Don McKenzie
CNZM, OBE, B.PHYSIOTHERAPY, DIP. MANIP. THERAPY, CERT. REHABILITATION
July - August 2013: Don McKenzie’s Waiheke Local Board Activity Report
New stand alone library now has a footprint
One of Waiheke’s larger concrete pours was undertaken in spectacular fashion on Friday 26 July when Gibson O’Connor oversaw the laying down of the foundation floor pad for the Library. People can now see that the building will have a footprint four times the size of the existing facility. Framing is quickly going up and we can see our modern landmark library starting to take shape.
Work on shaping and laying the associated courtyard will have to wait for more certain dry weather conditions, although preliminary planning is well in hand.
Following discussions with contractors, Artworks tenants have been assured that as the project continues, access to their premises will be preserved, well signposted and lit at night.
Outstanding Community Service awards and new Citizenship welcome
On 2nd August, the Waiheke Local Board and Auckland Civic Events hosted a crowd of around seventy residents to celebrate the award of certificates to five of the Island’s most outstanding achievers, and to welcome new citizens into our midst. Thirteen nominations for awards were received but a limit of five certificates was imposed, which challenged judges. We are not short of people who freely give of their time and talents on this Island. Music provided by Lloyd Whittaker and the V12 men’s choir set the tone for a truly enjoyable evening.
2013 awards went to:
· Billie Jordan for her vision of the World’s Oldest Flash Mob and the World's Oldest Hip Hop Dance Group; for coaching and managing them to the World Hip Hop Championships Las Vegas; and for attracting world-wide media coverage for Waiheke.
· Sue McCann for her long-term promotion of Waiheke as a tourist destination; her support for business on Waiheke; her involvement in the Business Women’s Group; her active involvement in management and sponsorship of various junior and High School sports teams; and for her assistance to youth and many not-for-profit fundraising events.
· Alf Jones for over 51 years’ service to the Waiheke Volunteer Fire Brigade and also for his time as a volunteer Ambulance driver for St John.
· Lee Stickland for his part in developing, managing and promoting soccer as a healthy family team sport on Waiheke.
· Pastor Reverend Tony Watts for the vision, leadership and inspiration behind the New Hope recycling shop, and for converting it into a successful inter-denominational social enterprise.
Celebrating the close of Matariki, the Maori New Year
As part of a series of Auckland-wide ceremonies to witness the close of Matariki, Chairman Faye Storer and I joined a small group of people, including Sally Smith from Piritahi Marae, at Pukeatua Reserve, Trig Hill Rd on the evening of 22nd July. Seven brilliant flares were ignited at exactly 7-10 pm in concert with similar groups dotted around Auckland’s promontories. The tradition is developing whereby the high points of the City including the seven volcanic cones are illuminated to farewell Matariki. The Waiheke night was clear, crisp and very still which underscored the mystery and magic of the occasion. In future years, Waiheke may be able to join this regional event as our own contribution to marking the start and end of the Maori New Year.
Other meetings and attendances
· Farewell to the world’s oldest hip hop dance group, The Hip Op-eration Crew, 31 July and 3 August;
· Waiheke Council of Social Services, 6 August;
· Omiha Welfare and Recreation Society committee meeting, 6 August;
· Meeting with Council Officers re initiatives to help build community capacity, 7 August;
· Discussions with Council Officers re a small local improvement project, and World War I commemorations, 8 August;
Workshop topics
· Transport capital fund, potential projects 2013-2014.
· Street and public places trading and licencing regulations.
· Council Service Centre upgrade , Belgium Street, programme of works, October 2013 to June 2014.
· Reserves management planning, input into possible Council approach to region-wide coordination.
· Consideration of Auckland Council social and community action plan – Thriving communities.
· Events process for monitoring and controlling weddings on beaches and use of public space.
· Review of some current proposals for small local improvement projects.
June-July 2013: Don McKenzie’s Waiheke Local Board Activity Report
Support for Waiheke Local Board Community engagement
Council officer Ian Leader has been appointed to ASSIST the Local Board’s engagement AND LIAISON with the local community. Ian has a long and successful history working in the areas of community development and engagement, and he has worked across all sectors- public (local and central government) private and community. Ian will provide strategic engagement advice the board, help with its engagement activities, and work with other council departments that are delivering board projects with an engagement component
Exploring new models of community health service delivery
On behalf of the Waiheke Local Board, I attended an independently facilitated workshop on community and population health run by the Auckland District Health Board, (ADHB). The Workshop’s objective was to gain the views of four central Auckland Local Boards and various health user interest groups on what future locality-based health services in the ADHB area should look like. For some time the Waitemata District Health Board has been running a “health links” model and there is talk of the two health districts merging. The ADHB is committed to reporting back to the workshop participants on the outcomes from the facilitated discussion.
A 2012 online ADHB survey of health needs that included 33 respondents from Waiheke indicated that the Island’s health services would be improved by better access to visiting specialists, reliable access to emergency services, and better provision for maternal health and home care for the chronically sick, aged and homebound. The survey revealed strong support for the ability to “age in place” and not to be forced to move off island, away from life-long friends by health care that was inferior to services available on the Isthmus.
