My board report this month is a selection of photos covering April events in the Waitematā Local Board area.
“We will remember them” ANZAC day dawn ceremony at the Auckland War Memorial Museum
Shale Chambers and I laid the wreath at the Grey Lynn RSC on behalf of the Waitematā Local Board
Sarah Smuts Kennedy addresses the honey harvest gathering
The honey from the hives that formed the The Park project (Waitemata Local Board POP project 2014) was harvested and distributed to those who had contributed “pollen hotels” at an event in Victoria Park on 4 April
The Open Streets event on 12 April opened up Quay street for people to play, socialise, walk and cycle. The Auckland Transport hosted and Waitemata Local Board supported event attracted over 30,000 people.
Photo left with Kathryn King, Auckland Transport’s new walking & cycling manager and Auckland’s bike riding police officers.
The St James lobby opened with a celebration on 10 April hosted by the Auckland Notable Properties Trust. The Trust and the St James Suite development group are working to restore the St James Theatre.
Photo with the Deputy Mayor and Jhun Si, General Manager, St James Suites
A dawn blessing was held on 23 April to mark the start of work on the Nelson Street cycle route.Kaumatua from Ngati Whatua o Orakei, Te Aki Tai, Ngati Paoa and Te Kawerau a Maki led the blessing which took place on the disused Nelson Street off-ramp.
The Nelson Street Cycle Route will link Upper Queen Street to Quay Street via the disused off-ramp and connect to the north-western and Grafton Gully cycleways.
Construction of the new Parnell Station got underway at Easter
Construction of the Beach Road Stage 2 walking and cycling project got underway during April.
Photo left: Board member Vernon Tava talks to a Freemans Bay resident
Long Term Plan presentation to the Governing Body by Shale Chambers with Board members in support
(photo credit: Cathy Casey)
Tour of the refurbished Lysaght building, Wynyard Quarter hosted by Waterfront Auckland (new home of GridAKL)
Auckland Conversations: Charles Montgomery author of Happy City
“A happy city is healthy sustainable, resilient and social”
“Walking is the magic of our cities”
“Nothing matters more to happiness than social ties”
“Socially connected people live, on average, 15 years longer than socially disconnected people”
“Walking saves society $1.08, bus saves $0.16, cars cost society $2.78”
Unveiling of the Art of remembrance memorial project by the Friends of St David on 24 April.
A monumental, site-specific Max Gimblett art installation
cloaks the historic St David’s Church – The Soldiers’ Memorial–
to commemorate the 100,000 New Zealanders who served overseas in WWI.
This report covers my Waitematā Local Board activities during March 2015 as Deputy Chair, lead for the Community and Transport portfolios, Chair of the Grants Committee, Deputy Chair of the Central Joint Funding Committee and with positions on the Ponsonby Business Association Board and Ponsonby Community Centre Committee and Board liaison for the Parnell Community Centre.
Hon Nikki Kaye cuts the ribbon with Freemans Bays school students
Bikes in Schools: opening of a new bike track at Freemans Bay School
One of the highlights of the month was attending the bike track opening at Freemans Bay School on 20 March. This is the first bike track in the Waitematā area supported by the Bikes in Schools Trust. It was wonderful to see how excited the kids are to ride a bike. For many of the kids at the school who live in the city centre the track offers them the only safe opportunity to cycle.
Portfolio Report: Transport
RLTP Presentation
All local boards and key stakeholders were given the opportunity to present to an Auckland Transport hearings panel on the draft Regional Land Transport Plan 2015 -2025 (RLTP) as part of the consultation process.
I presented with the Chair on behalf of the Waitematā Local Board on 10 March (Presentation attached as Attachment B). As I mentioned in my introduction to the presentation it was a slightly bizarre process to present before the end of the public consultation period and before we had finalised our submission. A copy of the Board’s final submission submitted on 16 March is attached to the April agenda.
Franklin Road
Auckland Transport presented the feedback on the proposed Franklin road upgrade design and the revised options developed on the back of that feedback at a meeting with Franklin Road residents on 9 March.
Overall the residents at the meeting were positive about the new designs but were strongly opposed to cycle lanes due to safety concerns. These concerns were outlined in a presentation to the Local Board public forum at the March business meeting on 10 March. Auckland Transport undertook to do a safety audit to ensure the final design is safe and is able to cater for all users.
Intersection of Curran St & Sarsfield St
For many years residents near to the intersection of Curran St and Sarsfield St have been seeking improvements to slow down drivers who speed up on the approach to the Harbour Bridge. Unfortunately it took a serious crash in February for Auckland Transport to respond.
I arranged a site meeting on 2 March with residents and Auckland Transport representatives to discuss the various concerns about the intersection. On 30 March Auckland Transport responded at a follow-up meeting with a concept design which was positively received. Once the feedback from the meeting has been collated by the Herne Bay Residents Association the design will be finalised by AT for formal consultation.
Portfolio report: Community Development
Empowered Communities Approach
A whole new way for Council to work called “Empowered Communities Approach” is currently being tested with the Community Development and Safety Team.
Local Board members have been briefed and workshops held with the community (I attended the workshop for ethnic migrants) to explain the details and the opportunities arising from this approach. As it is a major shift for Council I have included the following key messages about the new approach in my report:
Why we are doing this:
Supporting community-led development.
Working with communities to develop leadership, skills and capacity is a priority for Auckland Council under the Strengthen Communities goals of the Auckland Plan.
Mayor Len Brown proposed under the Long-Term Plan (2015-2025) to change how Auckland Council works around community development.
Much research and community consultation has been done by Auckland Council around empowering communities – the ECA is building on this work to bring it to life.
While we are developing a ‘whole of council approach’ Community Development and Safety are the first team to have this approach applied.
Purpose of engaging with communities:
You know what you need and want and, in turn, we need to hear that from you.
We would like to hear what you feel about the direction the ECP is taking and what it means for your communities.
Every community is different – a one-size-fits-all approach will not work across Auckland.
Council needs to be more responsive and flexible around community needs and priorities.
Resources and capacity varies across Auckland and council needs to ensure that each community has the same opportunities and platforms for empowerment.
There are benefits from empowering communities including: more responsive to community need; more flexibility and opportunity to change what may not be working; less bureaucracy; and, more opportunity for the communities to show innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship.
Auckland Council is committing to a new, innovative way of working. It recognises that for the ECA to be successful it has to change both the way it works, and how it works, to benefit Aucklanders.
Empowered Communities Approach:
‘Empowered Communities: Enabling Council’ is an approached underpinned by a two-way relationship.
A description rather than a definition is being used to ensure there is room for us all to see ourselves.
What is an empowered community?
An empowered community is one where individuals, whanau and communities have the power and ability to influence decisions, take action and make change happen in their lives and communities. This includes communities of place, interest and identity.
Community empowerment is about providing real opportunities for people to participate and fostering the conditions that support this.
An empowered communities approach is ‘a way of working’ that empowers people to play a more active role in the decisions that affect their communities’.
A ‘whole of council’ shift is required to:
Provide a gateway / portal into council resources and information
Provide more support for local boards and other areas of council to work together in joined-up ways with local communities
Facilitating and embedding the ECA across council
Developing and implement creative new engagement and participation practices
Support the devolution of resources / functions / control to communities.
Currently we are exploring ways to operationalise the Community Development and Safety team functions with a new focus on ways of working.
Feedback is currently being sought from community groups about what needs to change for Council to be “an enabling council” and communities to be called “empowered communities”.
Long Term Plan consultation
Consultation on the Auckland Council’s 10 year budget (LTP) closed on 16 March. 27,383 submissions were received in total with 1097 coming from the Waitematā Local Board area. It was the first consultation process under Auckland Council’s new Significance and Engagement Policy that is required by the Local Government Act 2002. Instead of hearings, submitters were invited to attend Have your Say events where all comments received were recorded as official feedback (Photo right – the Waitematā Have your say Event)
Personally I did not think the Have your Say events were an adequate alternative to Local Board hearings as there was limited ability to meaningfully engage and discuss issues with submitters.
Professional development
In March I started semester one at AUT University as I continue learning Te Reo Maori ( I completed two stage 1 papers in 2014). I attend classes twice a week.
I have also appreciated the opportunity to take part in the training series “Making an Impact with Maori” provided by Council’s advisors. On 25 March I joined councillors and local board members at Te Mahurehure Marae in Pt Chev for an immersive learning experience, designed to take elected members through the protocols and principles involved with entering a marae.
Workshops and meetings
During March I attended:
Street meeting on 2 March of Herne Bay residents and Auckland Transport to discuss the Curran St/Sarsfield St intersection speeding and safety issues
One of the presenters of the LGNZ webinar on 3 March in Wellington: Planning and Investment Opportunities for Cycling (Urban Cycleways Investment Programme) Photo right: delivering the Webinar with Cynthia Bowers, Deputy Mayor, Hawkes Bay District Council
Attended Long Term Plan – 10 year budget consultation events: Have your Say event at the Town Hall on 4 March, the Grey Lynn community meeting on 11 March (co-hosted with the Arch Hill and Grey Lynn Residents Association) and the Fix Our City: A Discussion with the Mayor co-hosted with Generation Zero at Auckland University
Meeting to discuss RLTP feedback on 5 March
HBDI Test result discussion with Board members (HBDI survey provided insight into thinking style preferences)
Friends of St David meeting on Sunday 8 March
Auckland Transport’s meeting on 9 March with Franklin Road residents to discuss the consultation feedback analysis and the revised options developed for the upgrade of Franklin Road
Ponsonby Business Association Board meeting on 10 March
Meeting to discuss the community grants template
RLTP presentation to Auckland Transport
Waitematā Local Board business meeting on 10 March
Cycle Advisory Group meeting on 11 March
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 12 March
Meeting on 12 March to discuss the development of a Youth HUB in the City Centre
Site visit on Waima Street on 16 March organised by Arch Hill residents with representatives of Auckland Transport, NZTA, NZ Police, the Prostitutes Collective, and Newton School. David Shearer, MP also attended (photo right)
Grey Lynn community meeting on 17 March to discuss concerns arising from Auckland Transport’s proposals to remove parking at the Grey Lynn shops
Monthly Transport portfolio catch up on 18 March
Meeting with Albert-Eden and Puketapapa Local Boards to discuss progress on the Central Community Recycling Facility
Empowered Communities approach discussion with Local Boards on 20 March
Community Place-making champions group meeting on 23 March
Meeting to discuss the community grants policy and template
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 24 March
Communications update with the Local Board communications advisor
Making an Impact with Maori – Training for Elected Members. Visit to Te Mahurehure Marae for all local board members and councillors
Local Board Greenways Plans and Walking and Cycling Networks Collaboration Meeting on 26 March
Urban Cycling Investment Panel – meeting 3 in Christchurch on 27 March
Auckland Arts Festival 4 – 22 March I attended various performances and the opening night drinks in the Festival Gardens (at the invitation of the AAF Trust)
Little Day Out at the Mt Eden Village Centre on 7 March
International Women’s Day event in Khartoum Place on 9 March
Presented the 95bfm Green Desk on 10, 17 and 24 March
Grey Power meeting on 12 March at the Fickling Centre as part of a presentation on the LTP (I was invited to present on transport issues in the LTP)
Wet Hot Beauties performance in Judges Bay on 14 March
This report covers my Waitematā Local Board activities during February 2015 as Deputy Chair, lead for the Community and Transport portfolios, Chair of the Grants Committee, Deputy Chair of the Central Joint Funding Committee and with positions on the Ponsonby Business Association Board and Ponsonby Community Centre Committee and Board liaison for the Parnell Community Centre.
Highlights
Victory for a liveable city
People power and common sense won the day on February 20th when the Auckland Transport Board went against officer advice in deciding not to go ahead with the planned widening of Great North Road that would have required the removal of six heritage Pohutukawa trees. A well organised campaign challenged an Auckland Transport and NZTA culture that was only willing to consider one option for over 3 years.
It was an important win not just for saving 6 trees but for forcing a rethink about the design of all roading projects. It was also a win for trees in general by raising awareness about the huge range of benefits that a magnificent stand of trees can provide the community and the landscape.
I was proud to be part of the Waitematā Local Board that stood with the community and that has consistently told Auckland Transport the plans needed to be re-considered.
Child friendly Waitematā
The Waitematā Local Board has recently become the first of Auckland’s local boards to be nominated and registered as ‘child friendly’ through the international UNICEF ‘Child Friendly Cities’ accreditation process. UNICEF defines a child friendly city as “a local system of good governance committed to fulfilling children’s rights. It is a city where the voices, needs, priorities and rights of children are an integral part of public policies, programmes and decisions. It is, as a result, a city that is fit for all”.
Claire Stewart, Community Development Facilitator, organised a workshop in February for participants to find out about the work already being done to make Waitematā child friendly, to share their own work and to support the journey towards Waitematā’s child friendly status
Dr. Rodney Tolley, Conference Director of Walk21 and experienced consultant in the field of active, sustainable transport gave a presentation to the workshop. Rodney has a focus on public space and transport and is passionate about equality of opportunity for children. As he points out children are a great indicator of the liveability of a city. Some of the key points from his presentation about growing a child-friendly city:
Loss of ubiquitous play space – children should be able to play everywhere but there has been a societal change and a change in the function of streets. He quotes from a study that found the failure of an urban environment can be measured by the % of playgrounds.
