PIHA  VILLAGE  VOICE

Piha Beach News, Views, Opinions, Photographs & a bit of Gossip about Piha

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Readers are welcome to write to Piha's 'Village Voice' with news, views, opinions or photos for publicaton  - Name must be supplied but names withheld on request.   Emails may be edited.   Left: Village Voice Editor           Ph or Text  News Tips to 021 969924   

Due to continued 'nuisance' comments may not be enabled all the time but you can   Email Views, News or Photos HERE for Editor to publish (pse note if name not to be published)

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Accommodation Piha Beach Last Minute Specials

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Piha Village Voice Headlines:                                                 

               How are they going to spend $750,000?

                    Have a look HERE

A man whose desire to set up a cafe in Piha led to court action is among the "new blood" seeking to represent residents of Auckland's west coast villages and towns east of the Waitakere Ranges.

photo: Bernice Mene with Andrew Higgs in the Piha Cafe

The Environment Court case last year confirmed the cafe's resource consents, albeit with onerous conditions, after stern opposition from the Protect Piha Heritage Society *.

But the exercise got Andrew Higgs, a main partner in the venture, interested in local government. "It has not been working and, believe me, I know. I think you can sit on the sidelines and complain or get involved."

Mr Higgs, 38, who is general manager of Parex Industries in Henderson, is standing on the Citizens & Ratepayers ticket for the Waitakere Ranges Local Board election.

Returning from executive jobs in Britain five years ago to raise a family at Piha, the keen surfer was struck by the negativity towards business. Full story in NZ Herald

*NOTE: Sandra Coney, the Chair of Protect Piha, that appealed the resource consent (granted for a cafe in Piha by ARC and WCC) in the Environment Court.  Ms Coney resides on the Auckland Viaduct is standing for the Waitakere Ward for the Auckland Council.

This week the Waitakere Community Board granted our request for a seat, similar to the one left at the Piha Lagoon, for the reserve on the corner of Beach Valley Road and the Milk Track.

The Piha Community Library were also successful in their request for the a seat, but with no back, along with $335 for landscaping in the front.

Thanks Community Board members and Grant Jennings for pointing us in the right direction.

02/09/10

Effective immediately that Piha Cafe will be open Thursday - Sundays inclusive.   Yay

Elections : Everyone needs to make an informed choice

As I hear I will be advertising any events where candidates are presenting their policies and/or answering questions I shall advertise in What's Happening with a 'tick'. as above next to it for easy identification. 

Candidates are welcome to send details to me for publication.    Candidates list HERE

2/9/10

How do you get natives like this on roadsides?

Have a look here

I have removed http://www.pihabeach.co.nz/Village-Voice---Piha.htm from the Adult and Nudity classification so you will now be able to browse that site 

2/9/10

On 23 July 2010 and again on 30 August 2010 we have had issues with an oil or diesel spill from Forrest Hill Road, Scenic Drive, Piha Road and out to Beach Valley Road.  These were extensive spills on the left hand corners requiring use of a special oil eater compound.

West of Auckland Tourist Operators love Waitakere and the Heritage Park and will do all we can to ensure it is cared for and protected. . . . . why do the extremists think they have the exclusive right to care for and protect our environment.  It's verging on arrogance.

1. Brochure Launch:

The new brochure was produced by Kathy Park - Trailblazers (Kiwi Valley) and strongly supported by council who were really keen to support Kathy's idea for a new brochure. There are 60 Waitakere Tourism businesses in this brochure.

The launch of the new brochure called 'West of Auckland' with the website WhatsOutWest was held in WCC Chambers.  

Left: Kathy Parks with Mayor Bob Harvey at the brochure launch at WCC offices.

A great diverse crowd of tourism operators from all over Waitakere gathered for the launch of a long awaited and badly needed Destination Brochure.

Your guide to accommodation, activities, food and arts on Auckland's west coast.

2. Scaremongering:

Hi everyone, (From Mels Barton Subject: Waitakere Ranges - your help urgently needed)

There is a very important Waitakere City Council Policy & Strategy Committee meeting this Thursday at 9.30am at the Council Chamber on Henderson Valley Rd.

The agenda is online here: http://www.waitakere.govt.nz/AbtCnl/ct/policystrategy.asp#agenda  

This contains proposals to push through a number of proposal, plans, policies & strategies that have not been consulted on with local communities that will affect the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area's future. These include:  Foothills Design Guidelines  Tourism Strategy Walkways in Coastal Villages & Manukau Harbour

I am particularly concerned about the Tourism Strategy given the approach of WCC towards commercialising the Hillary Trail typified by Bob Harvey's recent outburst about the ARC on a Piha website(see previous email "Bob and Bobbie", & the recently proposed Plan Changes 35,36 & 37 which have ignored community concerns & are designed to enable further development & commercialisation of the Heritage Area villages.

3. The Voice of Reason:

(Part of) Evidence of Arnold R Turner CMG (Retired Environment Court Judge) in support of his submission on Plan Change 35/304

The extended Turner family has had an association with Little Huia for over 120 years. I have been holidaying there for nearly 65 years. My direct involvement with the Waitakere Ranges Regional Parkland started in 1960 when I was elected to the Auckland Centennial Memorial Park Board.

My Submission is directed against the following sentence

Public asked to help with temporary track closures in Waitakere Ranges

Visitors to the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park are being asked to plan their journey around temporary track closures in place to help contain kauri dieback disease, and help the Auckland Regional Council (ARC) in their fight against the kauri killer.

Three tracks are temporarily closed until 30 November:

• Lower Kauri Track, Cascade Kauri
• Maungaroa Ridge Track, Piha (from Maungaroa Lookout Track to McKenzie Track)
• Home Track, Piha (from Glen Esk Road to Winstone Track).

Signs are in place at track entrances and on noticeboards in the park.

"We are asking the public and local communities to work with us by avoiding these tracks and using nearby alternative routes and the cleaning stations in place whenever they visit the park," says Stephen Bell, Principal Ranger for the Western Sector.

"Local groups and park visitors have been very supportive of our efforts so far, and are vital to the success of our disease management programme."

The tracks being closed all have sick and dying trees, and the temporary closures aim to prevent the spread of the soil-borne disease from these areas.  They are also tracks that are not as well used as others, and all have alternative routes nearby.