A working relationship between Local Boards and regional health providers would be of clear advantage in terms of aligning strategies that harmonise public policy and community development with good evidence-based population health and social outcomes. It’s about getting on and breaking down silos and talking to each other.
Outstanding community service awards and new citizenship welcome ceremony
On Friday August 2nd the Waiheke Local Board will host a catered function at the Ostend Hall to celebrate the achievements of four awardees, who will have been judged by their peers as warranting recognition for their Outstanding Service to the Waiheke community. At the same time we will extend a special warm welcome to Island residents who have gained their New Zealand Citizenship during the past year.
Nominations for these notable top awards close at 5 pm, Friday 19 July. This is our chance to acknowledge the often quiet achievers among us who make a difference to the quality of our community life; be it in the arts, in cultural pursuits, environmental enhancement, or in business, civic or youth affairs.
Nomination forms are available online at:
www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/waiheke
or by contacting Carol McGarry, phone, 373 6210.
The two hour function begins at 5-15 with hot drinks and food. We will be entertained by the legendary pianist Lloyd Whittaker and the V12 male choir under the direction of the well-known Pat Urlich.
Invitations will be extended to nominees and their families, to nominators and to our new New Zealanders and their guests.
Unitary Plan design reference group
With my disability hat on, I joined this consultation group for a three hour feedback session to Council officers on the Draft Unitary Plan Objectives, policies and assessment Criteria as they might apply to accessibility, ie. getting about our future Auckland with ease for people of all ages and abilities. References to forms of accessibility are sprinkled through the Plan but there is no overall high level commitment to designing future Auckland as an access friendly city for everyone.
Two things were clear from our conversations:
First, national building regulations are out-dated and, in terms of access to housing and public buildings these statutory regulations as currently administered don’t help the creation of a more liveable future Auckland;
Second, there are no rules in the Draft Unitary Plan that require building design that would enable access with dignity for all people. In practice, this means that accessibility is unlikely to be a factor in permitted development. Free access with dignity for all people to housing, public buildings and spaces has not been given much wait, guidelines being preferred over controls and incentives. The human impact of relatively Barrier Free design on the City’s user-friendliness appears not to have registered as yet. Let’s see how the final Unitary Plan pans out.
Meetings and other attendances
* Waiheke Island Community Planning Group hosted public workshop on the Matiatia Marina proposal, 16 June;
* The Mayor’s Disability Strategy Advisory Group monthly meeting, 17 June;
* Auckland District Health Board facilitated workshop to link Local Boards and community interest groups with future health service delivery, 19 June;
* Auckland Council Democracy Services and Independent Election Services information workshop for prospective Waiheke Local Board candidates intending to stand in the October Local Body elections, 29 June;
* Universal design reference group feedback session to the Auckland Council’s universal design team on access and the Draft Unitary Plan, 2 July;
* Together with other Board members, I met with Ian Leader who has recently been appointed to a part time community engagement role on behalf of the Waiheke Local Board. * A number of possible community projects were discussed and general familiarisation undertaken, 3 July;
* Popped into the fundraising gala, MORRA Hall in aid of the Waiheke Hip-operation Crew’s travel to Las Vegas to give a tribute performance at the World Hip Hop Championships. A classic example of a group helping itself for the benefit of all. 7 July;
Workshop topics
* Cycle tourism on Waiheke;
* Brief on alcohol licensing when new legislation takes effect December 2013. Discussion about need for complaints around perceived licensing transgressions to be phoned in and logged with Auckland Council’s Call Centre, 301 0101;
* Clarification around changes to local events discretionary funding;
* Review of outstanding and pending community leases and discussion on associated growing consenting costs and processes.
* Matiatia Marina application: Board workshop discussion with an independent planner with a view to preparing the Board’s input for inclusion into the Reporting Officer’s report to the Hearings Commissioners. This process is as per Council’s/the Governing Body’s requirements.
May – June 2013: Don McKenzie’s Waiheke Local Board Activity Report
Sad loss to the Waiheke community
On 17 May Hera Mohns died suddenly but peacefully at home; a shock to us all. Hera had lived on Waiheke for 32 years. Her hands-on “just get on and do it” legacy is bound to live on through the causes in which she passionately believed. Hera was involved with the Youth Centre – The Rock for more than 15 years; led Friends of the Street and Youth Attitudes to Alcohol for 10 years; and played leading roles in the Waiheke Council of Social Services, adult literacy, and Te Rito –violence free living. On behalf of the community, the Waiheke Local Board recognised Hera’s voluntary work by awarding her an Outstanding Community Service certificate in 2012.
Hera was one of the Island’s silent achievers who, through her lived experience, clear direction and inner resolve won the admiration of those with whom she worked. Her quiet determination, compassion and unconditional love for others, especially the young and vulnerable, inspired all who worked closely with her. A moving Karakia and celebration of Hera’s life was held at the Wool Shed on Saturday 25 May with more than a hundred attending. Sincere condolences are extended to Hera’s close family and friends; she
will be greatly missed.
