Thank you for using Neighbourly
By local democracy reporter Brendon McMahon:
Warnings are being sounded over possible cuts to the Department of Conservation's (DOC) resources on the West Coast.
Almost 15% of the region's land area is administered and staffed in some way by DOC.
The West Coast region has key … View moreBy local democracy reporter Brendon McMahon:
Warnings are being sounded over possible cuts to the Department of Conservation's (DOC) resources on the West Coast.
Almost 15% of the region's land area is administered and staffed in some way by DOC.
The West Coast region has key national visitor sites like Franz Josef Glacier and Punakaiki, dozens of other recreational and heritage visitor sites, and five National Parks either within the region or reaching across its boundaries.
Baseline operating expenditure funding for the Western South Island region for the current financial year is $11.675 million.
West Coast Poutini Conservation Board member Dr Barry Wards, a former Forest and Bird president, said the board should be advocating the department's cause to an incoming government that is looking for savings.
"I get the sense there is a lot of things that are going to come up that are going to cost."
He feared a compromise in the department's capacity for "holding the line" when the new Government was signalling a 6.5% cut to the Public Service.
"It's only going to get worse," Wards said.
Questions of "what might have to go" and whether the department was discussing "cutting back" needed to be aired. Therefore, the board might have a role to play advocate over funding, Wards said.
"From my position, I think this board has the responsibility to advocate for funds not to be cut," he added.
DOC Western South Island director Mark Davies said he could not comment if cost reductions in the department's budgets were even being considered at this early point.
"That is the work of the Government," he said.
He noted there would be a natural transition for the department with the new Government set up.
"We are in the process of adapting to a new Government and a new minister's direction."
That included the department now having three ministers to report to: Conservation, Hunting and Fishing, and Oceans and Fisheries.
The department would also be hosting the sectariate for the new Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, Davies told the November 30 meeting.
He noted the transition in the change would be "a learning experience".
However the director-general of Conservation would be briefing the Government at a 'high level'.
"This is work that will go on between now and Christmas," Davies said.
Chairperson Mike Legge said a general discussion was already underway between conservation board chairs nationally about approaching the new minister, Tama Potaka.
"It hasn't gone very far yet. I think we need to get the measure of the minister," he said.
Davies said the board should "be patient" given the new administration was still being briefed to "get a clearer picture".
He expected the implications to become much clearer from February.
By local democracy reporter Brendon McMahon:
Historic access to the Denniston Incline in Northern Buller has reopened after being closed since Cyclone Dovi in February 2022.
The access, administrated by the Department of Conservation, became unstable as slips came down during the cyclone.
… View moreBy local democracy reporter Brendon McMahon:
Historic access to the Denniston Incline in Northern Buller has reopened after being closed since Cyclone Dovi in February 2022.
The access, administrated by the Department of Conservation, became unstable as slips came down during the cyclone.
Conns Creek Rd provides access to the foot of the historic Denniston Incline, just inland from Waimangaroa.
The road was once the track bed for a 2.7km branch railway from Waimangaroa to take coal coming down the Denniston Incline for transport the Westport wharves.
The incline, once described as "the eighth wonder of the world", worked from 1880 until its closure in 1967.
It is administered within the DoC Denniston heritage area.
Conns Creek Rd is also the route for the Buller District Council water supply pipeline to the settlement of Waimangaroa.
The road closed while repairs were carried out on significant slips caused by Cyclone Dovi.
DOC Buller area manager Suvi van Smit said the road had about 10 slips along its length, or one slip about every 100m.
"It also affected the water line to Waimangaroa. The track is now open to the public."
However, while pedestrians could now get in, it was not yet suitable for ordinary vehicle access, van Smit told the West Coast Conservation Board.
DOC was working with Heritage New Zealand on historic stone culverts along the road.
The Buller District Council started a $2.3m project in September 2022 to replace its water line, which was completed in winter 2023.
Meanwhile the nearby historic Britannia Track, also administered by DOC, has been closed since early 2021 following a major slip on a rock overhang about 1.2km from the car park.