"The ARC is doing this because of the seriousness of this disease and its impact on kauri trees," says Mr Bell. 

"We have decided on the spring season for the track closure on scientific advice.  Spore production will, in theory, be higher as soil and water temperatures increase, and soil is still quite wet and sticky from winter downpours.  This increases the risk of spores being tracked from place to place."

The effectiveness of the track closures will be assessed over the next few months, with monitoring of track usage and assessment of soil disturbance and tree health.

31/8/10

What a pleasure to have Nancy and Rowan, daughters of Mary Dobbie, visit and share coffee and good chats with us.

Mary Dobbie started the Piha News and Mary played an integral role in the early years of the Piha Community Library. You can read that history HERE

Left: Nancy and Rowan

1/8/10

The Waitakere Community Board unanimously confirmed another 10 years for Fiona to run the Camp with the following sentiments

• Before WCC found Fiona they were looking at maybe having to close the Piha Domain Camp

• WCC had to find a Lessee who could 'make a go of it' and Fiona said "I can make a go of it" so got her first lease
• Kubi Witten Hannah said he was the #1 Fan of Fiona's Fan Club
• He also said that Fiona had done a fabulous job and made a great contribution to Piha
• He acknowledged it has not always been easy and there have been challenges along the way for Fiona and he remains grateful to her for the fabulous job she has done.
• He also noted Fiona was overseas on a well earned holiday at the moment!  LOL
• Penny Hulse agreed and also acknowledged Grant Jennings saying he had done a great job with the lease.  She said Grant was always there with his 'quick' and 'creative' thinking.

Fiona:  You have done a great job with the Camp.  You do a valuable job with 1st Response.  You are often the eyes and ears for Piha's security and rarely hesitate to take action if there is something suspicous happening.  You keep an eye on the children in the play ground, your kettle is usually hot and you're a great friend and good fun..  Big Smile for you.  Bobbie

31/8/10 Piha Domain Campground, Piha Wastewater System Upgrade

As part of Council's ongoing services renewal programme, the wastewater systems at Piha Campground and Piha Beach toilet is currently being designed for a major upgrade in the 2010/2011 financial year. Works will involve decommissioning the system at Piha Beach toilet and connecting into the upgraded system at Piha Campground. The upgraded system will also receive wastewater flows from the  Piha Bowling Club and Piha Returned Services Association. The renewed Auckland Regional Council consent for wastewater discharge has been granted for the works. Building and land use consent applications will be lodged shortly with Council. Physical works are programmed to commence by November 2010, and will be complete by December 2010.

Our beautiful Council Chambers could be ripped out after 01 November if some have their way.  That would be horrific and Kubi Witten Hannah asked, at the Community Board Meeting this evening, that those who agree make their feelings known to Mark Ford, executive chairman of the Auckland Transition Agency.

Another concern Kubi brought up tonight is the idea mooted that the new 'Local Boards' have a new place in Glen Eden for meetings rather than the current Waitakere Council Building.

I'll find out Mark Ford's email and publish it here soon.

Report to Waitakere Community Board 31st August 2010: Sometimes there are just no easy answers!  After a lot of lobbying by the Piha  Residents and Ratepayers Group (#1) and the Community Board, the campaign for better pedestrian walkways at Piha was given a huge boost by a group called WalkSafe Piha, putting a real human face on the issue of pedestrian safety at our most popular West Coast Beach. Thanks largely to the efforts of these determined women (#2); Cr Mitchell was able to persuade Council to commit $750,000 to the provision of much needed footpaths and walkways. The trouble is that there was a catch. Decision making had to happen at a speed that has allowed only an abbreviated form of community consultation. This is a one-off situation created by the pressure of the impending amalgamation which can see funds disappear into a Council Controlled Organisation in the blink of an eye.

 

The Piha Residents and Ratepayers has stood firm on community consultation (#3) over many issues and have been reluctant to compromise. WalkSafe Piha members are anxious that the money might disappear. Some local ratepayers are pointing out that many bach owners are away over winter and will not be reached by the consultation process the Piha Residents and Ratepayers has managed to put together.  

 

Everybody is right and the process isn't ideal, but I believe that we have to make the best of the situation. I also have faith in the ability and goodwill of the people involved in the process to do their best to make good decisions, even if they are uncomfortable with the process. At the time of writing, we are preparing for another discussion and a setting of priorities, the results of which will be presented to you tonight.

  

We had the second meeting about the Piha walkways. Councillor Hulse chaired the meeting and helped it come to a successful outcome. Probably nobody is entirely happy, but the meeting reached a set of decisions about sites for paths and walkways, and how to implement them in a way that everyone could live with. It was a credit to all involved that the meeting was successful. The Council officers gave wonderful support, particularly the Acting Director: City Services who brought the benefit of his years of matching engineering solutions with community aspirations. A key to a positive result was that, despite their different view points, both the Residents and Ratepayers and WalkSafe Piha had done their best to gather the opinions of as many people as possible. At the time of writing this report, there are still more meetings to look forward to.

Comments/Observations:

1. "After a lot of lobbying by the Piha  Residents and Ratepayers Group"  Kubi, why have you given top billing to the Piha R & R  on this when you know, I know and most of Piha knows it was Piha Walk Safe which has done the work, the research, the lobbying to the Community Board and LTCCP that got this to where it is today? I have read all the Minutes of the Piha R & R for the last few years and I can't see where this 'lobbying' you mention the R&R has done is Minuted? Credit where credit is due and its Walk Safe that the credit is due to.  Bobbie
2.  "Thanks largely to the efforts of these determined women;" That's more like it!  The Piha R&R are too busy with their politicing and paper pushing to get much done on a 'practical' level for Piha.  It's groups like Walk Safe and the Beach Valley Road Project that actually get practical and real things done for Piha.  Hats off to these 5 women.
3. "community consultation ":  I recall Walk Safe doing a considerable amount consultation with the Piha Community over the last 18 months including us being able to email them what our priorities were plus huge display at the library not to mention their web page that has a contact on it which gets many many 'hits'.
4. When Walk Safe made their presentation to the Community Board in 2009 they were told it was the best presentation the Board had received and they would support it. 