Draft Unitary Plan - Creating a more accessible and inclusive Auckland
Submissions on Auckland’s draft unitary plan closed on 31 May 2013. A number of submissions were made by Waiheke residents including House Boat owners. A team of Council planners ran local workshops in May and June to assist the understanding of just how the Unitary Plan is likely to affect the Hauraki Gulf Islands.
On behalf of the Mayor’s Disability Strategy Advisory Group (DSAG), of which I am a member, I wrote the group’s feedback on Auckland’s proposed 30 year growth plan for a more compact city. The thrust of DSAG’s submission is a requirement for more easy access for all people of all ages and abilities to our new Auckland, based on universal design principles. What are these simple design principles?
They seek to:-
1 Put people at the heart of the design process;
2 Acknowledge diversity and difference;
3 Offer choice where a single design solution cannot accommodate all users;
4 Provide for flexibility in use;
5 Provide buildings and environments that are convenient and enjoyable to
use for everyone.
These common sense ideas came from a day-long Auckland conference I attended on Universal Design, featuring architects, social and community researchers and planners from New Zealand, the USA and Australia. It transpires that current New Zealand law is not strong enough to ensure these principles will be implemented as our new Auckland grows.
To underscore this point of poor design and rushed building projects, Jo Holmes and I, along with the Mayor, Council planners, officers from Auckland Transport, a member of the Waitemata Local Board and several people with a variety of disabilities visited a number of sites, buildings and pedestrian crossings in the Quay Street area of Down Town
Auckland. Seeing is believing! It quickly became obvious to officials during our tour that a little more careful design and consultation would have made a big difference to overall
accessibility for the whole population.
When talking to the Mayor, we took the opportunity to point out the need to resolve the chaos prevailing among passengers, buses, private cars and taxis at the Ferry terminal Queens Wharf interface. Waiheke travellers will know how congested the wharf area can become when buses, taxis and private cars have to compete for spots to pick up and drop off passengers. Auckland Transport, Waterfront Auckland and other Council interests seem not to appreciate the need for a more functional interchange at the Ferry terminal for the convenience of the public. There is plenty of space available; it needs to be used more wisely with the customer in mind.
Meetings and other attendance ·
Presentation to the Unitary Plan Political Working Party on access for all in our future Auckland, 17 May;
Unitary Plan update as it effects the Hauraki GulfIslands, 21 May;
Universal Design Conference, “Creating inclusive and liveable environments for all New Zealanders”, 24 May;
Celebration and Karakia for the life of Hera Mohns, 25 May;
Video interview, telling my story of the first three years of Auckland Council’s shared governance model, a Local Board Services
project, 27 May;
Community development discussions re. priorities on Waiheke, and planning for the ‘Outstanding Community Service’ awards and new
Citizens ceremony, 29 May;
Annual Mayoral walkabout Auckland city, with access for all in mind, 7 June; ·
Meeting with some lease holders to review their five year Council contracts prior to renewal of lease terms,10June;
Parks and open spaces consultation on design for the next 10 years, 10 June;
Refining the Swimming pool feasibility study, 11 June;
Update visit to Trans-Pacific industries waste management facility, 11 June;
Workshop topics
Clarification of the process when considering proposals for 2013-14 small local improvement projects, SLIPS;
Discussion with an interest group re reducing the use of plastic bags on Waiheke, a waste minimisation innovation proposal;
Discussion with the Public Art Team re various approved public art projects and the Re-Store initiative;
Discussion with the community assistance discretionary grants team re reducing the time between grant application, Board decision and pay out;
Appraisal of realignment of Community Development, Arts and Culture team.
Consideration of the team’s draft works programme for 2013-14;
Outline of issues regarding an Auckland alcohol policy once new alcohol legislation takes effect, December 2013;
Outline of the condition of some Council properties including public toilets, and the funding for renewals programme. Need to reflect international visitor standard;
Development of Auckland-wide guidelines on the use of CCTVS for public safety and security;
Discussion re development of Matiatia ferry terminal;
Planning for 2013 Walking Festival, October/November 2013.
April-May 2013: Don McKenzie's Waiheke Local Board Activity Report
Valuing residents’ and ratepayers’ associations
The Annual Meeting of the Omiha Welfare and Recreation Society (OWRS), on 28 April reminded me of how valuable the four active Residents’ and Ratepayers’ Associations are in maintaining the Island’s coastal village character and distinctiveness. Each village reflects its ”persona” through the contributions individuals make to running these Associations, looking after their village halls and drawing local communities together for social and community purposes.
For example, the OWRS has run 80 social and community oriented events over the past twelve months. Money has been raised for hall renovations and extensions; a generator for Civil Defence purposes purchased; regular newsletters published; a function held to thank residents and the Local Board for their support, and so on. The communities of Onetangi, Palm Beach and Oneroa can boast similar achievements. These positive contributions to community development result from the combined efforts of local citizens, personal generosity and local leadership. Our Island community is the stronger for the work of these village Associations.
Oneroa Library construction, full steam ahead!
