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February 2011February 28
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Auckland proposes 4.9 percent rate riseAuckland Council released its draft annual plan today and is encouraging people to provide feedback by 1 April. The draft plan which outlines the council’s proposed activities for the year 1 July 2011 to 30 June 2012, is available online at www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/annualplan and at libraries and council service centres across the region or by calling (09) 301 0101. Aucklanders’ rates go towards paying for the things contained in the draft annual plan so it is important that people take the opportunity to make their views known. The draft plan explains the Auckland Council’s plans and budget for the 2011/2012 year which are contained in the council’s Long-term Plan 2010 – 2019. This long-term plan consolidated the plans and financial projections of the previous councils. Key proposals include:
The draft annual plan also includes Local Board Agreements which outline the activities the region’s 21 local boards propose to undertake within their communities over the next 12 month period from 1 July. A summary of the draft annual plan will be delivered to all households in the region from today. The pamphlet includes a freepost feedback form for people to fill in. Guides overcome biscuit shortcomingsGuide Biscuits are a well-loved piece of Kiwiana, and this year they’re sure to live up to their delicious reputation. Guide Biscuits have been baked by Griffin’s Foods Limited for over 50 years. However, last year, a new oven at the factory resulted in appearance inconsistencies – and some difficulty with sales for GirlGuiding New Zealand (NZ), who rely on strong sales of Guide biscuits for more than 50% of their income. So, GirlGuiding NZ and Griffin’s have been working together to improve the traditional treats. A taskforce of five girls from Guiding assembled in April 2010 to help eliminate the issues to ensure this year’s batch is not just good, but the “Best Ever.” This taskforce has been involved all the way along the development journey - from the new cutter design, through to packaging design, taste testing, biscuit colour and texture, and finally the TV commercial in which they starred. A raft of improvements has been made to the baking process, including swapping an artificial vanilla flavouring to a natural one. There has also been a change to the biscuit cutter design, which represents the new, contemporary GirlGuiding NZ trefoil. This is an exciting change and the first time in over 50 years the biscuit cutter design has been updated. “It’s great that we’ve been able to contribute our opinions and ideas to improve this year’s biscuits,” says GirlGuiding NZ Ranger and taskforce member Stephanie Wood. “We definitely agree that these ones are the best we’ve ever tasted!” This year, girls will be armed with biscuit tins filled with samples so you can try before you buy – but only while stocks last. You can also buy a tin to store those precious treats. “The biscuit-selling season is the most crucial part of our fundraising activities, so we are pleased that the girls and Griffin’s have done such a wonderful job of creating the ‘Best Ever’,” says Ruth Teasdale, GirlGuiding NZ Chief Executive. “We’re hoping to regain New Zealand’s trust and support again this season, as we have been promised a really quality product that we’re thrilled with and excited about.” Look out for Guides selling biscuits this March, and be sure to buy some of what they believe are the “best ever” – so you can be the judge! The iconic biscuit comes in three varieties: Original, Choc, and Mini Chocs, and retail from $3 per packet for Originals to $3.50 for Chocs and Mini Chocs. Call 0800 22 22 92 or go to guidebiscuits.co.nz to find out more. Decision on 2011 CensusStatistics Minister Maurice Williamson and Government Statistician Geoff Bascand today announced the 8 March 2011 Census will not be held. Mr Williamson said Mr Bascand had advised him the census could not be successfully completed because of the recent Canterbury earthquake. The decision has been made after extensive consultation. “This is not the time to go door to door asking New Zealanders for information when they’re dealing with the aftermath of the earthquake,” Mr Williamson said. “It’s unthinkable that we would ask this of people. It would be an unfair burden and distraction at a time when they are grieving.” There has been extensive damage to Statistics New Zealand buildings with significant impacts on census staff. Mr Bascand said he acknowledges the decision will have consequences for people who use the census data in their work. “We will now investigate the feasibility of alternative options,” Mr Bascand said. Flag at half-mast until further noticeAt the request of the Prime Minister John Key, the New Zealand Flag is to be half-masted on all Government and public buildings until further notice, as a mark of respect for the victims of the Christchurch earthquake. This instruction applies to all Government Departments and Government buildings which have flag poles. The flag is half-masted by first raising it to the top of the mast and then immediately lowering it slowly to the half-mast position. The half-mast position will depend on the size of the flag and the length of the flagpole. The flag must be lowered to a position recognisably “half-mast” to avoid the appearance of a flag which has accidentally fallen away from the top of the flagpole. As a guide, the flag should be more than its own depth from the top of the flagpole. At the end of the day, the flag should be raised again to the top of the flagpole before being fully lowered. Aucklanders