Tag: homelessness

Chair’s monthly report September 2018

This report covers the period 15 August until 11 September 2018 including the start of Te Wiki o te Reo Māori 10 – 16 Mahuru.

 Ko te reo te taikura ō te whakaaro marama
Language is the key to understanding

He pai ake te iti i te kore
A little is better than none

Summary

Waitematā Local Board August business meeting

At our monthly board meetings, we are fortunate to welcome a range of presenters to an often lively and interesting public forum.  Our August business meeting was especially well attended with presentations from:

  • John Elliott – Non-toxic non-herbicidal spray method
  • Elizabeth Walker and Sel Arbuckle of STEPS – Western Springs plantings on lava flow forest
  • Caitlin McIlhagga General Manager 95bFM – Presentation about 95bFM does and how it is involved with the community (photo right)
  • Jennifer Ward, Chris Bailey and Paula Wilkinson of Community- Led Design Group – 254 Ponsonby Road
  • Chris O’Brien, Chairman Laura Fergusson Trust; Rob Small -Trustee Laura Fergusson Trust and Simon Wilson, Managing Director Heineken Urban Polo – Heineken Urban Polo Tournament
  • Example of an urban tree that was felled following the removal of tree protection rules

    Graeme Easte, Albert-Eden Local Board Member – Meola Creek Catchment Update

Minutes are available on the Auckland Council website.

2006 – 2015 Urban Forest Canopy Changes in the Waitematā Local Board area

Last term the board initiated LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) mapping to understand changes in the urban tree canopy. It has taken some time for the results to be presented due to a number of technical challenges.  At our August meeting we received the draft ‘Tree loss in the Waitematā Local Board over ten years (2006 – 2015)’ report funded as part of the Waitematā Local Board’s 2017/2018 urban forest framework project

The report highlights that the amount of tree loss in the Waitematā Local Board area 2006-2015 is 61.23 hectares (approximately 17 per cent) and that 65 per cent of the urban forest clearance has occurred on private land. This does not include the growth of new,canopy. Further analysis work is underway and will be the subject of a subsequent report.

A significant part of the tree loss has been caused by the removal by the former central government of Council’s general tree protection rules so we urge the Governing Body to advocate to government to change the law to enable Auckland Council to reintroduce general tree protection rules.

 Western Springs Lakeside Park Development Plan consultation

 A draft park development plan for Western Springs Te Wai Ōrea Lakeside Park was out for consultation until the end of August.

The Board held an open day at the park playground on 18 August (photo right Deputy Chair Shale Chambers and member Adriana Christie with local resident Chuck Joseph).  A number of people gave feedback not just about the park plan but about concerns over current maintenance issues.

I logged these issues and in response received the following updates:

  • Bird numbers no longer managed – unfortunately we missed the opportunity last Spring to train our contractors in conjunction with the Zoo hence the rise in bird numbers this year. We are now working with our contractors and the zoo and will undertake the seasonal addling of the eggs this Spring.
  • Paths no longer swept – all bird poo washed into the Lake – Paths are blown and water blasted once a week and are contractors are aware that bird faeces should not be washing into the lake. We have reiterated this with our contractor and we have increased the frequency of water blasting to 3 x a week as of Tuesday this week.
  • Broken drinking fountains – There are a couple of water fountains that have no active water pipe feeding it due to them being broken by tree roots coming up through the concrete. These have not been working for a number of years and this will be addressed as part of the Western Park project works.
  • Broken toilets at the playground with dirty Portaloo replacements – The zoo is constructing a new administration building on the site of a previous building that has been removed. Unfortunately, when the Zoo staff began work it was discovered that the western spring toilet had been connected to this facilities waste water line. This was unknown to the zoo project team and was not recorded on any plans so reinstatement of the sewer line was included in the design for the new building. Community Facilities are working with the zoo project team and have devised a methodology for a new connection, so we can recommission the toilets. Whilst the work may not be expensive it is complex given the significant amount of volcanic rock and protected trees along the pathway for a new connection.  The new work will require a consent and arborist approval before works can commence. We hope to have the toilets reinstated before the summer season starts.
  • In the interim alternative facilities are provided and these are cleaned twice daily with the expectation this meets the same outcome as permanent toilets by way of cleanliness. If this is found not to be the case a request for service can be called through and our contractor will attend.
  • Broken light in toilet block in park – disconnected due to the works going on at the Zoo.

We also received positive feedback from “Friends of Fukuoka Gardens” community group who have been working directly with contractors to improve maintenance of the Japanese garden.

It is proposed that issues such as water quality and bird feeding will be addressed through the plan.