In mid-April, Gibson O’Connor Ltd, were given the go-ahead to continue work on the new Library site, left vacant by the collapse of Mainzeal. Gibson O’Connor has a
sound reputation for commercial construction; they built the Waiheke Primary School and the Island’s new Police Station. The site foreman is familiar with the new library job, having transferred from Mainzeal. Already water and waste water connections have been re-established; a site fence erected; site lighting put in place and the risk of silt outflow
eliminated. Site access from Ocean view Road will be closed in the next few weeks to allow for the installation of roof support posts. Signage and public notices will direct people to alternate entry points into Artworks. Paving colour and designs for the courtyard will be progressed by the Local Board at its May business meeting.
On 22 April, some Local Board members, Council staff and Ngati Paoa kaumatua re-dedicated the site as a place of learning and safety for the contractors – karakia timatanga. A completion date of March 2014 is planned.
Farewell to Te Huruhi School Principalfter twenty-five years of service
On 13 April, it was a privilege to be in the audience for a “this is your life” style farewell to Ian Travers who, since 1988 has led the development of Te Huruhi Primary School to be among the top fifty schools in the country. Generations of local teachers and pupils will carry part of Ian’s personality and professionalism with them into their futures. Ian
has left the Island with a legacy of what‘right’ means; what ‘fairness and decency’ entail; the value of ‘clear analytic thinking’ and the power of collaboration to achieve worthwhile ends. He leaves big shoes to fill.
Making future Auckland more accessible for all!
Dr Huhana Hickey, Chair of the Disability Strategy Advisory Group and I, recently submitted to the Auckland Council Governing Body on the need to include the concept of accessibility into the Unitary Plan, (the rule book that will govern Auckland’s future development). If future Auckland is to be liveable, then buildings, facilities and services must be accessible for all people of all ages and abilities. This is a thorny problem as New Zealand law is weak when it comes to complying with universally accepted design and build standards for accessibility. However, everyone benefits from good universal design and build standards.
Other meetings and attendances
Together with other Local Board members, I enjoyed a thank you afternoon tea staged by the Omiha Welfare Recreation Society, 14 April; Spoke to forties plus group on Auckland Council amalgamation and its consequences for Waiheke, 24 April; Assisted in the laying of a wreath, together with other Local Board members, in memory of the ANZACS, 25 April; Undertook two boundary walks around the Rangihoua/Onetangi Sports Park perimeter as a member of the post leases Working Party, to gauge boundaries and establish staged programmes of future work, 29 and 30 April; With Dee Austring, Guide Dog puppy walker, spoke to children about Guide Dog training as part of the Library’s school holiday’s programme, 1 May; Attended a Community meeting regarding Stony Ridge Quarry development Chaired by Auckland Council Property Ltd., a follow up on a December 2012 meeting between the quarry owner and neighbours, 2 May; Will attend the Annual meeting of the Waiheke Historic Society, 5 May; Will attend Debrief on Christmas Festival functions 2012 with Leilana Meredith, Events team, 6 May;Will attend the Waiheke Council of Social Services monthly meeting, 7 May; Will attend the Citizenship ceremony Auckland Town Hall to celebrate the awarding of citizenship with a number of Waiheke residents, 13 May.
Workshop topics
Report back on colours and designs of paving in final Library courtyard designs; Outline and consideration of asset renewals sports parks and open spaces; Update on refurbishment of the Waiheke Service Centre;
March - April 2013: Don McKenzie's Waiheke Local Board Activity Report
Oneroa Library site
A preferred contractor has been selected by Auckland Council to continue construction of the new library. Due diligence is currently under way between Council and the contractor. An announcement of who the new contractor is can be expected by the end of April. The builder’s existing work programme will doubtless determine when construction on the library will restart. By the time this report is read Vector will have finished undergrounding electrical supply. Downers have put in place silt control measures on site in case of heavy rain.
International Children’s Day celebrations
On 24 March Kirsten Simmons of Zebez Creative show-cased the sheer joy children gain from having the chance to be creative and to participate in a variety of activities with their buddies. In celebration of the United Nations International Children’s Day Kirsten drew together a number of groups interested in children to mount a highly successful “Carnival of Colour”in the hall and grounds of Te Huruhi School. Kirsten's innovative planning, creativity and enthusiasm ensured that everyone had a fun time. The day's success lay with the collaboration among the Island’s various family oriented organisations. The other stroke of genius that made the day so enjoyable were the rewards children got for having a go at everything; encouragement to sample the variety of activities on offer. There was a great turnout. The Local Board can make no better investment than in fostering the rich imaginative play of the Island’s children. What an investment this day was! The Local Board is grateful to Kirsten and her team for running such a fine event.
However, the management of funds in support of these events remains problematic.
Other meetings and attendances
Annual Plan and Agreement 2013-2014, special consultative procedure hearings and deliberations, 25 March and 4 April; Local Board Services interview, capturing the history of the Auckland Council’s inaugural triennial electoral cycle, 2 April; Post lease working party boundary walk, Rangihoua, Onetangi Sports Park, 3 April; Meeting with Auckland Transport re more accessible bus timetables, maps and visitor-friendly travelling information at all bus shelters and bus stops, 5 April; Public meeting called to discuss traffic calming measures, the Esplanade, scheduled 13 April; Workshop topics: water conservation measures and waste water management, District Plan; annual budget discussions; interpretive signage; round Waiheke walkway; sports park renewals; local asset management review; Council election and communications policies.