Management of risk – risk of a child being abducted by a strange 1 in x (infinitesimal) if use active travel. If don’t use active travel 100% risk that child will have poorer coordination; less likely to be cooperative; have health issues etc
More car travel diminishes physical health. Only 11% of Kiwi kids meet daily activity guidelines – 10% obese.
Rodney Tolley “child friendly” workshop walkabout on Queen St
The presentation considered what’s being done, for example:
Safe routes to school “if not safe make it safe”
At heart of initiatives – controlling speeds. Highlighted the benefits to children in overseas cities eg 75% of NYC now 20mph; Paris all streets 30kmph
Conclusion – cultural or physical changes needed? A walking city is a paradise for children. A city where kids invited to sit, play and walk. There are co-benefits in getting it right for kids gets it right for everyone.
The workshop included a discussion on what we are doing for children in different parts of Council and a walk around to explore parts of the city from a child’s point of view. The group I walked with along High St and Queen St (including Rodney) found the city centre to be empty of children under 10 and a very unwelcoming place.
Myers Park Centenary
The brief to the event team responsible for the Centenary celebrations was to take a community development approach so that it involved local groups for the benefit of city centre residents (the community portfolio was involved in the early discussion on the centenary)
Congratulations to the organising team who did such a great job. The centenary event on 15th Feb was child- focused, organic and non- commercial. I thought it was a really successful celebration, attracting local residents and all on a tight budget. I would be very supportive of the centenary event being a template for an annual Myers Park kids festival.
Community Development conference
The Unitec hosted conference brought to together practitioners, academics and students to share their knowledge, research and stories about community development. Major themes included placemaking, community economic development, diverse communities and re-claiming democracy. My conference registration of $270 was paid for from the Local Board professional development budget (I cycled to and from the venue).
I enjoyed the conference as a networking opportunity and a chance to hear about the evolution of the practice of Community Development over the last 25 years and to reflect on the role of Local Government.
Key points mentioned by a variety of speakers:
Community Development has to connect most closely with Local Government. LG is the natural unit of CD.
Auckland has suffered from politicians without vision (No social housing; Lack of community centres)
Community Development and Economic development need to merge– not flip sides
Community development is an indirect art
Most important thing that local government can do: Treat people as citizens and not as customers; Stop doing things to people or for them
Long Term Plan consultation
Consultation on the Auckland Council’s 10 year budget (LTP) got under way at the end of January and continues through February until 16 March. The Local Board held 2 community engagement events in February in the City Centre and Parnell (co-hosted with Parnell Community Committee)
As at 1 March Auckland Council had received 6320 written submissions, 427 eligible digital submissions (374 pieces of feedback had been received from the Waitematā Local Board area) and 423 Aucklanders have attended a “Have Your Say “event.
After many years fighting for road safety improvements Richmond Rd School can finally enjoy a signalised crossing and traffic calming treatments. The Transport portfolio were responsible for ensuring a feeder lane was incorporated into the design (as a first step towards cycling lanes for the length of Richmond Road)
Westhaven Promenade
The much anticipated and beautifully built Westhaven promenade was officially opened on 16 February.
My partner Paul Shortland (Deputy Chair of Cycle Action Auckland) had the honour of cutting the ribbon on the invitation of Sir Bob and the Mayor.
I have received only positive feedback about the promenade especially from locals using it with children.
Congratulations to the Waterfront Auckland team responsible for the promenade.
Walk About on Ponsonby Road with the Ponsonby Business Association
Following a serious injury suffered by a visitor to Ponsonby Rd, who tripped on the footpath, the Ponsonby Business Association General Manager & Deputy Chair invited representatives from the Board, Auckland Transport and Auckland Council to take part in a walk round. The purpose of the walk was to identify urgent repairs and to discuss options for a full upgrade of the footpath as anticipated in the Ponsonby Plan finalised in 2013.
Workshops and meetings
During February I attended:
Meeting with the organisers of Art in the Dark, ATEED reps and events portfolio on 2 February
Ponsonby Community Centre Management Committee meeting on 2 February
Meeting with volunteers from community group Plastic Diet
LTP Consultation briefing on key issues for local board members on 3 February
Local Board Workshop on 3 February
Community portfolio meeting with Youth Advisory Panel representative to handover from Isabella Lenihan-Ikin (before she departed for Otago) to Alex Johnston
Transport Portfolio meeting on 4 February
Central Local Board cluster briefing on draft Corporate Sponsorship Operational Guidelines on 9 February
St Lukes Intersection design/ Pohutukawa Trees discussion with Auckland Transport on 9 February
Ponsonby Business Association Board meeting on 10 February
Waitematā Local Board business meeting on 10 February
Briefing on the New Zealand International Convention Centre on 11 February
Meeting with Matthew Luxton, Envision to discuss social enterprise in Waitemata
Briefing on Trading and Events Bylaw: Communication to businesses
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 12 February
Ponsonby Road Walk About with representatives of Auckland Council, Auckland Transport and the Ponsonby Business Association to discuss the disrepair of the footpaths
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Reserves Board meeting and induction – 16 February – The purpose of the hui was to provide an in-depth insight into the history, current projects and aspirations in respect to the Whenua Rangatira and Pourewa Creek Recreation Reserve (photo right of Richelle Kahui- McConnell leading the tour)
St Lukes Intersection design (Pohutukawa tree removal) – follow up meeting with Auckland Transport and NZTA
Community Development Conference (opening Powhiri at Unitec Marae and one day at Unitec, Henderson)
Urban Cycling Investment Panel – meeting 2 in Wellington on 20 February
Local Board Greenways Plans and Walking and Cycling Networks Collaboration Meeting on 23 February
Cycling Action Group and Urban Cycling Investment update presented to the Local Boards Forum on 23 February
Rodney Tolley – Child Friendly Cities workshop at Pioneer Womens Hall
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 24 February
Community Development portfolio monthly catch up on 25 February
Long Term Plan – 10 year budget community engagement events on 25 February (City Centre) and 26 February (co-hosted with the Parnell Community Committee)
Meeting to discuss RLTP feedback on 25 February
Central Boards cluster meeting: BIDs and service delivery and policy review
Attended the Auckland Development Committed extraordinary meeting on 26 February
Monthly Transport portfolio catch up on 26 February
LGNZ Zone One meeting in Auckland on 27 February
Events and functions
During February I attended:
Bike Market at Silo Park on 1 February
Friends of the Festival lunch at Q Theatre on 3 February
Screening with Nga Tāonga – Sound & Vision of two documentaries at Auckland Museum on 5 February to commemorate the 175th anniversary of the signing of te Tiriti o Waitangi. Pita Turei, director of Waka: The Awakening Dream, presented at Q&A session following the screening.
Tour of the Light Show exhibition with Rhana Devenport, Director Auckland Art Gallery (organised for local board members and Councillors) on 5 February
Waitangi Day powhiri at Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Marae
Zero Waste Volunteer with Christopher Dempsey at Takaparawhau (Bastion Pt) for the Waitangi Day Festival organised by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei
Big Gay Out, Coyle Park
Green Desk interview on 10 February (as occasional host of the Green Desk, 95bfm) with Isabella Lenihan-Ikin, Waitemata Youth Advisory Panel representative
Dropped by the NZTA/Auckland Transport Nelson Street cyclelane open day at Tukutai Square on 10 February
Go by bike day pit stop on the Grafton Gully Cycle way on 11 February (free coffee provided by Auckland Transport)
Opening Night Party of Auckland Fringe and X0X Pride at the Box, Aotea Square on 11 February
Cycle Action’s Associates breakfast on 12 February
Launch and Blessing of Twist & Thief by Tanja McMillian (Misery) on K’rd
ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 – Opening of Fanzone at Tukutai Square by the Mayor on 14 February
Valentine’s Day bike ride and afternoon tea with Frocks on Bikes
Myers Park Centennial Celebration on 15 February
Blessing and official opening of the Westhaven Promenade on 16 February
With the Deputy Mayor visited the Angel by Kelsey Montague sponsored by the Ponsonby Business Association on the Brown St wall of Ponsonby Central (photo right)
Regional Arts Trust Awards at Q Theatre (congratulations to Shona McCullagh, Hynds Creative Entrepreneur 2015 Award winner)
Auckland Conversations – Shaping Resilient and Collaborative Communities – Milenko Matanovic, Founder & Executive Director The Pomegranate Centre Washington USA
Save our Harbour rally on Queens Wharf (photo below)
Regional Facilities Auckland – refreshments with the Board and senior management at the Aotea Centre
Finns at the Zoo on 27 February (at the invitation of Auckland Zoo)
Grey Lynn RSC commemorative mural blessing (funding provided by the Local Board)
Art in One Day prize giving (event sponsored with a Community Grant)
Rev Mua Strickland Pua at the blessing of the RSC commemorative ANZAC mural
Mobile Library at Big Gay Out
Opening of the Fanzone with Cr Denise Krum, Mayor Len Brown and ATEED CEO Brett O’Reilly
Myers Park Centennial celebration
Go by bike breakfast
Christopher Dempsey at the opening of the Fringe Festival
This is my first report for 2015 covering highlights from December 2014 and January 2015.
Opening up the city centre to people
Despite the transport messaging that the Central City was “closed” the streets of Lower Queen St and Quay St were very much full and open to people over Auckland anniversary weekend.
I enjoyed the impressive 3 days of events for Auckland 175th birthday that included the Waitematā Local Board supported International Buskers Festival and the Story of Auckland in Shed 10 (I attended the launch of both). It was great see so many people enjoying the waterfront and finding time to give feedback about improving the city centre.
The weekend really showed the huge potential for improving downtown by re-prioritising road space.
Saving the Pohutukawa 6
I have provided regular updates on the Board’s opposition to Auckland Transport’s proposal to remove 6 mature Pohutukawa trees on Great North Road. The latest update is attached (ATTACHMENT A) following on from the Commissioners decision on 17 December to recommend removal.
Cycling & walking investment
I am really delighted to have been appointed to the Urban Cycling Investment Panel by the Transport Minister on the recommendation of LGNZ. The launch of the urban cycling programme was held on 30 January 2015 on the old Nelson St motorway off- ramp (ATTACHMENT B). I attended the first meeting of the panel in Wellington on 8 December.
2015 is going to be the year to celebrate new cycling infrastructure in Auckland starting on 20 January when I joined the Albert- Eden community, Cycle Action, David Shearer MP and NZTA to celebrate the opening of the new causeway bridge on the NW cycleway.
The much anticipated and beautifully constructed Westhaven Promenade opened at the end of January. It is perfect for cycling with children in a safe, attractive environment but still needs to be connected to all the way to Silo Park. Auckland Transport announced on 30 January that construction of the final leg of the shared path on Westhaven Drive continuing along Beaumont Street is starting in February with a completion date in March (the shared path is intended as an interim measure).
Over the summer break I enjoyed one of the many cycling adventures now possible in Auckland (ATTACHMENT C)
Speed enforcement
In response to the many unjustified and ill-informed attacks over the summer on the NZ Police in response to speed limit enforcement I decided to write up my personal experience that influences my personal support for the safer systems approach to road safety (ATTACHMENT D). On the positive side I think there is a growing demand for slower speeds especially on residential streets and in the city centre.
Kelmarna Community Gardens
I attended the Kelmarna Community Gardens Trust public meeting on 29 January that gathered people together to reflect on their connections to the garden and to help plan the future now that Framework has withdrawn as a tenant.
It was an incredibly positive, well attended meeting demonstrating a huge amount of support for the gardens to continue as an organic farm with a place for everyone. The Trust, with the assistance from Council officers, is considering options for managing the gardens going forward.
Placemaking
The January Inner City Network meeting was hosted by Waterfront Auckland. Frith Walker gave an excellent presentation on placemaking that inspired the many people who attended to consider what it is possible to achieve in Auckland with clear vision and creativity.
Way finding
Street signage has been a topical local issue over the summer in response to Auckland Transport’s trial new signs on city streets (so far mainly in the Albert- Eden area). The Board has not yet been asked to give formal feedback on the design. In the meantime I continue to push for way finding signage for pedestrians and cyclists on streets that are only NO EXIT for vehicles (such as on Fort St).
I was impressed to see the new way finding signs that have gone up in Myers Park. They are clear and well-designed providing a best practice template for future way finding designs.
Berm planting
At the Board’s December meeting we passed the following resolution in an attempt to progress Auckland Transport’s draft guidelines to encourage responsible plantings on grass verges. In the meantime “happy berms” have appeared over the summer.
Some of the events I attended during December and January
The centenaries of Parnell Pool and the Tepid Baths were celebrated in December and the Grey Lynn Library’s 90th birthday.
Mayoral Reception on the occasion of the Battle of the River Plate 75th anniversary commemoration with the remaining 5 survivors.
The final Citizenship Ceremonies of 2014 were held on 1 December at the Town Hall (I was in the official party for the afternoon ceremony)
Auckland put on a beautiful morning for the Ironman 70.3 on the waterfront. I attended the welcome function on 16 January.
I attended the Breakers game on Friday 23rd January as a guest of the Mayor
It was sad to farewell Chris Davidson at the end of January as the CEO, Parnell Trust but he leaves the Trust in great shape.
This report covers my Waitematā Local Board activities during November 2014 as Deputy Chair, lead for the Community and Transport portfolios, Chair of the Grants Committee, Deputy Chair of the Central Joint Funding Committee and with positions on the Ponsonby Business Association and Ponsonby Community Centre Committee.
I was acting chair for the week of 17th November.
This is my final report for 2014 and also brings to an end the first year of this term of Auckland Council.
