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1110 days ago

It's Not Over Yet!

Barry from Papamoa Beach

The council has published its final proposal for the system of wards and councillors for the next 6 years. The system will comprise 8 general wards and 1 Maori ward. The Maori ward has already been established. Residents will only be allowed to vote for and have reasonable access to 1 out of the 9 councillors; their ward councillor. That definitely doesn't win the best and fairest award! One example of the council's weird thinking is its decision to split Greerton into two wards with the centre of Chadwick Road being the dividing line.
BUT, it's not over yet. Residents still have the right to challenge the council's decision!
It's now up to the Local Government Commission to make the final decision about which system Tauranga will have. The LGC has a good record of listening to the public and overturning bad council decisions. And, this is a bad one! If it's to to consider the matter properly the LGC needs to know what the public thinks The way to pass on your opinion is to:-
(a) send an email to - repreview@tauranga.govt.nz, or
(b) send a letter to the council at Private Bag 12022, Tauranga 3143, or
(c) drop off a letter at any library or at the customer service office in Willow Street.
To read the council's webpage on the subject Google - Tauranga city council elections review.
A better system of wards and councillors would be 1 city-wide general ward with 4 ward councillors, 7 at large councillors and 1 Maori ward. General roll electors would have the right to choose 11 out of the 12 councillors and Maori roll electors could choose 8. Tell the LGC that the council's chosen system is wrong for the city and that you want this one instead.
The council also refused to establish community boards. Boards are not another layer of bureaucracy. They are not run from a council desk. They are statutory community organisations designed to encourage and assist local participation in city governance. Residents would be able to have their say in familiar surroundings in their own community instead of in the council chambers. Tell the LGC that you want community boards.
The closing date is the 13th of December. Don't miss the deadline, don't let the council win by default.

More messages from your neighbours
6 days ago

Should You Stay Home During Open Homes or Private Viewings? 🏡🤔

Matt from Matt Wineera - Thats Real Estate with Matt Wineera

Should You Stay Home During Open Homes or Private Viewings? 🏡🤔

When you list your home for sale, you might wonder: should you be there during inspections? While it’s your home, many agents suggest stepping out during these moments.
Here’s why:
1️⃣ Protecting Your Peace 🛡️
Selling a home is an emotional journey, and potential buyers often share candid opinions about your home. While their feedback can be valuable, it might feel personal when you’re nearby. Stepping out helps you avoid any unintended stress or discomfort.

2️⃣ Creating a Comfortable Atmosphere 🌟
Buyers want to imagine themselves living in your home, and that’s easier to do when they feel at ease. Your presence, even with the best intentions, might make them feel like guests rather than potential owners.

💡 Pro Tip: Take a break—go for coffee ☕ or enjoy a walk in the park 🌳 during inspections. It can make a big difference for everyone involved.

Have questions about selling your home or real estate in general?
Let’s connect—I’d love to help! 😊

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2 hours ago

Pamela’s Kiwi food tour

Bob Owens Retirement Village

Pamela, a resident of Bert Sutcliffe Village, has a passion for good food, great company, and exploring new places. A seasoned traveller and cruising enthusiast, Pamela has sailed to numerous destinations, sampling local cuisines along the way.

Closer to home, alongside her son-in-law and daughter, she has discovered a variety of restaurants that showcase the diversity of New Zealand’s culinary scene. Whether you’re planning a road trip, dreaming about your next cruise, or simply searching for a great dining spot, these are Pamela’s top food recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

Click read more for the full story.

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4 hours ago

Women's open training this Thursday 5th December at Morland Fox Park

Nika Rikiriki from Blue Rovers Football Club

Join Chris Acott, our Director of Football, for a women's opening training session at Morland Fox Park from 6pm to 7.30pm this Thursday 5th December. The open training session is an opportunity for players to come and meet like-minded people and experience women's football at the Blue Rovers.

Leonie Gordon, the Club Secretary and women's coordinator, says: "There are some phoenominal women footballers in Tauranga, all with their own goals, values and motivations. We offer a supportive women's management group, healthy team culture and quality coaching for women who want to play their football closer to home, and who want a club they can call their own."

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