Salisbury Reserve consultation and removal of the Masonic Lodge

Land purchased to create an entrance way to Salisbury Reserve

Consultation on the two options for opening up the entrance to Salisbury Reserve ended at the end of August.  During the month I met on site with both local residents and representatives of the Herne Bay Residents Association.  I confirmed that the local board doesn’t intend revisiting the decision to remove the Masonic Lodge building for a number of reasons:

  • We don’t have a budget to upgrade it, to cover operational costs nor to pay for a change to the required resource consent (which will be opposed by local residents).
  • There is no evidence of a need for another community facility serving Herne Bay.
  • Current facilities including Leys Institute Hall and the Vermont Centre are not at capacity. I also provided the occupancy stats below of local facilities that directly report to Council.
  • The reserve is not large enough to support two community facilities.
  • There are minimal heritage values associated with the building as it has been through so many alterations.

The standard available hours in 10h/day and the percentages below is based on the standard.

Utilisation                                                 FY16/17           FY17/18

Leys Institute Hall                                             16%                 20%

Freemans Bay Community Hall                    38%                 39%

Grey Lynn Community Centre                       55%                 53%

Ponsonby Community Centre                         37%                  36%

Leys Institute Gym                                            59%                  57%

Central City Library opening hours
The board made funding available so the Auckland Central City Library can open for an extra hour on Saturdays and Sundays from September 1. Funding is guaranteed until 30 June 2019.

Transport

John Street, Ponsonby – a trial for a new “healthy streets” approach

As a narrow street and rat run John Street in Ponsonby has suffered from a number of parking, traffic and safety issues going back some time.  The transport portfolio has been following up with a group of residents who would like to be part of the solution.  They are keen for John St to be used to showcase AT’s new approach to safer, healthier streets which are designed for all road users not just cars.

On 18 August I met with residents on the street to discuss potential options. I confirmed that the Local Board is pushing AT to use all the tools available to improve the conditions of John Street. AT is currently preparing a proposal for consultation.

Grey Lynn Parking

The local board passed the following resolution at our business meeting on 21 August in response to the parking concerns that have been raised with us in response to a letter drop to 600 Grey Lynn households opposing a proposed time restricted parking zone.

MOVED by Chairperson P Coom, seconded by Deputy Chairperson S Chambers:

That the Waitematā Local Board:

  1. receive the Auckland Transport August 2018 update report
  2. request Auckland Transport to implement the proposed new Arch Hill and Grey Lynn residential parking zone as soon as reasonably practicable and put on hold the proposed implementation of the time restricted P120 zone that has not been consulted on until after an assessment has been made of the impact of the residential parking zone
  3. request Auckland Transport work with the Grey Lynn Residents Association to identify suitable locations for P120 restrictions.

In response to the resolution AT has confirmed that the RPZ implementation will be brought forward to December and they will put on hold the time restricted parking.  Further details are on the Auckland Transport website.

Waitematā Safer Routes

Concept design for West Lynn, Richmond Road

New designs prepared by Boffa Miskell to fix the issues on the two Waitematā Safer routes were presented to Community Liaison Groups (CLGs) on 5 September.  A few days later the NZ Herald reported that the Grey Lynn cycleway debacle could cost $35m to fix and claimed that the project was for a few “existing cyclists”.   Grey Lynn Business Association co-chair Irene King was reported as saying that preliminary designs as “very, very stunning” with beautiful urban design and landscaping.

There is a lot that Auckland Transport has got wrong with this project and it should have been done correctly first time (I have previously reported on the background and what went wrong) but it is far is more accurate to describe the project as a street upgrade as it covers a safety improvements for everyone, bus stop changes, bus stop changes, traffic lights, parking, stormwater, landscaping and new trees.  Auckland Transport has also confirmed the figure of $35m is incorrect and should not have been presented to the CLG.   The actual projected cost for this project sits between $17m-$22m at present. AT has explained the figure of $35m was an initial costing that had long since been refined but was unfortunately inserted into the presentations to the CLGs and wasn’t caught until it was too late.

Auckland Transport plans to take the proposals out for consultation in Novembers so the wider community can decide what should be prioritised within the available budget.

Road Safety

My latest Ponsonby News column covers the 9th anniversary of speed reduction on Ponsonby Road and the speed bylaw proposals that are shortly to go out for consultation (Attachment 1).  Deaths and Serious injuries (DSi) across Auckland have increased by 67% since 2013.  In Waitematā 77% of all DSi involved vulnerable road users, people walking or cycling. This is the highest percentage among all Local Boards.

I was really pleased to see Auckland Transport’s CEO strong leadership and uncompromising statement on safer speeds in a letter to NZ Herald on 10 September (right).

On 5 September I attended a business strategy workshop in Wellington as a committee member of Trafinz.  The New Zealand Local Authority Traffic Institute or Trafinz represents local authority views on road safety and traffic management in New Zealand. It exists to lobby the government, to influence decision making on road safety and traffic issues. It also acts as a forum for collectively pursuing traffic issues of interest to local authorities, and for sharing information and advice.

Trafinz is actively involved in the development of a new road safety strategy with a Vision Zero target.