Many thanks to all those who have supported the Board’s work during 2014. I’d also like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy festive season & summer solstice (photo right: Child Fund NZ’s brilliant Tree of Bikes at Queens Wharf)
Recommended resolution:
a) That the report be received.
b) That the Waitemata Local Board
i) Supports encouraging and enabling community use of berms as much as practicable
ii) Supports the development of berm-planting guidelines, which would include:
Benefits of appropriate berm planting
Safe depths to dig to
Ideal plants in a number of categories – natives, food, trees
Maintenance expectations, including in regard to safety eg height
Role of Local Boards in acting as a key conduit for Auckland Transport to have community relationships around berm planting
Working with neighbours
iii) Requests Auckland Transport develop berm planting guidelines in conjunction with Local Boards
iv) Requests Auckland Transport report on progress to the Board’s February meeting.
Portfolio reports: Transport
Parking – Amendment to Road Users Rules to allow residents to park over their own driveways
At the Waitematā Local Board November meeting Trevor Lund, a member of the Freemans Bay Residents Association, presented in public forum seeking a letter of support from the Board requesting NZTA amend clause 6.9 of the Road Users Rule to allow Road Controlling Authorities (in this case Auckland Transport) to exempt residents with a permit, and allow them to park across their own driveways (parallel to the kerb, not over the footpath).
The proposal has the potential to create additional parking spaces in areas where there is high demand for on-road parking. In the response to Mr Lund’s presentation the Board passed the following resolution.
9.2 Public Forum – Trevor Lund, Freemans Bay Resident
Resolution number WTM/2014/215MOVED by Chairperson S Chambers, seconded by Deputy Chairperson PJ Coom:
a) That Trevor Lund be thanked for his attendance and presentation to the Board.
b) That the proposal be referred to Auckland Transport and the Transport portfolio holders for further consideration and that this be reported back to the Board meeting on 8 December 2014
The proposal was discussed at the transport portfolio monthly catch up on 26 November. We considered the benefits of the proposal for areas like Freemans Bay where on street parking is at capacity due to all day commuter parking. We noted a number of points
Currently where a resident parks across their driveway (parallel to the kerb or facing the driveway as in the photo right but not over the footpath) Auckland Transport will not enforce the rule unless there is a complaint. The rule gives Auckland Transport the ability to act where there is a dispute over access or safety issues.
There are benefits to all residents of keeping driveways clear for example driveways provide safer crossing points for pedestrians particularly with pushchairs. A street with no gaps in the on- street parking could also create hazards for wheelchair users and mobility scooters.
The resident parking zone that Auckland Transport is going to consult on early next year is intended alleviate much of the parking pressure on Freemans Bay.
Many residents may wish to see occupancy rates reduce on residential streets once the parking zone is installed and not wish to encourage additional parking across driveways.
There are administrative issues for Auckland Transport to consider for example how to identify the legitimate home owner’s car and how to enforce complaints. There are also costs associated with a permit scheme (and residents may query why a permit should be necessary for an activity that is currently “permitted”).
Overall the transport portfolio concluded that while we wish to support proposals that will address the very serious parking issues currently experienced in Freemans Bay we think there are a number of down-sides to a rule change. Also in practice it is likely to make very little difference to the parking available because residents already park across their own driveways when necessary.
However we will continue to discuss the options with the Freemans Bay Residents Association and Auckland Transport and support Auckland Transport undertaking a trial of the proposal. We also recommend the Board re-consider providing a letter of support to NZTA once the residents parking zone has been implemented and the impact assessed.
Notice of Requirement hearing – removal of 6 mature pohutukawa trees on Great North Road
Auckland Transport’s planting schedule
I attended the Notice of Requirement hearing on 5 and 6 November in support of the Board’s objection to Auckland Transport’s proposal to remove 6 mature Pohutukawa trees on Great North Road. The Board’s lawyer Nick Whittington did a fantastic job at the hearing arguing that the adverse impact of removing the trees on GNR would be “significant” and “enduring” and outlined why Auckland Transport evidence was “back-filling, self-serving and cursory”. We have asked AT to consider an alternative option (referred to in the hearing as option 6).
Disappointingly Auckland Transport has stuck to their position that there is no alternative but to remove these notable trees (probably planted on Arbor Day in 1934) for road widening to provide for two lanes turning from Great North Road on to a new St Lukes bridge. At the hearing AT represented their proposed planting plan to replace the trees. (photo right)
An aspect of the hearing that was particularly preposterous was the 54 submissions out of 64 that all had wrong submission numbers were found to be “invalid” due to clerical error. One submitter Jolisa Gracewood has written here about the experience of being so terribly let down by the process.
Fortunately she still chose to speak and put forward her very well considered points, as she said “Auckland Transport’s plan prioritises car movement at all costs: no creative thought for how to safely move everyone else”
The Commissioners are due to release their decision on 17 December.
Cycling improvements
I was really thrilled to see the greening of new feeder lanes on Great North Road and K’rd at the end of November. As previously reported the issues with the Great North Road intersection were logged with Auckland Transport four years ago (one of the first safety issues I raised with AT after first getting elected). Due to the narrow lanes cyclists were forced to either navigate 3 lanes of traffic or mount the kerb to avoid getting squashed by buses and cars. AT’s original response was to say the feeder was not possible without the widening of the road by removing heritage buildings. Fortunately after persistent advocacy from the Board and Cycle Action Auckland someone clever at AT got on to the job earlier this year and came up with a solution not only on the Great North Road side of the intersection but also the K’rd approach (feeder lanes for the Ponsonby Road and Newton Road sections are also about to be installed)
Monthly transport update
A monthly update with Auckland Transport took place on 26 November. Current issues are reported back monthly by Auckland Transport on our public agenda including the details of the consultation undertaken with the Transport portfolio on behalf of the Board.
Portfolio reports: Community
Berm planting guidelines
In July 2013 Auckland Transport standardised the urban berm moving service so that generally all owners and occupiers adjacent to road side grass verges (berms) are responsible for maintenance. Auckland Transport has provided various exceptions such as on road corridors through town centres and on steep sections.
Following an increase in residents informally planting on the berms Auckland Transport undertook in February 2014 to draft guidelines. These guidelines have not yet been forthcoming, even in draft form, although the Community Placemaking Champions group of Local Board members (of which I am a member) was recently briefed that “private” berm guidelines will be released for consultation in 2015. “Private” applies to people who wish to plant a berm that is adjacent to their existing property, and will not cover community groups or gardening collectives who may wish to plant on berms.
The champions group has recognised that the guidelines provide an opportunity to support the “placemaking” function of berms and to foster the many benefits. For example – litter reduction, storm water management, streetscape amenity values, community development and the promotion of bio-diversity. Guidelines can provide a best practice framework for street planting while minimising the impact on the road corridor. For example the City of Sydney Footpath Gardening Policy allows residents and businesses to put planter boxes on the footpath and/or carry out gardening on footpath verges outside their properties under certain conditions.
Auckland Transport’s approach to the guidelines (including advice currently on AT’s website which incorrectly states berm planting is prohibited) suggests that the draft guidelines are not being approached from a placemaking perspective but mainly to identify what is not allowed in the road corridor for safety reasons.
Local Boards are best placed to develop the guidelines with Auckland Transport and to assist with the smooth implementation. I therefore recommend that the Board confirms support for encouraging and enabling community use of berms as much as practicable and directs Auckland Transport to develop appropriate guidelines in conjunction with Local Boards.
Community grants
The Community Grants Committee met in November to consider applications to the second round. We received applications totalling $$104,731 from the available $$69,153.
The committee’s recommendations are on the December agenda. Applications to the third and final community grant round for 14/15 can be made until 6 March 2015 (for a decision in April).
I also attended the Central Joint Funding Committee Meeting on 28 November to consider applications to Round 1 Auckland City Cultural Heritage Fund. We confirmed funding for 5 projects totally $23,322.93 including assistance to St Joseph’s Church, Grey Lynn (leadwork maintenance) and St Patricks Cathedral (restoration work) within the Waitematā Local Board area. $26,677.07 remains for the final round from this fund (which will cease to exist once the new funding policy is implemented for 15/16)
Community Gardens
Te Maara Community Garden blessing
One of the Board’s priorities is to support community gardens so I was particularly pleased to attend the blessing of Te Māra (the Grey Lynn Community Garden). Redevelopment of this garden at St Columba Church under the guidance of a new vicar Brent Swann was made possible with a community grant from the Board
Also during November a new initiative has been launched called Kai Auckland – a movement for all Aucklanders that offers a cohesive and integrated approach to creating connection and nourishment through food. Groups such as community gardens, food coops and farmers markets are encouraged to register on the site.
Kelmarna Community Gardens
Framework Trust confirmed during November that they are no longer in a position to sub-lease Kelmarna Community gardens. This has been a distressing time for the clients and Framework employees who work at the gardens. Fortunately Kelmarna Community Gardens Trust has confirmed that they would like to continue with the lease (which is about to be renewed) and are keen to explore options with the Board for continuing the management of the gardens. A meeting has been arranged with the Trustees, relevant Community Development officers and the community portfolio members to discuss options going forward.
Workshops and meetings
In the period 1 November – 30 November I attended:
Ponsonby Community Centre management committee meeting on 3 November
Local Board Workshop on 4 November
Attended the Notice of Requirement hearing remove 6 Pohutukawa trees on Great North Road on 5 and 6 November
Meet Ponsonby Business Association GM on 6 November
Communications catch up on 10 November
Engagement adviser catch up on 10 November
Auckland’s Resource Recovery Network – Workshop for Local Board Members on 10 November The purpose of this workshop is to update you on the RRN and discuss the opportunities that resource recovery facilities can provide local boards to progress community, economic development and environmental objectives. Presentations from Xtreme Waste Raglan and the new Waiuku Recovery Centre
Ponsonby Business Association Board meeting on 11 November
City Centre activation programme
Te Reo Māori exam on 11 November
Waitematā Local Board business meeting on 11 November
Attended presentation to Ponsonby Business Association members on 254 Ponsonby Road options on 12 November
Meeting on 13 November with Auckland Transport regarding the prioritisation of transport projects for the Long Term Plan
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 13 November
LGNZ Zone One meeting in Maungawhai on 14 November
Workshop on 18 November with governing body members on options for the Aotea Square/Civic Administration Building
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 18 November
Meeting up of community group representatives organised by Auckland Transport to discuss plans for an “open streets” even on Quay St in April 2015
Joint Governing Body and Local Board Chairs meeting on 19 November (A regular meeting offering the opportunity for the two arms of Auckland Council’s governance to discuss and debate key issues)
Meeting with local resident regarding resource consent issues
Community Grants briefing on 20 November
Local Board Chairs Greenways Plans and Walking and Cycling Networks Collaboration Meeting on 24 November
Community Grants Committee meeting on 24 November
Shinagawa Peace Delegation to Auckland
Meeting with Shinagawa Peace Delegation hosted by Cr Cathy Casey (This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Nuclear-free Peaceful City Shinagawa Declaration. As part of the commemorations, a peace delegation from Shinagawa will be visiting Auckland from the 24th to the 26th November. The purpose of the visit is to exchange information about peace initiatives that are part of the wider ‘Cities for Peace’ movement, of which Auckland Council became a part in 2011. The delegation will also meet with the Peace Council and staff members from the Peace Foundation while they are in Auckland.)
Meeting with Sustainable Coastlines to discuss their Waterfront training centre and resource recovery park concept to be built at Wynyard Quarter
Stakeholders consultation meeting on the Newmarket Laneways Plan on 24 November
Ponsonby Community Centre AGM on 24 November
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 25 November
Communications catch up on 25 November
Meeting to discuss LTP 2015 consultation events with the Board’s engagement adviser
Civil Defence Community Response Group meeting hosted by Grey Lynn Neighbourhood support
Monthly Transport portfolio catch up on 26 November
Community Development portfolio monthly catch up on 26 November
Central Joint Funding Committee Meeting on 28 November – Round 1 Auckland City Cultural Heritage Fund Applications
Events and functions
In the period 1 November – 30 November 2014 I attended:
Blessing of Te Māra – St Columba Community Gardens – He Timatanga Hou Project on 1 November
Beach Road stage II consultation open day at Britomart Market on 1 November
Reuse to reduce market at Auckland Zoo for conservation week
ATC’s Jesus Christ Superstar opening night production at Q Theatre on 1 November at the invitation of ATC
Grey Lynn Farmers Market AGM on 2 November (I was re-elected Chair of the management committee)
Blend with the Bluntletts ride on 2 November organised by Generation Zero, Transportblog, Blend Store and the Frockers at Frocks on Bikes – Auckland (photo right published in the Auckland City Harbour News)
Green Desk interview with blogger and writer Melissa Bruntlett, who lives life on two wheels in Vancouver, about Van Cycle Chic – Observations from an Emerging Bike Culture.
