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Otago Daily Times
18-07-2025
- Politics
- Otago Daily Times
Letters to Editor: water, Al Jazeera, Ardern
Today's letters to the editor include discussions concerning the Waitaki District Council, Al Jazeera, and opinions on Dame Jacinda Ardern. Recent opposition to the Waitaki District Council's preferred Water Well Done proposal is probably a reflection of the general lack of trust in the council rather than misinformation. Take the Proposed District Plan. This now legally enforceable plan allows that certain people are allowed to access private properties to cut, dig and build without the landowner's permission within the new wahi tupuna overlays. Conversely the same landowners can be required to consult with and pay whatever fee iwi deem appropriate in addition to council's own consenting requirements. The consulting process was haphazard and ultimately ignored the concerns of affected landowners. To their credit, councillors John McCone, Guy Percival and Brent Cowles opposed the plan which to the detriment of the Waitaki District community was approved in December. One councillor even stated that people affected by the PDP can now "share the same feelings of loss and disempowerment and identity ... caused by the Kemp Purchase of 1848". Our community deserves much better representation than being held liable for what happened over 175 years ago. Mark Hay Oamaru In-house backed I am tired of reading Ben Bell's accusations that Waitaki's decision to nix a joint water company with Gore, Clutha and Central Otago is the "misinformed" decision of only 161 submitters in our public consultation. Out of 300 submitters in the consultation, 85% favoured another option instead of the tie-up with those three districts. Only 15% supported Southern Water Done Well. Sentiment throughout the district was strongly in favour of keeping water in-house. Faced with an election in three months, the Waitaki councillors suddenly realised that public sentiment was so strong that it had to be respected. That's why the vote was 9-2 for continued in-house operation. The Gore councillors are wrong to claim that government required them to approve Southern Water Done Well. There are 19 councils nationwide which have chosen in-house. Minister Simon Watts may be trying to bully councils, but this hasn't scared the stronger councils in the past, nor will it in the future. Mike Sweeney Oamaru No, it's dire Dire wolves, mammoths, moa ... .why? Any effort to bring these back from the dead, at this stage is ridiculous, what you get is nothing like the original. What you get is a Claytons version. As has been shown, the dire wolves are only that in name. They are nothing like the originals, simply a white wolf with a few shredded DNA strands that amount to nothing. If there was going to be money sunk into these sorts of folly projects I would much prefer it be spent on saving our current flora and fauna Graham Bulman Dunedin Higher huts Re the tragic death of Wednesday Davis on Mt Ruapehu (ODT 14.7.25). This is very sad indeed and the circumstances appear to be particularly distressing for the family, and they have my full sympathy. I note however that the Whangaehu has been repeatedly reported as the "highest alpine hut in New Zealand". This is not the case by a significant margin. Whangaehu hut is at an altitude of 2080m while Empress Hut (at the top of the Hooker Glacier at Aoraki/Mt Cook) is at an altitude of 2472m, Plateau Hut (also on Aoraki/Mt Cook) is at 2200m, Centennial Hut (on the Franz Josef Glacier) is at 2400m. Stating that Whangaehu is the highest hut in New Zealand puts an erroneous perspective on the story. Derek Chinn Queenstown Overwhelming news and the bare essentials I watch the Al Jazeera news channel. Their news coverage can be difficult to watch. Images can be overwhelming and leave you questioning why some events on this planet are allowed to continue. The only thing on television at the moment that can put a smile on your face is an advertisement. It shows a naked skier, beautiful snow views and the background music is Age of Innocence by Enigma. It is very peaceful and you have to smile. Lorraine Adams Oamaru Enduring legacy I was horrified to read Neville McLay's letter (ODT 14.7.25). Can it really be true that the stadium will only last another 35 years, especially when you think that most old villas were built between 1890 and 1910. Many will have been renovated in the past 35 years when the houses were already nearly 100 years old. So the stadium is only to last about a quarter as long as the average old villa? George Livingstone Roslyn Boo Sir Ian It is so very sad to see all the knives pointed in direction of Dame Jacinda Ardern, the latest poison from Sir Ian Taylor. The combined threats and personal attacks made on her mainly through the cowardly medium of social media disgusted me. Dame Jacinda succeeded in saving many lives when the country faced a relentless and deadly Covid virus. She was applauded and recognised upon the world stage. The mosque massacre and Christchurch earthquakes, she resolutely and bravely faced up to with utmost dignity sincerity and compassion. Clive McNeill North East Valley Bravo Sir Ian "Better late than never" as the saying goes. Recent comments ridiculing and criticising Sir Ian Taylor about his about-face opinion of Jacinda Ardern just goes to show that changing one's mind and an admission