Annual Report 2020/2021

On Tuesday this week, Auckland Council listed its Annual Report for 2020/2021 on the NZ Stock Exchange.

The full report is available on the Auckland Council website.

Key Messages

Read more on this in Vol. 1 p 14-15

·        In light of significant threats, 2020/2021 saw a year of performance that was above expectations. The council has carefully managed its finances in response to these challenges, but ongoing uncertainty posed by future lockdowns and border closures and less water in our dams, means we must remain agile.

·        Council’s priority must be to maintain its fiscally prudent approach while continuing to provide essential services and invest in critical infrastructure that Aucklanders need.

Sound financial management

Read more on this in Vol. 1 p 14-15

·        Our prudent approach to managing our finances has helped us maintain our AA and Aa2 credit ratings with S&P Global Ratings and Moody’s Investor Services respectively. The Council has one of the highest credit ratings in New Zealand.

·        We planned for a significant reduction in revenue in the Emergency Budget as a result of COVID-19 and the drought. The Auckland economy fared better than expectations and total revenue was $266 million ahead of budget.

·        Total capital investment for the year across the group was $2.5 billion, just $110 million short of the highest spend ever.

Delivery – Value for Money

·        Auckland Council’s savings for the year were an unprecedented $126 million, against the $120 million Emergency Budget savings target as a result of tight controls on discretionary spend and organisational efficiencies.

·        A balance between prudent fiscal management and recovery meant the council group achieved a 95 per cent capital expenditure delivery rate for Aucklanders against the Emergency Budget.

·        Auckland Council staff numbers went down by 3.2% (208), following on from the previous Annual Report where there was a reduction of 1% (78).

·        Across the Auckland Council Group, staff numbers went down by 1.4% (154) with decreases across all the CCOs except Auckland Transport and Watercare as a result of contractors moving into permanent roles and drought response, respectively.

·        We spent $1.1 billion developing and upgrading our roading and public transport assets, providing faster, more frequent, and easier connections across the region.

·        We spent $408 million improving our water supply to help address water shortages. This included adding another $90 million litres a day, at a cost of $129 million.

·        Reducing carbon emissions remained a focus. The Auckland bus fleet added 28 electric buses, a total of 33 low emission buses now in use.

3 Waters Reform

I have heard from a lot of people in our community who are very concerned about government’s Three Waters Reform proposal and I share their concern.

I do not support the proposal before us in its current form.

The infrastructure challenges we are experiencing in Auckland are not unique to our region. Ageing infrastructure, and the financial resources needed for renewals, is an issue throughout New Zealand. From my perspective, I acknowledge that reform is needed to lift the standards of water supply quality and the quality of wastewater treatment across the country. However, that’s not my problem. I am not an MP. My focus is on Auckland and when I look at what the government is proposing to do, I look at that through an Auckland lens. The question I ask myself is, “Is what is being proposed better for Auckland and its communities and residents?” The answer I have to date is NO.

What has concerned me from the very beginning is the real lack of local or regional variation. Auckland’s water services were already amalgamated as part of central government’s legislation that set up Auckland Council in 2010. We are already the most efficient and effective water supplier in New Zealand. In fact, we have already achieved the scale and professionalism in water supply being sought for the rest of the country. Watercare and the way it is governed, already provides a proven model and can provide a centre of excellence for other water service entities.

Watercare has approximately $10 billion in assets, and our 10-year budget includes a further $11 billion in water investment over the next 10 years. If the government’s current plan goes ahead, I cannot guarantee the delivery of that much needed $11 billion of vitally important infrastructure, particularly in the later years of the 10-year Budget, and that really concerns me. In the Government’s modelling, 94% of the assets of the proposed new entity would come from Auckland, and Auckland would have approximately 90% of the population served by that new entity but we only get very much less than 50% of the governance. In my opinion, that in itself doesn’t work for Auckland. Government modelling also suggests that there is an economic benefit for Auckland residents, and a larger economic benefit to residents of smaller councils. Again, it’s not my role to look after smaller councils. It’s about looking at the economic benefit for Auckland. I see flaws in some of the assumptions used and lack confidence in the conclusions drawn. I believe there are alternative models which could meet the Government’s objectives while also delivering benefits to Auckland, but this will require a willingness by government to be open to change and to date I haven’t seen that from the Minister.