Auckland Conversations on 4 November Vancouver Cycle Chic: Observations from emerging bike culture Chris & Melissa Bruntlett ( report back on their presentation)
Silo Theatre’s Blind Date at Basement Theatre at the invitation of Silo Theatre on 5 November
Cycle Action’s Associates breakfast on 6 November
Light Show at the Auckland Art Gallery (I couldn’t make it to the opening night but enjoyed going with friends)
The Official Launch of Federal Street on 7 November
Franklin Road upgrade Open Day – Community Information Session on 8 November hosted by Auckland Transport
Sustainable Coastlines the Love Project at Silo Six
Armistice Day Commemoration at Auckland Museum
Art in the Dark launch on 12 November and attended Art in the Dark at Western Park on 2 of the 4 nights (one of the four nights was cancelled)
Parnell Festival of Roses opening speech and helped at the Board’s stand to consult on the Pt Resolution plan
Launch of the ATEED innovation plan at GRID AKL
Creative Communities Showcase hosted by Auckland Council
World of Wearable Art Exhibition Launch at the Auckland Museum
Opening of the Outside Art Fair hosted by Toi Ora Art Trust on 21 November
Nuffield Street, Newmarket Christmas Festival on 22 November
Glenn Innes to Tamaki Drive cycleway open day hosted by Auckland Transport on 22 November
Picnic with board members Christopher Dempsey and Deborah Yates for the Daldy Street opening Party Saturday 22 November
Auckland Conversation – Affordable Housing Panel Discussion on 24 November
Blessing of Myers Park new playground on 26 November
Spring Fling event in Takapuna hosted by Auckland Transport and Frocks on Bikes on 26 November
Daldy Street Picnic
Consultation and Engagement Awards 2014 at the Town Hall on 28 November (Since 2011, the Consultation and Engagement Awards have recognised excellence, and encouraged quality and innovation in public participation. The awards are a chance to celebrate and have pride in the high standard of community consultation that happens across Auckland, ensuring sustainable decisions can be made and ultimately creating the world’s most liveable city while delivering Aucklanders great value for money. Congratulations to the Local Board Services Team who won the “involve” category and the People’s choice award for the 21 Local Board Plan)
Lighting up of the Child Fund NZ Tree of Bikes on Queens Wharf on 28 November
Grey Lynn Park Festival and helped out on the Waitemata Local Board stand consulting on the draft Grey Lynn Park Development Plan on 29 November
Santa Parade on 30 November at the invitation of ATEED
Grey Lynn Festival consultation stand (Photo Michael McClintock Ponsonby News)
Gifts:
Book gifted by the author: Auckland’s Remarkable Urban Forest by Mike D Wilcox
This report covers my Waitematā Local Board activities during October 2014 as Deputy Chair, lead for the Community and Transport portfolios, Chair of the Grants Committee, Deputy Chair of the Central Joint Funding Committee and with positions on the Ponsonby Business Association and Ponsonby Community Centre Committee.
PORTFOLIO UPDATES: TRANSPORT
Greenways
At our October meeting the Board approved a budget of $350,000 from the Auckland Transport capex budget, for the Waitematā Greenways Project (Route G1) in-park route. Consultation on the route design will take place alongside the draft Grey Lynn Park Development Plan.
In addition we have asked Auckland Transport to bring forward the budget to progress the on-road sections of Route G1 to connect Coxs Bay and Grey Lynn Park with the North Western Cycleway (the designs are with Auckland Transport ready for public consultation).
Franklin Road upgrade
Photo Credit: Non- Motorist @ByTheMotorway
The much needed upgrade of Franklin Road has been in the too hard basket for many years due to the challenge and costs of accommodating historic trees, utilities, parking and transport requirement. Fortunately the Board and Freemans Bay residents’ persistent advocacy has paid off and Auckland Transport is now planning a major upgrade to get underway in early 2016.
Auckland Transport is consulting on 2 possible options for the design of the road. While it is really positive to see the upgrade progress I have raised with Auckland Transport my concern about the lack of Local Board input at an early stage of the option development and the failure to recognise the Board objectives for the Franklin Road which were finalised following community consultation. The two options only go part way to achieving the improvements we would like to see for this iconic Auckland street:
Auckland Transport to undertake the planned upgrade of Franklin Road including road resurfacing, undergrounding of services, footpath upgrade, pedestrian crossings, cycle path and on road parking and to provide for safe and continuous walking and cycling pathways from Ponsonby Road to Victoria Park including continuous pedestrian facilities (i.e. an unbroken footpath on both sides of the road) across all side streets, driveways and intersections (for example by installing raised tables). Local Board Agreement 2104/2015
Parking
One of the Board’s Transport priorities is for Auckland Transport to implement a residential parking zone scheme to manage commuter parking in central Auckland suburbs (Local Board Agreement 2014/15 Transport Advocacy area). The extension of the successful St Mary’s Bay scheme to city areas suffering the biggest impact from on- street parking has been on hold while Auckland Transport consults on the parking discussion document.
The good news is that Auckland Transport has confirmed at our October catch up that parking occupancy surveys are going to start in Ponsonby and Freemans Bay in November with the aim of consulting on a proposed zone in March 2015.
A zonal approach to parking has the potential to benefit local residents and businesses and provide for short term parking for visitors.
Gladstone Road/Avon Street intersection
Auckland Transport has consulted on safety improvements at the intersection of Avon Street and Gladstone Road in Parnell that involve the removal of angle parking outside the local shops. Following a site visit, consideration of the feedback on the proposal and a public forum presentation from the local building owner and Parnell Community Committee the Board passed the following resolution:
The Waitemata Local Board requests Auckland Transport take a holistic approach to improving cyclist and pedestrian amenity on Gladstone Road and consider traffic calming and mitigation measures that do not require the removal of angled parking at the Gladstone Road/Avon Street Intersection.
Legible Auckland
Wayfinding signage continues to be installed by Auckland Transport where a request is logged. It is surprising how few directional signs exist to guide pedestrians and cyclists around our city.
Although it was great to see this sign (photo right) appear on the corner of Waima Street/Great North Road I have followed up with Auckland Transport regarding the curious content on the sign with the following queries:
The original request was for a directional sign to the NW cycleway however the information on the sign covers everything except that. What is the reason? Has this design come out of AT’s wayfinding project? Is this now the template or just temporary? NZTA have used distance for their cycleway signage. Why has AT used travel time? Is the time intended for the walker or rider? Is this now a standard approach?
Cycling Advisory Group Meeting
At the Advisory Group meeting in October discussions continued on the prioritisation of cycling projects. Richard Leggart, Chair of the NZ Cycle Safety Panel discussed the recommendations in the panel’s Safer Journeys for People who Cycle report which was open for feedback until 24 October.
We also heard from Auckland Transport about improvements to the existing network and the development of a customer charter.
I emphasised at the meeting the need for early Local Board input into Auckland Transport’s work programme to best leverage the maintenance budget to address deficiencies on the network.
Fight to save 6 mature pohutukawa trees on Great North Road
Preparations have been underway during October for the hearing taking place on 5 and 6 November regarding the Board’s objection to Auckland Transport’s Notice of Requirement to remove 6 mature Pohutukawa trees on Great North Road. The removal is sought by AT for road widening to provide for two lanes turning from Great North Road on to a new St Lukes bridge.
The Board’s objection is based on our view that there are alternatives available to Auckland Transport that could retain the trees but achieve the same transport outcomes. All the experts agree that removing the trees will result in a significant adverse effect to the environment. As one submitter put it “the trees provide a buffer of civility amid 19 lanes of tarmac”.
Monthly transport update
A monthly update with Auckland Transport took place on 29 October. Current issues are reported back monthly by Auckland Transport on our public agenda including the details of the consultation undertaken with the Transport portfolio on behalf of the Board.
PORTFOLIO REPORTS: COMMUNITY
Parnell Festival of Roses Accessibility
For a second year the Waitemata Local Board is aiming to make the Parnell Festival of Roses accessible for all. With the support of the community portfolio, member Christopher Dempsey has been working with Paul Brown, Strategic Advisor Disability to confirm the initiatives to be funded from an accessibility budget of $2000.
At the Festival on 15 and 16 November there will be an audio described walk and rose-potting workshop for blind and vision impaired visitors taking place from 11:45 -1.15pm and Rudd (the Bugman) Kleinpaste’s talk 1:30-2.00pm will be audio described. Rudd’s talks on both the Saturday and Sunday are being signed in New Zealand Sign Language. Accessibility Information has also been circulated.
Family, Whanau and Sexual Violence
We received an update from Kelly Maung on the work she is doing to progress a multi- sector strategic action plan to deal with Family, Whanau and Sexual Violence. Commitment to this initiative by Council has developed out of the Auckland Plan goal to be the world’s most liveable city and involves partnering with central government.
Kelly has challenged the Board to proactively contribute to White Ribbon day next year. Member Deborah Yates is progressing this with our male colleagues.
Park site visits
I joined the Parks team and iwi representatives on site visits to Western Park and Grey Lynn Park.
The visits identified exciting opportunities to promote cultural values and the unique historic features of the parks. There is particularly strong support for day-lighting Tunamau – the stream that is currently piped through Western Park.
Pioneer Womens Hall activation
Work to activate Pioneer Womens Hall as a community hub prior to major refurbishment taking place next year continues. We recently confirmed a modest budget to support the Jedi Knights Chess Club initiative led by a previously homeless man who has become a regular contributor to the Pioneer Womens Hall working group.
The community portfolio holds a monthly meeting with relevant officers to discuss the on-going work programme. I also attended a range of meetings during October relevant to the community portfolio – these are detailed below.
The former chief planner for Vancouver returned to Auckland at the invitation of Waterfront Auckland to continue his city-shaping advice with a talk on how rethinking our waterfront can transform our city.
Brent was introduced by John Dalzell, CEO Waterfront Auckland as an “Urban Design Warrior”.
Key points I took away from the presentation at Shed 10:
Urban planning & city building best way to influence public health and confront the convergence of global issues such as climate change and aging population.
Millennials are pre-disposed to urban living as they interact with technology like previous generations interacted with the car (baby boomers “broken hipsters” are also turning to urban living)
We need to aim for “density done well on the waterfront” Land use and movement need to be aligned. We need to recognise “induced demand”. It is just politically popular to build roads.
Vancouver shows that if you design for multi-modality it is better for drivers. It is about prioritising not being anti-car. Allows for shorter commute times (20% fewer cars; 40-60% increase in PT; 10-20% increase in cycling)
Brent is a fan of the expression “making streets sticky” for people – it is not just about moving through but how to make people stay
“Walk score” is a powerful measurement tool used in North America that shows the positive impact on property values of walkable neighbourhoods. In Auckland the evidence is that we don’t care about walkers just drivers.
He noted that the conversation about cycling is picking up but believes we will only make progress with separation (ie protected cycleways). This will be the key to a higher bike share. He also noted that there are enough women riders yet
Brent calls buses the heroes of PT as nimble & cheap but we need to change the conversation around buses and to provide a better service
Mobility is a space problem that benefits from car sharing. One car in a car share can replace 20 cars
We need to aim for consistently high density design. We have the challenge of a working Port but we should use this to our advantage. Height is just a design challenge
We also need to ensure that amenities and facilities are built into any development (in Vancouver achieved through density bonusing)
Lots of simple but can be hard to do simple
Final slide (pictured right)
Plan like you love cities
Listen like you love opinions
Design like you love people – and always challenge the word “cant”
Workshops and meetings
In the period 1 October – 31 October I attended:
Meeting with Allan Young from ACPL on 1 October to discuss and the implications for Parnell Station, access to the Domain and the regeneration of Waipapa Stream of Kiwi Rail’s proposals to sell the development site where Mainline Steam is currently located
Engagement adviser catch up on 1 October
Communications catch up on 1 October
Local Board Member briefing in Takapuna on spatial priorities and the draft infrastructure strategy that is being developed through the LTP process.
Community-led Placemaking Champions Group workshop
Local Board Workshop on 7 October
AT/Franklin Road Resident’s Meeting on 7 October – Franklin Road Upgrade
Meeting to discuss the Child Friendly City project
Meetings with the Local Board’s lawyers regarding Notice of Requirement hearing to remove 6 Pohutukawa trees on Great North Road
CCO review – Governing Body / Local Board discussion – workshop on 8 October provided an opportunity for local board members, councillors and IMSB members on the CCO Governance and Monitoring Committee to receive an update about the CCO review.
Review of the Ponsonby Road Plan by Stuart Houghton. A presentation to Board members on 8 October (on 28 October I arranged for Stuart to present his review to Council and Auckland Transport officers involved in the development of the plan)
Meeting with GM of the Ponsonby Business Association
Site Visit to Avon Street/ Gladstone Road intersection to meet a representative from Parnell Community Committee and the building owner to discuss AT’s proposal to remove angle parking
Meeting with GM of Parnell Community Centre
Communications catch up on 13 October
Ponsonby Business Association Board meeting on 14 October
Cycle Advisory Group Meeting
Waitematā Local Board business meeting on 14 October
Auckland Transport Taxi operations Plan presentation and discussion with stakeholders
Attended the Events portfolio meeting to discuss the Myers Park centenary celebrations and opportunities for community development
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 16 October
Photo Credit: Cathy Casey
Attended the Waitemata Local Board presentation to the Budget Committee led by the Chair as part of the local boards discussions with the governing body held over 2 days to inform final decision-making on the LTP for consultation. Each local board was given 20 minutes to present and discuss key priorities and advocacy areas (photo right – looking far too happy!)
LTP financial policy discussion on 20 October with Local Board representatives
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 21 October
Community Development portfolio monthly catch up on 22 October
Queens Wharf site visit: Briefing in partnership with Waterfront and Auckland Council
Western Park site visit and workshop on 24 October with iwi representatives
Attended the Waterfront Auckland Board meeting public forum in support of Ponsonby Cruising Club on 29 October
Monthly Transport portfolio catch up on 29 October
LTP Local Board Cluster Workshop – Central. Auckland Transport’s engagement with Local Boards about transport priorities for the next decade and how AT has arrived at a prioritised programme, following the Mayor’s budget proposal for the Long Term Plan.