New stand alone library now has a footprint
One of Waiheke’s larger concrete pours was undertaken in spectacular fashion on Friday 26 July when Gibson O’Connor oversaw the laying down of the foundation floor pad for the Library. People can now see that the building will have a footprint four times the size of the existing facility. Framing is quickly going up and we can see our modern landmark library starting to take shape.
Work on shaping and laying the associated courtyard will have to wait for more certain dry weather conditions, although preliminary planning is well in hand.
Following discussions with contractors, Artworks tenants have been assured that as the project continues, access to their premises will be preserved, well signposted and lit at night.
Outstanding Community Service awards and new Citizenship welcome
On 2nd August, the Waiheke Local Board and Auckland Civic Events hosted a crowd of around seventy residents to celebrate the award of certificates to five of the Island’s most outstanding achievers, and to welcome new citizens into our midst. Thirteen nominations for awards were received but a limit of five certificates was imposed, which challenged judges. We are not short of people who freely give of their time and talents on this Island. Music provided by Lloyd Whittaker and the V12 men’s choir set the tone for a truly enjoyable evening.
2013 awards went to:
· Billie Jordan for her vision of the World’s Oldest Flash Mob and the World's Oldest Hip Hop Dance Group; for coaching and managing them to the World Hip Hop Championships Las Vegas; and for attracting world-wide media coverage for Waiheke.
· Sue McCann for her long-term promotion of Waiheke as a tourist destination; her support for business on Waiheke; her involvement in the Business Women’s Group; her active involvement in management and sponsorship of various junior and High School sports teams; and for her assistance to youth and many not-for-profit fundraising events.
· Alf Jones for over 51 years’ service to the Waiheke Volunteer Fire Brigade and also for his time as a volunteer Ambulance driver for St John.
· Lee Stickland for his part in developing, managing and promoting soccer as a healthy family team sport on Waiheke.
· Pastor Reverend Tony Watts for the vision, leadership and inspiration behind the New Hope recycling shop, and for converting it into a successful inter-denominational social enterprise.
Celebrating the close of Matariki, the Maori New Year
As part of a series of Auckland-wide ceremonies to witness the close of Matariki, Chairman Faye Storer and I joined a small group of people, including Sally Smith from Piritahi Marae, at Pukeatua Reserve, Trig Hill Rd on the evening of 22nd July. Seven brilliant flares were ignited at exactly 7-10 pm in concert with similar groups dotted around Auckland’s promontories. The tradition is developing whereby the high points of the City including the seven volcanic cones are illuminated to farewell Matariki. The Waiheke night was clear, crisp and very still which underscored the mystery and magic of the occasion. In future years, Waiheke may be able to join this regional event as our own contribution to marking the start and end of the Maori New Year.
Other meetings and attendances
· Farewell to the world’s oldest hip hop dance group, The Hip Op-eration Crew, 31 July and 3 August;
· Waiheke Council of Social Services, 6 August;
· Omiha Welfare and Recreation Society committee meeting, 6 August;
· Meeting with Council Officers re initiatives to help build community capacity, 7 August;
· Discussions with Council Officers re a small local improvement project, and World War I commemorations, 8 August;
Workshop topics
· Transport capital fund, potential projects 2013-2014.
· Street and public places trading and licencing regulations.
· Council Service Centre upgrade , Belgium Street, programme of works, October 2013 to June 2014.
· Reserves management planning, input into possible Council approach to region-wide coordination.
· Consideration of Auckland Council social and community action plan – Thriving communities.
· Events process for monitoring and controlling weddings on beaches and use of public space.
· Review of some current proposals for small local improvement projects.
June-July 2013: Don McKenzie’s Waiheke Local Board Activity Report
Support for Waiheke Local Board Community engagement
Council officer Ian Leader has been appointed to ASSIST the Local Board’s engagement AND LIAISON with the local community. Ian has a long and successful history working in the areas of community development and engagement, and he has worked across all sectors- public (local and central government) private and community. Ian will provide strategic engagement advice the board, help with its engagement activities, and work with other council departments that are delivering board projects with an engagement component
Exploring new models of community health service delivery
On behalf of the Waiheke Local Board, I attended an independently facilitated workshop on community and population health run by the Auckland District Health Board, (ADHB). The Workshop’s objective was to gain the views of four central Auckland Local Boards and various health user interest groups on what future locality-based health services in the ADHB area should look like. For some time the Waitemata District Health Board has been running a “health links” model and there is talk of the two health districts merging. The ADHB is committed to reporting back to the workshop participants on the outcomes from the facilitated discussion.
A 2012 online ADHB survey of health needs that included 33 respondents from Waiheke indicated that the Island’s health services would be improved by better access to visiting specialists, reliable access to emergency services, and better provision for maternal health and home care for the chronically sick, aged and homebound. The survey revealed strong support for the ability to “age in place” and not to be forced to move off island, away from life-long friends by health care that was inferior to services available on the Isthmus.
