Buller District, Westport

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700 days ago

Hokitika protection needed ‘with haste’

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

From local democracy reporter Brendon McMahon:

Bolstering the Hokitika River floodwalls skirting the town near Westland Milk Products should proceed "with haste" and be prioritised over sea protection, a West Coast Regional councillor says.

Westland ward councillor and deputy … View more
From local democracy reporter Brendon McMahon:

Bolstering the Hokitika River floodwalls skirting the town near Westland Milk Products should proceed "with haste" and be prioritised over sea protection, a West Coast Regional councillor says.

Westland ward councillor and deputy chairman Peter Haddock said addressing the shift in the main channel to the true right, with a real risk of it cutting in to the bank in the vicinity of Westland Milk Products (WMP), was a priority for the council.

The council wants it addressed "with haste," he said.

The threat of the river to the West Coast economy, and the low lying residential areas in Hokitika, could not be underestimated, he said.

"There's been discussions taking place between council and WMP and other affected parties to get some emergency repairs undertaken there," Haddock said.

This included more rock work on the bank at the Westland District Council stormwater outfall point, just behind the factory at the end of Town Belt East, almost immediately.

Haddock said council's infrastructure projects leader Scott Hoare had been instructed "to proceed with haste".

It came after a joint meeting of the Hokitika rating district just prior to the October elections.

Former Westland mayor Bruce Smith warned of the danger of litigation if the river bank issue was not taken more urgently by the regional council.

Hoare said things were "progressing" but he would not be drawn on how quickly.

"We're working through that project," he said.

The previous design and concept work to improve the stopbank from Kaniere down to the Hokitika River Bridge had been reviewed in terms of how it would work.

"We've got some changes downstream of the milk factory to the bridge."

Hoare said this was to better understand "the risks". He noted every West Coast river posed "a risk" but he acknowledged particular risk at Hokitika. "We have no immediate concerns but it is still a risk."

Haddock said council had already been allocated `shovel ready' money by the Government department Kanoa to address sea protection in Hokitika, but was asking for a review of that.

"Council is talking to them about whether the river works are more pressing due to the immediate threats to Westland dairy and the lower part of Hokitika.

"It may be that there is emergency works done quickly, but there is a lot of planning needed... It has been given the highest priority."

Haddock said at the same time, the council now had a fresh opportunity to apply for new infrastructure funding via Kanoa for further projects and it was "actively pursuing' those.

More rock work on the bank at the Westland District Council stormwater outfall point, just behind the factory at the end of Town Belt East, was due to be done almost immediately.

The economic implications for the whole region of the Hokitika River breaking through and inundating the dairy factory and the residential area should not be underrated, he said.

"We've really got to put a good business case there. The dairy company is so important... it would be an environmental disaster.

"It is quite vulnerable... the main thing is to secure the funding; because without the funding the ratepayers can't afford it."

*Public interest journalism funded through NZ On Air

701 days ago

Calling all house and garden lovers!

Calling all house and garden lovers!

This is a unique opportunity to step inside the pages of the iconic New Zealand House & Garden magazine and experience a captivating mix of indoor and outdoor spaces.

Simply enquire online and be in to win:
- Return flights for two to the NZ … View more
Calling all house and garden lovers!

This is a unique opportunity to step inside the pages of the iconic New Zealand House & Garden magazine and experience a captivating mix of indoor and outdoor spaces.

Simply enquire online and be in to win:
- Return flights for two to the NZ House & Garden Tours location of your choice
- Tickets for two to the NZ House & Garden Tours
- Two nights accommodation
- Rental car
Enter Here

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702 days ago

Seniors Newsletter

The Team from Office for Seniors

Have you read our December Seniors Newsletter? Do you have a Community Services Card or know someone who does? From 1 February 2023 Community Services Card holders are eligible for a continued 50% discount on public transport. You can read more in this issue.

This newsletter also includes some … View more
Have you read our December Seniors Newsletter? Do you have a Community Services Card or know someone who does? From 1 February 2023 Community Services Card holders are eligible for a continued 50% discount on public transport. You can read more in this issue.

This newsletter also includes some good advice on how to keep up your hydration and stay safe and cool this summer.

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702 days ago

Respite care when you need it

Ernest Rutherford Retirement Village

Respite care provides temporary care in a range of circumstances. From rehabilitation after a hospital stay, to a little extra support – whether it’s for a single night or a few weeks.

