My Account
Bin options needed
Shelley Baker, Tindalls Bay
Like your editor, I also pick up rubbish as I take walks around the local area (HM February 5). I have been doing this for several years and there has been a big increase in the amount of litter I find in that time. While I agree totally with the editorial in your last paper regarding people’s rubbish habits, I also think Council has a responsibility to provide bins that separate the waste, in key locations. As a ratepayer I would be more than happy for my rates to go towards funding this – I see they are already in other locations in Auckland.
Editor’s note: As it happens, a possible local trial of separate bins was discussed at a recent Community Forum of the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board. Staff told members that where those bins have been put out, the public doesn’t seem to use them correctly. They say in the city, some bins have around 80 percent of the right material put in them, but some are poor performing. Chair Gary Brown pointed out that nevertheless, Council should lead by example and show it is prepared to spend on putting the bins in place permanently in the community. At present event organisers are required to have these bins available, at their expense. Often organisers need Council grants in order to provide the service. I think permanent bins, clearly marked with what you can put in them, would be a step in the right direction. People take time to make these things a habit but eventually it will become second nature. Council should also make the three-bin service more affordable for event organisers.
Three minutes long enough
Neville Nielsen, Orewa
John Clements thinks the Local Board needs a shake up (HM February 5). He complains that the Board allotted him only three minutes to speak. A well-crafted submission on one topic presented in a calm and reasonable manner can easily be made in three minutes. If a case has been made, it is usual for the submitter to be thanked. If the Board members need further clarification, they will ask a question.
Jazz at John’s
June Sayers, Arkles Bay
An example of true neighbourliness was shown by John Wilcox of Arkles Bay when he invited his neighbours to join him in his garden on Saturday February 8 for a relaxing afternoon of live jazz. Everyone was invited to bring their own folding chairs, shade umbrellas, drinks and snacks and children were welcome. As a consequence, neighbours met and mingled and spent a most pleasant three hours in his tree studded garden listening to great music played by talented musicians. The general atmosphere was peaceful, nostalgic and relaxing – and a feeling of happiness pervaded. The vocalist Denise Puppyn’s singing talent and personality added greatly to the atmosphere and joy of the day. Thank you all for being wonderful neighbours.
Whangaparaoa College student Jacob Batten was one of 20 students in New Zealand to be awarded a Prime Minister’s Oranga Tamariki Scholarship. The awards recognise the achievements and potential of young people in care and provide scholarships valued at up to $3000 to help young people achieve their goals and aspirations for the future. Jacob was presented with the scholarship by the Minister for Children Tracey Martin, pictured, at the end of last year.