The 'problem', as I see it Kubi, is that this Community Initiative, 'Walk Safe' has done an incredible job talking to parents, walkers, joggers, preschool and getting the word around to gather local people's wish list..  They have lobbied tirelessly here, there and everywhere.  Even when knocked back they continued and they (Walk Safe) , with the help of Councillor Mitchell,  finally got $750,000 for Piha Walk Safe.  . . . . . . .  BUT . . . . .

. . . . .  along comes the Piha Ratepayers & Residents Assn wanting to control, as usual, and take kudos for something they didn't do.  That is the bottom line as I see it. It may seem harsh but it is the truth.  The R&R wanted to do the same with the Beach Valley Road Project and we wouldn't allow it . . .  but still they tried and we relentlessly kept our foot down and told them to butt out.    If, as the R&R suggest, there are people who don't come to Piha during the winter to 'consult'  then I would suggest they trust the Walk Safe and winter weekenders to do the right thing . . .  I have the utmost confidence in them  

If you haven't already please vote for Rodger Curtice . . . .  Details HERE

Helping: Residents, visitors and beach-goers in the Auckland Region; members of the Piha Surf Life Saving Club; lifeguards and emergency services throughout the greater Auckland region; crew and patients of the Auckland Rescue Helicopter.

28/8/10

Who else thinks they should leave the police alone, they're doing their job, and concentrate on people who don't understand what 'STOP' means?

Ju and I went to Penny's fundraising auction and came home with this stunning John Madden painting of Mercer Bay (oh, and a wet snapper!)

Penny Hulse's website

Penny Hulse on Facebook

26/8/10

Today I attended Auckland Tourism's update.  Speakers included:  Hon Murray McCully, David Smol CEO Ministry of Economic Developement, Len Brown Mayor of Manukau and Auckland City Mayoral Candidate, Kevin Bowler CEO Tourism NZ and Tim Cossar CEO Tourism Industry Assn NZ. 

One of the themes today was a new start: Tourism with the new Super City.   I asked Graeme Osborne, CEO Tourism Auckland,  if he would work closer with Auckland Council to stop the frustrations we, in the Waitakere Tourism sector, experience time after time when it comes to anything to do with tourism in the West and I referred to the ARC's wish that there be no concessions on the Hillary Trail just as one of many examples..

Mike Lee, Chair ARC, then responded by saying that there were no concessions on the Hillary Trail because that is the way the Hillary family wanted it or some such - I couldn't quite hear that well and was sure in my heart the Hillary family wouldn't be so selfish . . . . .

At afternoon tea, I was talking with Len Brown, and another guest, when Mike Lee approached.  I asked Mike to clarify what he had said about the Hillary Family and the little man literally lost it. . . How embarrasing for you Mike!  Are you aware of who witnessed your display?  I informed you that my household paid x 5 lots of ARC rates and I thought my question deserved an answer not the tantrum and foot stamping you put on. 

You said to me "this is about tourism and not politics".  Well Mike,  we were at a Tourism meeting and discussing Tourism and the new Council . . that is politics?   There are many ARC staff I have the utmost respect for but I will not miss the ARC elected politicians, and their attitudes, one bit come November.

Tourism Statistics and Points of Note: (from TIA publicaton 'Local government + the visitor industry')

• Today, and every day, visitors to communities across the country spent $59 million
• Visitors are fundamental contributors to our economy and way of life
• TIA (Tourism Industry Assn NZ) seeks to partner with councils on investment decisions that will maximise community benefits while also enhancing the quality of visitor experience
• Kaikoura is a leader in zero waste (and we can be too.)
• While not alone in this respect, visitor businesses can find the consent process time-consuming, if not bewildering.  In some cases, visitor businesses have been stymied in efforts to expand their operations because of council processes or have faced signifiant and unanticipated costs due to delays in grant of consents.
• In 2009 central government passed reforms to streamline the RMA Act. . . . . the visitor industry would like to see both central and local government further refine the application of the RMS so that timely and consistent decisions are made.

Quote from ARC 10 Year Regional Parks Management Plan:  "15:19:5:21  . . . . . . . no consessions will be granted over the (Hillary) Trail as an entity, in accordance with policy 11:6:1:5" 

Bobbie, please put on the website an answer to Mike Lee.

Many of us in Local Government are surprised and astonished at Mike Lee's outbursts, though I've had some good tantrums myself.  One happened in his office when I could got no satisfaction about closing down the environmental disaster which is the Britton landfill site in Swanson.  But as the originator of the Hillary Trail concept and the one who introduced it to the Hillary family, Te Kawerau a Maki and the tourist industry on the West Coast, I can categorically state that the Hillary family should not be dragged into the ARC's draconian and stupid anti-tourist, anti-people attitude. Mike Lee has no right whatsoever to say they have rubber stamped his decisions.

The fact is a well known Tour Operator has a concession and there are three operators of which I know that are proud to offer guiding services and adventure tourism on Auckland's West Coast.  Many small businesses that have tried to operate guiding, canyoning and surf experiences been driven insane by the ARC's constant and often personal agendas. I fully intend to offer myself as a guide on the Hillary Trail as soon as I've moved out of my Mayoral Office.  As the trail's acknowledged originator and as a historian, writer and bloody good raconteur, I intend to lead groups and individuals along the route as soon as I get some free time.  I will be fully booked.  I will advertise that in defiance of the ARC's continued draconian and bullying stance against anyone who dares suggest the West Coast should be enjoyed.

If there ever was a self serving group of individuals that have stood against anything and everything good and free and, might I add, fun, the present bunch of ARC councillors (with a few exceptions) are it. They are an example of what the supercity is thankfully getting rid of.

Bob Harvey

Many billboards focus on groups, which doesn't impress Kubi Witten-Hannah: "I think, in local politics, people want to vote for a person. I don't think people wanna vote for a group regardless of those in it." . . . . .

"What I'm looking for is a sense that they understand what the issues are in Waitakere. We don't want to see Waitakere swamped by Greater Auckland and don't want to lose the good things that have been brought up.

Full article here on The Aucklander HERE

Imagine our horror when a 14 year old young lass arrived on our property with this in hand.