of being wrong, is frowned upon and not appreciated by many. I, however applaud his honesty and bravery in publicly admitting his previous error in judgement. Joyce Yee-Murdoch Cromwell Boo Sir Ian I was disappointed by Sir Ian Taylor's article on Jacinda. It read like a lovesick virgin teenager's lament on finding the object of their adoration had feet of plasticene and a far-from-saintly past. Most politicians who get the top job, with some exceptions, and Jacinda was no exception, do the best they can with the hand they are dealt. And with impeccable timing she quit when she realised she was no longer the solution but part of the problem. We don't need to look far in the contemporary world to find exceptions who did neither. So we should be grateful. I am absolutely delighted that Jacinda has found things to do and a means of earning a crust, after leaving us Kiwi ingrates for what she must see as greener and safer pastures. I suggest Sir Ian plants his sour grapes in our great Central soil where they can turn to fine wine, and saves his rocks for his own rockery rather than use them as ammunition. Morley Williams Cromwell
Scoop
27-06-2025
- Politics
- Scoop
"Upholding Our Democratic Right To Be GE-Free"
Kaipara District Council (KDC) recently released its Proposed District Plan for public consultation, with an odd omission at a time when other councils are banding together to oppose extreme and undemocratic proposals in the controversial Gene Technology Bill. The KDC plan as notified is currently silent on the important GE/GMO issue. This is despite Northland's and Auckland's valuable status as a GM Free Food Producer Region and the inclusion of strong precautionary and prohibitive GE/GMO provisions, policies, and rules in the KDC draft District Plan 2022. During the previous round of public consultation, KDC received an overwhelming amount of supportive submissions on this important issue. Northland Regional Council (NRC) and other submittors are urging KDC to rectify the omission in the Proposed District Plan, with NRC noting that "the Northland Regional Policy Statement via Policy 6.1.2 directs a Precautionary approach to GE/GMO use where the effects are scientifically uncertain, unknown, or little understood but potentially significant." "Given the direction in the Northland Regional Policy Statement, the concerns of farmers and tangata whenua, and the need for consistency with adjoining District plans it is considered appropriate to reference and control these matters in the Kaipara District plan," said Martin Robinson, spokesman for GE Free Northland. 'It is critically important that KDC continue to work in a collaborative and fiscally responsible manner with all the other councils of Northland and Auckland. GE contamination does not respect boundaries, and known vectors including seeds, pollen, vegetative material, soils, waterways, animals, insects, machinery, and extreme weather events would not only cause problems in Kaipara itself but the wider Northland rohe," said Robinson. GE Free Northland is particularly concerned about the lack of strict liability to protect farmers and urges Northlanders concerned about outdoor GE/GMO experiments and field trials to make a submission to KDC's Proposed District Plan urging KDC to reinstate the GE/GMO provisions (by next Monday's 5pm deadline, 30 June 2025). "We also thank NRC and Far North District Council (FNDC) for their excellent submissions opposing the Gene Technology Bill, despite the complete absence of consultation with key stakeholders like councils and the tight time frame." "It was gratifying to read NRC's and FNDC's strong objections to the appalling and undemocratic provisions in the current Bill which would void existing District and Regional regulations and significantly reduce the local participation in decision making relating to gene technology experimentation," said Zelka Grammer, chair of GE Free Northland. (*1) "The extreme, impractical, and undemocratic provisions in the Bill must be removed as they would undermine many years of collaboration across Northland and Auckland's local authorities to bring about a cohesive planning regime that represents the values of Northland and Auckland communities(*2) and protects our biosecurity," said Grammer. As stated in its submission, NRC is of the view that regional and district plans should continue to play a part in the management of GMOs in Northland, and in doing so, continue to provide for the input of farmers and local communities into decisions that affect the region. GE Free Northland thanks NRC for pro-actively writing to all councils from south Auckland to Cape Reinga in the Far North (*3), proposing that the Northland/ Auckland "Inter Council Working Party on GMO Risk Evaluation & Management Options" be reactivated, given the threat posed by extreme proposals in the controversial Gene Technology Bill. (*4) Notes: *(1) The explanatory notes in the Gene Technology Bill state: "Subpart 9—Amendments to Resource Management Act 1991 Clauses 246 to 254 amend the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA). In particular, these clauses— • define genetically modified and Regulator (clause 247): • prohibit a regional council or territorial authority from performing its functions under sections 30 and 31 of the RMA in a manner that treats genetically modified organisms differently from other organisms, including in regional plans, district