A working relationship between Local Boards and regional health providers would be of clear advantage in terms of aligning strategies that harmonise public policy and community development with good evidence-based population health and social outcomes. It’s about getting on and breaking down silos and talking to each other.
Outstanding community service awards and new citizenship welcome ceremony
On Friday August 2nd the Waiheke Local Board will host a catered function at the Ostend Hall to celebrate the achievements of four awardees, who will have been judged by their peers as warranting recognition for their Outstanding Service to the Waiheke community. At the same time we will extend a special warm welcome to Island residents who have gained their New Zealand Citizenship during the past year.
Nominations for these notable top awards close at 5 pm, Friday 19 July. This is our chance to acknowledge the often quiet achievers among us who make a difference to the quality of our community life; be it in the arts, in cultural pursuits, environmental enhancement, or in business, civic or youth affairs.
Nomination forms are available online at:
www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/waiheke
or by contacting Carol McGarry, phone, 373 6210.
The two hour function begins at 5-15 with hot drinks and food. We will be entertained by the legendary pianist Lloyd Whittaker and the V12 male choir under the direction of the well-known Pat Urlich.
Invitations will be extended to nominees and their families, to nominators and to our new New Zealanders and their guests.
Unitary Plan design reference group
With my disability hat on, I joined this consultation group for a three hour feedback session to Council officers on the Draft Unitary Plan Objectives, policies and assessment Criteria as they might apply to accessibility, ie. getting about our future Auckland with ease for people of all ages and abilities. References to forms of accessibility are sprinkled through the Plan but there is no overall high level commitment to designing future Auckland as an access friendly city for everyone.
Two things were clear from our conversations:
First, national building regulations are out-dated and, in terms of access to housing and public buildings these statutory regulations as currently administered don’t help the creation of a more liveable future Auckland;
Second, there are no rules in the Draft Unitary Plan that require building design that would enable access with dignity for all people. In practice, this means that accessibility is unlikely to be a factor in permitted development. Free access with dignity for all people to housing, public buildings and spaces has not been given much wait, guidelines being preferred over controls and incentives. The human impact of relatively Barrier Free design on the City’s user-friendliness appears not to have registered as yet. Let’s see how the final Unitary Plan pans out.
Meetings and other attendances
* Waiheke Island Community Planning Group hosted public workshop on the Matiatia Marina proposal, 16 June;
* The Mayor’s Disability Strategy Advisory Group monthly meeting, 17 June;
* Auckland District Health Board facilitated workshop to link Local Boards and community interest groups with future health service delivery, 19 June;
* Auckland Council Democracy Services and Independent Election Services information workshop for prospective Waiheke Local Board candidates intending to stand in the October Local Body elections, 29 June;
* Universal design reference group feedback session to the Auckland Council’s universal design team on access and the Draft Unitary Plan, 2 July;
* Together with other Board members, I met with Ian Leader who has recently been appointed to a part time community engagement role on behalf of the Waiheke Local Board. * A number of possible community projects were discussed and general familiarisation undertaken, 3 July;
* Popped into the fundraising gala, MORRA Hall in aid of the Waiheke Hip-operation Crew’s travel to Las Vegas to give a tribute performance at the World Hip Hop Championships. A classic example of a group helping itself for the benefit of all. 7 July;
Workshop topics
* Cycle tourism on Waiheke;
* Brief on alcohol licensing when new legislation takes effect December 2013. Discussion about need for complaints around perceived licensing transgressions to be phoned in and logged with Auckland Council’s Call Centre, 301 0101;
* Clarification around changes to local events discretionary funding;
* Review of outstanding and pending community leases and discussion on associated growing consenting costs and processes.
* Matiatia Marina application: Board workshop discussion with an independent planner with a view to preparing the Board’s input for inclusion into the Reporting Officer’s report to the Hearings Commissioners. This process is as per Council’s/the Governing Body’s requirements.
May – June 2013: Don McKenzie’s Waiheke Local Board Activity Report
Sad loss to the Waiheke community
On 17 May Hera Mohns died suddenly but peacefully at home; a shock to us all. Hera had lived on Waiheke for 32 years. Her hands-on “just get on and do it” legacy is bound to live on through the causes in which she passionately believed. Hera was involved with the Youth Centre – The Rock for more than 15 years; led Friends of the Street and Youth Attitudes to Alcohol for 10 years; and played leading roles in the Waiheke Council of Social Services, adult literacy, and Te Rito –violence free living. On behalf of the community, the Waiheke Local Board recognised Hera’s voluntary work by awarding her an Outstanding Community Service certificate in 2012.
Hera was one of the Island’s silent achievers who, through her lived experience, clear direction and inner resolve won the admiration of those with whom she worked. Her quiet determination, compassion and unconditional love for others, especially the young and vulnerable, inspired all who worked closely with her. A moving Karakia and celebration of Hera’s life was held at the Wool Shed on Saturday 25 May with more than a hundred attending. Sincere condolences are extended to Hera’s close family and friends; she
will be greatly missed.
Draft Unitary Plan - Creating a more accessible and inclusive Auckland
Submissions on Auckland’s draft unitary plan closed on 31 May 2013. A number of submissions were made by Waiheke residents including House Boat owners. A team of Council planners ran local workshops in May and June to assist the understanding of just how the Unitary Plan is likely to affect the Hauraki Gulf Islands.