The historic 12km long pack track leads to the historic Britannia stamper battery towards the Denniston Escarpment.
Board member John Taylor asked if the department had now "written off" the track.
Van Smit said the main erosion problem was at the bottom end of the track due to stream incursion but there were also "large slips" along the track.
"It's very unsafe but due to be reassessed in February."
Get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime! You could be the lucky winner of a mesmerising 4-night getaway to the breathtaking Solomon Islands sponsored by the film Migration and thanks to our friends at Solomon Airlines – all exclusively for our subscribers! Terms and conditions apply.
… View moreGet ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime! You could be the lucky winner of a mesmerising 4-night getaway to the breathtaking Solomon Islands sponsored by the film Migration and thanks to our friends at Solomon Airlines – all exclusively for our subscribers! Terms and conditions apply.
What’s included?
Return flights for a family of 4 from Auckland to Munda, Solomon Islands via Solomon Airlines, a 4-night stay in a family bungalow at Zipolo Habu Resort, the use of kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkelling equipment, and return Munda Airport transfers are all provided by the accommodation.
Don't miss your chance to turn your dreams into reality. Your ticket to paradise is just a click away! Enter now.
The team at Stuff
At Ernest Rutherford Village we have warm and comfortable serviced apartments available now. Serviced apartment living means you can spend more time doing the things you love while we take care of the rest.
Call Jacqui on 03 538 0882 to join our welcoming community today.
Unlock the potential of your unused space, whether it's a shed, garage or paddock and start making it work for you.
Kiwis from all over New Zealand are looking to rent affordable space for storage, a workshop or an event.
Visit - let us help you find the perfect renter for your space.
WIN 1 of 2*$100 Prezzy Cards to fuel up your festive trip, groceries from your fav supermarket. Spend on goodies for your holiday!
CLICK below to ENTER.
What's your holiday vibe this year? Beach escape, overseas adventure, or a cozy staycation at home? Simply share your plans for a … View moreWIN 1 of 2*$100 Prezzy Cards to fuel up your festive trip, groceries from your fav supermarket. Spend on goodies for your holiday!
CLICK below to ENTER.
What's your holiday vibe this year? Beach escape, overseas adventure, or a cozy staycation at home? Simply share your plans for a chance to WIN!
Ends Dec 14th 2023!
Crocs are a controversial shoe choice across New Zealand with some schools banning them. It's fair to say you either love them or hate them, so which is it? Share if you're a croc-wearer, and vote how you're feeling about their iconic look.
Type 'Not For Print' if you … View moreCrocs are a controversial shoe choice across New Zealand with some schools banning them. It's fair to say you either love them or hate them, so which is it? Share if you're a croc-wearer, and vote how you're feeling about their iconic look.
Type 'Not For Print' if you wish your comments to be excluded from the We Say You Say column of your local paper.
If you have a furry friend at home, make sure you enter them in this year's Santa Paws - brought to you by Southern Cross Pet Insurance.
Whether it's your pooch in front of the Christmas Tree, your kitten curled up in a pile of tinsel or your parrot surrounded by parcels, we want to … View moreIf you have a furry friend at home, make sure you enter them in this year's Santa Paws - brought to you by Southern Cross Pet Insurance.
Whether it's your pooch in front of the Christmas Tree, your kitten curled up in a pile of tinsel or your parrot surrounded by parcels, we want to see your pet ready for Christmas.
There's been hundreds of fabulous entries already - take a look here - and make sure you submit your photo today!
At Triton Hearing, we are dedicated to bringing the joy of better hearing to all New Zealanders. So this year, we’d like to give you the Gift of Better Hearing, to help you reconnect with the world and the people you love.
Simply get in touch to enjoy your gift of a complimentary upgrade … View moreAt Triton Hearing, we are dedicated to bringing the joy of better hearing to all New Zealanders. So this year, we’d like to give you the Gift of Better Hearing, to help you reconnect with the world and the people you love.
Simply get in touch to enjoy your gift of a complimentary upgrade valued at $2,000, to enjoy even better hearing* when you purchase a new pair of hearing devices from Triton Hearing.