You can click on the thumbnails to read what is on the can: Big C*ck 'satisfaction guaranteed', once you've had Big C*ck you won't go back, 'hits the spot', 'passionately formulated to arouse you into a heightened state of stimulation', gives you a solid energy thrust, longer and harder than standard energy drinks' . . . . .  'arouse your tastebuds' . . .  *Warning" 'Big C*ck keeps you up. Do not consume if intending to sleep" . . . . and sold to children IGA in Helensville!!!

The small print on it: 1 can maximum daily intake (in the smallest writing possible) because its mainly taurine and caffeine, glucuronolactone and guarana extract. (not recommended for children, pregnant or lactating women)

Distributed by Unique Drinks, 117 Cryers Road, East Tamaki, Auckland. Phone 5708540

If you wish to comment on this then you can email the distributer here Email them HERE

Read about glucuronolactone here

My email to them: A guest of ours arrived with a 14 year old child that had purchased one of your drinks at an IGA.  I was disgusted at the labelling of this drink . . . . it is totally revolting.  You should be ashamed of yourselves  Bobbie

Their Reply:  Thank you for you constructive criticism. It had been duly noted.  UDL

JOKE OF THE YEAR

Two women were sitting quietly together,

25/8/10

Want to know about menu specials, whats coming up etc Join Piha Cafe on Facebook HERE

23/8/10

This city was built by people who packed into those crowded halls back in the 70s. The kind of people who still walk up to me and say an airport at Whenuapai was a bloody good idea. Councillors who got behind the crazy idea of an eco-city in the West and made it work for the last 18 years. Communities who gave up their free time to replant waterways from the Waitakere Ranges to the Waitemata Harbour for Project Twin Streams. The planners, engineers and construction workers who will be smiling proudly as the ribbon is cut on the $300 million New Lynn Town Centre Renewal in October. They make this city special.

That silent majority have too often had their voices drowned under the noise of the few. In October we can finally tune them in and turn the volume knob down on the yelling. We'll have politicians who have to work for the interests of a whole city rather than its lobbyists. We'll have an Auckland that can finally listen to people like Robbie. Full artical NZ Herald

A new initiative to improve the competitiveness and environmental performance of tourism businesses by reducing energy consumption has been launched by the Tourism Industry Association New Zealand (TIA) and the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA).

Small and medium sized tourism operators in Wellington and Auckland have been given the opportunity to take advantage of a free energy efficiency package worth the equivalent of $3000. The package includes a free energy assessment by an EcoSmart electrician and a subsidy to install the assessment's recommendations.

The initiative is a continuation of the Tourism Energy Efficiency Programme (TEEP), a partnership project between TIA and EECA launched in 2008 to provide practical assistance for tourism businesses to reduce their electricity consumption, fuel consumption and carbon emissions . . . . .

. . . . . "As well as benefitting the individual businesses, there's also a national benefit when our tourism operators can show they are committed to the '100% Pure'  brand, and good energy management is a real tangible way to show that commitment."  Full TIANZ article HERE   scoop.co.nz article

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3/8/10

Below are two lists that we Westies get to vote from for our 'local' representives. If any candidate is on both lists and wins a seat as a Ward Councillor  they are automatically removed from the Local Board count  - is that clear  I'm too tired to do Mayor, DHBs and Licensing Trusts tonight . . .

Auckland Council Ward Councillor Candidate Candidates (Two vacancies) 

BRICKELL  Mark            Citizens & Ratepayers -Waitakere
CHAN  Peter                   Independent
CONEY  Sandra              Best for the West
DALY  Bill                       Independent
HASLER  Marie               Citizens & Ratepayers -Waitakere
HULSE  Penny                Independent
NEESON  Vanessa          Independent
TALAMAIVAO  Sailauama Cheryl    Communities Advancing Prosperity
WALBRAN  Paul             Best for the West

Waitakere Ranges Local Board Candidates (Six vacancies)  (Any of these candidates that win a seat as a Ward Councillor (above) will automatically be removed from this list so we need to be a bit strategic here!)

BRICKELL  Mark            Citizens & Ratepayers -Waitakere
CLEWS  Janet                Independent Ratepayers & Residents
FIELDING  Peter             Independent
HARDING  Carl               Wanted Out West
HENDERSON  Neil          Future West
HIGGS  Andrew              Citizens & Ratepayers -Waitakere
LAWLEY  Judy               Totally Independent
MARSHALL  Gayle         Independent
MCDONALD  Steve         Independent
MITCHELL  Paul             Independent Ratepayers & Residents
NEWICK  John                Citizens & Ratepayers -Waitakere
PENK  Christopher           Citizens & Ratepayers -Waitakere 
PRESLAND  Greg            Future West
TOLLESTRUP  Steve       Future West
VAN DER VOORT  Pim    Independent Ratepayers & Residents
YATES  Denise                Future West
YUKICH  Ivan                   Independent

22/8/10 

  We saw the plans;  we gave our feedback; now read the results. 

       Plus will the Gap be opened?

             Piha Walk Safe Latest News HERE

Wouldn't it be ironic if you died in the living room?

I stopped and asked this happy looking guy if I could photograph him.  It's always neat to find someone having a good time and happy in their work.

To see what he's doing  have a look HERE

Piha SLSC can announce they have a new GM. Tony Johnston a long time member of Piha SLSC club has been successful in his application for this position.

Tony's background is as a chartered accountant. He has extensive knowledge of surf life saving both regionally and nationally. Tony was instrumental being part of the first helicopter crew when this operation first started. Tony brings vast experience and ability with financial management, business management, communication and presentation skills, and relationship management and states he is a Westie and a Piha man at heart. 

Tony states one of the first things he intends to do is get around all the different management groups meet you all and work with all to further drive the Piha dream. Over the last four odd years since Piha employed our first GM, Tony admits there has been massive change in structure and organisation in our club. Piha has achieved many things and won many awards. Tony is looking forward to the challenge of further promoting Piha SLSC with all the building blocks firmly in place. Monday the 23rd August is Tony's first day at work. . Piha SLSC

20/8/10  "There is something wrong with me"   My verbal submission at the WCC Plan Change 35, 36 & 37 hearing today

"Good afternoon Councillors.  My name is Bobbie Carroll and I am a resident of Piha and a ratepayer x 2 properties.

