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Kaipara makes $4m accounts errorKaipara District Council staff have identified a series of errors and omissions in the 2011/2012 Annual Plan which means that Council may need to borrow some $2.5 million more than originally forecast. Mayor Neil Tiller says the new management team brought on board earlier this year has just completed the work necessary to develop a better understanding of Council’s finances and the challenges that it faces. As a result of this work, a series of errors and omissions totalling more than $4 million have been identified in the 2011/2012 Annual Plan. “To reduce the impact of these errors, Council has moved to make a number of operational savings and reduce capital expenditure where possible,” newly-elected chief executive Steve Ruru. “While the savings that have been made are sizeable, it has not been possible to completely offset the errors made and hence the need for increased borrowing." Mayor Tiller said that Councillors have been asking for better financial reporting and a clear understanding of Council’s finances for some time. "While it is disappointing that errors of this magnitude were made, Council is pleased that staff are now providing full financial reports that provide a clear understanding of our financial challenges. We are now getting the sort of financial reports that we need to make sound decisions. I am also confident that the quality of the information and advice that Council is receiving from staff will continue to improve under the leadership Steve Ruru.” Looking forward, the Mayor says Council has kept its rates artificially low for a number of years. "It is clear that rates will need to be increased significantly to enable Council to move forward instead of backwards as it has been doing. We will be looking to get community input on the options for addressing these issues as part of the upcoming 2012/2022 10-Year Plan consultation process.” Beware of the Christmas hamThe humble ham proved the undoing for some Kiwi cooks last Christmas, with several claims accepted by ACC for ham-related injuries. Among the accidents recorded for December 25th 2010 were several ham carving mishaps and burns, neck and knee strains from carrying heavy hams and a finger crushed by ham toppling from its metal stand. Of the 3040 injury claims accepted by ACC for Christmas day injuries, the majority were the result of active Kiwis al fresco. Frisbee throwing, fishing, playing swingball, riding the slippery slide, trampolining, scooter riding, and poolside frolics all got a mention. Then there was the large son-in-law who tackled a little too enthusiastically during a family rugby game, exuberant bouncing on a new pogo stick which left it's rider with upper leg injuries and fancy festive footwork which resulted in a few dance related injuries. For others it was the company of friends and family that ultimately proved injurious. One person laughed so hard they fainted, fell into the garden hitting their head, another sustained injury while napping after lunch when an intoxicated person stood on their face and a dislodged jewel stone inadvertently ended up on the menu and broke a diner's tooth. The jewel stone was never recovered. The cost of treatment, rehabilitation and compensation for all Christmas day injuries 2010 is $1,987,645.33 to date. “There are some simple steps you can take to reduce your risk of injury this Christmas, especially around the home,” says ACC General Manager Insurance and Prevention Services, Dr Keith McLea. “For example, use a ladder or step ladder to hang decorations, not a chair or worse still a chair balanced on a table. Ensure your Christmas tree has a sturdy base to stop it toppling over and if you have extra people in the house, clear away the Christmas debris which people could fall over. Finally, remember to be a responsible host if serving alcohol this Christmas, to ensure your friends and family stay out of harms way." ACC staff wish all New Zealanders safe and happy holidays. Court protects nominated treesThe Environment Court has granted temporary legal protection to more than 1800 trees proposed for scheduling under district plan changes, pending the outcome of hearings by independent commissioners next year. The temporary protection takes effect from 1 January coinciding with new parliamentary rules, which remove blanket protection for unscheduled trees. Auckland Council is writing to owners of notable trees proposed for scheduling to advise them of the court decision. Submissions on proposed changes to six district plans of former councils close on 17 February, 2012. Addressing concerns that it had taken more than two years after the announcement of parliamentary changes to reach this point, the judge said the court was well aware of the pressures involved in the transition of the eight former councils in to one Auckland Council during this period. Details of nominated trees can be found on http://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.Nzwww.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz. Property owners should phone 09 301 0101 to check the legal status of their trees before felling or pruning to avoid possible council action to enforce protection rules. Stolen vehicles warningPolice have warned about an increasing trend in vehicles being stolen in Auckland and Northland. The hardest hit areas in Rodney include the Whangaparaoa Peninsular, particularly Stanmore Bay and Red Beach car parks, as well as carparks at Goat Island, Leigh and Mangawhai. Additionally, the car park ares of Muriwai beach and the western side are also affected. Police believe some vehicles are being stolen and dismantled for their value as parts and scrap, while others are being stolen for joy riding. Under the umbrella of Project Pearl, Police are now visiting scrap metal merchants and auto dismantlers on a regular basis to try and stop the trade in stolen vehicles. Police are encouraging industry members and the public to use the new function to check for stolen vehicles on the Police website www.Police.govt.nz, checks can be made on a registration number, chassis number, engine number or VIN number. The most common vehicles being stolen are Subaru, Honda (Torneos), Nissan and Toyota Hi-Ace vans. Older models (manufactured before 1999) are more likely to be stolen than newer models. In summer months, the Rodney residents and tourists are attracted