deployed to ChristchurchThe first group of Aucklanders has departed for Christchurch to offer expert help and support to the Canterbury earthquake recovery operation. The group left Whenuapai at 0800 this morning and include building inspectors and civil defence staff. Auckland Civil Defence Group Controller Harry O’Rourke says this is Auckland’s response to the call for help from the National Crisis Management Centre in Wellington. “We had the request from Wellington during the night and the first wave of technical experts and advisors has already left. “We are putting together a second group that will leave early this afternoon. “What’s important now is providing the much-needed support for shift changes and relieving the first wave of respondents,” he says. The Mayor acknowledges the outpouring of support from Aucklanders and urges people to sit tight. “Most of us know people or have families touched by this tragic earthquake. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected. “The best thing people can do now is offer monetary donations. Aucklanders were very generous in September but the need this time around is much greater. Please dig deep when appeals open,” says Len Brown. “I have donated $10,000 this morning from the Mayoral Fund. ”By the end of today there will be 100 staff from Auckland Council on the ground in Christchurch, plus Police and Fire crews from Auckland.” “This is just the beginning. Standby Auckland – we may be asked for other forms of assistance over the coming days and weeks,” the Mayor says. Councillor Michael Goudie, Chair of the Auckland Council’s Civil Defence and Emergency Management Committee has been working with staff in the Emergency Coordination Centre. “It is heartening to see that Aucklanders have immediately offered their help and support. I urge you all to sit tight – right now we are mobilising more teams of civil defence staff, and technical, transport and water engineering experts,” he says. Important information for Aucklanders:
A war zone, without an enemy By Kip BrookWord of Mouth Media NZ This is a war zone; but no sign of the enemy. People crushed to death; people trapped; people missing. Friends are missing. People’s lives shattered forever. Christchurch’s latest earthquake just before 1pm yesterday is New Zealand’s worst natural disaster. The mood and atmosphere around the streets and suburbs of Christchurch is one of anxiety, fear and shock. The first I knew about what was to come was an ascending and violent rumbling noise. A 1.8 metre high wall to wall bookcase behind my desk tumbled down on me. Brook flew right across the room like paper darts. I was trapped for a w time but in between the jolts managed to squeeze under a desk before being thrown to the other side of the room. Big heavy bookcase down, but I was lucky; so many were not so lucky. I feared for my family and rushed to my ex-wife’s work she is an executive officer at a disabled school. The roads were leaking sand and liquefaction. Some cars had fallen into holes as the ground had opened up. The power was down, traffic lights out and mayhem at intersections. A big dog, spooked, was hit by two cars but didn’t survive the third hit. At her school, Chrissy was out in the field with the students and their biggest issues was how to ferry disabled ones home – no buses, taxis under pressure, no phone or text contact with parents. No way of contacting parents. They had no idea of the catastrophe around them – especially in the city. As I drive to our house another after-shock and the ground, the power poles, walls and earth wobbles around violently liked fiercely shaken jelly. At home l like everyone else’s our contents and so many of our treasures and worldly possessions shattered in front of my eyes. It’s is no different to any other home in Christchurch --- windows, mirrors, glasses, crockery. All broken. But we are alive and will rebuild. The streets are gridlocked as those that can leave the central business district (CBD). People abandon cars and start running or walk away from danger, desperate to get home to check on family. For hours the phones are out and texting or calls are out. I have a half hour's walk to my office but I come across an 87 year old pensioner Irene Grenfel. The busses are out. And she is walking 8-9km to her home. She is frail and cold, pushing a supermarket trolley with two bags. I help her on her way home. We can’t push the trolley through the liquefaction as it’s like soft wet sand. I lift and carry and help her over intersections where water from the liquefaction is flooding the roads. St Andrews College playing fields are awash. Hundreds of students stranded, not knowing how to get home or exactly what to do. Irene despairs as she looks at some of Christchurch’s grandest old homes gapping, collapsed, totally ‘bombed out’ looking. I have not heard if my children are safe and Irene edges closer to home. I flag down a police car and tell her of Irene’s plight and they go to her rescue. Power still out, no phones working, and no water. I feel the bruising coming out in my back from the bookcase and feel a little dazed and disorientated. Everything is closed, more buildings collapse in front of my eyes. By night fall, texting is restored. All my family are fine but we have not heard from one of my daughter’/s friends in the CBD. We prepare for a long night. People are trying to be positive; so many help each other. This is a special and strong community. But a lot of tears to be shed yet. I am still shaking and in shock. Ruptured gas main at HelensvilleA ruptured gas main is causing significant traffic disruption at the Mill Road intersection with SH16, east of Helensville. Access to and from Parakai has been cut off completely and people