Meetings and workshops: 15 August until 11 September 2018

  • Meeting with local residents on 15 August at the Masonic Hall regarding the Salisbury Reserve consultation
  • Auckland Paths working group meeting on 16 August
  • Meeting with Steve Mutton, Director Regional Relationships on 17 August
  • Met with John Street, Ponsonby residents on 18 August to discuss options to traffic calm and reduce volumes
  • Attended the Western Springs Development Plan consultation event held at the park on 18 August
  • Chair’s weekly meeting with the local board services team on 20, 27 August and 3 and 10 September
  • Waitematā Local Board business meeting on 21 August
  • LGNZ Zone 1 meeting on 24 August in Manukau
  • Spoke to Citizens Advice Bureau Grey Lynn/Ponsonby Branch volunteers on 27 August about the role of the local board
  • Board all day workshops on 28 August and 4, 11 September
  • Wynyard Quarter Transport Management Association meeting on 29 August
  • Meeting with Jeremy Hansen, Britomart Group on 29 August
  • Attended a Vision Zero meeting organised by Bike Auckland at Bizdojo on 29 August
  • Meeting with representatives of the Herne Bay Residents Association on 29 August the Masonic Hall regarding the Salisbury Reserve consultation
  • Interviewed by Grant Hewison regarding the Ponsonby Business Association strategic plan on 29 August
  • Auckland Domain Committee workshop followed by the public committee meeting on 30 August
  • Inclusive governance in a diverse Auckland workshop offered by the Kura Kawana Elected Member Development Programme with guest speaker Professor Paul Spoonley, Pro Vice-Chancellor – College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Massey University on 31 August
  • Kia whai whare atou katoa: Regional, cross-sectoral homelessness plan for Auckland workshop at the Fickling Centre on 3 September (photo right)
  • Meeting on 4 September with the Community–led Design Group to discuss 254 Ponsonby Road in preparation for the forthcoming Options Paper.
  • TRAFINZ workshop in Wellington on 5 September
  • Visit to Auckland Zoo for local board members on 6 September (photo right)
  • Catch up with City Centre Residents Group representative on 6 September
  • Transport portfolio catch up on 7 September
  • Meeting with Director Regulatory Services Penny Pirrit to discuss compliance issues at the helicopter boat shed construction on Sentinel Beach, Herne Bay
  • Attended the “Business Grey Lynn” organised community meeting at St Columba church on 9 September regarding the Representation Review consultation that closed on 11 September
  • Local Board Chairs’ Forum on 10 September
  • Ponsonby Business Association committee meeting on 11 September
  • Briefing by Heart of the City regarding their street guardians initiative

Events and functions:  15 August until 11 September 2018

  • Interview on 95 BfM on 15 August to discuss the development of green spaces
  • Opening night of Auckland Theatre Company’s Filthy Business at ASB waterfront Theatre on 16 August at the invite of ATC
  • Dropped by 95bFM: Drive Island w/ Ha the Unclear & Skilaa at Ellen Melville Centre on 17 August (photo right)
  • Walters Prize opening at Auckland Art Gallery on 17 August
  • Panel member with MP Deborah Russell and former MP Damien Fenton at the Central Auckland Labour LEC’s Locally Left event at the Grey Lynn RSC on 27 August (photo below)
  • Opening of the Mina and Courtney Pellow NZFW show pop up shop on 30 August at the invite of the K’Road Business Association (photo right)
  • Living Wage Employer celebration held at the Ellen Melville Centre on 3 September (photo below)
  • “Into the Underworld” exhibition opening on 8 September in Silo 6, Wynyard Quarter.
  • Officiated at the Town Hall citizenship ceremony on 11 September.

Chair’s Monthly Report May 2018

This report covers the period 11 April – 8 May 2018.  

 Highlights

10-year budget and Local Board priorities

The Waitematā Local Board received almost 1500 submissions on the Council’s 10-year budget and Local Board priorities. I enjoyed reading them all to understand concerns and what we need to improve on. It was also hugely encouraging to receive such positive feedback confirming we are heading in the right direction.

A summary of the feedback received was presented at a board business meeting on 3 May.  

Highlights include:

  • 72% support the regional fuel tax wanting the additional funding to be directed at improving public transport and walking & cycling
  • 81% support the proposed water quality targeted rate (to stop sewage going into the harbour)
  • 69% support natural environment targeted rate
  • 63% support the proposed rates increase of 2.5%
  • 83% support or partially support the local board’s priorities

Other themes

  • Support for additional Auckland Art Gallery funding of $20m
  • Support for Victoria Quarter city centre improvements
  • Support for Vision Zero to be included in the Auckland Plan 2050
  • Strong support for continuing to develop the Auckland cycling network with separated cycleways
  • Support for increased support to tackle rough sleeping and homelessness.

The Board’s feedback on the 10-year budget 2018-2028 and the draft Auckland Plan 2050 is available on the minutes to the 3 May meeting. We also approved our advocacy initiatives that will form an appendix to the Local Board Agreement 2018/2019.

Auckland Waste Management and Minimisation Plan

The draft waste plan was consulted on at the same time as the 10-year budget. We received 130 submissions from the board area.  There was a strong level of support for the overall direction of the draft plan and the proposals consulted on.