to beaches and the recreational areas which can offer more opportunity for crime relating to vehicles and personal property. There are other safety tips on the Police website to protect your car from criminals. Police are asking members of the public to be vigilant about locking their vehicles, removing valuables from cars, parking their cars off the street or in busy well lit areas, and reporting any suspicious activity to Police. Fitting a car alarm or a simple cut out switch to vehicles can also deter car thieves. If anyone has any information about any stolen vehicles, please contact your local Police Station, or you can report it anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Bridge lanes closed over ChristmasThe two lanes on the Auckland Harbour Bridge northbound box girder extension, or clip-on, will be closed by the NZ Transport Agency from Boxing Day for routine resurfacing work. The closure will start from 5am, Monday 26 December, until Sunday 8 January 2012. As well as the two bridge lanes, the Curran Street on-ramp and the Stafford Road off-ramp will also be closed. During the closure, the six other traffic lanes on the harbour bridge will remain open – three in each direction. The NZTA’s State Highways Manager for Auckland and Northland, Tommy Parker, says resurfacing work takes place during the Christmas/New Year beak when traffic volumes are lighter and any disruption to drivers is kept to a minimum. “The number of people using the roads during the Christmas and New Year holidays is significantly lower than any other time in the year. The roads are generally less wet over the summer months so we can get the job done in the fastest time possible, minimising the inconvenience to motorists and local residents,” Mr Parker says. The Auckland Harbour Bridge is one of the busiest sections of motorway in Auckland, with an average of 154,000 vehicles using it every day. The traffic count can sometimes reach 200,000. “The work is part of the NZTA’s ongoing maintenance that takes place every day of the year to ensure that the harbour bridge is kept in a first class and safe condition for Auckland’s communities,” says Mr Parker. The maintenance programme involves removing the existing surface, cleaning the deck plate under it and then laying the new surface. Although the NZTA has timed its work to take advantage of lower traffic volumes, there could be some delays and people should allow extra time for their journey. Wet weather or other unforeseen circumstances may postpone the work. For more information, visit www.nzta.govt.nz/ahb Auckland supports BIDsThe Mayor has welcomed a new Auckland Council policy to assist local business associations saying it will boost the economic growth of town centres and business precincts across Auckland. The new policy confirms council support for business improvement districts (BIDs). "This signals we're serious about building our local townships and getting funding behind them, whether their business associations are just starting or wanting to grow,” says Len Brown. BIDs are funded by targeted rates applied to commercial properties in a defined geographic area. The council collects the funds on behalf of businesses that use them to improve the business environment and promote business growth. "We rightly focus a lot on having a successful city centre but we've got 187 villages and towns in the region and I’d like to see a BID programme operating in every one of them," said the Mayor. The new policy - which will be reviewed in two years - will look at supporting the establishment of new BIDs, exploring proposed BID boundary expansions and delivering targeted business development projects There are currently 46 BIDs operating in the region representing over 25,000 businesses and up to 25 new BIDs could be established within the next 10 years. Sixteen BIDs wish to expand their boundaries. Beach water quality testing startsThis summer’s Safeswim beach water quality monitoring is underway, with more than 60 beaches in the region selected for inclusion in the programme following a review by Auckland Council. Samples from 64 beaches stretching from Omaha in the north to Sandspit Beach, near Waiuku, in the south are now being collected and tested for specific bacteria. Results from the weekly monitoring, which will be undertaken until 3 April next year, are available online and via an 0800 number. Auckland Council Land and Water Management team leader Rob Hughes says the Safeswim programme ensures the water at the region’s key recreational beaches is regularly tested and the public advised if it is safe to swim at the monitored sites. “If the tests indicate there is any potential public health risk, Auckland Council will promptly erect warning signs in the relevant locations. These will only be removed once the water quality is assessed to be safe.” Water samples are collected on a Tuesday or Wednesday, using helicopters to help the team cover a large number of sites quickly and cost-effectively. The test results are available by the weekend via 0800 SAFESWIM (0800 723 379) and online at www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/safeswim. Mr Hughes says generally the water quality at Auckland’s swimming beaches is very good and meets New Zealand heath guidelines. However, if there is heavy rain, or if pollutants enter our waterways, this can quickly change. People should wait 48 hours after heavy rain before swimming at the beach and, at all times, should avoid swimming near stormwater outflows, stream and river mouths, he says. Remember, if you see any pollution please report it to the council’s pollution response team via 09 301 0101 or directly on our Pollution Hotline 09 377 3107. Free milk for kiwi kidsNorthland schools will be the first to trial a free milk scheme, announced today by Fonterra CEO Theo Spierings. “Milk is an important building block for good nutrition. We want Kiwi kids to grow up drinking milk because it is good for them," Mr Spierings says. “We are looking to introduce a Fonterra Milk for Schools programme. “The New Zealand Dietary Guidelines recommend school children consume at least two to three servings every day of milk or dairy." To test logistics of the Fonterra Milk for Schools programme, the co-operative will launch a regional pilot for primary schools in Northland, covering 110 schools and 14,000 children. The pilot will commence during the first term of 2012. “We are excited