plans and regional rules (clauses 248 to 253)." All councils from south Auckland to Cape Reinga in Far North/ Te Tai Tokerau have precautionary and prohibitive GE/GMO provisions, policies, and rules- set up in keeping with the wishes of local farmers and other ratepayers, in order to protect our regions biosecurity, wider environment, economy, and existing GM free farmers/ primary producers, including conventional, IPM, regenerative,and organic. Hastings District Council has achieved outright prohibition of all outdoor GE/GMO experiments, field trials, and releases for the duration of the District Plan. *(2) Whangarei District Council "Genetic Engineering Review" webpage, detailing the good work of the Northland/ Auckland INTER COUNCIL WORKING PARTY ON GMO RISK EVALUATION & MANAGEMENT OPTIONS (formed in 2003 by Kaipara District Council and Whangarei District Council) "Three major reports commissioned by the working party have identified a range of risks involved with the trialling and release of GMOs. They also include approaches to managing those risks. GMO Reports [link to documents] Environmental risks · GMOs becoming invasive and affecting other species including native flora and fauna · the development of herbicide or pesticide resistance creating 'super-weeds' or 'super-pests' · long term effects on ecosystem functioning. Socio-cultural risks · effects on Maori cultural beliefs of whakapapa, mauri, tikanga · ethical concerns about mixing genes from different species including human genes · concerns about the long term safety of genetically engineered food. Economic risks · loss of income through contamination (or perceived contamination) of non-GMO food products · negative effects on marketing and branding opportunities such as 'clean and green' or 'naturally Northland' · costs associated with environmental damage such as clean-up costs for invasive weeds or pests. Associated with these risks are limited liability provisions under the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Act 1996. " ENDS *(3) 15 April 2025 NRC letter to all Northland and Auckland councils *(4) The operative Auckland Unitary Plan contains precautionary and prohibitive GE/GMO provisions, policies, and rules on both land and in the Coastal Marine Area (CMA).
Scoop
27-06-2025
- Business
- Scoop
New Website Launched To Showcase Kaipara
Kaipara District Council has unveiled a brand-new website to highlight the district's exceptional lifestyle and economic potential. The platform is designed as a central hub, positioning the district as an ideal place to visit, live, work, and invest. The website content has been shaped with local input and reflects the distinct character, values, and aspirations of its people, with updates and new additions as the website is developed. The web design concept was created and developed over fifteen months by Brand with Soul and Max Ostler, both Kaipara based. From regional data and success stories to practical tools for investors, entrepreneurs, and new residents, the website offers a comprehensive introduction to life in the district. Kaipara District Council Mayor Craig Jepson says the website is a milestone for the district's development. 'This website gives us a platform to tell the world who we are. It showcases the best of Kaipara – from our strong local businesses to the beautiful places we call home. It's a great step forward in how we welcome growth, celebrate our uniqueness, and invite others to be part of our future.' Kaipara District Council Deputy Mayor Jonathan Larsen, Chair of the Economic Development Committee says 'the stars are aligning for Kaipara District. The Proposed District Plan offers the potential for significant new residential, commercial and industrial rezoning right across the district. Planning for a four-lane motorway to our southern boundary is well advanced with construction schedule to commence in late 2026. We have a major opportunity to use our competitive advantage right on the border of Auckland to attract new business and employment which will help our communities thrive. This creation of this website was a key action of the committee to get the word out that Kaipara really is the place to be.' Advertisement - scroll to continue reading To commemorate the launch, Council held events on both sides of the district, in partnership with the Mangawhai Business Association and the Dargaville Community Development Board. Welcoming Communities Advisor Misty Sansom says the website supports new residents to make a strong start in the district. 'We want people moving to Kaipara to feel connected and confident from day one. This site shares the stories, support networks, and real-life insights that make Kaipara a special place to call home.' Paul Thompson, Kaipara District Council Economic Development Lead, said the platform is a valuable tool for boosting local enterprise and attracting outside investment. 'We've worked hard to build a resource that's grounded in what makes Kaipara unique, while also being future-focused. It's not just a website – it's a gateway to everything Kaipara has to offer.' Kaipara District Council encourages local businesses and community members to explore the site and share it widely. This marks the beginning of an ongoing collaboration with community groups and organisations to grow and refine the website over the coming weeks and months, showcasing and celebrating the unique character of our district.