The board’s feedback (Attachment 1) was presented at the Waste Management and Minimisation Plan hearing on 3 May by the Natural Environment portfolio holders Denise Roche and Rob Thomas.

 Regional Land Transport Plan feedback

 The Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP) lays out the vision for Auckland’s transport infrastructure over the next ten years- an accessible, safe and sustainable city and region.  The goal of the RLTP is to ensure that Auckland can address its current challenges and take advantage of future growth. The RLTP focuses on:

  • reducing congestion
  • improving freight reliability
  • road safety
  • promoting walking and cycling
  • advancing public transport.

The Board’s presentation to Regional Transport Committee hearing on the RLTP is attached (Attachment 2). The board’s submission will be finalised by 17 May.

Homelessness

We know from the feedback we regularly receive and through the 10-year Budget consultation that our residents would really like to see homelessness and rough sleeping tackled so we no longer have vulnerable people sleeping out on our streets.  The board has agreed to the following advocacy positions to be included in our Local Board Agreement 18/19.  At the same time we welcome the government’s announcement that $100m is to be invested in homelessness including an increase in the number of places available through Housing First, a solution that has been shown to work.

Housing solution for homeless people

Deliver short and medium-term housing solutions to address homelessness

  •  The Governing Body to partner with the Waitematā Local Board to enhance provision of city centre public facilities such as toilets, showers and lockers
  • The Governing Body to financially support the development of Mission HomeGround
  • The Governing Body to increase funding to support Housing First Auckland

Storm Damage

Auckland was hit by a severe storm on the evening of 10 April that caused wide spread power outages and the toppling of trees all over Auckland.  At Western Springs a number of large trees came down causing paths to be closed (the track through the Western Springs pine stand will remain closed while 30 pine trees are assessed that are at risk of toppling).   Our Auckland story on track closures: Attachment 3

Tree debris is being collected by Auckland Council’s contractor Ventia from the side of the road. There is currently a backlog that I have been advised should be cleared by the week beginning 14 May.

Auckland’s Road Safety Crisis

As reported on last month I attended the Road Safety Summit in Wellington called by the Associate Minister of Transport.

Tragically in the past three years, Auckland’s deaths and serious injuries (DSI) have increased at almost triple the rate of the rest of NZ and around five times the growth of travel. Of 29 world cities, Auckland has the second highest pedestrian fatality rate (Our Auckland story: Attachment 4).

Red light running is particularly an issue in the city centre. This has been highlighted at the intersection of Nelson Street and Union St on the Freemans Bay School walking route that has been subject of recent complaints (a video posted on social media showed seven drivers red light running in just one light phase). I have been following this up with AT and NZ Police who are yet to confirm what action is going to be taken.

I reported on road safety issues in the latest Ponsonby News update and the completion of the Ponsonby Pedestrian Improvement project (Attachment 5)

Monkey Bars are back in Grey Lynn Park

 The playground upgrade at Grey Lynn Park completed in November 2016 removed monkey bars from the design.  Following a petition from twins Ila and Jaya Patel (photo right) the Board agreed to fund new monkey bars.  The new equipment has now been installed (Our Auckland story: Attachment 6).

Meetings and workshops: 11 April until 8 May 2018

  • Weekly chair’s meeting held every Monday with the local board services team
  • Government Policy Statement on Land Transport – briefing session with transport strategy team on 12 April to discuss local board feedback
  • Catch up with Maggie Gresson, of Artists Alliance and board member Richard Northey
  • Meeting with Ian Clark (Director at Flow Transportation Specialists Ltd) on 12 April regarding Western Springs Precinct parking project
  • Breakfast meeting with Mark Ames from Strategic Cities hosted by Auckland Transport
  • Catch up with Jill Keyser from Splice on 13 April
  • April cluster workshop for local board members on 16 April
  • Waitematā Local Board business meeting on 17 April
  • Meeting on 18 April to discuss local board advocacy items
  • Ports of Auckland presentation for board members on 19 April draft 30 year masterplan
  • Board all day workshops on 24 April, 1 May and 8 May
  • Inner city network meeting at Auckland Central Library on 26 April
  • Meeting to discuss representation review
  • Monthly comms meeting on 26 April
  • Regional Land Transport Plan briefing by Auckland Transport for local board members on 30 April
  • Finance and Performance committee workshop on 2 May: 10 year budget update
  • RLTP hearing on 7 May (Attachment 2)
  • Ponsonby Business Association board monthly meeting on 8 May