This Christmas, while many are enjoying some time away, we're looking for special people who are staying home and can open their homes to a foster animal or two. Spread some holiday cheer and get some cuddles in return!
Before the end of December, SPCA is expecting to take over 3000 … View moreThis Christmas, while many are enjoying some time away, we're looking for special people who are staying home and can open their homes to a foster animal or two. Spread some holiday cheer and get some cuddles in return!
Before the end of December, SPCA is expecting to take over 3000 vulnerable cats and kittens into care. Many of these will need time in a foster home to heal, learn and grow.
Please, if you are staying home during the holidays sign up to become a foster parent. Your support is invaluable!
We cover all expenses and provide training. All you need to give is your love and time. Make a Difference this Season!
Open your heart and home to a kitten. If you're not quite ready yet, please get in touch. Every bit helps spread warmth and love this holiday season. Sign up today!
It can be a stressful time preparing meals and braving the shops at Christmastime. If you're fairly 'seasoned' at Christmas, perhaps you've got some tips or tricks that make the silly season easier...
Share your festive ideas with the Neighbourly community! Anything from how … View moreIt can be a stressful time preparing meals and braving the shops at Christmastime. If you're fairly 'seasoned' at Christmas, perhaps you've got some tips or tricks that make the silly season easier...
Share your festive ideas with the Neighbourly community! Anything from how to best re-heat potatoes, inexpensive gift ideas, your household's traditions or any crafty ideas for tree decorations. We'd love to hear them all - they may make a neighbour's Christmas a littler brighter.🎄
For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home in Clarks Beach, Auckland worth over $1 million.
Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be lived in and loved by its new owners. … View moreFor only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home in Clarks Beach, Auckland worth over $1 million.
Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be lived in and loved by its new owners.
Make this property your permanent residence, a holiday home, rent it or even sell it – it could be all yours! Don’t forget, tickets also make great gifts.
Celebrate the Heart Foundation’s 30th Anniversary Lottery and get your tickets today.
Worried about high power bills with the aircon running? Need data for road trips? Heading away for a couple of weeks and want to avoid overpaying on your bills?
Discover the ultimate guide to Summer Savings in our latest article! Let the sun shine without burning your budget this holiday … View moreWorried about high power bills with the aircon running? Need data for road trips? Heading away for a couple of weeks and want to avoid overpaying on your bills?
Discover the ultimate guide to Summer Savings in our latest article! Let the sun shine without burning your budget this holiday season. Dive into the tips now!
Whether you're looking to find a home with the freedom to embrace adventures or a place that feels like home for the whole family; now is the time to buy a Ryman independent apartment, townhouse or serviced apartment and reward yourself too. With more money staying in your pocket, it’s yours… View moreWhether you're looking to find a home with the freedom to embrace adventures or a place that feels like home for the whole family; now is the time to buy a Ryman independent apartment, townhouse or serviced apartment and reward yourself too. With more money staying in your pocket, it’s yours to spend!
Purchase an occupation right to any Ryman independent apartment or townhouse and receive a $20,000 credit on settlement. Or purchase an occupation right to any serviced apartment and receive a $10,000 credit on settlement.*
Offer valid until 22 December 2023.
*Terms and conditions apply, visit rymanhealthcare.co.nz/ts&cs
Give the gift that keeps on giving this Christmas. NZ House & Garden magazine is your go-to inspiration for interiors, homes, and gardens, plus find sumptuous food that’ll make your mouth water and curated lifestyle features sure to impress.
This Christmas, gift or purchase a 1-year NZ … View moreGive the gift that keeps on giving this Christmas. NZ House & Garden magazine is your go-to inspiration for interiors, homes, and gardens, plus find sumptuous food that’ll make your mouth water and curated lifestyle features sure to impress.
This Christmas, gift or purchase a 1-year NZ House & Garden subscription for only $85 and save yourself $47, plus you’ll get the added benefit of home delivery every month!
The team at NZ House & Garden
© Neighbourly 2024
Loading…