There is something wrong with me . . .  

There appears to be submitters at this hearing that care for the environment at the exclusion of people. 

Then we have submitters here who, I might suggest, care for development or physical structures maybe at a cost to the environment.  I would like to think their words of 'caring' are sincere but only time will tell.

Chris Ferkins, my mentor from WCC Parks, says 'People are a part of the environment' and we have to remember that. 

I care passionately for the environment.  I trust you are aware of the Award won by the Beach Valley Road Project and I personally was nominated for a Green Ribbon Award.  I didn't win and I don't care.  I don't care for Awards and mention them only to show my involvement with the environment.

Because of my life's experience I have a very real interest in the holistic welfare of humans.  I sincerely care for both the environment and people.  There is something wrong with me . . .

Many submitters have referred to the fact that Piha, and other Waitakere areas, have not completed a LAP (Local Area Plan) and that Plan Change 36 should not be considered until the LAP process is complete.

I attended the Piha Ratepayers and Residents Meeting on 4th April 2008.  In attendance at that meeting were:  Tony Dunn, Clare Paterson, Monique Davis, Simon Brown, Neil Hilton, Helen Pearce, Julia Woodhouse, Sue Dunne, Barron Braden. Kubi Witten Hannah (Waitakere Community Board) Caroline McNally (WCC) Mark Tollomach (WCC), Bobbie Caroll (Resident)

From the Minutes of that meeting: "General consensus from the R&R was that Piha would be a 'complex' area and perhaps it would be an idea to do a more straightforward area first and then Piha.

I believed then, and still do, that this commiittee didn't want to proceed with Piha's LAP in 2008, not because it would be complex, but rather because the very contentious issue of the Piha Cafe was on the doorstep and this Committee didn't want to hear what the Piha Community wanted. (ultimately we did get to say it but much later).  I would go so far as to suggest that if Piha had done their LAP in 2008 that the issue of a cafe would never have ended up in the Environment Court and this committee knew that.

So with no LAP, some submitters say, we cannot move forward.  I think it's a little rough to turn down the opportunity to do your LAP and then say there can't be any Plan Changes because you haven't done your LAP - does that make sense?  I wish to suggest that without a LAP then the default would surely be the 'West Coast Plan'. We don't have a vacuum, we have this plan to refer to.

Councillors: We can care for the environment and people.  I ask you to consider Plan Change 36 favourably.

The West Coast Plan is interesting: Note how little is mentioned about people!  Read West Coast Plan HERE

"I promise you, these Plan Changes will not go through by November" . . . 

said Mels Barton, representing the Titirangi Ratepayers and Residents Assn and GAG (Grassroots action Groups ),  at Waitakere City Council Planning and Regulatory Committee hearing of submissions on Plan Changes 35, 36 & 37 today.

True to her promise at the  Combined R & R Meeting  where Mels promised the group from Swanson that these Plan Changes will not go through. Even if the Council approve them, after public submissions, then she will take them to the Environment Court if necessary to stop them! 

Now I find these words and attitude very interesting given that on Mels website the 'lead-in paragraph reads':  "The Grassroots Action Group is dedicated to the preservation of local democracy and has formed in West Auckland to enable ordinary people to understand issues and have their say. "     (ordinary people??   is that you and me? B)

I also noted that Mels introduced herself as representing GAG and the Titirangi Ratepayers and Residents Association.  I have a couple of questions: 1: How many belong to the Titirangi R & R?  and  2: Does Mels Barton carry a mandate from the Committee or the Membership or both?

I listened to all the submissions today and most supported these Plan Changes : some with an addition or deletion of the odd sentence or paragraph.  I will go into more detail, when time permits . . . It is important, I believe, to become familiar with what is happening on the 'political' front with voting for a new Council and Local Board so close . . . . watch this space. . .

The court also ordered the society (Protect Piha Heritage / Sandra Coney Chair) to pay $10,000 to Preserve Piha, the company which built the cafe and opened it nine months ago.

City legal services manager Denis Sheard yesterday said the society paid in full, although it earlier claimed it was insolvent.

The case cost the council $85,000.  NZ Herald article      Previous article on this issue HERE

What's a Kiwi Battler?  All around New Zealand there's a special breed of Kiwi, going the extra mile, overcoming obstacles and achieving results - not for themselves, but for their communities.

• A public vote will decide the winning battler for each region.
• Winners will be announced during September.
• The Morgan Foundation will donate: $10,000 to each winner's favourite charity and $1,000 to each winner.
• There's also a 'National Kiwi Battler' award. The national winner will receive an additional $20,000 for their charity and $2,000 for themselves.

If Piha's Rodger Curtice wins Piha SLSC gets $5,000 and Westpac Rescue Helicopter gets $5,000 !!!

1. Go to  Kiwi Battler website HERE
2. Click on vote for your local Kiwi Battler
3. In the 'region box' select Auckland and Rodger Curtice's name will come up but if it doesn't . . .
4. Put Rodger Curtice in the 'type Battler's name' box
5. VOTE for RODGER CURTICE

If Rodger gets through to the National then the $$$ double . . .

Vote for Rodger - Vote for Piha

Left: Rodger Curtice (right) with Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey

They've done the work . . . . .

They presented it to you . . . .

You put in your feedback  . . . .           Now read Walk Safe News HERE

The idea of using $105,000 for a new bridge from Beach Valley Road to the Domain is, I believe, a huge waste of money.  Why do we need a bridge to the domain?

Far better use of $105,000 would be to move this retaining wall (photo), opposite the RSA, back a metre or two so there can be angle parking there.  It'll more than double the much needed car parks for the RSA and then the other side of the road could be for pedestrians.  That would be of huge benefit to heaps and heaps of people more than a new bridge.

It's a shame that wasn't included as an option . . . . what do others think?

A moving van pulls up to your neighbour's house and loads everything. Then you find out the next day the neighbours weren't actually moving.  Meet a Piha resident who's making sure this doesn't happen to her.

In an age of short-term rentals, high fences and valued privacy, some people don't  know or care who their neighbour is. Piha's Olivia McPherson says this attitude must change.

She gestures to three symmetrical windows behind her, framing houses hiding in dense bush.  "I've been here for six years. But when I look out that window I only know about four families - and there are about 15 houses."