Events and functions:  11 April until 8 May 2018

  • Regional Facilities Auckland tour of the Civic Theatre and function for local board members and advisory panel members on 11 April (photo right)
  • How London became a cycling city presentation by Mark Ames from Strategic Cities hosted by Russell McVeagh
  • Launch on 13 April at the Cloud of a trial of two city centre e-buses by the Mayor and Associate Minister for Transport Julie-Anne Genter (photo below right)
  • Popped into the  Waitemata Safe Routes drop in session at the Grey Lynn Community Centre on 14 April led by Boffa Miskell who have been engaged by Auckland Transport to lead a technical review of the Waitemata Safe Routes programme
  • “Pump tracks are for girls too!” event with Sarah Walker organised by Women in Urbanism at the Grey Lynn pump track on 14 April
  • Eco Day Festival at EcoMatters on 15 April
  • Opening of Body Worlds Vital at the Hilton Hotel on 23 April
  • The opening night of Southern Star – Te Tonga Whetu o te Rangi on 24 April including live musical performances choreographed to architectural-scale, light artworks by Jeff Smith and Johann Nortje projected onto the historic brick and stone walls of St David’s. (My speech: Attachment 7)
  • Anzac day dawn service at the Auckland War Memorial Museum
  • Spoke on behalf of the board at the Grey Lynn RSC Anzac day service (My speech: Attachment 8). Photo below presenting the local board wreath with board member Denise Roche
  • Comedy Gala opening night on 26 April at the invitation of ATEED
  • Re-opening of the Richmond Road Medical Centre on 27 April by PM Jacinda Adern
  • Trash to Trade competition organised by Grey Lynn Waste Away at the Grey Lynn RSC on 29 April (photo below)
  • Mrs Warren’s profession opening night at the ASB Waterfront Theatre at the invitation of Auckland Theatre Company
  • Unveiling of Te Toka o Apihai Te Kawau by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei and Ports of Auckland on 4 May (photo right)
  • Foundation North lunch on 4 May to launch their Strategic Plan with the PM and Mayor Goff
  • Attended the Fossil Free Acceleration Tour with Bill McKibben and 350 Aotearoa at the Auckland Town Hall on 7 May
  • Feijoa Festival at Tabac, Mills Lane on 8 May

Photo right: Trash to Trade competition.  Grey Lynn 2030 trustee Brigette Stigid with board member Denise Roche who spoke at the event and board member Adriana Avendaño Christie who was one of the judges, alongside Metal as Anything Creations‘ Andrew Palace. The established artisans category was won by Jared Diprose from Goose Boards the new designer category by Fiona Bonner from Floroganza, and the young makers category by Briar Shaw-Smith.

 

Chair’s monthly report August 2017

Report covering the period 10 July until 6 August 2017.

Highlights

  • Fukuoka Garden opens:  It has now been over three and half years since the loss of the original garden in the zoo so it was a great pleasure to attend the opening on 17 July and to celebrate the hard work of the many people involved with re-establishing the Fukuoka Friendship Garden including the original garden designer Professor Kubota.   A large delegation led by Mayor Takashima attended from Fukuoka to strengthen the sister city ties. (Attachment A Beautifully crafted Japanese garden blooms again Ponsonby News column)
  • Gave the Opening Address at the Economic Development Masterclass Local Economic Development Masterclass; Supporting economic resilience and was part of a panel discussion with Neil McInroy – Centre for Local Economic Strategies, Gael Surgenor – GM The Southern Initiative,  Riria Te Kanawa – KPMG – Author of Māui Rau: from signal to action. A report on the Māori economy. (Attachment B)
  • Two solar-powered device-charging tables installed at Aotea Square and Victoria Park.  An idea that came from the Board’s Low Carbon Action Plan (Photo right with Board Member Thomas at the charging table in Aotea Square)
  • Attended the LGNZ Annual conference as the Board’s delegate 23- 25 July and Local Board representative with the Auckland Council delegation to the LGNZ AGM on 25 July (Conference report back Attachment C).
  • Presented the prizes for an Auckland Transport road safety poster competition at Richmond Road School.  Congratulations to runners up  Jenna Ivanov-Fesien, Mahina Mareroa  Morgan Laird
  • and winner Lily Smith. The winning poster is going to be super sized and used for traffic management for the Ponsonby Road Pedestrian improvement project works.
  • The renewal and upgrade of the upper Pt Resolution/Taurarua stairs and the concrete path from the top of the stairs to the park entrance are complete as well as the section of path between the stairs.  This completes three stages of the renewals/upgrades that form the Pt Resolution/Taurarua Development Plan. The next stage will be the renewal/upgrade of the fencing around the top of the park. This is being scoped and a proposal will be presented to the local board in November 2017 for consideration and feedback.
  • After a lengthy delay weed control has taken place in the Rose Road Gully (Grey Lynn Park) with funding provided by the Board.  Further weed control works are to be completed with an ongoing maintenance and restoration programme involving community volunteers.