by this and early indications are the local Northland community is excited too. It will be a voluntary programme for schools to opt into so we can get a fix on likely demand from schools for such a programme. “We don’t want kids having to drink warm milk in summer like the old days, so we will look at installing refrigerators in schools, and also explore options for recycling the milk packaging,” Mr Spierings says. Results from the Northland pilot will be monitored during the first three terms of the 2012 school year with the intention of progressing with a nationwide programme for the start of the new school year in 2013. Mr Spierings said Fonterra would welcome support from other partners for a nationwide programme, including the Government. He also said that Fonterra was continuing to review the price of milk in New Zealand. “Our motivation is to have more New Zealanders drinking more milk because it is important for basic nutrition. To achieve this, we have to make it available and affordable. “In recent years we have seen a major lift in international dairy prices which effectively doubled in 18 months. This has pushed up the cost of milk prices locally and we have seen consumption decline, with New Zealanders drinking less milk. “Traditionally milk consumption in New Zealand has been increasing around 1-2 per cent per year but it is currently declining by a similar rate. “We are exploring a range of options to turn around the consumption decline by making milk more consistently affordable and will report back in the first quarter of next year,” Mr Spierings says. In another move to make milk more available to all New Zealanders, Fonterra will trial milk sales in its RD1 rural supply stores. “Anchor is our flagship brand and it makes sense to have it available in the 64 RD1 rural stores around New Zealand which we now own 100 per cent. “Initially we will be focusing on smaller towns that don’t have supermarkets nearby. From here we can measure the demand and decide whether to roll this out further,” Mr Spierings says. Christmas messages for kiwis deployed overseasThe New Zealand Defence Force is encouraging members of the public to send a message to Kiwi troops who will be serving overseas on Christmas Day. The electronic message facility on the Defence Force website allows people to send either general or individual messages to military personnel deployed overseas. These messages will be sent to each overseas mission in time for Christmas Day. Commander Joint Forces New Zealand Major General Dave Gawn said it is important to remember those serving overseas during the festive season. “Our personnel work in dangerous environments on a daily basis, and spend long periods of time away from their families and friends. Christmas is a time where that separation becomes even harder, and your thoughts and best wishes are always appreciated. Please take the time to let our people know you're thinking about them this festive season," he said. Go to www.nzdf.mil.nz/christmas to leave your message. Back to business in WhangareiPolice have re-opened the roads in Whangärei CBD after they were closed due to a suspected gas leak. Roads between Rust Avenue and the Dent Street were closed about 2.30pm this afternoon and buildings in the area were evacuated. However, the Fire Service believes the smell of gas came from sewer pipes and was exacerbated by the still humid weather conditions. Therefore there was no danger to the public Roads and buildings were re-opened about 4pm. Police call for cannabis leadsWaitematä Police want local communities to show and tell them where this year’s cannabis crops are growing. All information will be treated in confidence. Police say there are areas in Rodney, Waitakere, and North Shore that have the perfect isolation and remote environment for criminals to grow and cultivate the drug. The summer months provide ideal growing conditions for cannabis cultivation. The public are being encouraged to report sightings of plantations or suspicious behaviour in the numerous remote areas that exist throughout the District. Deerstalkers, pig-hunters, trampers, people participating in outdoor recreation pursuits, and those who are working in the rural and aviation industries can assist police with highly valuable intelligence. Waitematä Crime Manager, Detective Inspector Bruce Scott says the harm posed by cannabis impacts significantly on local communities. Cannabis is one of the most abused drugs in New Zealand. “The National Drug Intelligence Bureau has recently identified that hospital admissions and calls to the Alcohol and Drug hotline are increasing for cannabis related matters. The supply and abuse of cannabis directly influences other types of crimes such as burglaries, robberies, serious violence and intimidation,” he said “Cannabis has been found growing in both suburban and remote rural locations in Waitematä in recent years. Larger crops have been found in forestry blocks, farmland , scrub, bush and regional parks. The trend now is for smaller crops so that they will go unnoticed.” “Organised crime groups and individuals responsible for growing cannabis have previously trespassed on private land, destroyed farm crops, intimidated legitimate users of regional parks, damaged locks on gates and stolen items such as farm bikes and fencing equipment.” “The methods criminals use to grow a cannabis crop are no different to how the public would grow fruit and vegetables in their own gardens. Seedlings are planted in spaces where there is sunlight, plants are regularly watered and fertilized, pests are kept away from the crops by netting and fencing.” “What makes the growing of cannabis unusual is that criminals have to do this in remote locations. They have to return frequently to these locations to maintain the crop as well as transport all the equipment needed with them. We urge the community to be vigilant.” Signs that indicate cannabis is being grown include:
“It is this activity that Police want to hear about. We are interested in identifying every possible location, as well as the movements of persons who are acting suspiciously. Members of the public are urged to call their local Police Station or alternatively call Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 to report cannabis crop plantations,” Detective Inspector Scott said. Gas leak in WhangareiPart of the Whangarei CBD is being evacuated due to a gas leak in the area.Roads in the area from Rust Avenue to the Dent Street roundabout have been closed and buildings in this area are also being evacuated. Police are advising any building owners in the surrounding area to evacuate their premises if they notice any gas smells and to call the Fire Service on 111. They are also advising people to avoid this area until further notice. Updates will be provided as Police get further information on the situation. Dramatic rescue at Mangawhai HeadsMangawhai Heads lifeguards Peter McInnes and Murray Dix carried out a dramatic after-hours rescue yesterday in stormy one to two metre surf with 25-30knot North East winds at Mangawhai Heads surf beach.McInnes and Dix were notified by Police at 3pm that three members of a large group of approximately 20 people who were kayaking at Mangawhai Heads, were in distress 100m from the shore. The swimmers had capsized and were huddled together in a dangerous "hole" in front of the clubhouse when the lifeguards arrived on the scene. On arrival at the beach and after assessing conditions a quick decision was made to use Rescue Boards rather than an IRB (Inflatable Rescue Boat) and both Dix and McInnes paddled out to where the distressed swimmers were. On arrival the rescuers pulled the swimmers onto their rescue boards, and McInnes paddled one young male to shore while Dix remained with the other two swimmers. One of the swimmers, a young female, was completely exhausted and was fully submerged underwater when lifeguards arrived to her. After Mcinnes had successfully paddled the first male into shore, he then returned to assist Dix with the remaining two people. The young girl was weak and could not hold onto the rescue board so the lifeguards chose to link together and use two boards to return her and the other patient back to shore. On arrival back to shore, the young girl collapsed and needed to be carried to the clubhouse where oxygen was administered and the patient kept warm and dry until Mangawhai First Response arrived on scene. She was then transferred to Wellsford Medical Centre for observation. Both Dix and McInnes are senior members of the Mangawhai Heads Volunteer Lifeguard Service and are no strangers to such intense after-hours rescues. "We had a good outcome but it could have easily been as serious as a drowning," Dix said. "The young female patient was completely exhausted and we got to her just in the nick of time. As a lifeguard we advise that when conditions are as dangerous, as they were today, the safest option would be to paddle in the calm harbour". A possible drowning could have occurred if not for the quick and professional response of the two Mangawhai Heads Lifeguards. Volunteer lifeguards will be patrolling at Mangawhai Heads beach between 11am-5pm weekends and public holidays until Easter 2012. SLSNZ will have professional lifeguards patrolling between 10am-6pm Monday - Friday from 19 December till 10 February 2012. Remember: Always check conditions before going out surfing, kayaking or fishing. And always wim between the flags.If you see someone in trouble in the surf or water dial 111 or call 0800 SAVE LIFE Flooding disrupts traffic in NorthlandThe NZ Transport Agency says sections of State Highways 1 and 10 in Northland have been closed by flooding. SH1 near the Rangiahua Bridge is closed, and SH10 near the community of Kaeo is closed. Flooding at Kaeo could be made worse by a high tide at midday. The closures will remain in place until this section of the highway is safe for drivers, says the NZTA’s Regional Asset Manager, Steve Mutton. Other sections of the state highway network in Northland remain open, by the NZTA says there is widespread surface flooding and traffic is down to one lane in some places. “We urge everyone to drive to the conditions, and drive with extreme care and allow more time for their journeys so that there is no need to rush,” says Mr Mutton. “Our contractors are working with emergency service to ensure the highways can remain open, and diversions are in place where needed.” The NZTA says it has been advised more heavy rain for the region is expected this afternoon Flooding :
Rodney trees protectedMost urban trees in Rodney will remain protected when new laws come into effect on January 1, according to Auckland Council. In 2009, Parliament amended the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) to remove general tree rules in urban areas from 1 January 2012. Some people may think this means that any tree could be cut down, but this is not the case, says Auckland Council. Following a decision by the Environment Court, the general tree rules will continue to be enforced in the majority of urban zones. However, the general tree rules will be revoked in the residential high intensity zone. The high intensity residential zone applies to areas where higher intensity residential living and mixed uses are appropriate in parts of Orewa, Red Beach and Snells Beach. “The council has taken this approach because the objectives and policies in the majority of the urban zones support the retention of trees. The approach taken by the council supports the findings of the Environment Court,” says Warren Maclennan, manager, operative plans. “A lot of people mistakenly believe they will no longer need a resource consent for removal or severe trimming of any tree,” says Mr Maclennan. “That is most definitely not the case and we urge all tree owners to check with the council before they start chopping. This may save them from council action to enforce the rules.” The council is determined to protect notable trees that add so much to our environment and urban landscape but needs the cooperation of property owners. Protection of notable treesThe council wants to protect more notable trees and has publicly notified plan changes which would schedule a further 1800 trees across the region.Submissions on plan changes covering former councils, including Rodney district, close on February 17. All tree owners whose trees are nominated in plan changes have received letters explaining the process. For more information on the new rules and plan changes visit www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz Call 09 301 0101 to check the status of your tree before for doing any work. Whale rescue needs bed linenPeak whale stranding season is already underway and whale rescue charity Project Jonah is desperate for essential supplies to stock emergency response kits across the