Meetings with Auckland Council planners and the Local Board’s lawyers in preparation for the Notice of Requirement hearing to remove 6 Pohutukawa trees on Great North Road
Meeting with the CE, Newmarket Business Association
Grey Lynn Park Development Plan – site visit to discuss draft update with iwi on 31 October
Events and functions
In the period 1 October – 31 October 2014 I attended:
Newmarket Young Fashion Designer Award on 1 October at the invitation of the Newmarket Business Association
Cycle Action’s Associates breakfast
Pop up smokefree outdoor dining event organised by Auckland Cancer Society in Aotea Square (photo right)
Grey Lynn Business Association AGM on 8 October
Launch of Art week at Silo 6
Opening of Victoria Park Market Art week event
Look at K’rd Art Week event
Opening ceremony of Auckland Diwali Festival 2014 on 11 October
NZ Fashion Museum’s pop-up exhibition, Elle and the Youthquake: The changing face of fashion, at The Nathan Gallery in Britomart.
Heritage Festival events on Sunday 12 October: Civic Trust a toast to heritage and the Grey Lynn RSC’s Gaylene Preston WWI presentation
Auckland Girls’ Grammar Old Girls’ Association Annual Dinner
Auckland Conversation with Brent Toderian at Shed 10. Liveable Cities – Vibrant Waterfronts
Ponsonby Business Association AGM on 21 October
Auckland Arts Festival Launch at the Town Hall on 23 October
The New Zealand Dance Company’s Studio Showing at the Wellesley Studio on 28 October at the invitation of the NZ Dance Company
Rod Oram in conversation with Sir Stephen Tindall at the Auckland Museum on 30 October hosted by Anglican Diocese of Auckland’s Diocesan Climate Change Action Group (at the invitation of Rod Oram)
This report covers my Waitematā Local Board activities during September 2014 as Deputy Chair, lead for the Community and Transport portfolios, Chair of the Grants Committee, Deputy Chair of the Central Joint Funding Committee and with positions on the Ponsonby Business Association and Ponsonby Community Centre Committee.
Highlights:
Opening of Grafton Gully and Beach Road cycleways
Re-opening of Khartoum Place with a new staircase to the Auckland Art Gallery from Lorne Street after a long battle to retain the Suffrage Centenary Memorial in the square
Progress on a programme to activate Pioneer Women’s Hall
Local Board Plan hearings
I also enjoyed a short break in the South Island during September.
Portfolio reports: Transport
Members of the Waitemata Local Board with Mayor Len Brown
Grafton Gully cycleway opening
Report on the opening of the Grafton Gully cycleway ATTACHMENT A
Waitematā Local Board members Shale Chambers, Vernon Tava, Christopher Dempsey, and Pippa Coom with the Mayor at the opening of the Grafton Gully Cycleway
Monthly transport update
A monthly update with Auckland Transport took place on 25 September. Current issues are reported back monthly by Auckland Transport on our public agenda including the details of the consultation undertaken with the Transport portfolio on behalf of the Board.
Portfolio reports: Community
Pioneer Women’s and Ellen Melville Memorial Hall – activation
One of the Board’s priorities is developing Pioneer Women’s and Ellen Melville Memorial Hall as a community hub for city centre residents. Fortunately the refurbishment budget for the hall was removed from the proposed list of deferrals and has been funded with $400,000 for 2015/16 to proceed in alignments with the targeted rate-funded renovation of Freyberg Square.
In the meantime the community portfolio is working with officers to activate the hall using a $15,000 community development budget available for 2014/15. Really good progress has recently been made on proposals initiated by a stakeholder working group including setting up a Facebook page for the hall and a programme of activities such as Tai Chi, a chess club, and Rainbow Youth pop in centre.
Local Board Plan
The Board received 213 submissions on our draft local board plan with the majority of submitters endorsing the general direction and priorities of the Board. At hearings held over 2 days we heard from 33 submitters.
A report on the feedback was presented at the Board’s extraordinary meeting on 16 September and is available on the Council website.
A final version of the Local Board Plan is on the Board’s agenda this month.
Community Funding
The Central Joint Funding Committee was re-established on 8 September (I was re-elected Deputy Chair) to decide on applications to the Community Group Assistance Fund (round 1 of 2 rounds) and the Accommodation Support Fund 14/15. These are both legacy grants that will be disestablished when the new funding policy is implemented.
The decision of the committee is available on the Council website here.
Workshops and meetings
In the period 1 September – 30 September I attended:
Mayoral proposal workshop on 1 September at the Aotea Centre for Councillors, local board members, the Independent Maori Statutory Board and CCO Chairs and Chief Executives to discuss the Mayor’s proposal for the draft Long-term Plan 2015-2025. Led by the mayor, the workshop considered the proposal and provided opportunity for round table discussion.
Engagement adviser catch up on 1 September
Meeting to discuss Pioneer Women’s Hall Stakeholder Workshop Outcomes
Grey Lynn Business Association meeting on the signage bylaws
Local Board Plan Hearings on 2 and 3 September
Newmarket level crossing briefing on 3 September
City Centre Integration workshop with Councillors regarding QE2 Square and the proposed Downtown Framework on 3 September
Meeting with Auckland Transport to discuss Cycle Advisory Group prioritisation process on 4 September
Central Joint Grants Committee Meeting on 8 September
LTP – Parks, Community and Lifestyle response to Mayoral Proposal presentation to local board members at the Town Hall on 8 September
City Centre Waterfront Building Height and Form Strategy briefing on 9 September
LBP deliberations workshop on 9 September
Ponsonby Business Association Board meeting on September 9 September
Waitematā Local Board business meeting in Grey Lynn on 9 September
Meeting with the New Zealand Dance Company, Wellesley St to discuss community funding available
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 11 September
Meeting with the developer of 60 Cook Street to discuss plans for the future of Nelson Street
Inaugural meeting of the Maunga Authority at the Town Hall on 15 September
Communications catch up on 15 September
Engagement adviser catch up on 15 September
Local Board Meeting on 16 September – Formal deliberations to consider submissions and resolve direction of the Local Board Plan
Meeting to develop feedback on the community grants policy on 24 September
Monthly Transport portfolio catch up on 24 September
Community Development portfolio monthly catch up on 24 September
Meeting with Parnell Community Committee and Parnell Inc to discuss “Weekend Streets” on 26 September
Site visit to Kelston Community Hub with members of the community placemaking champions working group on 29 September
Local Board Workshop on 30 September
Events and functions
In the period 1 September – 30 September I attended:
CRL open day event at the Town Hall on 1 September hosted by Auckland Transport (photo right)
The Great Climate Voter Debate on 3 September at Q Theatre
ATC’s Trees beneath the Lake at the Maidment Theatre (at the invitation of ATC) on 6 September
Grafton Gully cycleway opening on 6 September (ATTACHMENT A)
Child poverty Hikoi on 6 September
Hosted the Green Desk on 95bfm on 9 September talking to Louise Carr- Neill Manager of the Grey Lynn Farmers Market
Upper Khartoum Place opening on 10 September (speech given on behalf of the Waitemata Local Board ATTACHMENT B)
Craft Market at Studio One
Jervios Road Market day on 13 September
Grey Lynn Farmers Market 5th birthday celebration on 14 September (I am chair of the management committee)
Cycle Action Auckland’s AGM at Pioneer Women’s Hall on 24 September
Newmarket Business Association AGM on 25 September
Launch of the Heritage Festival at Shed 10 on 26 September (photo below)
Bike to the Future organised by Generation Zero on 28 September (photo right giving a speech before the bike ride in support of cycle lanes on K’rd)
Festival Italiano in Newmarket and lunch hosted by Dante Alighieri on Sunday 28 September (gift bag from Dante Alighieri contained: a book on Newmarket, pasta, hair product, mascara, cooking apron, balsamic vinegar)
Arriving at the opening of the Heritage Festival at Shed 10 with Christopher Dempsey
This report covers my Waitematā Local Board activities during August 2014 as Deputy Chair, lead for the Community and Transport portfolios, Chair of the Grants Committee, Deputy Chair of the Central Joint Funding Committee and with positions on the Ponsonby Business Association and Ponsonby Community Centre Committee.
Portfolio reports: Transport
Cycle Advisory Group
The Cycle Advisory Group was established by the Mayor as a forum for providing advice, a strategic review and sounding board on cycling issues in Auckland. Members of the group consist of representatives from advocacy organisations, NZTA, ACC, MOT, Waterfront Auckland, AA, the Mayor’s office and Auckland Transport. Councillors Chris Darby, Linda Cooper and Penny Hulse are also invited to attend.
At the chair’s forum meeting in June it was noted that there was no local board representation on the advisory group. I was nominated by the board chairs as the local board representative.
I attended the fourth meeting of the group on 29 August which focused on the prioritisation process for cycling capex projects.
Draft Government Policy Statement on Land Transport 2015
However on 19 August Prime Minister John Key announced $100 million in new funding to be made available over the next four years to accelerate cycleways in urban centres after a record breaking number of submissions were received on the GPS supporting cycling investment. It is proposed that an Urban Cycleway Investment Panel will investigate opportunities to invest in urban cycleways that would expand and improve the cycling network.
What is significant is that for the first time the National government has acknowledged the benefits commuter cycling and the need to provide connected infrastructure. The challenge to Auckland Transport will be to ensure that robust investment proposals are ready to go so that Auckland can tap into this fund (which does not require matched funding from AT).
Drinking fountains
The board has committed to funding three drinking stations in the street environment from the local board capex fund.
The first of the stations has been installed at the corner of Ian McKinnon Drive and Upper Queen Street as part of the Upper Queen Street bridge upgrade (photo right).
Missing connections
A priority of the Board is to improve connectivity around the Waitematā area. One of our advocacy positions to Auckland Transport through our Local Board Agreement 14/15 is for construction of the Wellesley St connection to Auckland Domain under Symonds St overbridge and on-road connection to the NZTA funded/constructed Grafton Gully Cycleway
Last month I came across this Dutch family in the photo right who were lost on the Symonds Street bridge trying to get to the Museum by following a street map. It reinforced yet again the importance of the City – Domain walking connection bvia Wellesley Street (the project is with the City Centre Integration Group to progress).
Cycling network
Thanks in part to Local Board advocacy great progress has been made to complete major cycling projects in the Waitematā area. The Grafton Gully cycleway (NZTA project), Upper Queen Street bridge connection (AC project) and Beach Road stage one (Auckland Transport project – pictured) will all be opening in early September to provide a continuous connection from Quay Street through to the NW cycleway.
Monthly transport update
A monthly update with Auckland Transport took place on 27 August. Current issues are reported back monthly by Auckland Transport on our public agenda including the details of the consultation undertaken with the Transport portfolio on behalf of the Board.
Portfolio reports: Community
The community Development portfolio is working on a number of issues that were discussed at our monthly meeting with CDAC officers on 27 August including:
Grey Lynn Community Centre funding
Funding available for tables and chairs at community centres
Leys Institute Lift
I also attended a number of meetings during August relevant to the Community portfolio – these are listed below.
Local Board Engagement
Consultation on the draft Waitematā Local Board plan ended on 6 August. A series of drop-in sessions concluded at the Grey Lynn Library on 4 August. Consultation on the Board’s localised carbon emission reduction plan closed on 16 August.
Community Grants
The Community Grant committee met on 25 August to consider applications to the Board’s community fund for the first round of 2014/15. The Board has $100,000 available for community grants per year.
The Committee has recommended allocating $30,852 in grants from the $80,612 applied for. A final decision will be made at the September Board meeting.
Local Government New Zealand
I attended the LGNZ Zone One meeting on 22 August with representatives from Local Boards, Kaipara District Council, Whangarei District Council, Far North District Council and Northland Regional Council. Councillor Penny Webster is Zone One Chair and Auckland Council’s representative on LGNZ.
The meeting received updates from Malcolm Alexander, CEO of LGNZ (Vision of LGNZ: Local Government powering community and national success) and presentations from Surf Live Saving, Fields of Remembrance Trust (WW1 commemorations) and an update on the Financial Prudence Regulations.
Workshops and meetings
In the period 1 August – 31 August I attended:
Communications catch up on 4 August
Engagement adviser catch up on 4 August
Local Board draft plan drop in sessions – Grey Lynn Library Hall on 4 August
Local Board workshop on 5 August
Newmarket Station Signage – Parks Portfolio Meeting on 6 August
Meeting to discuss LTP draft performance measures
WEBINAR Tax – An elected members responsibility
Elections 2016 workshop for local board members on decisions to be made prior to the 2016 local government elections on potential changes to the voting system, establishment of Maori wards and representation arrangements.
Community meeting organised by Community development team at the Freemans Bay community centre – Inner City Network: What would a successful network look/feel like? On Friday 8 August
City Rail Link Project update for local board members on 11 August
Working lunch with Housing NZ board members and housing NZ representatives on 11 August – HNZ provided an overview and details of their presence in the Waitematā area
Ponsonby Business Association Board meeting on 12 August
Waitematā Local Board business meeting in Parnell on 12 August
Waterfront Auckland CEO update for board members on 13 August
Meeting with Dave Peters from Cycling Auckland (bike hire business) regarding Waterfront Auckland’s bike hire operation (attended with Kevin Wright on behalf of Stephen Town and Connie Clackson from Waterfront Auckland)
Newmarket Laneways Precinct proposals – initial plans presented to board members on 13 August
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 14 August
Effective Meetings for Local Board Chairs and Deputy Chairs – This session is the follow-up from Monday 5 May and concludes the examination of styles and approaches that help meetings to run smoothly and generate decisions.