Meetings and workshops: 10 July until 4 August

  • Weekly Chair’s meeting every Monday morning
  • Monthly Local Board Chairs’ Forum on 10 July
  • Business meeting run through
  • Waitematā Local Board workshops on 11, 18 July and 1 August
  • Local Economic Development Masterclass; Supporting economic resilience on 12 July (Attachment B)
  • Parks Portfolio discussion – including parks related Community Facilities matters on 12 July
  • PBA Board meeting on 13 July
  • Meeting with Jenny Hutchings, Mapura Studios on 13 July
  • Meeting on 14 July with John Elliott, Ponsonby News to discuss glysophate spraying issues in Waitematā.
  • Briefing on the Dilworth Terrace Housings viewshaft 14 July
  • Attended the Grafton Residential Parking Zone Public open day held by Auckland Transport on 15 July
  • Local Boards sub-regional workshop on 17 July
  • Engagement Walk-Through on Homelessness (Attachment D)
  • Attended the Ethnic Peoples Advisory Panel meeting on 17 July and gave a short presentation to introduce the Board.
  • Meeting with Mayor Goff on 18 July to consider council’s position on remits submitted to the LGNZ AGM
  • Parnell Station visit with Simon Wilson for an article in the Spinoff (Attachment E)
  • Waitematā Local Board business meeting on 18 July
  • Meet the Epsom candidates meeting hosting by Parnell Business Association on 18 July at Jubilee Buildings
  • Meeting to discuss Waitemata Good Citizens Awards 2017 on 19 July
  • Monthly comms meeting on 19 July
  • Meeting with Kathryn King, Walking and Cycling Manager to discuss the prioritisation process for cycling projects including the old Parnell Tunnel Greenway
  • Catch up with General Manager, K’rd Business Association
  • Meeting with the CEO of Sport Auckland
  • Annual BID presentation by Ponsonby Business Association on 20 July
  • Interview with BID programme team member on 21 July for an article to be published on Auckland Council’s BID website (Attachment F)
  • Attended the LGNZ Annual conference as the Board’s delegate 23- 25 July (Conference report back Attachment C)
  • Auckland Council delegate to the LGNZ AGM on 25 July
  • Planning Committee briefing on Commercial Bay
  • Attended the Heritage Advisory Panel meeting on 25 July to hear a presentation on the restoration of Parnell Station
  • Friends of Symonds St AGM on 25 July
  • Handover meeting with Kathryn Martin, Acting Relationship Manager before her return to Rodney Local Board and farewell on 26 July
  • Meeting on with Business Lab to finalise the City Fringe Economic Development Action plan refresh
  • Meeting on 26 July with Victoria Carter and Ben Carter, City Hop car share
  • Meeting on 27 July with officers to discuss meeting planned with Richmond Rovers Rugby League Club
  • Inner City Network Meeting on 27 July held at Studio One with a presentation on Civil Defence & Emergency Management
  • Site visit to Didas Café to discuss flooding issues
  • Catch up with James Wilson, Q Theatre CEO and Catherine George, at Q Theatre on 28 July
  • Interview with Julie Fairey for Red Alert radio on Planet FM
  • Auckland Paths Leadership Group meeting on 31 July
  • Meeting to discuss Achievements Report on 1 August
  • Transport portfolio catch up on 2 August
  • Joint Local Board Chairs and Governing body members meeting with Mayor Goff
  • Meeting with 254 Ponsonby Road community- led engagement group on 4 August

Events and functions:  10 July until 6 August

  • The Road That Wasn’t There at Herald Theatre on 11 July
  • My Best Dead Friend at Q Theatre on 12 July
  • Viewing of a new work in development called ‘The Secret Thief’ from the Lights Out Project funded by CNZ at the invitation of TAPAC on 15 July
  • Opening of Fukuoka Gardens at Western Springs on 17 July (Attachment A)
  • Opening of the New Zealand International Film Festival at Civic Theatre on 20 July
  • Event with the PM Rt Hon Bill English to hear the PM’s views on Auckland’s future hosted by Heart of the City at Warren & Mahoney on 27 July
  • Fundraising Art Exhibition hosted by the Ponsonby Cruising Club on 28 July
  • Commentator with Alan Johnson at the NZ Fabian Society’s Election series:  For the Love of Auckland; Housing, Transport, Doing better for the City discussion with Phil Tyford and Julie Anne Genter. Held at the University of Auckland, Business School on 31 July
  • Greens Auckland Launch on 1 August
  • Film Festival Screening of Citizen Jane: Battle for the City at ASB Waterfront Theatre
  • Smarts Seeds showcase on 2 August at Aotea Centre at the invitation of Amy Malcolm, University of Auckland
  • Presentation of prizes for Auckland Transport’s road safety poster competition at Richmond Road Primary School assembly on 4 August
  • Interview with David Batten to discuss Reimagining Great North Road community –led plan
  • Launch by Cr Penny Hulse of the Rubbish and Recycling Guide “Feeling Rubbish” for the blind at the Blind Foundation on 5 August
  • Sweet Harmony concert on 5 August starring the Auckland Street Choir in support of Lifewise and the Auckland City Mission
  • Labour’s Transport policy announcement at Wynyard Quarter on 6 August

Gift Declarations

  • Tickets x 2 The Road That Wasn’t There at Herald Theatre and My Dead Best Friend at Q Theatre at the invitation of Zanetti Productions
  • Opening of the New Zealand International Film Festival

Chair’s monthly report July 2017

Report covering the period 10 June to 8 July 2017.