country. Whale rescue teams need light-coloured bed sheets, pillowcases, garden trowels and spades – all of which are vital for emergency callouts throughout the summer. “While specialised stranding equipment can be expensive, some of the things that can make a real difference don’t cost anything,” says Project Jonah CEO Kimberly Muncaster. “Everyday items that you’re getting ready to throw out could be part of our critical life-saving kit.” Each year whales and dolphins strand on New Zealand shores, and while some are sick or injured, others are healthy and just need a helping hand back out to sea. “Saving whales isn’t as easy as it looks. We’ve got more than two thousand trained marine mammal medics up and down the country, but if they don’t have the tools they need then there isn’t a lot they can do.” Drenched bed sheets are used to cover a stranded whale, protecting its sensitive skin from the sun and wind. Pillowcases can be used as makeshift sandbags to help keep the whales upright, and spades and trowels make light work of shifting sand. “Following a busy stranding season last year, our stocks are low and we need to prepare for the emergencies that lie ahead,” says Muncaster. “We want people to understand that the things they no longer want, might be the things we really need.” Donated bed sheets, pillowcases, spades and trowels can be left at any Dulux Trade centres. Audit questions 'clean streams' credibilityThe credibility of Fonterra’s annual reporting on the Clean Streams Accord has been cast into serious doubt after an independent audit of one of the Accord’s key measures exposed a major discrepancy. Fish & Game NZ says the audit reveals a significant difference between what Fonterra reports as ‘progress’ around stock exclusion from waterways and what is actually being done on farm. This was exposed by an independent audit, commissioned by MAF, which appears in the latest ‘Dairying and Clean Streams Accord Snapshot of Progress’ report released today. “While Fonterra’s survey of farmers suggests 84% of properties have stock excluded from waterways, the reality is only half that number of farms nationally have complete stock exclusion – that’s clearly what MAF’s independent audit reveals,” says Fish & Game chief executive Bryce Johnson. “Given the extent to which the Accord achievements have been talked up in the past, this latest revelation raises questions about the accuracy of all the other performance targets reported to the New Zealand public, politicians and the government’s Land and Water Forum. “It’s a woeful indictment on the legitimacy of the Accord, on dairying’s environmental ‘performance’ over the past decade and particularly the industry’s claim that self-policing is the way towards achieving improved water quality,” says Mr Johnson. “MAF, or some independent body, should have been auditing the Accord years ago. Why has it taken eight years for MAF, which is party to the Accord, to check the accuracy of Fonterra’s reporting?” Data in the Accord Snapshot is taken from Fonterra’s annual survey in which dairy farmers are asked questions to appraise their own environmental performance. On the other hand, the stock exclusion audit involved an independent technician visually assessing a randomly selected sample of farms. “Fish & Game has constantly highlighted the problem of the dairy industry self-reporting and we’ve repeatedly questioned the ‘success’ of the Accord when the science clearly tells us water quality in most regions is still declining,” says Mr Johnson. “The audit findings justify our concerns and the urgent need to require the industry to lift its environmental performance, rather than literally pay lip service to it. “This also confirms the need for review of the Accord – Fish & Game has previously requested that we participate in this process. The review needs to incentivise the positive actions by the good farmers and impose behaviour-changing financial sanctions on those not meeting the requirements after nearly 10 years. “A new agreement needs to address water quality by ensuring runoff from farming does not enter waterways. It also needs to address run-off properties and smaller streams where water quality is poor.” Motives behind Fonterra’s fencing ‘initiative’ emergeFish & Game NZ chief executive Bryce Johnson says the release of the independent audit sheds light on the real reasons behind Fonterra’s sudden announcement last week that they will require suppliers to exclude stock from waterways. “Clearly that move – which still wouldn’t take effect until 18 months out – was an attempt to blunt the fall-out from this exposé. “However, what’s particularly frustrating about Fonterra’s knee-jerk response to enforce mandatory stock exclusion is that they have effectively only cemented in the old and inadequate provisions of the current Accord, the limitations of which they are well aware. “Once again, they’ve completely neglected any reference to the all-important riparian buffer zones needed to soak up dairy runoff pollution. Fencing the stream edge excludes stock but does little to improve overall water quality. “On top of that they still adhere to the totally inadequate measure of an Accord waterway as being ‘wider than a stride and deeper than a Redband’ – this ignores feeder streams which provide important breeding and nursery habitat for fisheries and wildlife and, if left unprotected, still contribute to the dairy pollution entering the main water body. “Fonterra, which is part of the Land and Water Forum (LAWF), knows such provisions are completely inadequate in addressing water quality. This is explicitly recognised in LAWF recommendation 12 which identifies the need for riparian buffer zone fencing. So why has Fonterra formalised a major barrier to its implementation? “Are they going to tell their suppliers tomorrow to shift the fences they made them put in today in order to allow for riparian buffer zones they acknowledged through LAWF?” Fonterra payout forecast up 20 centsEstimated Fair Value Share price for 2013 season remains at $4.52.Fonterra announced today an increased payout forecast range for the 2012 Season of $6.90-$7.00 for a fully shared up farmer, up 20 cents on the previous forecast. The revised forecast comprises a Fonterra Farmgate Milk Price of $6.50 per kilogram of milksolids (kgMS), up from $6.30 kgMS, and an unchanged Distributable Profit forecast range of 40-50 cents per share. Fonterra is required to