Last night Auckland moved back down to Alert Level 2. The most significant resulting change is that gatherings of up to 100 people will be permitted. Within the Auckland Region, face coverings are still mandatory on public transport, as well as on aircraft to, from or through Auckland. While a small risk of community transmission remains, we are asked to continue to follow the golden rules: stay home if you feel unwell; get tested if you show symptoms; be vigilant with handwashing and hygiene; and use the COVID Tracer app to assist with contact tracing.
The next review of alert levels will take place on Monday 5th October with any possible changes coming into effect from Wednesday 7th October. Full details of what is and is not permitted at each level can be found on the government’s COVID website.
You may have noticed work going on at the St Heliers Community Library over the last few weeks. Some general maintenance was required such as improving lighting, but there’s also a project underway to restore the library to its original 1920s colours. Funded out of the Ōrākei Local Board budget and advised by our heritage team, the work will see the doors and window frames re-painted using the shade of green used when the library first opened, enhancing the heritage value of the site and reflecting the original architectural intent of the building designer.
I’m happy to announce that in addition to our new Chief Executive Jim Stabback, Auckland Council now has a new Chief Financial Officer in Peter Gudsell. Peter brings extensive skills and experience from his roles at Christchurch City Council, Telecom, Vodafone and most recently, The University of Auckland. I look forward to working with Peter when he joins council on 14 December and am optimistic about the impact someone of his calibre can have. I’d also like to acknowledge Kevin Ramsay who has been acting in the role since April of this year. He does an exceptional job. I am extremely grateful for his expertise, his support, and the long hours he puts in , particularly during the Emergency Budget process.
For those who use the train on our Eastern line, it’s been good news this week. That line is open and the little yellow digger ( which has apparently entertained quite a few St Kents boys ) is no longer out on the train tracks assisting with maintenance work over Hobson bay . Buses replace trains this week on the Southern and Onehunga lines which are closed for maintenance. You can check planned closures and plan your alternative journey on Auckland Transport’s website.
But why were the tracks closed in the first place? This story explains it simply https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/122623838/auckland-rail-disruption-poor-state-of-city-rail-network-will-cost-200m-to-fix
Staying with transport, Auckland commuters have faced extensive delays this week after damage caused by a freak accident last Friday when two trucks were hit by high winds, resulting in half of the lanes on the Harbour bridge being closed. Thankfully, two additional lanes of traffic were opened on the bridge yesterday following overnight work to temporarily fix the damaged strut. The New Zealand Transport Agency are working on a long-term solution but say this will take about 4-5 weeks. Whilst the two extra two lanes will go some way to help ease congestion issues the advice from Auckland Transport is to avoid travel at peak times and consider using ferries.
Again locally, Auckland Transport are using the expected lower use of Tamaki Drive in the school holidays and reducing the lanes along the construction section to one lane each way. The new layout starts Monday September 28 and will be in place for two weeks.
On a more regional subject, each year we recognise Mental Health Awareness Week. Run by the Mental Health Foundation, it’s an opportunity to normalise discussions around mental health and to acknowledge that we still have a lot of work to do in this space. While always an important topic, this year, with all the problems it has brought, looking after our mental health feels especially important. As we explore our ‘new normal’ both as individuals and as a society, we can incorporate promoting good mental health and wellbeing into everything we do. Whether it’s being aware our own mental health or taking time to check in on friends and family, we all have a role to play in advocating a more positive attitude towards discussions around mental health in New Zealand – it’s ok to not be ok, and it’s ok to reach ask for help. Check out the resources and tools available on the Mental Health Foundation’s Website
Change your clocks! Remember Sunday morning we ‘spring forward’ as daylight savings starts. Clocks will go forward one hour on Sunday September 27 at 2am and stay on that new time until April 2021
And finally, a quick reminder that Auckland Heritage Festival starts on September 26 and runs until October 11th. This is your opportunity to learn about past generations of famous and infamous Aucklanders, discover the stories of our oldest places and spaces and touch on our best-kept secrets. Choose from exhibitions, walks, talks, tours, a vintage market and activities for kids. Or look for events marked as online to learn about our region's heritage from home.
Event-holders are set up to follow the COVID-19 protocols required at the prevailing alert level. Some events fill up fast so make sure you check out the programme early.
Best to you all
Desley