travelling to and from Helensville will need to use secondary roads to the south and east. Wishart, Old North and Kiwitahi Roads are all open. At present contractors are concentrating on securing the leak. It is not known how long the closures and diversions will be required. New direction for Auckland wasteAuckland Council’s Environment and Sustainability Forum yesterday recommended the Council take a new direction on waste management and minimisation to achieve environmental and economic gains and ensure the Council meets statutory requirements. Chairman Wayne Walker says the Forum wants the council to pick the best of existing rubbish and recycling models, look at new innovations and also increase its involvement and influence over the waste stream so better outcomes can be achieved for Aucklanders and their environment. “Auckland Council has the opportunity to take steps that will achieve considerable savings and efficiencies, dramatically reduce waste going to landfill – including from industry, cut Auckland’s carbon footprint and provide higher levels of service – which is a win:win for ratepayers and the environment,” he says. “We recommend that over time and subject to consultation, Auckland Council streamlines some of the region’s existing waste services, looks to add new systems for organic waste and to increase its influence over the entire waste stream, ideally working in collaboration with the waste industry to achieve environmental, social and economic benefits.” The forum also recommended the council set a long-term aspirational goal of working towards ‘Zero Waste’ and short-to-medium term targets for this. The forum's consideration of the strategic direction for waste management and minimisation was an initial step towards developing Auckland Council’s Waste Management and Minimisation Plan (ACWMMP), a process that will involve public consultation on the range of services proposed for the region, including rural areas and the Gulf Islands. Auckland Council Solid Waste Business Unit Manager Jon Roscoe says the council currently only manages and influences approximately 15% of the total waste to landfill and is consequently limited in its ability to meet legislative and sustainability objectives. “While many households and businesses in the region are actively reducing, reusing and recycling their waste, we still have almost a tonne per person going into landfill each year and as Auckland grows so will the pressures on infrastructure and the natural environment. “The forum has recognised the need for some streamlining and the consideration of new services for food and garden waste along with a range of action to increase Council’s influence on the total waste to landfill. As they acknowledged this requires further detailed analysis, public consultation and a stepped approach to implementation that would involve working with the private sector to establish new practices with better outcomes for the environment, business and ratepayers.” As Mr Roscoe explains, this work will commence after the strategic direction for waste management and minimisation is decided, and will be part of the process of drafting the ACWMMP. That plan, to be developed in full consultation with the public, waste industry and other stakeholders, will detail the services to be provided around the region and is statutorily required be in place by July 2012, superseding the eight former councils’ waste plans. Hard times – not “poor choices”Thousands of North Shore and Rodney families were forced to apply for non-benefit special needs grants for food in the year September 2009 to 2010, as job losses and cost of living increases put pressure on family budgets, says the Labour MP working on the North Shore, Darien Fenton. “Many people have lost their jobs or had their working hours cut, reducing the family income. Increases to power, gst, petrol, back to school costs, cuts to early childhood education and soaring rental or mortgage costs have added to the pressures North Shore and Rodney people are facing. “The Prime Minister’s comments yesterday that people hit hard by the government’s failure to rebuild the New Zealand economy have made “poor choices” will offend many who are doing their best to put their lives back together. “The truth is that 100,000 more people are on benefits than when National came into office, and to suggest that they, and other families forced to seek help have made a “lifestyle choice” will not go down well in this area. “I know that North Shore and Rodney Kiwis want to work and provide for their families, but there are simply no jobs out there. I’ve had people come to our Labour office who manage to scratch together a bit of part-time or casual work here and there, and who have had to go through the humiliating experience of asking for help for the first time in their lives. Darien Fenton says that she thinks that John Key and the other National Party electorate MPs on the Shore and in Rodney are obviously out of touch with what’s happening in their electorates. “They need to get out of their BMWs and talk to people, who are just trying to do the best they can,” says Ms Fenton. Matakana Valley Road remains closedWork on a major slip on Matakana Valley Road, near Warkworth, has been put on hold. A major slip caused by recent storm damage has closed approximately 1.5km of the road for two weeks. Maintenance Manager for Auckland Transport, Murray Noone, says work had begun immediately on realigning the road to by-pass the massive slip that had made the road un-usable to all but foot traffic. However work has stopped after attempts to buy a small piece of land from the adjacent landowner stalled. “We are trying to get this road repaired and reopened as quickly and as safely as