Mayor hears Waipu concerns

The establishment of a Northland-wide council-controlled organisation (CCO), to deliver drinking water and wastewater services from July next year, was one of the topics raised by Whangārei Mayor Ken Couper at a meeting in Waipu last week (February 2).

Couper said Kaipara, Whangārei, and Far North district councils were working towards setting up a central water utility company which would achieve efficiencies that were not possible under separate authorities.

The mayor also emphasised the importance of the Northland Motorway Corridor and its benefits for the region.

Health and education issues were also key topics. Couper highlighted that once works are finished at Whangārei Hospital, “health will be better served, and our people will be able to receive treatment within the region, creating efficiencies and enabling a quicker return to the workforce and to health.”

He also addressed social issues affecting the most vulnerable.

“Homelessness and mental health cannot continue to be ignored as they have been.”

About 50 people attended the meeting.

Members of various organisations took part including Waipu 2000 Community Trust, Piroa Conservation Trust, Waipu Lions Club, Waipu Museum, Community Patrol, North Rodney Blue Light Ventures, Bream Bay Bridge Club, Bream Bay Greenworld, Bream Bay Sports Trust, and Waipu Art in Motion. Topics discussed included the condition of South Road, footpaths across the district, educational opportunities for young people, tourism and potential improvements associated with the new motorway corridor.

At the end of the session, Couper highlighted the importance of these types of meetings, which provide the opportunity to engage directly with the community and hear their concerns.

“We probably don’t hold these meetings often enough. It would be good if there were more of them,” he said.