The 33-year-old has teamed with Sara Carbery to encourage younger people to sign up for the Piha Neighbourhood Support group.  The radiant young mother isn't your usual flashlight-brandishing, crimewatch stereotype. But this is her point.  Full article in The Aucklander HERE

Sara:  You are a wonderful, community minded woman - thanks so much.  I believe these local initiatives, by the people for the people, are the future of Piha.  Cheers to you too Olivia

 Piha Neighbourhood Support Email Piha Walk Safe on the web  Beach Valley Road Project on the web

Best Observational Reality Series
Intrepid Journeys - Dean Cornish, JAM TV Ltd (TV One)
Neighbours At War - Sarah Kinniburgh, Greenstone Pictures (TV2)
Piha Rescue - Eric Derks, South Pacific Video Productions (TV One)

Full article in NZ Herald HERE

Auckland's rescue helicopter service will now be able to deal with twice the number of missions after adding a second chopper to its fleet. . . . . .

The rescue helicopter service was formed in 1970 when a petrol driven Hiller 12E helicopter was based at Piha Beach on Auckland's west coast. It was the first surf rescue helicopter in Australasia.  Full article herePhoto: Westpac Rescue Helicopter at Piha Beach : Photo is a part of Bobbie's "Through my Eyes" photo exhibition at West Coast Gallery on at present 

Piha's Berend Westera & Alberto Bonini win Medals at the Gay Games in Cologne.

Left: Berend and Alberto

Berend Westera has won four gold medals in 65-69 age group events. They came in the 100 metre freestyle, 100 metre backstroke, 200 metre backstroke and 50 metre backstroke, where he also set an IGLA and meet record with his 43.10 second effort.

Team Auckland's Berend Westera, Edward Jenner, Ron Judd and Moana Nepia have taken gold in the senior 4x100 medley, where the combined ages have to add up to between 240 and 279.

Ron Judd, Alberto Bonini, Berend Westera and Kevin Hudson have won silver in the 4x50 m Freestyle with the same age rule. Full article HERE

The international Gay Games are bigger than the Commonwealth Games . . . !

Berend is the Chair of Piha CoastCare Trust and Alberto is a volunteer librarian at the Piha Community Library

 Congratulations : are you expecting a parade when you get home?  Why not . . . .

Penny Hulse comes to Piha

Put 11th September 4pm @ Piha Cafe to come and see Penny Hulse standing for Auckland Council - more details to follow

This year's title for the Annual Affordable Art exhibition is two x two takeaways.

Submitted artworks for two x two takeaways need to comply with the size restriction of 20cm x 20cm (20cm sq if a 3d piece) and be $200 or under. Commission of 25% needs to be included in the $200 retail price tag. All mediums will be considered for inclusion but it is recommended that works on paper or photographs are framed.

Submit ideas or images of completed works to the curator, Lisa Rogers at  lisa@ceac.org.nz  before October 1^st 2010.

Are you a singer, songwriter, poet or musician ? 

Can you dance, rap or M.C.?

We want you to perform at WORD UP!  2010 - 15 - 18 year olds . . .  Prizes to be won!
With celebrity judges King Kapisi and Teremoana Rapley.

Details here with CEAC HERE

• In 2007 I wrote to WCC complaining about pedestrian safety in Beach Valley Road. WCC drew up plans with 3 options and sent them to the Piha R&R for consultation.  The R & R made their choice at the Nov '07 R&R Meeting.  The R&R did not, ever, follow up on these.
• The Beach Valley Road Project started in 2008 and had 'pedestrian safety' as one of our goals.  We did a huge amount of work on this with WCC. In 2010 when consultation time came the R&R, came along and tried to take over and take credit for our work.  One of the results of this is that ghastly fence on the corner of Seaview Road that wasted $10,000.
• Walk Safe Piha has been working for a couple of years for pedestrian safety in Piha.  They have walked a million miles, made submissions to the Community Board, the LTCCP and made personal submissions as well.  These people are a good representation of Piha: some mature, some younger, mothers, joggers etc, and live here in Piha.  As a result of this 'Walk Safe' obtained $750,000 from WCC to improve pedestrian safety in Piha
• Now some of the Piha R&R, who do not live in Piha are, again, trying to take control and credit for a great local initiative and huge amount of work done by Walk Safe.

We do not need more money wasted.  I would ask all my readers to support WALK SAFE PIHA to continue their fabulous work and representation of Piha Folk.  They know what they're doing, they know what we need, and they have researched the priorities so we get the best benefits of this money and none is wasted.  Please!  Now please read their plans below.  Bobbie

This dangerous 'path' that cost $10,000 was proposed by the Piha Ratepayers and Residents Assn.

Most in the Beach Valley Road Project objected to it but there it is.  It's illegal (too narrow) and very dangerous for pedestrians as well as vehicles turning right from Beach Valley Road - obscures vission.

Let's not waste any more money!

10/8/10 Walk Safe in Piha Plans are Ready and at Piha's Library NOW!

Now is your only chance to have a say so read on . . .

Thanks to the incredibly hard and tenacious work of the 'Walk Safe Piha' group the Waitakere City Council allocated $750,000 for 'new footpaths and pedestrian improvements in Piha'.

The Plans are out: Get down to the Piha library this week to have a look at the plans and to put your feedback and suggestions in the box. If you are unable to come to Piha then all the documents and maps/diagrams are online and you can see them here:

 Walk Safe News HERE

To help everyone be able to have a look the Piha Community Library is having extended hours this week as follows:  

• Tuesday & Wednesday 10am - 1pm

• Thursday 10am - 1pm and 3:30 - 5:30pm

• Saturday 10am - 4pm

10/8/10

This weed is becoming quite widespread in Piha - LETS GET RID OF IT.  I hate spraying but this is one weed I do spray for . . .  I use TURFEX.

