partnership Fund, with Waitakere receiving $102,000.

"I'm delighted to congratulate the Waitakere City Council whose innovative project, Youth Action 4 Change programme is among those to be granted funding".

"The great thing about these projects is that they get young people actively engaged and helping their peers. Having young people involved in the development and implementation of these projects is vital," Ms Bennett says.

Youth Action 4 Change was launched last year with the opening of the youth information services centre in Henderson, known as SUSS-IT.

SUSS-IT is a place where young people can access information that is relevant to them, and is presented in a youth-focused way.

The first year of the of the project has seen a large number of young people accessing information varying from health, housing, budgeting, parenting and education options.

The second part of the project is the chance for young people passionate about helping others to take on a mentoring role with fellow youth through the Youth Action 4 Change scholarship scheme.

The first scholarship recipient is Hadleigh Pouesi, a member of the former world-champion hip hop dance group, Sweet and Sour.

The extra funds will allow a further two scholarships to be made available.

Waitakere Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse welcomed the funding boost.

"This is a perfect example of the great social results that we can deliver when government and local government act together."

The Youth Development Partnership Fund provides an opportunity for the Ministry of Youth Development, territorial authorities and young people to work together to provide new and innovative local youth development projects.

More than $700,000 has been awarded to councils across New Zealand from the fund this round.

"Projects designed by adults for young people risk not hitting the mark. Why not go straight to the source? I believe it'll help strength young people's participation and engagement with their community," says Ms Bennett.

Editor's note: SUSS-IT is partnership between the youth services sector in Waitakere, the Waitakere City Council and the Ministry of Youth Development. SUSS-IT is located on Alderman Drive, Henderson (next to West Wave Aquatic Centre) and is open Monday to Friday.

11 June

Waitakere's threatened species get new policy protection

New policy aims to preserve Waitakere's unique environmental heritage

Ensuring threatened plants and animals in the West do not become extinct is the purpose of a new policy adopted by Waitakere City Council.

The threatened species policy details projects that will help the recovery of species such as the kereru, long-tailed bat and fernbird as well as threatened plant species in the urban area.

The Waitakere Threatened Species Management Policy sets out clear goals for the protection of species and methods for their recovery. It also provides guidance to staff on how best to manage these species.

"The overall goal is to have the number of threatened species not only reduced, but to get their populations thriving," says Policy and Strategy Committee chair chair Penny Hulse.

"There is no doubt urban development is putting pressure on our natural environment, which is why this policy is important because it gives staff a tool to guide them when they planning projects."

The policy is believed to be the first of its kind in the Auckland region and cements the council's commitment to protecting the unique environmental heritage of Waitakere.

A pioneer member of the of Local Governments for Sustainability (ICLEI's) Local Action for Biodiversity (LAB), the council is one of 21 cities worldwide involved in the project.

LAB participants focus on local action and delivery according to a five-step process.

Each city has to produce a biodiversity report documenting its biodiversity and management, sign the Durban Commitment on Biodiversity, develop and implementing long term strategy and action plans and agree to implement them and five new biodiversity initiatives.

Waitakere has completed four of these and is working its way to the fifth.

It was also the first city to produce a Local Biodiversity Action Plan, which has been recognised as an example for others to follow.

Waitakere has 46 animal and 160 plant species that are considered to be threatened, as reported in the most recent audits of the region's plants and animals (including invertebrates) carried out last year.

The definition of threatened can mean anything from just a few examples still living, to a recognised dwindling of numbers.

"As we prepare to move in to a new era of regional governance, in Waitakere we want to make sure that we have done what we can to ensure policies are in place to ensure the West's biodiversity is in good health for future generations," says Cr Hulse.

11 June

Waitakere action plan for local economic development

Action plan to boost local economy

More quality local jobs for local people and raising Waitakere's profile as a hive of economic activity are among priorities in the new Waitakere Economic Wellbeing Strategy.

Waitakere City Council's Policy and Strategy Committee has endorsed some priority areas for immediate attention. These include the development of a:

Business Areas Plan
Rural Economic Activities Plan
Skills Chapter/ Learning Plan
Tourism Action Plan

These top four are among 19 priority actions that will be progressed in collaboration with private and public sector partners.

"We want to provide a greater range and number of quality jobs for Waitakere residents," says committee chair Penny Hulse. "As we move into a time of regional change we want our businesses in the West to be well positioned to hold their own in the Super City."