On behalf of the Mayor’s Disability Strategy Advisory Group (DSAG), of which I am a member, I wrote the group’s feedback on Auckland’s proposed 30 year growth plan for a more compact city. The thrust of DSAG’s submission is a requirement for more easy access for all people of all ages and abilities to our new Auckland, based on universal design principles. What are these simple design principles?
They seek to:-
1 Put people at the heart of the design process;
2 Acknowledge diversity and difference;
3 Offer choice where a single design solution cannot accommodate all users;
4 Provide for flexibility in use;
5 Provide buildings and environments that are convenient and enjoyable to
use for everyone.
These common sense ideas came from a day-long Auckland conference I attended on Universal Design, featuring architects, social and community researchers and planners from New Zealand, the USA and Australia. It transpires that current New Zealand law is not strong enough to ensure these principles will be implemented as our new Auckland grows.
To underscore this point of poor design and rushed building projects, Jo Holmes and I, along with the Mayor, Council planners, officers from Auckland Transport, a member of the Waitemata Local Board and several people with a variety of disabilities visited a number of sites, buildings and pedestrian crossings in the Quay Street area of Down Town
Auckland. Seeing is believing! It quickly became obvious to officials during our tour that a little more careful design and consultation would have made a big difference to overall
accessibility for the whole population.
When talking to the Mayor, we took the opportunity to point out the need to resolve the chaos prevailing among passengers, buses, private cars and taxis at the Ferry terminal Queens Wharf interface. Waiheke travellers will know how congested the wharf area can become when buses, taxis and private cars have to compete for spots to pick up and drop off passengers. Auckland Transport, Waterfront Auckland and other Council interests seem not to appreciate the need for a more functional interchange at the Ferry terminal for the convenience of the public. There is plenty of space available; it needs to be used more wisely with the customer in mind.
Meetings and other attendance ·
Presentation to the Unitary Plan Political Working Party on access for all in our future Auckland, 17 May;
Unitary Plan update as it effects the Hauraki GulfIslands, 21 May;
Universal Design Conference, “Creating inclusive and liveable environments for all New Zealanders”, 24 May;
Celebration and Karakia for the life of Hera Mohns, 25 May;
Video interview, telling my story of the first three years of Auckland Council’s shared governance model, a Local Board Services
project, 27 May;
Community development discussions re. priorities on Waiheke, and planning for the ‘Outstanding Community Service’ awards and new
Citizens ceremony, 29 May;
Annual Mayoral walkabout Auckland city, with access for all in mind, 7 June; ·
Meeting with some lease holders to review their five year Council contracts prior to renewal of lease terms,10June;
Parks and open spaces consultation on design for the next 10 years, 10 June;
Refining the Swimming pool feasibility study, 11 June;
Update visit to Trans-Pacific industries waste management facility, 11 June;
Workshop topics
Clarification of the process when considering proposals for 2013-14 small local improvement projects, SLIPS;
Discussion with an interest group re reducing the use of plastic bags on Waiheke, a waste minimisation innovation proposal;
Discussion with the Public Art Team re various approved public art projects and the Re-Store initiative;
Discussion with the community assistance discretionary grants team re reducing the time between grant application, Board decision and pay out;
Appraisal of realignment of Community Development, Arts and Culture team.
Consideration of the team’s draft works programme for 2013-14;
Outline of issues regarding an Auckland alcohol policy once new alcohol legislation takes effect, December 2013;
Outline of the condition of some Council properties including public toilets, and the funding for renewals programme. Need to reflect international visitor standard;
Development of Auckland-wide guidelines on the use of CCTVS for public safety and security;
Discussion re development of Matiatia ferry terminal;
Planning for 2013 Walking Festival, October/November 2013.
April-May 2013: Don McKenzie's Waiheke Local Board Activity Report
Valuing residents’ and ratepayers’ associations
The Annual Meeting of the Omiha Welfare and Recreation Society (OWRS), on 28 April reminded me of how valuable the four active Residents’ and Ratepayers’ Associations are in maintaining the Island’s coastal village character and distinctiveness. Each village reflects its ”persona” through the contributions individuals make to running these Associations, looking after their village halls and drawing local communities together for social and community purposes.
For example, the OWRS has run 80 social and community oriented events over the past twelve months. Money has been raised for hall renovations and extensions; a generator for Civil Defence purposes purchased; regular newsletters published; a function held to thank residents and the Local Board for their support, and so on. The communities of Onetangi, Palm Beach and Oneroa can boast similar achievements. These positive contributions to community development result from the combined efforts of local citizens, personal generosity and local leadership. Our Island community is the stronger for the work of these village Associations.
Oneroa Library construction, full steam ahead!