possible for the entire community. We are now attempting to urgently negotiate purchasing a small piece of private farmland so that the road can be re-aligned.” Mr Noone says there is no option to the road remaining closed. He hopes the matter will resolved within a week. “Other slips on this and neighbouring roads have been repaired over many years and in every case residents have been very cooperative, community-minded and have been fairly compensated for their land,” he says. Infrastructure investment supports jobsThe Government’s multi-billion dollar investment in important construction projects has helped prevent unemployment from peaking well above 7 per cent - as it has in many other countries, Finance Minister Bill English says. “I have no doubt that thousands more New Zealanders would be out of work without the Government’s considerable infrastructure programme,” he said today in a speech hosted by the Auckland Chamber of Commerce and Massey University in Auckland. “And our unemployment rate would have got significantly worse than the 7 per cent peak in late 2009.” The Government is investing $7.5 billion over five years in public amenities such as schools, state houses, hospitals, prisons and ultra-fast broadband. It has boosted spending on State Highways to $1 billion a year and is investing more than ever on upgrading the electricity grid. “All up, the Government is spending directly about $6 billion each year on improving infrastructure and with it supporting thousands of jobs across the country,” Mr English says. “There are good reasons for this: First, we need to unclog the country’s economic arteries, after many years of under investment. Second, it was important to protect New Zealanders from the worst effects of the recession – providing work for trades people and construction firms at a time of otherwise low demand.” According to statistics from construction industry research company Pacifecon, two thirds of all construction projects worth over $5 million in December and January were in the public sector. “So the Government is definitely playing its part,” Mr English says. Two years ago as part of its wider infrastructure programme, the Government fast-tracked about $500 million of publicly-funded building projects in the housing, transport and education sectors to help support the economy. “These fast-tracked programmes alone have created around 4000 jobs and are supporting an estimated 1200 more jobs in associated trades.” They include:
“The Government is also investing $1.5 billion in rolling out ultra-fast broadband and has committed hundreds of millions of dollars to help owners of leaky homes around New Zealand.” Mr English says that with unemployment still well above 6 per cent, the Government is doing everything possible to make it easier for businesses to hire and retain staff. “Unemployment will fall only when businesses – not the Government – have the confidence to invest, grow their operations and take on new staff. “To achieve that, we will continue removing barriers and costs for business, encouraging growth in the right parts of the economy – such as savings and exports – and giving companies the confidence they need to invest and hire workers.” More cycling initiatives for AkldAuckland Mayor Len Brown has confirmed four new cycling initiatives as part this morning’s Go By Bike Breakfast in Auckland. The annual event is part of New Zealand Bike Wise Month and is the biggest event of its type in the super city. The Mayor biked the 1.5km to the event from the Town Hall with fellow councillor and Auckland Ambassador Sir John Walker. The first initiative announced by Len Brown this morning is the provision of Public Hire Bikes in the inner city. Auckland Transport called for expressions of interest, which it is now considering. The second initiative is an investigation into increased cycling safety in the inner city. Auckland Transport is considering a series of recommendations from Cycling Action Auckland. The Mayor expects that measures resulting from this will be announced before RWC 2011. The third initiative is the proposed provision of bike racks on buses in Auckland. The Mayor has asked council officers to investigate opportunities in this area. The fourth is the investigation of a walking and cycling link on the Auckland Harbour Bridge. This matter is currently with the New Zealand Transport Agency. The Mayor has already stated his support for cycling as a real alternative to the private car. “Cycling is cheap, easy and a great way to keep in shape,” says Len Brown. “It cuts congestion and pollution by getting Aucklanders out of their cars and into cycle lanes.” Transport Committee Chair Mike Lee has welcomed the initiatives. “A significant percentage of vehicle journeys are less than five kilometres in length,” says Mr Lee. “That’s an easy bike ride, even for beginners, and in many parts of Auckland the journey can as fast if not faster than by car.” Other cycle initiatives underway or about to be completed include: Ian McKinnon Drive cycleway due to be completed in June, running between to Dominion Road to Upper Queen Street Share the Road, a continued education campaign aimed at both cyclists and drivers Tamaki Drive cycle improvements following the tragic cycle death last year Auckland Transport now has a Cycle Skills Training team, to teach adults and children cycle and road safety skills, related to School Travel Plans For the rest of the month, train passengers can take their bike on the train at no charge. Bikes are usually charged extra. Toll road closing for tunnel safety checkThe Northern Gateway Toll Road (State Highway 1) will be closed for 90 minutes tomorrow morning (Thursday, 17 February) because of necessary work connected with the