Local Board briefing on the LTP financial policies on 18 August – a briefing for 2 representatives from every board on the financial policy issues that may be considered as part of the long-term plan with an opportunity to provide early feedback
Communications catch up on 19 August
Meeting to discuss photos for the board’s achievements report
Grants Committee agenda run through on 20 August
LGNZ Zone One meeting at the Orewa Service Centre on 22 August
Waitematā Local Board Grants Committee Meeting on 25 August
Local Board Workshop on 26 August
Ponsonby Community Centre committee meeting on 26 August
Monthly Transport portfolio catch up on 27 August
Community Development portfolio monthly catch up on 27 August
Auckland Transport meeting with Barbara Holloway, K’rd Business Association to discuss maintenance issues and service levels.
Meeting with Waterfront Auckland and Ponsonby Cruising Club to discuss the club’s lease
Cycling Advisory Group meeting on 29 August
Bus stop interactivity and user experience presentation by AUT students to Auckland Transport representatives
Events and functions
In the period 1 August – 31 August I attended:
95bfm interview on the Waitemata Local Board plan on 1 August
City Givers Launch event at Pioneer Women’s Hall hosted by Splice on Saturday 2 August (photo right)
IPENZ annual debate on the positive team with Darren Davies and Matt Hinton The Car is So last century (photo below)
Cycle Action Auckland’s Associates Breakfast at the Auckland Art Gallery on 6 August
Vintage Austin Register – Auckland branch AGM on Sunday 10 August
Hosted the Green Desk on 95bfm on 12 August talking to Florence Reynolds from Plastic Diet
Grey Lynn Business Association networking drinks
Hosted the Green Desk 95bfm on 26 August talking to Emma McInnes from Generation Zero
Locally left at the Grey Lynn RSC with Jacinda Ardern and David Slack
Grey Lynn Residents Association AGM on 19 August at the Grey Lynn Community Centre
CAB Auckland AGM at the Flickling Centre on 20 August
Herne Bay Residents Association Candidates debate on 21 August at the Ponsonby Cruising Club
Carlton Gore Road market day organised by the Newmarket Business Association on Saturday 23 August (photo right of the new footpaths and bike parking)
Local Board hosted citizenship ceremony at the Town hall on 25 August
Cycle Action Auckland public monthly meeting 28 August
Movie fundraiser for Tearfund on 28 August
Belleville at the Herald Theatre at the invitation of Silo Theatre 29 August
This report covers my Waitematā Local Board activities during July 2014 as Deputy Chair, lead for the Community and Transport portfolios, Chair of the Grants Committee, Deputy Chair of the Central Joint Funding Committee and with positions on the Ponsonby Business Association and Ponsonby Community Centre Committee.
Local Board Plan Engagement
The Pecha Kucha Town Hall special edition was a big highlight for me during July. Pecha Kucha Auckland teamed up with the Waitematā Local Board so that for the first time in New Zealand the Pecha Kucha format was used as a platform for local government consultation. The diverse line up of speakers made the event informative and fun. It was also a great opportunity for board members to present on the draft local board at a unique engagement event. Thank you for everyone who helped organise the event and took part on the night.
As part of our Local Board Plan engagement we have held a series of drop-in sessions during July.
I attended the sessions at:
Campbell Free Kindergarten building, Victoria Park
Pioneer Women’s Hall
Parnell Farmers Market
Station Square, Newmarket
Leys Institute Library, Ponsonby
Ponsonby Community Centre
AUT Quad on AUSM club day (photo right)
Methodist Church Hall, Pitt Street
Drop-ins were also held at the Richmond Rovers clubrooms, Western Springs Football clubrooms, and the Grey Lynn Farmers Market.
In addition I was invited to speak at the Grafton Residents Association on the draft plan at their monthly meeting.
Long Term Plan 2015 – 2025: Options Workshop
I attended the all- day workshop for elected representatives and officers on 7 July as part of the LTP process which is currently underway. I think the workshops provide a valuable opportunity to discuss what the council should prioritise over the next 10 years and how to fund it. There are going to be tough decisions coming up about what we spend to make Auckland the most liveable city in the world.
Retiring members and new members of the Youth Advisory Panel (YAP) were acknowledged by Mayor Len Brown at a function on 28 July attended by YAP liaison councillor Linda Cooper, parents, and elected representatives from the council and local boards. The panel is into its second term and was established by the Mayor in 2011 as a local and regional youth participation and development programme to provide advice on council policies, plans, strategies and bylaws in the interests of young people.
It is made up of 21 young people aged between 12 and 24, nominated from Auckland’s 21 local boards. It involves a two-year term served by each member from July to June, with members selected by young people in their community through 18 local youth voice groups affiliated to local boards. Isabella Lenihan- Ikin is the Waitematā representative on the Panel. In her fantastic inaugural speech she challenged the Mayor to invest in cycling.
Retiring and new members of the Youth Advisory Panel with Local Board members
Portfolio reports: Community
The community Development portfolio is working on a number of issues that were discussed at our monthly meeting with CDAC officers on 23 July:
– Pioneer Women’s Hall stakeholder meeting (held on 31 July attended by Deborah Yates to connect and share with other groups/people that have expressed an interest in activating programmes that meet the needs of the people who live work and play in the central city).
– Future of Grey Lynn Community Centre
– The use of Lumino for Local Board Plan consultation (a Youth portfolio imitative)
– Implementation of the Accessibility Plan
– Women and Children’s Safety
– Leys Institute Lift (in need of repair)
– Women’s Centre Lease ( on the agenda this month)
I also attended a range of meetings during July relevant to the Community portfolio – these are listed below.
Portfolio reports: Transport
The Grafton Gully Multi-way Boulevard
At our July Board meeting Kent Lundberg presented a plan to the Waitematā Local Board for dramatically improving one of the worst corridors in the central city – Stanley St and The Strand. Details of the presentation are available here http://transportblog.co.nz/2014/07/10/the-grafton-gully-multiway-boulevard/
We passed the following resolution:
Moved by C Dempsey, seconded by PJ Coom:
a) That Kent Lundberg be thanked for his attendance and presentation to the Board.
b) That the Waitematā Local Board:
i) supports in principle the Grafton Gully multiway Boulevard proposal;
ii) requests Auckland Transport and NZTA assess the proposal and provide a response as to how it can be progressed;
iii) refers the proposal to the Infrastructure Committee of the Governing Body for its consideration.
Bus stops
Auckland Transport is currently consulting on bus stop design options until 22 August. Three designs have been installed on Symonds Street. I joined a tour of the bus stops for board members. Design A (photo right) is definitely my preferred option as it incorporates recycled materials and solar lighting. It also provides the best protection from the rain and is pleasant to use.
Old Nelson Street off-ramp
AT and NZTA have taken up a Cycle Action Auckland proposal to turn the old Nelson Street off ramp (surplus to motorway needs) into a cycleway providing a link in the Auckland Cycle Network – connecting the Northwestern and other routes entering the City Centre from the south and west to the western parts of our downtown and waterfront, to a Nelson Street cycleway.
Christopher and I joined a NZTA tour of the off- ramp to see how it could connect to K’rd. This work is currently progressing by NZTA with Auckland Transport working on separated cycle lane down Nelson Street to the waterfront
Monthly transport update
A monthly update with Auckland Transport took place on 30 July. Current issues are reported back monthly by Auckland Transport on our public agenda including the details of the consultation undertaken with the Transport portfolio on behalf of the Board.
Workshops and meetings
In the period 1 July – 31 July I attended:
Local Board workshop on 1 July
Local Board draft plan drop in sessions – as listed above
Meeting with legal team to discuss Board’s submission on Auckland Transport’s NOR for widening Great North Road
Parks Portfolio meeting to discuss Grey Lynn Park Development Plan
LTP options/advice workshop on 7 July
Ponsonby Business Association Board meeting on 8 July
Meeting to discussion parking discussion document with Tony Skelton, Chair, St Marys Bay Association and PBA
Waitematā Local Board business meeting at Graham Street on 8 July
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 10 July
Central hui with iwi to discuss local board plans (attended the afternoon’s session as the Chair’s alternate)
Local Board workshop on 15 July
Studio One Tour with Manurewa board members on 16 July
Old Nelson street off ramp cycle pilot project presentation and tour by NZTA on 18 July
Attendance at the LGNZ conference 2014 in Nelson 20- -22 July
Meeting with the owner of Café Byzantium on 23 July to discuss complaints against Council inspection officers
Meeting to discuss feedback on AT’s draft parking discussion document
Community Development portfolio monthly catch up on 23 July
Arch Hill Residents meeting to discuss outcome of mediation with Bunnings
St Mary Bay Association AGM on 24 July
Tour of Bus Stop design options with Auckland Transport
Community-led Placemaking Champions Group – Plenary meeting on 28 July
Local Board Workshop on 29 July
Ponsonby Community Centre committee meeting on 29 July
Monthly Transport portfolio catch up on 30 July
Events and functions
In the period 1 July – 31 July I attended:
The People of Auckland Community Trust ‘Urban People’ end of term 2 Celebration and lunch on 2 July (photo right is taken in the Trust’s kitchen where a weekly lunch is provided for up to 80 people. The stoves were funded from a Waitematā Local Board Community Grant)
Cycle Action Auckland’s Associates Breakfast at the Auckland Art Gallery on 3 July
Urbanist meet- up on 3 July
Studio One Toi Tu Open Day on Saturday 5 July
PBA parking presentation by MR Cagney to PBA members on 8 July
Super Kapa Haka at the Cloud on 12 July
Sod Turning: Myers Park to mark the start of construction of the Myers Park Children’s playground on 14 July
IPENZ presentation on Shared Spaces
Pecha Kucha Town Hall Special Edition on 16 July
Bag It film night organised by Grey Lynn 2030 Waste Away as part of Plastic Bag Free July
Lunch on 18 July hosted by Spliced/Lifewise to welcome the Waitematā’s new engagement advisor
ATC production of The Good Soul of Szchuan at Q Theatre (at the invitation of ATC)
Matariki Manu Aute Kite Day at Taraparawha on 26 July (photo right)
Launch of Circability Trust’s Social programmes at the Campbell Free Kindergarten on 27 July (photos below)
This report covers my Waitematā Local Board activities during June 2014 as Deputy Chair, lead for the Community and Transport portfolios, Chair of the Grants Committee, Deputy Chair of the Central Joint Funding Committee and with positions on the Ponsonby Business Association and Ponsonby Community Centre Committee.
From 14 June until 7 July I have also been acting Chair
Local Board Plan
During June I have been part of the Local Board team organising the Pecha Kucha event that will launch our draft Local Board Plan on 16 July at the Town Hall. We have a great line up of fantastic presenters who all in some way shape the beating heart of Tāmaki Makarau. This is the first time the Pecha Kucha format has been used for an engagement event by local government in New Zealand.
We’ve also planned a series of drop in sessions across Waitematā to answer questions on the draft Local Board Plan. Consultation starts on 7 July.
Community engagement
In addition to the Local Board Plan there is an overwhelming number of engagement processes underway or about to start. This is putting a lot of pressure on our local volunteer community groups who are understandably feeling very stretched:
The Auckland Council website Shape Auckland is the online hub for all consultations.
Ponsonby Road Plan
At our June meeting we adopted the final of the Ponsonby Road Plan that sets a framework for the development of Ponsonby Road over the next 30 years. The process to draft a Plan got under way with my Notice of Motion in October 2012. I am really delighted to have reached this point and thank all those who contributed, in particular, the members of the working group, all those who took the time to submit on the draft, Rebecca Sanders, Auckland Planner who put all the work in behind the scenes and Tricia Reade who brought her considerable enthusiasm to the project last term.
The Ponsonby Road Plan establishes five desired outcomes including recognising the area as a vibrant centre, protecting historic and cultural heritage and making the road safer for pedestrians and cyclists.
At the Auckland conversation in June, Dr Tim Williams – CEO Committee for Sydney gave a beginners guide on Urban Regeneration and Renewal. Some highlights from his presentation that focused on “convergence” -how to achieve the best results through equalising disadvantaged parts of city with wealthier parts.
A mixed community is more important than clever financing, delivery vehicles and social projects in addressing inequality
The best city leaders do three things well:
Achieve smart growth
Do more for less
Win support for change
You can’t reduce cost of housing by building more because the price is determined by 90% of current stock.
To keep things the same you have to change
Building more roads creates sprawl. Sprawl creates poverty. Sprawl may be killing social mobility
Reveal of Studio One
As acting Chair I had the good fortune to represent the Board at an event to reveal the new name for Art Station. My speech notes and a media release to announce Studio One are attached (ATTACHMENTS A and B)
Portfolio Reports: Community
Central Joint Funding Committee Meeting
The Committee with representatives of all the Central Local Boards (Chaired by Desley Simpson) met on 20 June to consider applications for grants from the Auckland City Cultural Heritage Fund (a legacy Auckland City Council fund for the purpose of conserving, restoring and protected valued historic heritage items).
A total of $23,326 was allocated from the second round of the 14/15 fund to 11 applicants (from a total of 18) with 7 grants made in the Waitematā Local Board area. Details of the successful applications are available on the Council website.