In mid-April, Gibson O’Connor Ltd, were given the go-ahead to continue work on the new Library site, left vacant by the collapse of Mainzeal. Gibson O’Connor has a
sound reputation for commercial construction; they built the Waiheke Primary School and the Island’s new Police Station. The site foreman is familiar with the new library job, having transferred from Mainzeal. Already water and waste water connections have been re-established; a site fence erected; site lighting put in place and the risk of silt outflow
eliminated. Site access from Ocean view Road will be closed in the next few weeks to allow for the installation of roof support posts. Signage and public notices will direct people to alternate entry points into Artworks. Paving colour and designs for the courtyard will be progressed by the Local Board at its May business meeting.
On 22 April, some Local Board members, Council staff and Ngati Paoa kaumatua re-dedicated the site as a place of learning and safety for the contractors – karakia timatanga. A completion date of March 2014 is planned.
Farewell to Te Huruhi School Principalfter twenty-five years of service
On 13 April, it was a privilege to be in the audience for a “this is your life” style farewell to Ian Travers who, since 1988 has led the development of Te Huruhi Primary School to be among the top fifty schools in the country. Generations of local teachers and pupils will carry part of Ian’s personality and professionalism with them into their futures. Ian
has left the Island with a legacy of what‘right’ means; what ‘fairness and decency’ entail; the value of ‘clear analytic thinking’ and the power of collaboration to achieve worthwhile ends. He leaves big shoes to fill.
Making future Auckland more accessible for all!
Dr Huhana Hickey, Chair of the Disability Strategy Advisory Group and I, recently submitted to the Auckland Council Governing Body on the need to include the concept of accessibility into the Unitary Plan, (the rule book that will govern Auckland’s future development). If future Auckland is to be liveable, then buildings, facilities and services must be accessible for all people of all ages and abilities. This is a thorny problem as New Zealand law is weak when it comes to complying with universally accepted design and build standards for accessibility. However, everyone benefits from good universal design and build standards.
Other meetings and attendances
Together with other Local Board members, I enjoyed a thank you afternoon tea staged by the Omiha Welfare Recreation Society, 14 April; Spoke to forties plus group on Auckland Council amalgamation and its consequences for Waiheke, 24 April; Assisted in the laying of a wreath, together with other Local Board members, in memory of the ANZACS, 25 April; Undertook two boundary walks around the Rangihoua/Onetangi Sports Park perimeter as a member of the post leases Working Party, to gauge boundaries and establish staged programmes of future work, 29 and 30 April; With Dee Austring, Guide Dog puppy walker, spoke to children about Guide Dog training as part of the Library’s school holiday’s programme, 1 May; Attended a Community meeting regarding Stony Ridge Quarry development Chaired by Auckland Council Property Ltd., a follow up on a December 2012 meeting between the quarry owner and neighbours, 2 May; Will attend the Annual meeting of the Waiheke Historic Society, 5 May; Will attend Debrief on Christmas Festival functions 2012 with Leilana Meredith, Events team, 6 May;Will attend the Waiheke Council of Social Services monthly meeting, 7 May; Will attend the Citizenship ceremony Auckland Town Hall to celebrate the awarding of citizenship with a number of Waiheke residents, 13 May.
Workshop topics
Report back on colours and designs of paving in final Library courtyard designs; Outline and consideration of asset renewals sports parks and open spaces; Update on refurbishment of the Waiheke Service Centre;
March - April 2013: Don McKenzie's Waiheke Local Board Activity Report
Oneroa Library site
A preferred contractor has been selected by Auckland Council to continue construction of the new library. Due diligence is currently under way between Council and the contractor. An announcement of who the new contractor is can be expected by the end of April. The builder’s existing work programme will doubtless determine when construction on the library will restart. By the time this report is read Vector will have finished undergrounding electrical supply. Downers have put in place silt control measures on site in case of heavy rain.
International Children’s Day celebrations
On 24 March Kirsten Simmons of Zebez Creative show-cased the sheer joy children gain from having the chance to be creative and to participate in a variety of activities with their buddies. In celebration of the United Nations International Children’s Day Kirsten drew together a number of groups interested in children to mount a highly successful “Carnival of Colour”in the hall and grounds of Te Huruhi School. Kirsten's innovative planning, creativity and enthusiasm ensured that everyone had a fun time. The day's success lay with the collaboration among the Island’s various family oriented organisations. The other stroke of genius that made the day so enjoyable were the rewards children got for having a go at everything; encouragement to sample the variety of activities on offer. There was a great turnout. The Local Board can make no better investment than in fostering the rich imaginative play of the Island’s children. What an investment this day was! The Local Board is grateful to Kirsten and her team for running such a fine event.
However, the management of funds in support of these events remains problematic.
Other meetings and attendances
Annual Plan and Agreement 2013-2014, special consultative procedure hearings and deliberations, 25 March and 4 April; Local Board Services interview, capturing the history of the Auckland Council’s inaugural triennial electoral cycle, 2 April; Post lease working party boundary walk, Rangihoua, Onetangi Sports Park, 3 April; Meeting with Auckland Transport re more accessible bus timetables, maps and visitor-friendly travelling information at all bus shelters and bus stops, 5 April; Public meeting called to discuss traffic calming measures, the Esplanade, scheduled 13 April; Workshop topics: water conservation measures and waste water management, District Plan; annual budget discussions; interpretive signage; round Waiheke walkway; sports park renewals; local asset management review; Council election and communications policies.