maintenance of the Johnstones Hill tunnels. The highway will be closed between 10am and 11.30am. Northbound drivers will be diverted from the Silverdale interchange on the Northern Motorway (SH1) along the Hibiscus Coast Highway (SH17) through Orewa and Waiwera to Puhoi. Southbound drivers will be diverted onto SH17 at Puhoi through Orewa to Silverdale. Drivers also have the choice of using SH16 between west Auckland and Wellsford as an alternative route. The NZTA’s State Highways Manager for Auckland and Northland, Tommy Parker, says the closure has been planned for the time of day when traffic volumes on the toll road are low. “People should allow an extra 10-15 minutes for their journeys because of the closure,” says Mr Parker. ‘The NZTA regrets any inconvenience to drivers, but the annual maintenance and safety check is necessary to ensure that all the equipment we have installed in the tunnels remains in perfect working order to deal with any emergency that may arise.” State Highway updates are available on, www.highwayinfo.govt.nz Draft Auckland budget out February 28Auckland Council will release a draft budget for the next year (1 July 2011 – 30 June 2012) later this month. The combined long-term plans from legacy councils across the region would see some $770 million worth of investment in capital projects in the city over the next financial year including significant investment in preparation for Rugby World Cup 2011, which will have lasting benefit to the region. The Mayor says the proposed plan of work will still see Auckland benefit from a capital works programme much larger than any council has delivered in the past. “This year’s draft plan has been particularly challenging as it was the first bringing together the plans of the previous eight councils, and it had to be agreed within 10 weeks rather than the normal five months, ” says Len Brown. In December when the council met to discuss the plans for the region, the Mayor requested that councillors commit to holding any rates increase within 4.9 per cent while retaining all the previous councils’ services and projects. Since then the council has pulled together budgets from across the region and gone through parts of the budget to assess the priorities and corresponding rates adjustment required. The Auckland Council inherited a projected rate increase of 8.9 per cent from the former councils. The Auckland Council has committed to finding savings of some $60 million through efficiencies and deferral of capital projects to achieve a rates increase of no more than 4.9 per cent. “We need to strike a balance of continued investment in the future of our region, while making sure any rates increase does not put undue pressure on ratepayers,” says Len Brown. “We have brought together the plans of all the former councils and committed to retaining them while we set our new direction for Auckland.” The draft annual plan will include the programme of works that will be undertaken by the council controlled organisations and 21 local board agreements which outline the priorities and projects the local boards will undertake in their area. The Mayor is encouraging people to look at the plans and tell the council what they think. The draft annual plan will be published for public consultation on 28 February. It will be available in libraries and council service centres around the region. It will also be available on the council website. A summary of the draft annual plan will be delivered to all households in the region. It will contain a feedback form for people to tell the council what they think of the plans. Campaign to make bikers saferReducing injuries to motorcyclists on New Zealand roads is the driving force behind a joint safety campaign in the Waitemata District. Senior Sergeant Regan James, said Police, key partners and the local community had all raised concerns about the number of motorcycle crashes in Rodney, North Shore and Waitakere. "Together with ACC, the new Auckland Super City, the New Zealand Transport Agency and RiderSkills, we are running an education and enforcement operation targeting high risk groups in an effort to reduce road injuries to motorcycle riders”, said Senior Sergeant James. "Studies have shown us motorcyclists are 20 times more likely to be involved in a crash and if they are, the risk of being killed or seriously injured is far higher than those for a car driver or passenger”, he said. Those at risk in the Waitemata region fall into two clear age groups; 20-24 year olds and 30-34 year olds. Men are six times more likely to crash their motorcycles than women and local residents are as likely to be injured on the roads as visitors. ACC Injury Prevention Consultant, Ezra Talamahina said there are two main causes for motorbike crashes. "These are motorcyclists losing control of their bikes and other motorists simply not seeing the rider. Riders need to ride their own ride and do everything they can to protect themselves by being aware of what’s happening around them at all times. This is really important on roads in the Waitemata District, especially with all our T-intersections and winding roads”, said Mr Talamahina. While Police are stopping riders and checking their bikes, ACC will be providing information to riders about basic bike maintenance and gear. "Wearing gear designed for motorbike riding can make all the difference to your safety. Many people think that normal "street style" footwear is OK on your bike. But lace up shoes or sneakers are likely to come off in a slide or a crash and expose your feet to the road’s hard, unforgiving surface” he said. The operation will run from Monday 21 February to Sunday 27 February 2011. If you want to stay shiny side up this summer, here are some useful