Huge opportunity to accelerate ecological work
The Waikato Catchment Ecological Enhancement Trust, or ‘WCEET’, is a collaboration between Mercury Power and the conservation groups that were involved in the re-consenting process for the company’s Waikato River dams. Together they manage an enhancement fund that supports efforts to environmentally compensate for the dams’ impact.
WCEET’s financial support has had a hugely positive impact on the Waikato and Lake Taupo catchments since it was established two decades ago – its funding of 300+ conservation projects has collectively enhanced 2600+ hectares of wetland and 2600+ hectares of riparian habitat, with 2.43 million natives planted and predator control applied to 7200+ hectares.
“We’ve supported some truly inspirational volunteer groups, landowners and businesses dedicated to protecting and enhancing the environment,” said Trust Chair Gwyn Verkerk.
“Without any promotion, our funding rounds are always over-subscribed. So we’ve set up the WCEET Fund with Momentum Waikato, as both a new investment income stream in its own right, and to provide an easy way for the public to donate towards the expansion and long-term sustainability of this crucial local conservation funding.”
Have you been following the housing policy changes?
New mortgage lending rules could work in first-home buyers’ favour, but it remains to be seen, according to Waikato real estate leaders.
On Tuesday the Reserve Bank announced new debt-to-income (DTI) ratios from July 1 this year, saying they reduce the likelihood of mortgage defaults.
What do you think of the regional council rate rise?
One frustrated councillor walked out of a meeting before regional councillors set rates, and another didn’t vote in “protest”.
Regional councillors have agreed by a thin 7 for and 5 against margin to put forward a 2024-34 long term plan for adoption, exposing particular divisions over the higher-than-suggested rates rise for next year: 7.4%.
Poll: Should Hamilton City Council shrink the number of councillors?
A political bunfight is brewing over moves to cut councillor numbers on Hamilton City Council.
Potential mayoral candidate Tim Macindoe, supported by four others, has asked Thursday’s meeting to agree to a representation report that covers replacing the current east-west split with one city-wide ward.
It also seeks consideration of cutting representative numbers from 15 - including 12 general councillors spread over two wards, two Māori ward representatives and the mayor - to 11.
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90.9% Yes
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4.5% No
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4.5% Not sure
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0% Other - explain in the comments
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