Highlights

We concluded consultation on the draft Local Board plan on 30 June. Our final Information Session was held at the Leys Institute Library on 22 June (Photo right with board members Adriana Christie and Richard Northey)

At our June Board meeting we approved the names to be given to the rooms in the refurbished Ellen Melville Centre: Helen Clark Room, Elizabeth Yates Room, Betty Wark Room, Marilyn Waring Room, and Eleitino (Paddy) Walker Room. Our thanks to National Council of Women – Auckland Branch for selecting the names of these significant women.  The opening date is currently provisionally scheduled for 15 September.

At the meeting we also approved the final Quick Response Round and Accommodation Grants for 2016/17 (link to the minutes of the meeting).  We allocated $14,967.00 utilising ‘Local Discretionary Community Grants’ budget of $11,157.00 and $3810.00 from the ‘Community Response Fund’ budget and allocated Accommodation Grants utilising ‘Community group assistance – Accommodation Grants’ budget of $125,000 and $11,190.00 from the ‘Community Response Fund’ budget.  The minutes of the meeting are on the Council website. (Picture right: a thank you from the Indian Ink Trust who received a $2500 accommodation grant).

On the 30th anniversary of the Nuclear- free New Zealand legislation I spoke at the unveiling of the Pohutukawa for Peace plaque to acknowledge all those who campaigned for nuclear- free NZ in particular my colleague Richard Northey, Chair of the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (1970-83) and MP in the Labour government when the legislation was passed.  I also spoke at the launch of the Our Climate Declaration initiative on 18th June (Attachment A)

Provided feedback to Auckland Transport on behalf of the Board on the Victoria Street cycleway, Midtown Bus consultations, AT election sign bylaw review (Refer Auckland Transport monthly report) and made a submission to New Zealand Transport Agency on behalf of the Board on setting speed limits rule (Attachment B)

Wynyard Quarter and Viaduct Harbour safer speed zone introduced (Attachment C). The Board has been a long time advocate for 30km speed limit for the area.

The Teed Street Upgrade is well underway. The Newmarket Business Association is working with Council and the contractors to keep the surrounding streets open and welcoming. (Photo right:  A local retailer proposed the wording for this sign on Teed St)

Provided Local Board updates in Ponsonby News (Attachment D) and the Hobson (Attachments E)

Attended a number of events detailed below.

Took part in the Big Sleep Out 2017 on 6 July raising over $2000 for Lifewise. After the 5.30am wakeup at the event held in the AUT plaza I walked through the city centre to the board office. People were sleeping in doorways all along the way.  It was a reality check about the housing crisis and why Lifewise’s work to tackle homelessness is so essential.

Meetings and workshops: 12 June until 7 July  

  • Weekly Chair’s meeting every Monday morning
  • Waitematā Local Board workshops on 13, 27 June and 4 July
  • Auckland Transport quarterly briefing on 12 June
  • Local Board Chairs’ Forum on 12 June
  • Auckland Domain committee workshop and extraordinary business meeting on 13 June
  • Attended the Wynyard Quarter Transport Management Association Board meeting on 14 June to give a brief presentation on the role of the Local Board
  • Monthly comms meeting on 14 June
  • Community Reference Group for the Parnell cycle route workshop organised by Auckland Transport on 14 June
  • Chair’s recommendations run through meeting on 15 June
  • CBD Jobs and Skills Hub introduction for Local Board members on 16 June
  • Meeting on 16 June with Principal and Deputy Principal of St Mary’s College to discuss a range of road safety issues
  • Local Boards sub-regional workshop on 19 June
  • Chaired the Waitematā Local Board business meeting on 20 June
  • Meeting on 21 June organised by Mayor Phil Goff to set up an Advisory Group to progress the WW1 Memorial (Waitematā Local Board rep on this group has not yet been confirmed)
  • Transport portfolio catch up on 21 June and 5 July
  • Pacific Peoples Advisory Panel meeting with Local Board Members on 21 June
  • Local Board plan information session at Leys Institute Library on 22 June
  • Briefing on 22 June on proposed Civic Administration Building / Aotea Square rezoning
  • LGNZ Governance and Strategy working group meeting in Wellington on 23 June
  • Site visit to the Petanque Club in Salisbury Reserve on 25 June
  • Planning Committee Auckland Plan Refresh Workshop on 26 June re Development Strategy Scenarios
  • Meeting on 27 June with Business Lab to discuss the City Fringe Economic Development Action plan refresh
  • Attended the Auckland City Centre Advisory Board meeting on 28 June
  • Albert Street walking tour on 29 June with the CRL Street Response Manager (photo right showing the design on the new hoardings on Albert St)
  • Meeting on 30 June with David Gaimster new Director of Auckland Museum
  • Catch up with John Hutton, Manager Treaty Settlements regarding Gladstone Reserve settlement
  • Meeting at St Mary’s College with Auckland Transport to discuss road safety issues
  • Meeting with Rangimarie Huria, Chief Executive, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Maia Limited on 30 June
  • Attended the Rainbow Communities Advisory Panel meeting on 3 July
  • Meeting on 5 July with Splice representatives to discuss programming at Ellen Meville Hall
  • Meeting on 6 July with Gary Holmes and Gill Plume from Uptown Business Association regarding an update on retaining and developing innovative businesses in the Uptown area.
  • Briefing on 6 July regarding the proposed St Mary’s Bay and Masefield Beach project
  • Meeting with CAB Managers on 6 July
  • Site visit of Victoria Quarter with a constituent and Manager City Centre Design on 7 July (to discuss range of safety and road design issues)