Kelmarna Organic Gardens
On 22 May, the Board office was made aware of an incident at Hukanui Reserve, which is occupied by Kelmarna Organic Gardens in Grey Lynn. Ashes from a recently deceased client were scattered over parts of the garden.
The gardens are on land that has been leased from the council to the Kelmarna Community Garden Trust for the last 32 years. The Trust has a licence with Framework Trust to operate the gardens. Framework Trust provides staff for the gardens as part of their ongoing rehabilitation programmes. All staff were withdrawn from the site following the incident, while the Kelmarna Community Garden Trust, Framework Trust and Auckland Council staff from Te Waka Angamua (Maori Strategy and Relations) decided how to proceed.
I attended a blessing on site on 3 June which allowed normal activities to resume and a follow- up meeting to discuss next steps with all those involved. I’ve been really impressed with the sensitive way the issue has been handled and the commitment to ensure the gardens continue to flourish.
The Board is considering the application for a new lease at Hukanui Reserve at our July meeting (refer meeting agenda). If the Board agrees the granting of a new lease this will be advertised for submissions and officers will commence iwi consultation.
Youth
Congratulations to Isabella Lenihan- Iken who was elected to the Youth Advisory Panel as the Waitematā representative during June. The details are attached in the youth update (ATTACHMENT C). Isabella’s induction to the Panel will be held on 28 July.
Myers Park Centenary meeting
There was a large turnout for the community meeting to discuss centenary celebrations for Myers Park next year.
Notes from the meeting are attached (ATTACHMENT D)
Other issues relevant to the Community portfolio
A range of meetings were attended during June relevant to the Community portfolio – these are listed below.
Portfolio reports: Transport
City Centre Route Optimisation
At our June meeting Auckland Transport reported on a number of small but important changes that have been underway in the City Centre aimed at improving the pedestrian experience. These are part of the route optimisation programme that is not just aimed at vehicle efficiency. For example:
removal of the slip lane on Lower Albert Street (next to the new pocket park on Quay Street in the photo right)
Installation of a Barnes dance on the intersection of Quay St and Hobson St
These positive changes were covered by Transport Blog in more detail on 10 June.
Auckland Transport Parking Discussion Document
At our June Board meeting we requested Auckland Transport extend the consultation period on the parking discussion document.
Due to the high level of interest on the issues raised by the discussion document the public consultation period has been extended to 31 July.
During June I attended meetings organised by the Freemans Bay Residents Association to discuss the parking approaches proposed by Auckland Transport to manage parking on residential streets.
After the storm
The June storm that brought down many trees in our area (including a large gum tree in Grey Lynn Park) also dumped lots of debris on our roads providing a unique opportunity to see how much road space is unused. Streetfilms has coined the expression “sneakdown” for this phenomenon when it occurs after heavy snowfall (a shorter way of saying snowy neckdown and a neckdown is another name for a kerb extension).
On Franklin Road we have the perfect amount of room for a cycle lane!
June resolutions in response to Auckland Transport’s Report
Resolution number WTM/2014/82
MOVED by Deputy Chairperson PJ Coom, seconded by Member CP Dempsey:
That the Auckland Transport Report – June 2014 be received.
That the Waitemata Local Board:
Approves the design for the Upper Queen Street Bridge connecting the Grafton Gully cycleway to the North Western cycleway subject to intersection light phasing that prioritises walking and cycling.
Approves funding a drinking fountain on the corner of Ian McKinnon Driveand Upper Queen Street as part of the Upper Queen Street Bridge cycleway design to the budget sum of $15,000 from the Waitemata Local Board Transport Capex Fund 12/13.
Requests that Auckland Transport installs route way-finding signage along the entire Grafton Gully cycle way route and connection to the North-Western cycleway in time for the opening of the Upper Queen Street Bridge in September 2014.
Requests that Auckland Transport investigate options for quickly providing a cycleway connection from the Upper Queen Street Bridge to Karangahape Road.
That officers investigate the beautification of the bridge as a gateway feature into the city centre, to be included in the scope of the project and reported back to the Waitemata Local Board, as this endorses the City Centre Master Plan.
That Priscilla Steel, Elected Members Liaison Manager (Auckland Transport) and Matthew Ah Mu, Engineer – Investigation & Design (Auckland Transport) be thanked for their attendance
CARRIED
Monthly transport update
A monthly update with Auckland Transport took place on 25 June. Current issues are reported back monthly by Auckland Transport on our public agenda including the details of the consultation undertaken with the Transport portfolio on behalf of the Board.
Workshops and meetings
In the period 1 June – 30 June I attended:
Local Board workshop on 2 June
Kelmarna Garden’s blessing on 3 June
Community Development portfolio monthly catch up on 5 June
Maori responsiveness training for elected representatives – a 2 part forum for elected representatives wishing to raise their awareness of the Māori fabric of Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland, deepen their understanding of Councils commitments to Māori, and discuss ways of establishing and strengthening relationships with the communities, hapu, iwi and leaders within Maoridom. Content was delivered by subject matter experts from Te Waka Angamua Māori Strategy & Relations Department
Ponsonby Business Association strategy meeting
Te Kakano 1 (Te reo Māori ) Exam at AUT
Waitemata Local Board business meeting at Grey Lynn Community Centre on 10 June
Meeting with Kelmarna Gardens Trustees, Framework and Council advisers on 11 June
Waitemata Local Board workshop on 12 June
Briefing from Gerard Linstrom of Chorus re Ultra-Fast Broad Band rollout in Waitemata
Standing Orders and meetings processes. A seminar to provide a comprehensive and interactive experience on the “ins and outs” of Standing Orders for Local Government meetings involving elected representative facilitated by Steve McDowell and Vern Walsh, of Meeting and Governance Solutions
Freemans Bay Residents Association meetings on the Auckland Transport’s Parking Discussion Document on 12 June and 16 June
Local Board workshop on 13 June
Chair’s weekly update with Relationship Manager on 16 June
St Luke’s notice of requirement meeting with Auckland Council legal team
Myers Park Centenary meeting on 17 June (see meeting notes Attachment E)
Waterfront Auckland Forum at the Voyager museum on 18 June Waterfront Auckland Chairman, Sir Bob Harvey and Chief Executive, John Dalzell spoke about the next stage of this development and how Waterfront Auckland will be progressing a comprehensive plan for the waterfront.
Meeting with Freemans Park Body Corporate representatives to discuss overland flow path issues
CDAC Work Programme discussion with Community Portfolio to review the 2014/2015 CDAC work programme for reporting to the July business meeting.
Meeting with Central Library Manager to discuss CAB arrangements
Central Joint Funding Committee Meeting – Auckland City Cultural Heritage Fund applications on 19 June
Standing Orders Political Working Party meeting (as alternate to the Chair who is the Board’s rep on the working party) – photo right with members of the working party (Photo Credit: Cathy Casey)
Chair’s weekly update with Relationship Manager on 23 June
Local Board Chairs Forum meeting on 23 June
Community meeting organised by the Grey Lynn Business Association to discuss the development application at 367-375 Great North Road
Local Board Workshop on 24 June
Meeting of PBA members to discuss the Local Alcohol Policy at the Longroom on Ponsonby Road on 24 June
Ponsonby Community Centre committee meeting on 24 June
Communications catch up on 25 June
Monthly Transport portfolio catch up on 25 June
Meeting with Ernst Zollner, NZTA Director Auckland & Northland and Director Road Safety: to discuss NZTA projects in the Waitematā area
Community Development portfolio monthly catch up on 26 June
Meeting on 27 June with Freemans Bay Residents Association to discuss feedback on the Parking Discussion Document
Meeting with Tony Skelton, Chair, St Marys Bay Association
Events and functions
In the period 1 June – 30 June I attended:
Auckland Museum Solar Launch on 4 June (photo right)
Pecha Kucha at Q Theatre on 4 June
Cycle Action Auckland’s Associates Breakfast at the Auckland Art Gallery on 5 June
POP Projects 02: Bee Jam at Art Station on 6 June
Generation Zero Art Auction at Fizzy Vibes Gallery on 11 June
Grey Lynn Business Association Networking drinks at the Grey Lynn RSC on 11 June
Auckland Conversations: Urban Regeneration and Renewal: A beginners guide with Dr Tim Williams – CEO Committee for Sydney on 12 June at the Aotea Centre
Annie at the Civic on 13 June
Campaign for better transport AGM at the Grey Lynn Community Centre on 20 June
POP project 06 , Hikoi at Western Springs on 21 June with Prince Davis (photo below)
ATC production of Once on Chunuk Bair at the Maidment Theatre (at the invitation of ATC)
New Zealand Opera – a special concert to announce five newly appointed Freemasons Dame Malvina Major Emerging Artists at the Aotea Centre
Tuesdays with Morrie at the Factory Theatre, Newmarket (at the invitation of the Newmarket Stage Company)
Ko Te Kai a Te Rangatira – Ko te kai a te rangatira, he korero
(The sustenance of leaders are conversations)
Ko te tohu o te rangatira, he manaaki
(The mark of leaders is generosity)
Ko te mahi a te rangatira, he whakatira i te iwi
(The work of leaders is to unite the people)
This report covers my Waitematā Local Board activities during May 2014 as Deputy Chair, lead for the Community and Transport portfolios, Chair of the Grants Committee, Deputy Chair of the Central Joint Funding Committee and with positions on the Ponsonby Business Association and Ponsonby Community Centre Committee.
Portfolio Report: Community
Community Grants
The Waitemata Local Board Community Grants Committee met in May to consider applications to the fourth and final round of the 13/14 community grants fund.
The recommendations of the committee are on the June agenda of the Waitematā Local Board.
Housing
In May we were able to celebrate the decision by Council and the Government to not include Spring St pensioner housing in the list of Special Housing Areas that would have allowed for fast track development (and resulted in the eviction of elderly tenants who were guaranteed a flat for life when the housing was bought from the old Auckland City Council).
It was also a win of sorts that, with the support of the Board, the Great North Road ridge was declared a Special Housing Area but unfortunately too late for the Arch Hill residents who are fighting the big box Bunnings development.
However as was discussed at the public meeting I attended on 10 May (facilitated by Board member Deborah Yates) there is still a great deal of uncertainty and anger about HNZ’s current approach to removing tenants which will have a big impact on the diversity our community.
Other issues relevant to the Community portfolio
A range of meetings were attended during May relevant to the Community portfolio – these are listed below.
Portfolio report: Transport
Upper Queen Street Bridge – Grafton Gully cycleway connection
Earlier this year we discovered that the City Centre Transformation team were not looking to deliver the connection between the Grafton Gully cycleway and Ian McKinnon Drive on the Upper Queen Street bridge until 15/16 despite the cycleway being due to be opened by NZTA in September this year (and despite a budget being available for the project)
Fortunately the escalation of this issue has had results and the good news is that the connection will be ready in time! After reviewing the design (right) the transport portfolio has requested a drinking station be incorporated, that pedestrians/riders have priority phasing of the lights and that all steps be taken to ensure way finder signage is installed in time for the opening
Legible Auckland
I continue to log requests for pedestrian signage on streets with NO EXIT signage that in fact have walkway access.
Auckland Transport has confirmed the following streets will receive “walkway” signs:
Sheridan Lane, Freemans Bay
Gwilliam Place, Freemans Bay
Pratt Street, Freemans Bay
Samoa House Lane
Sylvan West Avenue (Albert – Eden Local Board area)
Cheshire Street, Parnell
Wharf Road, Herne Bay
Bayfield Road, Herne Bay
Prosford Road, Ponsonby
There are still many signs on poles that need to be updated with the correct walkway information such as this one on St Marys Bay road.
Auckland Transport Parking Discussion Document
The consultation on Auckland Transport’s parking discussion document went live on 31 May and will be open for feedback until the end of June.
A monthly update with Auckland Transport took place on 21 May. Current issues are reported back monthly by Auckland Transport on our public agenda including the details of the consultation undertaken with the Transport portfolio on behalf of the Board.
Other board activities
Local Board Plan
During May I have been assisting with finalising our draft Local Board Plan that will go out for consultation on 7 July (the draft is on our June agenda). I’ve also been working on a very exciting event for the launch of our plan. Details will be available shortly.
Janette Sadik- Khan visits Auckland
A big highlight of May was Janette Sadik-Khan’s visit to Auckland. The transport revolutionary presented “Designing Streets for People” to a record breaking Auckland Conversation audience. How the streets of New York were transformed while she was NYC commissioner of transportation from 2007 – 2013 under Mayor Bloomberg, is an amazing story and provides a great deal of inspiration for what we can achieve in Auckland.
Best of all she had time for a Frocks on Bikes ride after doing a walkabout with the Mayor.
Workshops and meetings
In the period 1 May – 31 May I attended:
Effective Meetings for Local Board Chairs and Deputy Chairs – a very useful session looking at styles and approaches that help meetings to run smoothly and generate decisions.