"We want at least 60 percent of the city's growing workforce to have the choice to work locally. Achieving this target will need collaborative effort by the many stakeholders in Waitakere's economy. "

The document also builds on the progress made since the council adopted its first Economic Development Strategy in 2004, such as new business land and town centre development in the north of the city, enabling rural economic activity through the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area, council investment supporting tourism and events infrastructure such as the Trusts Stadium, and town centre regeneration that includes transport-oriented design.

Consultation was held with key business stakeholders who highlighted the many positive things happening in the city, as well areas for improvement.

A strong message from stakeholders was greater emphasis on promoting Waitakere's attractions and community identity, which while appreciated by local residents, were sometimes overshadowed by negative perceptions of the West elsewhere.

The business sector highlighted the work done by Waitakere Enterprise and the council in trying to attract business to the region, but would like to see a city promotion campaign highlighting it as a great place to do business.

Other feedback included:

A desire for a network of business areas with the "right things in the right places" and recognition of the smaller town centres as well as the three main centres.
An emphasis on the link between education and economic independence and the importance of accessible, quality education institutions as well as spaces that encourage lifelong learning, such as in community hubs.
Recognition of the council's role in collaborating with the Waitakere Education Sector Trust and developing a Learning Plan,
Appreciation of council's role in creating strategies and collaborative arrangements to address social, economic, environmental and cultural wellbeing in Waitakere.
More collaboration between business and the community and greater awareness of business programmes and services.

"Adopting this strategy endorses the council's current policy on intervention and collaboration around economic development to benefit not just Waitakere businesses but across the Auckland region," says Cr Hulse.

"But we can't do it alone. We can be the leaders and the facilitators but we all have to be in this together."

10 June

Hockey one… hockey two

Green light for the development of the city's first full sized artificial turf at Henderson High School.

Waitakere City Council today gave the green light for the development of the city’s first full-sized artificial hockey turf at Henderson High School.

The council’s Culture and Community Committee agreed to release $1.35 million of the $1.85 million allocated in 2008/09 budgets to allow the Waitakere Regional Hockey Turf Trust to progress with the first stage development of the new hockey facility - a premium quality playing turf and floodlighting.

The balance of funds will be held until the trust can secure more external funding to complete stage two of the project - a pavilion and practice turf.

With an additional $430,000 contribution from Henderson High School, the trust is now confident it can complete the main competition turf and lighting in time for the 2010 winter playing season.

The trust remains optimistic that it can source the extra funding to complete the facility and the school has also indicated that it may contribute a further $170,000 to stage two.

Culture and Community Committee chair, Councillor Judy Lawley, says the new facility will be one of the best in the entire region.

“This is a community project that’s been in the pipeline since 2002 and we are delighted it will progress as quickly as possible,” she says.

“Waitakere is the only city in the Auckland region without an artificial turf, which means our hockey players currently have to travel far and wide to play the game they enjoy. The new field will provide a great boost to the sport out west and encourage more local people to take part.”

9 June

Piha's eel bridge in line for another award

The award-winning Story of the eel footbridge in Piha

The award-winning Story of the Eel footbridge in Piha

Piha's 'Story of the Eel' footbridge is in the running for another national award after being named finalist in the Association of Consulting Engineers Innovate NZ 2009 Awards.

The bridge, linking the Piha Domain with Piha South Beach is among 35 finalists for the awards, which are announced on July 25.

In its submission for the awards, Duffill Watts, consulting engineers on the project, described the bridge as a technically complex structure, as it was challenging to incorporate the artistic aspirations of the design with a structure which met building standards and be in keeping with the unique coastal environment of Piha.

The bridge concept was created by Piha artist Mandy Patmore and represents the migratory eel, celebrating the long and short fin eels that still live in the Piha Stream.

Its winding eel-like shape is combined with a floor surface inlayed with motifs representing the different stages of the eel's life cycle.

Historically, eels were of great significance to early Maori, featuring in many myths.

"Having a bridge in the shape of an eel provides an opportunity explain the value of conservation to visitors," says Mandy Patmore.

"The eels inlayed on its floor help people understand more about this amazing creature."

Prior to its opening last year, the bridge was judged the most outstanding project at the New Zealand Recreation Association Awards.

At the time the judges praised the council for the holistic approach it took to the project and going that extra mile to make the bridge interesting.

The community was very involved in the process, including have representatives on the panel which decide on the final design the bridge.

The Piha footbridge is one of several art bridges throughout Waitakere which integrate art with modern infrastructure. Others include the Rewarewa footbridge in New Lynn, a bridge over the Opanuku Stream in Henderson and McLeod's Crossing, also in Henderson.

8 June

Worm wastewater system way to go at Huia

The thought might make many people squirm but one rural Waitakere community reckons it's on to a winner with its new worm-operated onsite wastewater system.