Scoop
26-06-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Annual Plan Adopted For Year Ahead
Kaipara District Council has unanimously adopted its Annual Plan for 2025/2026, with an average rates rise of 8.3% after growth. This includes a new targeted rate for three of the district's museums. Originally, the museums rate was expected to be on top of a previously signalled rate increases of 8.9% after growth for the coming year, but cost savings across other areas have reduced the final figure. Kaipara District Council Mayor Craig Jepson says the outcome reflects careful planning. 'We understand that any rates increase can be challenging for many members of our community, but this represents a significant achievement for our small rating base, especially given the current national economic climate.' Roading remains a key priority, with around $30 million planned on capital works this year, and around $13 million on operations and maintenance (excluding work carried forward from the previous financial year). Approximately $8 million is set aside for Cyclone Gabrielle and other extreme weather event-related repairs, of which up to 92% is funded by NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA). Recovery work includes repairing under and over slips, road surfaces, remediating slips, fixing our bridges, and replacing damaged drainage systems. Some of the projects planned for this year include pumpstation upgrades for Dargaville, the progression of the Proposed District Plan, local elections, and Wood Street revitalisation stormwater and surrounds. The Annual Plan for 2025/2026 comes into effect at the start of the financial year, with new rates taking effect from 1 July 2025. Final digital versions can be viewed on the council website from next week. Print versions will be available at council offices and libraries across the district in late July. What is a Long Term Plan and an Annual Plan? Every three years Council develops a Long Term Plan (LTP) in consultation with the community. Our Long Term Plan 2024-2027 was adopted on 31 July 2024. It outlines the services we will provide, the projects to be undertaken, the cost of doing this work, how it will be paid for and how the performance for each shall be measured. Following major damage to local infrastructure during the 2023 weather events, Kaipara is one of eight councils with an unaudited three year LTP focused on recovery, rather than the typical ten year outlook. In the two years between adopting an LTP, an annual plan is developed. The Annual Plan is a yearly update on what has been agreed through the LTP, highlighting any budget changes and work plans for each specific year. View the council discussion and decision on the (from 2:34:07).
Scoop
27-04-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Northland Expressway Brings Opportunities For Kaipara
Press Release – Kaipara District Council The announcement this week is seen as a significant milestone in the route planning. The replacement corridor for the Brynderwyn Hills section of State Highway 1, announced by Transport Minister Chris Bishop this week, is the most significant roading announcement for Kaipara and Northland that we will hear in our lifetimes, according to Kaipara Mayor Craig Jepson. The preferred corridor over the Brynderwyns is to the east of the existing road and will deliver a safer, more resilient and more efficient road between Northland and Auckland. The announcement this week is seen as a significant milestone in the route planning. Johanthan Larsen, Deputy Mayor, and Chairman of the KDC Economic Development Committee and KDC District Plan Working Party says 'The timing is perfect for the development of the Kaipara economy. Council will notify its Proposed District Plan (PDP) on 28 April. As already highlighted, the PDP will open up significant areas of new commercial and industrial zoned land, along with complementary residential and rural lifestyle zoned land.' 'The motorway link to Auckland as the country's largest market and commercial centre, coupled with Kaipara's relatively cheap and abundant land supply, provides us with a distinct competitive advantage. I expect this to benefit the Kaiwaka and Maungaturoto areas initially, with their proximity to the corridor and proposed interchanges, but the benefits will also reach further west into the whole Kaipara district. Our demographic growth analysis data tells us that even the completed Puhoi to Warkworth section of the motorway has had a positive effect on demand and property value spreading into western parts of Kaipara'