A short stay at our care centre could be a welcome break from your usual routine.

We offer respite care … View more
Respite care provides temporary care in a range of circumstances. From rehabilitation after a hospital stay, to a little extra support – whether it’s for a single night or a few weeks.

A short stay at our care centre could be a welcome break from your usual routine.

We offer respite care at resthome-level and in most villages' hospital and specialist dementia-level care.

What you can expect:
- Customised care via our award-winning myRyman Care app
- Bespoke seasonal menu, that's prepared fresh on site
- A variety of activities and outings, making it easy to stay connected with others.

We've been caring for people for over 35 years, it's what we do best.

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703 days ago

The Must-Give Christmas Gift!

Christmas Box

Meeting an ever-increasing need in our communities, Christmas Box provides more than just food in a time of need, it also brings a reminder that there is a community of people who care.

We believe by alleviating some of the pressure that families feel at Christmas time through our food parcels, … View more
Meeting an ever-increasing need in our communities, Christmas Box provides more than just food in a time of need, it also brings a reminder that there is a community of people who care.

We believe by alleviating some of the pressure that families feel at Christmas time through our food parcels, it will create a lasting impact that goes beyond a treat at Christmas.

For only $40 you can donate a Christmas Box to a family in need, providing not just practical help, but much deserved hope too.
Find out more

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704 days ago

New trails connecting Westport

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

A new pedestrian and cycle trail in Westport linking the Buller Bridge to Victoria Square is almost complete, the Buller District Council says.

The project, funded by the Tourism Infrastructure Fund, includes the newly constructed southern connector from the Kawatiri Coastal Trail at the Buller … View more
A new pedestrian and cycle trail in Westport linking the Buller Bridge to Victoria Square is almost complete, the Buller District Council says.

The project, funded by the Tourism Infrastructure Fund, includes the newly constructed southern connector from the Kawatiri Coastal Trail at the Buller Bridge, along the Esplanade and across the Toki Poutangata Bridge into the town precinct.

The northern connector begins from the Toki Bridge along Adderley St to Lyndhurst St, and then
across to Victoria Square utilising existing roads, footpaths and crossings. Users can then
head north along Queen St to the Floating Basin and the beginning of the Kawatiri River Trails,
including the boardwalks and tracks to North Beach.

New line marking and delineations to identify vehicle and pedestrian corridors along Adderley St will
be accompanied by new parking spaces, speed restrictions and signage to ensure appropriate traffic
flow and calming for safety.

Wayfinding along the trails will include destination billboards and directional bollards to signal points
of interest ahead and distances to go. This will allow users to plan and monitor their route and make
the most of their experience.

Council project manager Glenn Irving said: “This is the next puzzle piece to create a safe,
enjoyable, and easy to follow journey for pedestrians and cyclists through and from Westport to the
amazing environment that surrounds us.”

“An end-to-end connection is integral to Westport’s master plan and our district revitalisation
strategy to position Buller as an attractive place to live, explore and invest.”

The connector trails have been funded through the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment's $300k Tourism TIF,
which the council secured last year at no cost to ratepayers.

The new connector trails are scheduled for completion by the end of this month.

710 days ago

Poll: Are you able to get help with your health when needed?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

A report has shown that clinics around New Zealand are understaffed, with GP's being overworked and underpaid. And for everyday kiwis, healthcare and emergency healthcare is simply not accessible.

The General Practice Owners Association of Aotearoa's report titled … View more
A report has shown that clinics around New Zealand are understaffed, with GP's being overworked and underpaid. And for everyday kiwis, healthcare and emergency healthcare is simply not accessible.

The General Practice Owners Association of Aotearoa's report titled ‘‘On The Brink’’ outlines the urgent need to address pay parity for GP nurses and doctors, beef up workforce numbers and improve funding allocations for practices with the hopes that this makes heatlhcare more accessible in the community.

Are you noticing delays in getting GP appointments or long waits at after-hours care?

Any comments below may be shared in your local paper's We Say You Say column.

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Are you able to get help with your health when needed?
  • 46.2% Wait times are too long - It's unacceptable.
    46.2% Complete
  • 30.8% I can get the help I need, it just takes longer.
    30.8% Complete
  • 7.7% I haven't noticed an issue.
    7.7% Complete
  • 15.3% I'm happy; I have no complaints.
    15.3% Complete
3445 votes
707 days ago

How to make your own Christmas terrarium

Resene

How to make your own Christmas terrarium painted in Resene.

Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.
Find out more

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707 days ago

Star Party at the Wai-iti Dark Sky Park Posponed until Saturday night

Ralph from Wakefield

Star Party planned for tonight is Posponed Until Saturday ( Tomorrow night)
We have our final Star party of the year at the Park this weekend. The first fine night of either Friday or Sat. Observing from 9- 11 pm ish.

The weather is looking better tomorrow night.

When: Saturday Night -ie … View more
Star Party planned for tonight is Posponed Until Saturday ( Tomorrow night)
We have our final Star party of the year at the Park this weekend. The first fine night of either Friday or Sat. Observing from 9- 11 pm ish.

The weather is looking better tomorrow night.

When: Saturday Night -ie Dec. 3rd.

The weather has beaten us tonight. It looking better tomorrow night.
See you there.

Ralph Bradley

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708 days ago

Countdown Bricks free for kiddies

Sandi from Hurunui District

I have a collection of the Bricks free packets of farming thingy you get when you shop at Countdown if anyone's kids wants them

709 days ago

Be in to win with Southern Cross Pet

Southern Cross Pet Insurance

Share a festive photo of your furry friend and you could be in to win a $100 Prezzy® card. Because the smell of the Christmas tree and the ripping open of presents isn’t only exciting for us. But for them too.

All pets are welcome - Santa paws, claws, beaks, and squeaks. And if you don’t … View more
Share a festive photo of your furry friend and you could be in to win a $100 Prezzy® card. Because the smell of the Christmas tree and the ripping open of presents isn’t only exciting for us. But for them too.

All pets are welcome - Santa paws, claws, beaks, and squeaks. And if you don’t have a pet, that’s fine; we’d love to see your festive snaps too.

Ends 21 December 2022
Enter Now

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710 days ago

Home and property inspiration delivered to your inbox

Homed

What better way to while away a Friday afternoon and get your weekend DIY inspiration than drooling over the most beautiful house and garden content of the week?

Homed newsletter keeps you on top of the real estate market, takes you inside gorgeous New Zealand homes, give you a taste of how … View more
What better way to while away a Friday afternoon and get your weekend DIY inspiration than drooling over the most beautiful house and garden content of the week?

Homed newsletter keeps you on top of the real estate market, takes you inside gorgeous New Zealand homes, give you a taste of how celebrities live, keep you up to date with interior trends, provide project ideas, and more. Be inspired to dream big about your own space - and get on the path to making those dreams come true. Sign up for free here.
Find out more

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711 days ago

Star Party at the Wai-iti Dark Sky Park

Ralph from Wakefield

We have our final Star party of the year at the Park this weekend. The first fine night of either Friday or Sat. Observing from 9- 11 pm ish. The weather is not looking great but that can change by the weekend.

When: This Friday or Saturday Night -ie first fine clear night Dec. 2 or 3rd.

View more
We have our final Star party of the year at the Park this weekend. The first fine night of either Friday or Sat. Observing from 9- 11 pm ish. The weather is not looking great but that can change by the weekend.

When: This Friday or Saturday Night -ie first fine clear night Dec. 2 or 3rd.

Where: The Wai-iti Dark Sky Park. 437 Wakefield- Kohatu Highway State Highway 6 Wai-iti


We will have 1/2 Moon Jupiter and Saturn to start. Come and enjoy the night.

Koha would be appreciated.

See you there.

712 days ago

West Coast a breeding ground for tough sporting heroes

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By reporter Joanne Naish:

Despite its small population of almost 33,000, the West Coast is a breeding ground for a remarkable calibre of sporting talent, locals say.


From 1967 Boston marathon winner Dave McKenie to Black Ferns superstar and World Cup winner Ruby Tui, the West Coast has … View more
By reporter Joanne Naish:

Despite its small population of almost 33,000, the West Coast is a breeding ground for a remarkable calibre of sporting talent, locals say.


From 1967 Boston marathon winner Dave McKenie to Black Ferns superstar and World Cup winner Ruby Tui, the West Coast has spawned multiple world-class athletes.

Former star runner Josh Komen, from Greymouth, said the West Coast was known for the minerals that built New Zealand: gold, coal, and timber.

“We live in an untamed natural wilderness, the weather can be harsh, and to extract those rare minerals you have to be willing to work ... in any condition that’s thrown at you.”

Continue reading here.

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