tips. Wear safety gear: tempting though it is on balmy summer days to ride around in shorts and a tee-shirt, remember you’ll need something between you and the road if you come off. Cover up with good-quality riding gear. That includes full-face helmet, gloves and proper shoes (not jandals!). Ride to the conditions: there will be more traffic on the road over the holidays, and more distractions for drivers. Keep your lights on, and ride as though other road users can’t see you. Beware of sun-strike and melted tarmac. Also keep yourself hydrated when you’re riding long-distance. Check your machine: if you’re digging your bike out after the winter break, have it checked over. Brakes, tyres, indicators and shocks need to be in tip-top condition to keep you safe on the road. For more tips motorcyclists can check out www.rideforever.co.nz, and scooter riders can go to www.scootersurvival.co.nz. Milk more expensive than petrolManaia Health PHO Chief Executive Chris Farrelly has slammed the high cost of milk saying it is a national outrage that a country that produces 15 billion litres annually cannot supply cheap milk to the domestic market. Manaia Health PHO provides primary health services in Northland to 93,000 registered people with a large number of children. The price of milk in a Whangarei supermarket for a two litre bottle of milk was up to $4.79 and the cheapest was $3.65. Families in Australia are paying A$2. Recently the price of milk in Australia was slashed by 33%, while the price of milk continues to rise. “Milk is vital for children’s health and bone development. Milk and milk products provide energy, protein, fats, vitamins and minerals. It should be seen as an essential food – not a luxury” says Mr Farrelly. The New Zealand Children’s Nutrition survey shows that milk consumption has dropped by a third since the 1980s, replaced by soft drinks which are usually much cheaper. The 2010 draft Food and Nutrition Guidelines for Healthy Children and Young People state that as part of a varied diet preschoolers and children aged 2 to 12 years should consume at least two servings of milk and milk products each day and young people aged 13 to 18 years should consume at least three servings. Just over a third of children now drink milk daily, another third drink it weekly and 17 percent do not drink it at all. “Low income families simply cannot afford to drink milk,” says Mr Farrelly. “It’s no wonder we are seeing increasing childhood obesity and diabetes if families are swapping milk for fizzy. “The argument that milk sold in New Zealand must match international prices is a nonsense particularly when only 5% of our milk production is for the domestic market. We should note the wisdom of the large middle east oil producing states which ensure cheap petrol for their own people” Mr Farrelly says. “To our country’s shame 22% of our children are living in poverty. 55,000 children in New Zealand do not eat breakfast on any given day. This has a proven impact on academic performance, behaviour and overall health. “Sometimes the issues around child poverty overwhelm us, we have deep concern but don’t know what to do. However as a country there are specific interventions that will make a difference for our children – and we could start by lowering the price of milk” he says. Other things we can do to encourage milk drinking and healthy food choices include: • Introducing price control or subsidies and not relying on an uncompetitive domestic market to constrain prices. • Offering assistance to low-income families to ensure they can afford to buy healthy food. • Including milk as part of a "Breakfast in Schools" programme in lower-decile schools. • Reducing or eliminating GST on food. Moderate rise in farm sale pricesThe median price for a farm is 13.5 percent up on a year ago and there is an increase in the number of sales in the latest Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) Rural Market statistics released today. For the three months to the end of January 2011, the national median farm sale price increased to $1,135,000 from $1,000,000 for the three months to January 2010. At 219, the number of farms sold in the three months is an increase on the 208 in the same period a year ago. Grazing properties accounted for the largest number of sales by farm type, with 92 changing hands throughout the country in the three months to January 2011. There were 46 dairy farm sales, up on the 33 in the same period a year ago. “There is interest in all classes and categories of rural properties at the moment,” says REINZ rural market spokesman Peter McDonald. “Recent sales have included dairy support blocks, sheep and beef grazing properties, vineyards and other horticultural units.” “The increase in dairy farm sales in December has not continued into January, traditionally a slow month,” says Peter McDonald. “But a considerable number of dairy properties are currently being marketed by tender or auction throughout the country and demand seems to be growing so we could see significantly more sales in March and April.” Compared to the three months to the end of January 2010, there have been median price increases over the year as follows:
But compared to January 2010, median farm sale prices at the end of last month were down in the Auckland district from $1,085,000 to $827,500, Waikato from $1,600,000 to $1,500,000, Bay of Plenty from $1,175,000 to $867,500, Gisborne from $665,148 to $585,000, Hawkes Bay from $1,175,000 to $1,060,000, Taranaki from $2,800,000 to $2,400,000, and Wellington from $650,000 to $525,000. Peter McDonald says strong demand is continuing in the lifestyle property market with turnover and prices reasonably steady. The national median selling price for a lifestyle property in the three months to January 2010 was $440,000, slightly down on the median price for the three months to December 2010 of $445,000, and on the median of $455,000 for the same period last year. But increases in lifestyle properties median prices on those at the end of January 2011 were recorded in Auckland from $720,00 to $741,000, Bay of Plenty from $480,000 to $485,000, Gisborne from $454,810 to $477,500, Hawke’s Bay from $390,000 to $420,500, Taranaki from $351,000 to $364,000, Nelson from $495,000 to $519,300, Canterbury from $450,000 to $506,000 and Southland from $297,000 to $324,000. A total of 985 lifestyle properties were sold in the three months to January 2011 compared with 1,089 in the three months to December 2010; well up on the 876 sold in the three months to January 2009 but down on the 1,213 sold in the three months to January 2010. Toll tunnel undergoes safety checkDrivers are being advised to take care on the Northern Gateway Toll Road next week when the NZ Transport Agency conducts its annual safety survey of the two tunnels at Johnstones Hill for three days from Tuesday, 15 February. The northbound tunnel will be closed on Tuesday, and northbound traffic diverted to the southbound tunnel which will carry two-way traffic. On Wednesday, 16 February, the southbound tunnel will be closed and southbound traffic diverted to northbound tunnel which will also carry two-way traffic. Speed restrictions will be in place. There will be a full closure of the toll road for about 90 minutes from 10am on Thursday, 17 February, because of safety-related work in both tunnels. “We regret any disruption to travel because of the full closure of the tunnels on Thursday, but we have chosen a time of day when traffic volumes are light to carry out this essential work,” says the NZTA’s State Highways Manager for Auckland and Northland, Tommy Parker. Diversion will be place and drivers should allow another 10-15 minutes for their journeys. Apart from the 90 minute full closure on Thursday, traffic will continue to use the toll roads during the three-day maintenance period. Mr Parker says the maintenance is important to ensure that the tunnels are kept in a good and safe condition for all highway users. “The tunnels have sophisticated safety measures to deal with emergencies and it is critical that they are regularly checked and maintained at a high level,” says Mr Parker. The maintenance work will be carried by the NZTA’s Auckland Motorway Alliance (AMA).
Road cones from recycled plasticRoad cones will soon be made in New Zealand using waste plastic, thanks to local innovation and support from the Government, Minister for the Environment, Nick Smith announced today. “We need to back up the effort of so many New Zealanders that recycle at home by encouraging businesses to produce products that reuse the millions of milk bottles,” Dr Smith said. Christchurch-based Alto Packaging has received $42,000 from the Waste Minimisation Fund to design and develop the manufacturing technology that uses recycled plastic resin to make road cones. “This smart recycling initiative will mean that 150 tonnes of waste plastic won’t be going into landfills each year,” Dr Smith said. “It will also mean that New Zealand is not importing as much plastic. That’s good for the country’s economy and good for the environment. “The funding from the Waste Minimisation Fund out of a total project cost of $304, 746 will also pay for testing the final product to confirm compliance with industry guidelines. It is expected the recycled road cones will be available from June this year and the initiative has the support of one of New Zealand’s largest roading contractors Fulton Hogan who plan to use the cones.” The Waste Minimisation Fund supports projects that promote or achieve waste minimisation through increasing reuse, recovery and recycling and decreasing waste to landfill. “The recycling efforts of councils and householders have been compromised by limited markets for products like used plastics. This Government wants to support the development of clean tech businesses likes this that make road cones from recycled milk bottles. This Bluegreen initiative will create new jobs, support household recycling and reduce the need to import resin,” Dr Smith said. Caged finfish farming threatens GulfCoromandel based Green MP Catherine Delahunty is fighting the Government’s steps towards potentially dangerous caged fish farming in the Hauraki Gulf. “I love the Hauraki Gulf and want to protect it from inappropriate commercial development,” said Ms Delahunty. Hearings are underway right now for a Government proposal to create a 300 hectare Coromandel Marine Farming Zone which is thought to be suited to hapuku (groper) and kingfish. “I have grave concerns for the effects caged finfish farming will have on our coastal environment,” said Ms Delahunty. “Feeding caged hapuka and kingfish on fishmeal imported from overseas costal fisheries is expensive and unethical.” Finfish farming is an untrialled technology for the proposed area, and Ms Delahunty highlighted that there are risks associated with keeping large numbers of fish in confined spaces. Caged kingfish or hapuku could introduce parasitic infections or diseases to local wildlife populations in the Firth of Thames and Hauraki Gulf. “The fish farms will also introduce excess nitrogen into the ocean which is already suffering from nitrogen inputs from rivers,” said Ms Delahunty. “I hope at the end of this process the Government respects the regional council’s wishes to protect this area from untrialled commercial finfish farming. Stakeholders were engaged in the creation of the Waikato Regional Coastal Plan which prohibits new aquaculture in the now proposed Coromandel Marine Farming