When faced with replacing the system that served Huia Hall and the adjacent Settlers Museum, the Huia-Cornwallis Local Water Agenda Group (LWAG) recognised the no smell, no power and no discharge system had potential.

Enter Project Pipi - an initiative by the Local Water Agenda Group which includes representatives of the Huia Cornwallis Residents and Ratepayers Association.

The community began operating the worm-operated system at the hall at the weekend (June 6) and plan to eventually link up the Settlers' Museum. They believe the system has potential for anyone in rural communities.

"We are pretty typical of many rural coastal communities facing the dilemma of how best to deal with the problem of wastewater," says Huia-Cornwallis Local Water Agenda Group (LWAG) chairperson, Denise Yates.

Many rural residents will have experienced the side-effects of on-site wastewater systems such as unpleasant odours, boggy lawns, blocked pipes and expensive maintenance.

Ms Yates says the group has worked closely with Waitakere City Council's EcoWater team to get the project off the ground.

"They have been really supportive and enthusiastic, as was the Auckland Regional Council in the later stages of the project. This is a great example of council and community working together."

The worm-based system is the invention of Coll Bell from the Matakana-based company, Simple Wastewater Solutions Ltd.

So how does it work?

Toilet waste is directed into the 'wormerator' - a two-metre long chamber in which tiger worms digest the solid matter, increasing or decreasing their population naturally to match the average incoming flow.
The liquid waste then joins the house grey water from the laundry and shower, or in the case of the Huia Hall, from the kitchen, before entering the second stage of treatment, the plant filters.
These boxed plants filter the treated effluent which then moves into the evaporator, a passive device using natural air flow to literally evaporate the treated outflow.

The system can be used for individual properties, groups of houses and public facilities such as the Huia Hall, which regularly houses events of around 100 people.

The other benefits of the system are that no excavation is required as the modules are all above ground and it only takes a few weeks to build and install.

Project Pipi was funded by The Trusts Charitable Foundation and Waitakere City Council, which covered the cost of consents and provided technical and project management resources.

8 June

View regional maps online

Want to find out more detailed information about your property?

Now you can view high-quality aerial photography, contours, property and electoral boundaries information for Waitakere and the rest of the Auckland region via a new regional website.

The site features an easy-to-use search capability to help find a location by using a property address, road name, place name or legal description. Functions include zoom, panning and distance measurement.

The easy to use site will be a great tool for anyone interested in property information such as homeowners or property developers looking to view or print maps.

The data published on this portal has been acquired by the Auckland Local Government Geospatial information (ALGGi) group, a representation of Geospatial Information System (GIS) managers and professionals from each of the region’s eight local authorities.

To view the online maps, click on the following link: http://maps.auckland.govt.nz.

5 June

Survey results show community unconvinced by super city plan

Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse

Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse

An overwhelming 81% of residents in Waitakere City want a referendum on the "Super City" proposed for Auckland.

That is among the results of a national survey released today.

The ShapeNZ survey reveals that with the exception of Auckland City, opposition to the overall idea is higher in six of the seven council areas affected by the reform, particularly in Rodney and Waitakere:

Rodney - 63% against, 17% for
Waitakere - 59% against, 22% for
North Shore - 47% against, 34% for
Franklin - 46% against, 35% for
Manukau - 45% against, 35% for
Papakura - 45% against, 18 % for

The majority of the country also believes the Government's consultation over the reform has been inadequate and that it is managing the process badly.

Sixty-three percent of New Zealanders and the majority of people in every affected council area have labelled the Government's consultation inadequate, including a whopping 91% in Papakura.

In all seven of the affected council areas, more people are dissatisfied than satisfied with the reform management, with Rodney (65%), Waitakere (62%) and North Shore (60%) the most dissatisfied.

Waitakere Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse says the survey results should send a clear message to the Government that the majority of New Zealanders don't support their plans and don't appreciate the haste in which changes are being pushed through without proper consultation.

"It's clear our communities 'get' what local government does and don't like their opinions being ignored," she says.

"The Government is acting like this is just a business merger and it's not - it's about community. People are more informed, intelligent and caring than the Government is giving them credit for and most clearly remain unconvinced that the Minister of Local Government has got it right."

"There is a dawning realisation that this reform is being done with unseemly haste. People don't like it and want to be consulted in a meaningful way, not via a truncated select committee process."

5 June

Temporary closure for Titirangi Library

Titirangi Library

Titirangi Library

The Titirangi Library will be closed for refurbishment for approximately two months from mid-July.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4 June

Sporting chance for Starling Park clubrooms

Starling Park

Starling Park

A new multi-use sports club on Ranui's Starling Park is a step closer after Waitakere City Council approved concept designs for the structure.