consider its Farmgate Milk Price every quarter as a condition of the Dairy Industry Restructuring Act (DIRA). FARMGATE MILK PRICE Fonterra Chairman Sir Henry van der Heyden said the new forecast reflected a modest recovery in global dairy commodity prices over the past two months. Fonterra CEO Theo Spierings said prices had edged up in three of the last four fortnightly auctions on the online trading platform GlobalDairyTrade (GDT). The GDT-Trade Weighted Index was now 5.8 per cent above its recent low in early October. Mr Spierings said world dairy trade growth was being led by powders (combined whole milk and skim). This reflects strong demand especially in emerging markets, including a number of ASEAN economies, as well as Brazil, Mexico and China. While foreign exchange volatility remains, the impact on the Fonterra Farmgate Milk Price becomes less further into the season as the proportion of foreign exchange hedging increases. FONTERRA SHARE VALUATION Fonterra also announced the Estimated Fair Value Share Price for the next season in 2012/13 is $4.52 per share, which is the same as the current season’s price. The Independent Valuer, Grant Samuel, has estimated a Restricted Market Value range for Fonterra shares with a mid-point of $4.26 per share as at 1 June 2012, the start date of the 2013 Season. The estimate is 2 per cent, or 8 cents per share, higher than the valuation for the current 2012 Season. As the mid-point of the Valuer’s estimated range remains below the current Base Price of $4.52 that applies during the transition to a Restricted Market Value, the Fonterra Board has determined that the estimate for the Co-operative share price for the 2013 Season will remain at $4.52 per share. The final share price for the 2013 Season will be determined in late May 2012 after the Board receives a final valuation from the Valuer. Sir Henry said the valuation increase per share primarily reflected the impact of retentions in further reducing Fonterra’s overall debt levels: “This is in line with the Board’s strategy to maintain a strong balance sheet during these volatile and uncertain times. It also positions the Co-op well going forward, as we invest to grow future farmer returns.” Sir Henry noted the valuation had been adversely affected by exchange rate movements since the previous valuation in May 2011. In particular, a higher New Zealand dollar against many overseas currencies was eroding expected valuation gains for Fonterra’s businesses and investments in Asia and South America. “If exchange rates had stayed around May 2011 levels, the Restricted Market Value could well have been close to the $4.52 Base Price. Even after this exchange rate impact, we have recorded a modest increase in share valuation. This compares favourably with share price declines averaging up to 10 per cent or more since May on NZX and world equity markets.” Sir Henry said the Valuer stressed that the Restricted Market Value was not an estimate of where Fonterra shares will trade immediately after Trading Among Farmers commences. Rather, it reflected the Valuer’s view on the likely long-run average discount to Fair Value. The Valuer also noted that in practice the discount would swing depending on dairy industry and equity market conditions. “As well as taking into account the views of the Valuer, the Board will seek expert advice on the price that shares are likely to trade at before making a decision on TAF implementation,” Sir Henry added. Farmers put cannabis growers on noticeIn the first outcome from the recent Police-Federated Farmers Letter of Agreement, Federated Farmers is asking its members to actively assist the Police in combating the cultivation of cannabis. “We know from experience growers will focus their attention on back country areas and planting among crops like maize because it can mask cannabis from all but the air,” says Bruce Wills, Federated Farmers President, speaking on behalf of the Federation’s rural security spokesperson, David Rose. “We’re under no illusion that cannabis growers are selfish criminals who have no scruples over whose land they use or damage. Growers will actively use cultivated land because it provides the best environment for a crop no farmer wants. “We also suspect criminal elements associated with growers are connected to rustling and the trade in black market meat. This is why there are some practical things farmers can do to actively aid the Police. “Farmers should record and report all suspicious activities to the Police and if possible, vehicle registration numbers and descriptions of vehicles and occupants. Naturally, the Police will want to know the location where suspicious activity has been seen. “Federated Farmers understands that due to isolation, some farmers may feel intimidated, but we’d encourage them to speak to their local Police, call 111 in emergencies or, alternatively, provide information anonymously through the independent Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111. “They can also pass on information via members of their Federated Farmers provincial executive. “It’s also a case of ensuring you get to know your neighbours and vice-versa. As a rural community we need to make sure cannabis growers aren’t welcome because they are like invasive noxious weeds. With any weed, you really need to stamp them out early. “The cultivation of cannabis undermines rural security so we’re asking our members and the rural community to come together with us and the Police. “To the growers who may read or hear about this, my suggestion is to think twice about going into rural New Zealand. Federated Farmers is actively working with the Police and there are thousands of eyes who’ll gladly help to catch you,” Mr Wills concluded. People can call the independent Crimestoppers line anonymously on 0800 555 111 Harbour bridge pathway supported Aucklanders have given their thumbs up to the concept designs for the AHB Pathway. Over 93% of the feedback received is in favour of the concept design launched by Mayor Len Brown and MP Nikki Kaye in August this year.Architect Barry Copeland says “It’s marvelous to have strong support for the design as this is such an important project for Auckland if we are serious about opening up our waterfront and transforming the city from its over reliance on the private motor car.” “The Pathway design also recently received a Cavalier Bremworth design award, so we think we’re onto a good thing.” Aucklanders