Zone. “The Government has rushed a process to override the regional plan, provided scant notice for submissions and given little time for scrutiny as submissions closed the same day as hearings began,” said Ms Delahunty. Ms Delahunty made a submission against the caged fish proposal because standing up for our natural heritage in the Hauraki Gulf is vitally important. Mayor on Maori Statutory BoardThe governing body of Auckland Council is to consider the budget for the Maori Statutory Board when it meets on Monday. Advice was given to the Strategy and Finance Committee that it had delegation to approve the draft budget when it met yesterday. It is now clear that that is not the case and as a result, the governing body has the opportunity to consider the issue. The Mayor has directed officers to consider ways that the work of the board and the wider Auckland Council can be better aligned. Len Brown believes that there is considerable room for savings as a result of this. The Mayor has reaffirmed his determination that the council ensures the board work for the benefit of Maori and all Aucklanders. He has restated his view that two elected councillors representing Maori would have been the most effective and democratic way for the needs and aspirations of Maori to be represented on the council. The government did not share his view when it introduced the legislation to parliament, and it is now the duty of council to make sure the structure legislated by government works the best way it can. Len Brown has warned that due to the fast tracking of the legislation governing the Auckland Council and of transition, other issues may well come to light as the structure of the council is bedded in. Dioxin emissions on declineA new report by the Environment Ministry on dioxin emissions shows New Zealand is making significant progress in reducing our exposure to these toxic chemicals, Environment Minister Nick Smith says.“Dioxins are among the most toxic chemicals known and are associated with cancer, skin diseases, and immunity and reproductive disorders. This report shows the amount being emitted to atmosphere has halved in the last 10 years,” Dr Smith said. “This progress on reducing dioxins in the air is due to successful regulations controlling burning at landfills, waste incinerators and toughened vehicle emission standards. The uncontrolled burning of plastics was a major source and that has been largely eliminated. “This reduction in dioxin released in the air is backed up by measurements in people and food. Dioxin levels in breast milk dropped 40% over the 10 year period to 2010 to one of the lowest levels internationally. Studies show that New Zealand’s dioxin levels in food are between half and one-fifth that of Europe and North America and well below World Health Organisation standards. “This reduction is good news for the health of New Zealanders, the environment and our important food exporting industries. The greatest exposure to humans is from eating meat, dairy products and fish. Less dioxin in the atmosphere means less getting into the food chain and means our food exports match up to New Zealand’s clean, green brand. “The report identifies real challenges in measuring sources of dioxin and revises a number of earlier estimates based on more comprehensive data. The Government is less concerned about dioxins being properly disposed of on land as the impact on people is significantly less compared to dioxins in the air and water. “We are committed to the global effort to reduce exposure to toxic chemicals and to meeting our reporting requirements under the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. This report confirms New Zealand is making positive progress on better managing the environment and reducing exposure to toxic chemicals.” Warkworth boat building coupNew Zealand’s first-rate marine sector has received another endorsement with confirmation the next class of America’s Cup catamarans will be built in Auckland, says Associate Tourism Minister Jonathan Coleman. Dr Coleman, at today’s launch of the new AC45 catamaran in Auckland, says the awarding of the contract by America’s Cup management to Warkworth boat builders Core Builders Composites reinforces the marine industry’s world-class reputation. The AC45 catamarans will be used in the America’s Cup World Series starting later this year. ‘’The contract to build up to 10 catamarans is another accolade for the New Zealand marine industry. It boasts some of the best designers and technicians in the game and the technology is cutting edge. ‘’It has many benefits for our economy, from both an economic development and tourism perspective. The New Zealand marine industry is worth around $1.7 billion and employs over 10,000 people. The sector is aiming to grow to $2.6 billion by 2015 and this contract will help attract further business. ‘’The Government is also playing its part in the marine sector. New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) has supported the industry at all the major yacht shows internationally and provided support to the industry body and individual industry members in improving capability, productivity and marketing amongst firms. ‘’The Northland region also obtained $2 million through NZTE’s Major Regional Initiative fund, to develop their industry. ‘’Over the past three decades the America’s Cup has helped put New Zealand on the international stage. It generated greater awareness of New Zealand as a tourism destination and a place to do business and today’s launch consolidates the reputation of the New Zealand marine sector.’’ The America’s World Series is the preliminary racing series for the America’s Cup in San Francisco in 2013. |
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