Users of the Starling Park Sports Club Incorporated, which include the Ranui Swanson Association Football Club and Waitakere Bears Softball Club, have been without a permanent home since the club rooms were destroyed by fire in 2005.

The proposed building will be two storeys and is expected to cost around $2.4 million to construct.

Features of the concept approved by the council's Infrastructure and Works Committee this week include:

Junior lounge on the ground floor to accommodate around 60 children, medical and changing rooms, tuck shop and umpire room.
An expansive viewing window looking out over the playing fields.
An area purpose-built for club functions, which could be hired by the local community.
Concrete viewing stands to the west and south of the clubrooms allowing for elevated viewing of softball and football matches.

"New leisure facilities like this provide opportunities for residents to participate in sport and or physical activity," says committee chairman Derek Battersby.

"Of equal importance is that the new facility would become an asset for the whole community."

The council is contributing $1m from its Leisure Partnership Fund to the project - the money granted on the proviso that the clubs can obtain the balance from external sources. The money has been allocated through the 2008/2009 Annual Plan.

The committee's approval means the project can progress to the next phase of an architect to come up with a detailed design, which will come back to council's Parks Design Review Panel for final approval.

4 June

Redundancy relief project launched

The Plus 4 Redundancy Relief programme provides meaningful work experience for people recently made redundant.

Waitakere City Council has launched a groundbreaking redundancy relief initiative that provides local residents with meaningful work experience while they seek re-employment.

The Plus 4 Redundancy Relief Programme provides for four weeks of paid work experience for 23 residents who have been recently made redundant and have no entitlement to redundancy payouts.

The council has committed money out of existing project budgets to support residents referred to the programme from Work and Income. Participants receive a gross payment of $500 per week for their work and are supported to search for jobs and attend interviews during that time.

The temporary positions cover a wide range of project work, which includes anything from planting stream banks to covering for administration staff on maternity or sick leave.

Plus 4 offers a number of benefits to participants, including the ability to maintain a work routine and ethic and gain additional experience and skills. They also receive about $100 more a week than they would on a benefit (and some also qualify for supplementary financial assistance from Work and Income such as the Accommodation Supplement). The council accrues benefits from the additional temporary staffing capacity and through the intake of new talent who may not have previously considered working in local government.

"As councils, we can do roads, rates and rubbish with our eyes closed - that's the easy part," says Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey. "But in the 21st century, councils have a much broader agenda that includes building capacity within their communities to make them stronger and more resilient.

"We've invested millions of dollars in major infrastructure projects, such as the New Lynn town centre redevelopment and Henderson film studios, that have generated thousands of local jobs and injected millions into the economy - and the ripples of these projects flow out into the community.

"But on another level there are ordinary, hard-working men and women losing their jobs through no fault of their own and this programme is a practical way of helping some of those local people through a tough time."

Mayor Harvey has also issued a challenge to other local authorities.

"We don't want this idea to stop in Waitakere. We're challenging councils around the country to adopt a similar scheme," he says.

The Minister for Social Development and Employment Paula Bennett, who is also Waitakere's local MP, has watched the development of the programme with interest.

"The Plus 4 project is a great example of communities rallying around to help support their own in these tougher times. This initiative is a practical solution to a very real problem for a growing number of New Zealand families," says the Minister.

3 June

Commissioner joins in Samoan Language Week

Human Rights Commissioner Joris de Bres enjoys storytime with children at Ranui Library during Samoan Language Week.

Human Rights Commissioner Joris de Bres enjoys storytime with children at Ranui Library during Samoan Language Week.

Race Relations Commissioner Joris de Bres stopped by to say "talofa" to children gathered at Ranui Library last week to help celebrate Samoan Language Week.

Waitakere Libraries, in association with the Human Rights Commission, organised a range of activities to celebrate and recognise Samoan as the third most spoken language in New Zealand. Many other organisations throughout the country held similar events.

"This whole week was about trying to promote the language and recognise its significance in New Zealand and in communities such as Waitakere, where I believe it is one of the most widely spoken languages," said Mr de Bres.

"This is the first time we have run the programme outside of schools and we hope it will become a regular event."

Mr de Bres joined children from Ranui Primary School being taught an action song featuring Samoan words by Alice Meredith, an educator at Auckland Museum.

She also read stories in Samoan and a mixture of Samoan and English, ran card making and tapa running sessions, how to use lavalava and demonstrations of traditional pump drills.

Bilingual storytimes were also held at New Lynn and Te Atatu Peninsula libraries.