Turf weeds that put prickles in your bare feet when you walk across a lawn are never popular, especially in home lawns and recreational areas. Onehunga weed is probably one of the most hated turf weeds in New Zealand for this reason. It is an annual weed which is very small in size, usually fitting beneath the blades of the mower without barely being touched each time the lawn is mowed. It normally acts as a winter annual. This means it spends most of summer as a dormant seed in the soil. It germinates in autumn once the soil becomes moist but before the lawn recovers from summer dryness. If the lawn cover hasn't died back over summer, Onehunga weed seedlings have much more trouble establishing. Once they are established, the plants grow throughout winter then produce clusters of spined fruits near ground level ready for some unsuspecting sucker to step on them and distribute the fruits elsewhere in the lawn in their feet or jandals. Once the lawn begins to dry in summer, the plant dies, having completed its life cycle. It doesn't always grow as a winter annual though, as it can also establish in spring under some circumstances.   source information here

Betty's ashes were put on this surfboard and guided out of Piha Beach to the Tasman Sea.

What a wonderful farewell by her family.

Could we start a 'data base' of people willing to baby sit that can have their references checked and be available.  May 1st Response could arrange a 1st aid course for the 'baby sitters group' as well.

Good way to earn pocket money . . . Anyone interested? 

 9/8/10

Why then, is the subject still in being discussed by the Piha R&R?  Have they asked you if you mind them?

I understand what you're saying Ismarelda.

Here is a 'mortgagee auction' sign I came across at 124 Seaview Road . . . .

It is Bobbie who usually writes these things for Village Voice, but today I just wanted to write something about what happened at the opening of her 'Through My Eyes' exhibition at the West Coast Art Gallery on Saturday 7^th August.

Photo: Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse, Mayor Bob Harvey, Bobbie & Julia

The gallery was packed to the door with people who had come to the opening to show their support and love for Bobbie.  Bob Harvey, the Mayor of Waitakere, made an amusing and endearing speech to open the show and then he called on the Deputy Mayor, Penny Hulse, to come forward.  They then presented Bobbie with a plaque with the Waitakere City Coat of Arms on it and said it was given to acknowledge all the voluntary work and many positive things that Bobbie had done in our community.  Well, Bobbie went white and they had to get a chair for her to sit on because she was close to fainting!  It was a magical moment and one that had the entire room ooohing and aarhing.

I am very proud of her and think that was a touching and well deserved gesture from the city.  Julia

Labour Leader, Phil Goff, and special guests discuss their vision for Auckland.  3pm Sunday August 22nd at University of Auckland Engineering School, Sydmonds Street.

Click on image for full details.

Verdict: Halfway between a documentary and a concert movie, it embodies the good and the bad of both forms.   Neil Finn and a bunch of his rock star mates come together to make a charity album in this reasonably entertaining film. . . . . . . . .

However, you still get a thrill out of hearing famous foreigners talk about how great New Zealand is, and the visual (and spiritual) splendour of Auckland's Piha Beach is put to effective use.  Full review in NZ Herald

 1/8/10

John Banks has made Auckland ratepayers a big promise if he is elected Super City mayor. He told TV One's Q=A programme this morning that, on the new council, elected officials will not be given credit cards. . . . . .

. . . .  Banks said he wanted a vision for a waterfront that stretched even further.

"We need an iconic waterfront at the bottom of Queen Street, Onehunga, all up the East Coast Bays, Maraetai, Piha Beach."   Full story

31/7/10 

Left: Julia and Tannah Dowdle, of the old Piha Hotel, leaving the Food Show.

Ju and Tannah are both 'foodies' and left with heaps of goodies and thoroughly enjoyed the show this year.

Left: Julia with Stefano De Pieri at the Food Show.

Stefano is the owner of the acclaimed Stefano's Restaurant in Mildura, Victoria and won  Chef of the Year and Restaurant of The Year in The Age Good Food Awards. ...  stefano.com.au

Yum - Ju came home with several of Stefano's recipes.

Today I took a walk around the pedestrian front of our properties.  I grabbed my loppers and cut back anything I could to ensure that the walkways were as free as possible for pedestrians, prams etc to walk past.

Could  we all take 1/2 an hour out, this weekend, to do this to show support for Piha: Walk Safe Group

 Walk Safe News    HERE

Piha has a growing, beautiful, young generation coming up.  If for no other reason we have to provide safe walkways for these darlings to move around Piha.

Left: Leah and Coco (7 months) on a quick visit home to Piha before heading off to Sydney with their family.  Home again in 4 months.

The taskforce consists of a steering group of senior public servants and community leaders who oversee project-based activities and encourage coordination and collaboration amongst the many agencies involved in reducing family violence in Waitakere.  Full Article HERE

What makes this so different is the art is not for sale which really dissappointed me.

Richard tutored locals in the art of flax weaving and the results are on display along with some of Richard's own work.

Once the exhibition finished the 'local artists' can take their work home.

Richard you just have to put some of your own up for sale - its beautiful!

Fiona Anderson of the Piha Domain camping ground has told MPs at the Rugby World Cup 2011 (Empowering Bill) select committee hearing in Auckland of her fears that temporary liquor licences and temporary facilities would see an increase in drunkenness and would place already stretched emergency services under more strain.

The Bill sets up a new Authority, provides for urgent consents, and establishes a liquor licensing scheme in time for next year's tournament that will see up to 80,000 international visitors.  Full story on NZ Herald

Simon Prast:  Simon Prast on the web  and  Penny Hulse: Penny Hulse on the web

In Piha, signs are posted everywhere. They advise where you can find accommodation, parking and what to do in the event of a tsunami. The signs answer questions you haven't asked yet.

They are enough to annoy residents who just want to enjoy the view. But what really maddens them is the proliferation of real estate signs.

"They are visually intrusive," says Helen Pearce, whose family has owned a property in Piha since 1938. "Those of us who have been here all our lives see them as visual pollution."

The big real estate signs are erected on street corners, some distance from the actual properties being sold. The council rules state that "no more than one real estate sign is permitted to be erected on the site. This real estate sign may be erected on the site or outside each site".

"The rules say signs should be 'outside' a property. So we asked how could signs be 200m down the road of a property," says Monique Olivier, secretary of the Piha Residents and Ratepayers Association. "The reply came that WCC [Waitakere City Council] had received 'legal advice' that 'outside' did not necessarily mean in front of a property."

The Aucklander Article HERE 

Correction Rowena: Neither Helen Pearce nor Monique Olivier are residents of Piha.  Helen lives in Pt Chev and Monique lives in Oratia. 