have been asked to give their feedback at www.getacross.org.nz. The results [see below for details] also revealed strong support for the proposed observation decks and special effects night lighting. Project Director Bevan Woodward says “Not only do we want to provide commuter access to the North Shore but we want a high quality Pathway that will attract recreational users and tourists. We expect the Pathway will encourage many overseas visitors to spend an extra day in Auckland and that’s going to deliver significant economic benefits for the region.” The feedback received also confirms that Aucklanders’ willingness to pay a toll of $2 each way, with 83% in support if the New Zealand Transport Agency will not contribute to the Pathway’s construction cost. Mr Woodward says “We are now seeking an underwriter of the project. Our forecasting shows that the Pathway will be cashflow positive and we are looking for an underwriter who is willing to allocate some of the dividends to other walking and cycling projects in the region.” Tree protection notices issuedLetters are being sent this week to owners of 1800 notable trees that Auckland Council wants to protect by adding them to a list of 3960 existing trees scheduled in district plans across the region. About 4000 trees were nominated by the public, environmental groups and many local boards in response to law changes effective from 1 January 2012, removing blanket protection for non-scheduled trees in urban areas. All nominations were assessed by council arborists who reported that about 2,200 did not meet assessment criteria under the Standard Tree Evaluation Method (STEM). The criteria include size, form, age, visual contribution to the landscape, and historical significance. STEM is widely used by arborists and endorsed by the Royal New Zealand Institute of Horticulture. On Monday, 12 December, the council will publicly notify plan changes amending the operative district plans of six former city or district councils in the region to include additional trees – Papakura, Manukau, Franklin, Waitakere, Rodney, and Auckland city. Submitters have until 17 February 2012 to make a submission. The former North Shore City Council notified a plan change in 2010 and submissions have already been received. Councillor Ann Hartley, chair of the Regional Development and Operations Committee, said that as well as to people who nominated the trees, letters will also go to neighbours, statutory bodies, utility companies and iwi. “All trees proposed for scheduling will be published on the council’s website on 12 December with address, assessment, and photograph. Interested parties can also call council planners on 09 301 0101 for further information.” Councillor Hartley said the council had done a lot to protect more trees in the urban environment. “The emphasis is on identifying those trees in the community that are truly notable and, for a variety of reasons, make a contribution to the local amenity. “We accept that we are not going to please everyone in this process. Tree owners and other affected parties can contest assessment reports and ask for a re-assessment,” she said. Check before you chopChanges to the Resource Management Act removing general protection of trees on private land in urban areas from 1 January 2012 do not apply to trees listed for protection in district plansIn many parts of Auckland, larger, unlisted trees on private land may still be protected. This means you will need a resource consent to fell or remove the tree. The council urges tree owners to ‘check before you chop’ to find out what trees you can or can’t remove or prune by phoning 09 301 0101 to avoid possible prosecution and a fine. Can Peter Dunne save Channel 7?The Save TVNZ 7 campaign today applauded the efforts of United Future leader Peter Dunne to save TVNZ 7 from imminent closure next year. In its confidence and supply agreement with the National-led Government, United Future gained agreement that funding for TVNZ would be retained at current levels. Interviewed by One News, Mr Dunne revealed that he had tried to reclaim TVNZ 7 funding to save the channel. Having failed to secure agreement from National, he plans to approach the TVNZ Board directly. “Save TVNZ 7 applauds Peter Dunne’s promise to directly ask the TVNZ Board to save TVNZ 7,” says Save TVNZ 7 spokesman Myles Thomas. “We’re disappointed he wasn’t able to convince John Key to retain TVNZ 7, but we applaud his intention to approach the TVNZ Board. “The Board is in a hard place - the National Government demands TVNZ return a hefty profit and has discontinued funding for our only public service channel. So to keep TVNZ 7 running the Board has to take that money from somewhere, running at odds with the Government’s commercial directive. As Peter Dunne infers, National seems hell-bent on destroying TVNZ 7. That’s despite the critically acclaimed channel having hundreds of thousands of passionate viewers, and annual running costs of only $16m. TVNZ’s Board and senior management have the ultimate say over what they fund, and there is hope. Surely TVNZ Board Members don’t want to be personally responsible for the death of public service television in New Zealand.” TVNZ’s annual report quotes independent research that shows: 70% of Kiwis want programmes that are educational for young people yet only 34% believe TVNZ is doing that well 85% of Kiwis want high quality programmes but only 45% believe TVNZ is doing that well Cultural diversity on TVNZ is very important to roughly half the population but two-thirds say that TVNZ could do better Three quarters of respondents note that TVNZ fails to properly deal with minority interests “This shows a major mismatch between what New Zealanders want, and what TVNZ delivers. Kiwis expect TVNZ to give them an option of quality, non-commercial broadcasting. Programmes that inform, inspire and elevate human understanding rather than just get ratings for advertisers. TVNZ 7 has a wealth of educational programmes for adults and children - and most importantly, many of them are made here in New Zealand for Kiwi audiences.” “Many New Zealanders recognise closing down TVNZ 7 next year will be a tragedy for viewers. We already have the world’s most commercial national broadcaster (see note below). When TVNZ 7 is replaced by a shopping channel, we’ll be the laughing stock of the broadcasting world.” MAF salutes its volunteersThe Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry today acknowledged the work of the many volunteers who have important roles in fisheries and biosecurity. MAF Director General Wayne McNee said World Volunteer Day was an appropriate time to thank Honorary Fishery Officers and the volunteer families who rear and train beagle puppies that may become detector dogs. “Our 239 Honorary Fishery Officers and beagle-training families are passionate about their work and we simply couldn’t do without them,” Mr McNee said. “Honorary Fishery Officers are all ages and come from varied backgrounds. They are deeply involved in helping protect in New Zealand’s iconic recreational fisheries. This is especially important with the busy summer fishing season getting into full swing.” Mr McNee said it wasn’t unusual for Honorary Fishery Officers to go well beyond the call of duty. “For example, in October this year Honorary Fishery Officers Dean Kaire and Phil Boughey rescued a nine-year-old Auckland boy from drowning. Their presence of mind undoubtedly saved a young life.” Two Honorary Fishery Officers have recently been recognised for their work patrolling beaches to help make sure fishers understand and stick to the recreational fishing rules. Trevor Collings from South Auckland and Murray Daniels (North Canterbury) are recipients of Queen’s Service medals. “These two from either end of the country represent all that is good about our volunteers,” Mr McNee said. MAF is always on the lookout for new Honorary Fishery Officers; the aim is to have 250 by July 2012. The Detector Dog Programme involves the use of beagles in helping protect New Zealand agriculture from foreign pests and diseases. Mr McNee said beagles are typically used because of their long history as a scent hound, and their successful use in the US Navy as narcotic detector dogs. “Beagles have proved hugely popular with the public due to their small, non-threatening size,” Mr McNee said. “They are trained to work in the presence of the travelling public at the baggage collection points of international airports. Volunteer families have an important part to play in their early training.” Mr McNee said MAF was extremely grateful for the excellent job all its volunteers do. “Honorary Fishery Officers are a crucial component of the concept of 4 Million Guardians of our fisheries,” he said. “Creating awareness and developing understanding of the recreational fishing rules is a core part of their role. “Setting potential detector dogs on the right path towards contributing to our biosecurity system is also very important.” Auckland secures international filmAuckland Film Studios has been selected as the New Zealand film base for Emperor – a US production by acclaimed director, Peter Webber. Emperor (the movie’s working title), a political drama set amidst the tensions and uncertainties following the Japanese surrender at the end of World War II, is inspired by true events. Filming will begin in January 2012 once casting is confirmed. The film’s production company Corn Cob Limited is already constructing sets at the Henderson studios. Academy Award winning production designer, Grant Major, Academy Award winning costume designer, Ngila Dickson, Oscar nominee Cinematographer Stuart Dryburgh and Mr Pip producer, Tim Coddington, will work on the production. The movie is the first major production to be filmed at Auckland Film Studios since Auckland Council Investments limited (ACIL), an Auckland Council council-controlled organisation, took a 100 percent shareholding in the studios in August. “It’s a major coup for Auckland and Auckland Film Studios; it will allow us to further develop our strong foothold in the New Zealand film industry and support Auckland Council’s vision for film,” says Chief Executive of ACIL, Gary Swift. “The film will create many jobs locally and will pump money into the domestic economy. It highlights Council’s wisdom in purchasing the remaining shares in the studios. “Securing the film also helps to build New Zealand’s reputation as a world-class film location,” he says. Two days of filming will take place in Wellington, with some scenes also being shot in Japan. Peter Webber is the director behind the 2007 hit Girl with a Pearl Earring. Emperor will be produced by Yoko Narahashi (The Last Samurai), Gary Foster (Ghost Rider, Sleepless in Seattle, The Soloist), Eugene Nomura (Tajomaru, Surely Some Day) and Russ Krasnoff (The Soloist). Property price riseInterest in the Auckland housing market returned with a surge in November, with sales numbers increasing sharply and prices registering their largest one month increase since March.“November was an extremely active month with the average selling price rising by 2.5 percent on October’s values to $567,489,” said Peter Thompson, Managing Director of Barfoot & Thompson. “This is the highest average monthly price since March, and the second highest average monthly price ever. “The top end of the market was once again extremely active, and in November we sold 75 homes for $1 million or more. “The average price was achieved across 894 sales, an increase of 23% on the number of homes sold in October, and up a third on the number of homes we sold in November last year. “For the past four months the Auckland market has been ticking over quietly, but with the coming of summer, the end of the international rugby tournament and a degree of certainty as to the outcome of the general election, buyers and sellers felt the time was right to act. “New listings at 1562 were up 18.9 percent on those for October, and were the highest they have been for 10 months. “The greater choice available to buyers also increased market interest.” Mr Thompson said that while the average monthly price of $567,489 was the highest average price ever recorded in the month of November, and was another indication that house prices were not far from their peak values in 2007, the market remained measured. “Properties with appeal are attracting a good deal of interest, but buyers are not paying over the top or acting in haste to secure properties. “Given the number of properties we have listed for auction in December and new listings in the pipeline, we anticipate that the strong sales pattern of November will continue right up to the Christmas break.” At the end of November Barfoot & Thompson had 5046 properties on its books, 47 more than at the end of October. |
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