Local Board workshop on 6 May
Community Development portfolio discussion on 6 May
Presentation to PBA members on the feedback received on the draft Ponsonby Road master plan on 7 May
Site visit for the Cowie Street Road Extension / Newmarket Level Crossing project (Parks and Transport portfolios) on 8 May
Meeting with Ashley Church, Newmarket Business Association
Local Government New Zealand Zone 1 meeting in Whangerei on 9 May
Housing public meeting at the Grey Lynn Community Centre on 10 May
Meeting with Alan Pack regarding a new underpass design for the Newmarket Level Crossing
Communications meeting on 12 May
Attended the St James Theatre site visit with the Mayor and Councillors (ahead of the governing body’s confidential agenda item on the future of the St James)
Open Streets Initiatives in NZ The gateway drug for walking, cycling and connecting communities– watched the webinar with Christopher Dempsey and Vernon Tava
Catch up with Heart of the City
Briefing: Downtown Shopping Centre Block Re-development Future Options for Queen Elizabeth Square Report on 13 May
Meeting with Luka Hinse regarding a Pecha Kucha collaboration for launching the local board plan
Auckland Transport parking strategy workshop for elected representatives on 13 May
Planning meeting for Local Board plan pop-ups
Waitemata Local Board business meeting at Parnell on 13 May
Briefing on Pioneer Womens Hall on 14 May
Catch-up with Alex Williams, SBN to discuss Project NZ and social enterprise in Waitemata
Ponsonby Road master plan meeting
Meeting to go over feedback on the draft local board plan
Auckland Development Committee workshop re Downtown Shopping Centre redevelopment & Waitemata Local Board
Waitemata Local Board workshop on 17 May
Local Economic Development workshop with Councillors and Local Board members
Central Joint Funding Committee Workshop – Auckland City Cultural Heritage Fund applications
Meeting to sign off on Waitemata Local Board plan
Maori Responsiveness training for elected members on Te Kai-A-Te Rangatira: Building relationships with Māori – a forum for elected members to raise questions, share ideas and converse with Council’s subject matter experts (I learnt the Whakatauki that starts my report at this session)
Meeting to discuss community-led place making with Parnell Community Committee (part of my Community-led development champions work stream) on 19 May
Meeting to approve the draft local board plan to be attached to our June agenda
Waitemata Local Board workshop on 20 May
Meeting with Auckland Transport, Auckland Council, Bunnings and Arch Hill representatives regarding a proposal to remove the kerb extension on King Street
Ponsonby Business Association Board strategic planning session
Monthly transport portfolio meeting on 21 May
Mayoral Tour on 21 May including a visit to Pt. Erin Pools (photo right) and Art Station
Waitemata Local Board update Briefing from Waterfront Auckland
Meeting to finalise Local Board Plan summary
Waitemata Local Board Grants Committee meeting on 22 May
Auckland Transport’s public meeting on the Cowie Street bridge/Sarawia underpass at Jubilee Hall, Parnell on 22 May
Community place-making champions group meeting on 26 May
Events and functions
In the period 1 May – 31 May 2014 I attended:
Cycle Action Auckland’s Associates Breakfast at the Auckland Art Gallery on 1 May
First Thursday on K’rd and K’rd and Newton Plans drop in session
POP project 02 / The Park / blessing of the hives in Victoria Park on 3 May
Judge for the regional New Zealand Environment Entrepreneurs on Sunday 4 May
Plastic bag Free Auckland meeting held at the Grey Lynn Community Centre
Te Kanano mobile ap launch at AUT
Artist Studio opening at 3 Ponsonby Road on 9 May
On Saturday 10 May visited the craft fair at Art Station, Station Square market, tree planting at Waipapa Stream with Parnell Heritage, members of the Board and community ; attended a Fair Trade afternoon tea, the Ponsonby Cruising Club Art Auction exhibition and popped into the Pollen Hotel Workshop part of POP Projects 02: The Park
Launch of GridAKL, Wynyard Quarter on 16 May
Auckland Writers Festival event
TRENDZ conference launch, Viaduct Event Centre, hosted by ATEED
Velo –City conference meet- up for attendees from Auckland
Gathering for Janette Sadik-Khan sponsored by MR Cagney on 23 May
Taste Ponsonby – Ponsonby Primary fundraiser on 23 May
Popped into HACK AKL at AUT and the mini music festival on Lorne Street for NZ music month on 24 May
This report covers my Board activities during April 2014 as Deputy Chair, lead for the Community and Transport portfolios, Chair of the Grants Committee, Deputy Chair of the Central Joint Funding Committee and with positions on the Ponsonby Business Association and Ponsonby Community Centre Committee.
Portfolio Reports: Community
Community Grants
The Central Joint Funding Committee made up of members from Orakei, Albert-Eden, Puketapapa and Waitematā Local Boards met on 15 April to allocate funding from round two of the Community Group Assistance Fund (this is a legacy Auckland City Council fund). In total we allocated $210,093.50 to groups in the central board area including in the Waitemata Local Board area Circability Trust ($25,000), Toi Ora ($25,000), Artist Alliance ($3,888), TAPAC ($13,685), Triangle TV ($18,000), Youthline ($8,050) and Volunteering Auckland ($7000). The minutes of the meeting are available on the Council website.
Community centres
The Community portfolio has been assisting community centres over the last month with funding issues. The Community Facilities team have confirmed that funding grants available for the centres have been rolled over for 14/15 at the same levels as 13/14. This is creating concerns for centres who are trying to improve facilities and programming.
A report should be on our agenda this month seeking a decision on approximately $20,000 available as additional grant funding. We have encouraged centres to consider proposals focused on sustainability (such as waste minimisation) and accessibility.
Other issues relevant to the Community portfolio
A range of meetings were attended during April relevant to the Community portfolio – these are listed below.
Portfolio report: Transport
Shaping Auckland’s transport
The CEO of Auckland Transport led a workshop on 14 April with Central Local Board’s regarding Transport Plans for the 2015- 25 period. The workshop was an opportunity to discuss issues of interest in our area directly with AT senior management to ensure Auckland Transport better understands Local Board priorities before transport plans are developed.
As part of the scene- setting for the workshop Auckland Transport presented the 2013 Census data for each local Board. In Waitemata there were 42, 882 employed adults (people aged 15 years and over) out of a total population count of 77,136. Of the 16,182 who commuted on census day 49% made the trip to work by car, 1% by motorbike, 16% by public transport, 31% walked and 3% cycled. The Auckland average for travel by car is 83% and only 5% average for walking.
The census data strongly shows the benefits of investment in PT and active transport to provide transport choice.
Great North Road resurfacing
The resurfacing of Great North Road between Western Springs and K’rd got underway in April. We raised with Auckland Transport that this could have been a great opportunity to better use existing infrastructure through improvements for all modes not just locking in the current deficiencies as planned.
One win from the maintenance work is that Auckland Transport is installing a feeder lane at the approach to K’rd/Great North Road intersection. This pinch point on the network was first logged with Auckland Transport by the transport portfolio over three years ago and is a priority project in our Local Board agreement.
Design for a feeder lane and advance stop box on Great North Road
All the St Mary’s Bay residents I have spoken to are strongly in support of the project and can see the many benefits it will bring to locals.
The Trust intends to apply for resource consent in June. It is great to see this transformational project progressing.
Grafton Gully Cycleway
As these photos show NZTA is making great progress on the Grafton Gully Cycleway. Auckland Transport continue to give assurances that the connection to the cycleway at Beach Road is on track to be completed by September this year between Churchill Street and Quay Street via Mahuhu Crescent (in line with NZTA’s proposed finish to the Grafton Gully Cycleway). We are monitoring this closely and also progress on the Upper Queen Street connection which is being progressed by Auckland Council’s city transformation team.
Monthly transport update
We’ve attended two transport catch up during April. Current issues are reported back monthly by Auckland Transport on our public agenda including the details of the consultation undertaken with the Transport portfolio on behalf of the Board.
Other board activities
Annual Plan Local Board hearings
Every year each of the 21 Local Boards has an opportunity to present to the Governing Body (the Mayor and Councillors of Auckland Council) on their activities, advocacy areas and budget requests that the Board wants included in the Annual Plan.
On 29 April the Waitemata Local Board, led by Shale Chambers, had our turn to outline our priorities for 14/15. I spoke to our transport advocacy areas (attachment A).
Local Board Plan
In early April we completed our early engagement on our Local Board plan with a series of meetings with resident groups. During April we have been working on our draft plan which will be going to our June Board meeting for approval to go out for consultation
Out and about in Waitematā
Newly painted electrical boxes on Picton street just off Ponsonby Road (photo left)
The Central Library has a newly refurbished children’s area which is bright and fun. It was officially opened in April with member Yates representing the Board. (photo centre)
Te Whānau Whāriki from Richmond Road School has adopted the Rose Road Gully in Grey Lynn Park for a restoration project. On their first morning they collected 200 bags of tradescantia and 10 bags of rubbish. (photo right)
Progress on major projects:
Sky City can thank the Waitemata Local Board for opposing the overbridge development proposed in 2011 for Federal Street. It would have created a dark oppressive road. Instead the street has received a shared space over haul which is nearly complete.
The new steps and upgrade of Khartoum Place is progressing (photo above). The transport portfolio has raised with the project team the need to slow down the traffic on Kitchener Street to provide for an improved pedestrian connection to the Art Gallery
Thank you Generation Zero and Transport Blog for getting Auckland Transport to take action on the Fanshawe Street bus lanes. Only four months from the original proposal to installation! It really shows that Auckland Transport can act quickly and decisively as a CCO when there is clear leadership.
Workshops and meetings
In the period 1 April – 31 April I attended:
Local Board workshop on 1 April
Local Board Plan engagement meeting with Freemans Bay Residents on 1 April and with Grey Lynn Residents Associations on 3 April
Local Board Plan Breakfast meeting with Parnell Community Committee and eastern stakeholders on 2 April
Monthly transport portfolio meeting on 2 April
Monthly Community Development portfolio meeting on 2 April
Meeting to discuss feedback on Draft Auckland Energy Resilience and Low Carbon Action Plan
Community Portfolio meeting with Libraries for Geoff Chamberlain (retiring) to introduce Mirla Edmundson (new Manager Local Libraries North & West)
Briefing meeting with Ponsonby Cruising Club Inc regarding leasing issues
Briefing on Community Facility Fees and Charges on 3 April
Meeting with John MacDonald, Minister at large (Splice coordinator)
Orakei & Waitemata Local Boards meeting on 7 April to discuss Greenways connections
Central Joint Funding Committee workshop on 7 April
Waitemata Local Board monthly business meeting on 7 April at Graham Street
Ponsonby Road masterplan catch up
Site meeting with Transport Portfolio and the Chair to discuss pedestrian improvements at Anglesea Street
Financial scenario information for LTP presentation by the Council’s CFO to Local Boards on 8 April
Meeting to discuss proposed concepts for 254 Ponsonby Rd
Briefing of the Auckland Development Committee and Waitemata Local Board by Precinct Property Ltd on its proposed redevelopment of the Downtown Shopping centre.
Waitemata Local Board workshop on 10 April
Myers Park Centenary event – initial meeting
Meeting with Ponsonby Business Association and Chris Rupe SPQR to discuss the draft Ponsonby Masterplan
Early Engagement on Transport Planning – Workshop with AT Senior Management
Meeting with Grey Lynn Community Centre on 14 April
Waitemata Local Board workshop on 15 April
Central Joint Funding Committee meeting on 15 April
Catch up with Ponsonby Business Association on 16 April
Joint briefing for Orakei and Waitemata Local Boards on the proposed stormwater ports of Auckland project on 16 April
Ponsonby Road masterplan meeting on 16 April
Waitemata Local Board workshop on 22 April
Community Development portfolio meeting on 23 April
Extraordinary Workshop to discuss the Local Board Plan on 28 April
Arch Hill Residents Meeting on 28 April
Presentation to the Governing Body Annual Plan Local Board Hearings
Popped in to a CAB catch up at the Central Library (meeting organised by Deborah Yates)
Ponsonby Community Centre Meeting
Transport portfolio monthly catch up 30 April
Deputised for the Chair at the Governing Body (Budget Committee)/Local Board Chairs Annual Plan discussion on 30 April
Events and functions
In the period 1 April – 30 April 2014 I attended:
Cycle Action Auckland’s Associates Breakfast at the Auckland Art Gallery on 3 April
My Bed my Universe – Massive Company and NZ Trio collaboration
Ponsonby Community Centre Open day on Saturday 5 April
Richmond Road School Gala on Saturday 5 April (congratulations to the school on organising a Zero Waste event)
Barry Coates farewell from Oxfam on 9 April
After 5 networking event organised by the Uptown Business Association on 10 April
Launch of K’rd and Newton Plans on 10 April
Newmarket Business Association Business Excellence Awards on 11 April with John Kirwan as guest speaker
Skypath Open Day at Westhaven on Saturday 12 April
Ponsonby Bike corral video shoot with Auckland Transport
At Risk preview at Whitespace on 22 April
ANZAC day ceremony hosted by the Grey Lynn RSC
Launch of the electric train from Britomart Station on 27 April (photos here)
Walking in the Trees in Albert Park part of Waitemata Pop Project between March and June, 2014.
Guest Judge and attendance at Awards ceremony for Roots Pollinate. The Roots, Albert Park Project” consisted of The Roots Creative Entrepreneurs working with year 12 and 13 students. Working in four groups they designed and built “Pollen Hotels” from recycled materials – hanging baskets with plants that will provide food for our local bees during the winter. I received an Eco Store gift box for being a judge.
A dawn blessing was held on 23 April to mark the start of work on the Nelson Street cycle route.Kaumatua from Ngati Whatua o Orakei, Te Aki Tai, Ngati Paoa and Te Kawerau a Maki led the blessing which took place on the disused Nelson Street off-ramp.
Long Term Plan presentation to the Governing Body by Shale Chambers with Board members in support
A monumental, site-specific Max Gimblett art installation