Ever wondered how I write my own websites?  

The 2009/10 Update on Freshwater Recreational Water Quality showed that last summer only 57 percent of freshwater swimming spots had water quality that met contact recreation guidelines most of the time.

The monitoring measures levels of E.Coli, an indicator of animal or human faecal bacteria.

"Time and time again, water quality data is bearing out what we already know," Green Party Co-leader Russel Norman said.

"Intensive dairy farming, as well as inadequate sewage treatment, is responsible for the deterioration of our rivers, streams and lakes, the common heritage of all New Zealanders.

"These are the spots where New Zealand families have swum, fished and messed about in boats for generations. But these days, you run a pretty good chance of getting sick if you swim at many of our favourite spots."

The worst spots include the Kaiapoi river north of Christchurch, Piha lagoon west of Auckland and the stream at Oakura beach in Taranaki, which failed to meet contact recreation guidelines on any occasion, despite being Taranaki's premier surfing and holiday retreat.  Full story on voxy

NOTE: This article here (should help situation)

16/7/10 Penny Hulse launches campaign for the Auckland Council

Penny Hulse has served on Waitakere City Council for 18 years, the last few as Deputy Mayor.  It was a pleasure to be invited to the launch of her campaign for the Auckland Council.  Penny brings with her vision, passion, experience, great communication skills and the ability to be tough when its needed.

left:  Penny with her husband and elder son at the launch this evening.

"The new Auckland Council will need experienced councillors who understand our wonderful west" says Penny.  Bringing to life the aspirations of the West . . .  too right you do Penny.

Penny's website will be launched in a matter of days.

left: Waitakere Mayor, Bob Harvery, helped launch Penny Hulse's campaign for  the Auckland Council.

Penny has been Bob's Deputy Mayor for a few years now and he says Penny must get a seat on the up and coming Auckland Council.  Penny knows Waitakere and Westies well and she must be there to take our special eco-city, values and aspirations into the future.

I agree with you Bob . . .

• Bobbie Carroll (Piha Resident) requested that the new fence situated at the corner of Beach Valley Road and Seaview Road, Piha be removed, due to the restriction of visibility and concerns for the safety of vehicles exiting Beach Valley Road.
• Monique Olivier  (Piha Residents Association Secretary) spoke in support of the removal of the fence by the new walkway at the corner of Beach Valley Road and Seaview Road, Piha

The Waitakere Community Board resolved to: Agree that a report be brought to the Augtust 2010 meeting of the Waitakere Community Board, covering th eoptions that are available to address the concerns that have been raised in connection with the fence and walkway constructed on Seaview Road, Piha.

You can write your thoughts to WCC HERE

16/7/10 Te Ahuahu Road and Log Race Road to be sealed: as part of the Seal Extension Programme for 2010/2011 Annual plan, Council has approved the funding to seal both Te Ahuahu Road and Log Race Road in Piha, Waitakere  Council will start  with detail design phase; actual works will be carried out during late summer months.  Diagram of area here [844kb].doc

15/7/10

 Piha 'Walk Safe': 

Who are these people? What are they up to? How did they get $750,000?  How is it going to be spent?  Read ALL about them HERE

This is an interactive installation.  Here Richard is weaving with visitors - later it becomes the installation.  Call in and see

10/7/10

To find out what's going to happen here  Have a look here

Ju and I have a new 'toy' each.  How well do you know us?

Can you guess who got the mixer and who got the blower?

I went to watch Danielle Hancock, left, do a presentation to WCC Council about the Sustainable Neighbourhoods programme.

The Beach Valley Road Project is funded under this programme . . . if you would like to start a similar project just contact WCC or pick up a booklet from the Piha Library.

Any "non-charitable" advocacy has to be secondary to the charitable work.

Exciting and unique opportunity, says ARC, to operate a proposed new café to be developed by the Auckland Regional Council within the Arataki Visitor Centre in the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park.

• Café. Potential for liquor licence.
• 36 - 40 pax café to be fitted-out by the operator
• Small kitchen facility to be fitted-out by the operator.
• 5 years with the right of renewal for a further 5 years
• Summer: 9am - 5pm weekdays and 8am - 6pm weekends
• Winter: 10am - 4pm weekdays and 9am - 5pm weekends

ARC are looking for an operator to operate a proposed new café at Arataki Visitor Centre. The operation of the café will be conducted by way of a licence given by the ARC to the operator (the Licence) in respect of the café facility

• The café could cater for private functions outside of the Visitor Centre's normal operating
  hours, although this would be subject to the café operator making the necessary security
  arrangements.
• There is potential for the café to acquire a liquor licence, although this will be the sole
  responsibility of the café operator.
• Competition: Existing cafes in the local area include
  • Elevation Café & Bar, Scenic Drive
  • La Vincci Café, Titirangi Road, Titirangi
  • Takahe, Titirangi Road, Titirangi
  • Hardware Café, Titirangi
  • The Piha Café, Piha.
  • In addition to these existing operations, a restaurant and potential café, owned by the
    Hardware café owners, is currently under development on Scenic Drive between Titirangi and Arataki (approximately 2km south east of Arataki).
    • I have been advised that ARC have missed one other 'competition' being Auckland?s Waitakere Estate who operate a Café style  Brunch/Lunch Saturdays and Sundays and serve Lunches and Dinners by reservation Thursdays to Sundays.

Two questions: would have to be:

1. "Will Sandra Coney, as the Chair of Protect Piha Heritage, take ARC Parks, that is herself,  to the Environment Court to challenge this?"
2. Where is the public notification - submission process?

Full ARC document here [554kb].pdf      

Have a look at the fight we had with the Chair of ARC Parks and Heritage and Protect Piha Heritage, Sandra Coney,    HERE

• Please see 14/6/10 for Sandra's QSO
• I have no problem at all with a Cafe at Arataki
• I am obsessed with hypocracy and one rule for some and another for others
• I will continue to expose hypocracy where I come across it
• I'd like WCC and Preserve Piha to receive the costs awarded to them by the Environment Court
• I'm interested to know if there is any consultation on this proposed Cafe at Arataki and if not why not?

Bobbie

For immediate previous Piha Village Voice please Go HERE