Events and functions:  10 June until 7 July

  • Spoke on behalf of the Board at the unveiling of the Pohutukawa for Peace Plaque on 11 June (photo right)
  • Parnell Business Association networking event “Future Museum” at Auckland Museum on 15 June
  • Spoke at the launch of the Our Climate Declaration initiative on 18 June (Attachment A)
  • Kokako café handover event hosted by the Grey Lynn Business Association to welcome the new owner
  • Newmarket Business Association Business Awards at the Langham Hotel on 22 June at the invitation of the NBA
  • Pestival at Aotea Centre on 24 June: the inaugural Auckland event showcasing and celebrating current community-led conservation work in Auckland (photo  right Cr Penny Hulse opening the event)
  • Te hokinga mai o ngā pou whakairo a te Kiingitanga ki Pukekawa/Pukekaroa (return of the carvings of the Kiingitanga to Auckland Domain) on 24 June (photo right Cr Lee with Sharon Hawke, Te Ariki Tamaroa  the master carver Alan Nopera and his wife and Renata Blair)
  • Ngati Whatua Orakei – Mana Whenua Signage Unveiling/Blessing at Emily Place on 28 June (photo right)
  • Auckland Chief Executive’s Forum – Unlocking Auckland’s Growth on 28 June
  • Social function for Auckland City Centre Advisory Board members hosted by Warren & Mahoney on 28 June
  • St Joseph’s Primary School Art exhibition on 29 June
  • Opening night of Kiss the Sky on 29 June at the Bruce Mason Centre at the invite of the New Zealand Dance Company
  • World Press Photo Exhibition opening night on 30 June at the invitation of Crackjack
  • Te Taumata Kapa Haka a Matariki event at the Cloud on 1 July featuring performances by some of New Zealand’s best kapa haka
  • Celebrating the return of Tara welcome on 1 July organised by Auckland Council and the Sir Peter Blake Trust
  • Bring your Own Bag -International Plastic Bag Free Day event organised by Grey Lynn 2030 Waste Away group for Plastic Free July (photo right with Mayor Phil Goff and Colinda Rowe, Chair of Grey Lynn 2030)
  • Civic Reception for the crew of Tara at the Auckland Town Hall on 4 July (photo right)
  • Auckland Conversations on 5 July The Future of Our Oceans: Continuing Sir Peter Blake’s Environmental Legacy
  • Tour of The Body Laid Bare: Masterpieces from Tate at Auckland Art Gallery on 5 July at the invitation of Regional Facilities Auckland
  • Emirates Team New Zealand homecoming parade and function on 6 July at Headquarters at the invitation of ATEED
  • Participated in The Big Sleep Out on 6 July raising over $2000 for Lifewise (Photo below with elected representatives: Board member Nerissa Henry, Cr Greg Sayers, Mayor Goff and Cr Cathy Casey)

Sleeping rough for Lifewise

On June 28th at approximately 6.30pm, I’ll be joining a bunch of influential Kiwis at the annual Lifewise Big Sleepout. We’ll be homeless for the night in a determined effort to bring critical attention and funding to this solvable issue.
To get a first hand glimpse into the life of a rough sleeper (someone on the extreme end of homelessness), I’ll  be sleeping outside, at an open air venue in Auckland’s City Centre, in the dead of winter with only a piece of cardboard and a sleeping bag.

I am impressed with what the Lifewise team do providing sustainable solutions to social issues rather than putting a ‘band aid’ on the problem.  Even though it will be a challenge as I hate being cold and deprived of sleep, I feel really privileged to be part of an awesome event that raises funds and awareness for the issue of homelessness.

I’ve committed to raising at least $1000 via my fundraising page http://www.fundraiseonline.co.nz/PippaCoom/

About the Big Sleepout

The Lifewise Big Sleepout is an annual event aimed at raising serious funds and channelling significant attention in the direction of solving homelessness in the city of Auckland. It is a night where influential New Zealanders forgo their creature comforts for a night of ‘rough sleeping’ as a way of making a public stand against homelessness. Put simply, it’s a no-holds-barred approach to exposing what is often an invisible issue. The ultimate aim of the Lifewise Big Sleepout is bring an end to homelessness – for good. The continued success of this event goes a long way to meeting this highly achievable goal. As a result, we remain equipped to address the issue of homelessness at every level of influence – meeting the immediate and the long-term needs of the homeless while at the same time working strategically with non-government and government bodies to find solutions. Check out The Issue for more info on the work of Lifewise in this area.

http://bigsleepout.org.nz/author/pippa-coom/