My biggest concern is in relation to the governance model that has been proposed. It is overly complex with no direct democratic accountability. In fact, the current reform model effectively removes Auckland Council’s governance authority and influence over a significant portion of Auckland’s infrastructure assets. That means local communities, through their elected representatives, would have no direct control over the proposed services entities, removing the accountability measures we currently have over our CCOs, including Watercare. What Auckland deserves and needs before looking at any proposed reform is a genuine governance role for Auckland Council, and an ownership model that allows for democratic accountability.

Additionally, the inclusion of mana whenua as stated in the recommended governance structure needs more consideration as to why? Again, the proposal does not recognise that Auckland Council is different to other councils in New Zealand. We already have, by set legislation, an Independent Maori Statutory Board tasked with representing the views of Maori at the governance level. Like the position taken by Local Government New Zealand on behalf of its membership, I do not believe that the proposed approach would in any way drive a ‘Better Water for Everyone’ outcome. 

So where are we with the three waters proposal and any formal decisions?

It’s important to note that we haven’t been asked to make an opt-in or opt-out decision at this stage. Councils are currently only being asked for initial feedback on the government’s proposal, identify areas of concern, and suggest ways to improve what has been proposed. Unfortunately, we have not been given a ‘status quo’ option, as a water regulator has already been established.

As part of Auckland Council’s formal INITIAL feedback, on Thursday September 23 we agreed in principle with the outcomes being sought nationally in terms of economies of scale, alternative funding arrangements, and the introduction of an economic regulator. We did not agree with the governance structure. I am very concerned the Minister may mandate this, so was keen to keep our discussion going on issues such as representation from and on behalf of mana whenua.

It is important for you to know that I am absolutely committed to asking Aucklanders for their views on the final Three Waters Reform proposal. To that end, I asked the mayor to amend the draft recommendations at our Governing Body meeting on Thursday to reflect that, and he did. Consultation has come through as a major theme in a lot of the feedback I have received. I really feel very strongly that, given the implications of this reform, we must give our communities an opportunity to have their say.

I will watch with interest and keep you informed as to the next steps from central government.  These are expected to be announced after 30 September 2021, and I will ensure that they include timeframes and guidelines for community / public consultation.

Meanwhile, here are the resolutions passed yesterday:

Resolution number GB/2021/110

That the Governing Body:

a)      note Auckland Council has been asked for initial feedback on the government’s three water reform proposal including identifying areas of concern, and to suggest ways to improve what has been proposed

b)      support the following aspects of the government’s Three Water Reform proposal:

i)       the need to reform the water sector in Aotearoa to lift the standards of water supply quality and wastewater treatment across New Zealand

ii)      the need to genuinely partner with local government to achieve reform of the sector

iii)     the need to introduce an economic regulator to improve efficiency and productivity and ensure there is appropriate oversight of the new WSE, but notes that this can apply to Watercare without amalgamation

iv)     the need to develop alternative funding and financing arrangements to enable greater investment in water service infrastructure

v)      the need outside of Auckland to achieve greater scale and capability in the delivery of water services

c)      does not support the government’s proposed ownership and governance arrangements which remove democratic accountability and the loss of direct control by councils over water service entities

d)      agree that there are alternative governance and financial models to that proposed which will achieve most of the government’s water reform outcomes

e)      agree that Auckland Council continues to work with the government to consider these alternative options that meet both the government’s and council’s objectives and desired outcomes

f)       agree that water service entities should have the same accountability mechanisms (e.g. ability to approve and modify Statement of Intents and directly appoint and remove directors) as provided under the Local Government Act 2002 and Local Government (Auckland Council) Act 2009 for council controlled organisations

g)      agree that Auckland Council supports a water service entity model, like the CCO Watercare model, where real ownership continues to reside with Councils and where the WSE is required as Watercare is currently, to give effect to the relevant aspects of Councils’ long-term plan and growth strategies

h)      agree that the governance arrangements of any Water Service Entity that includes Auckland reflect the proportionate investment in the assets made by the people of Auckland, liabilities, and the proportionate size of Auckland’s population resulting in Aucklanders, through their elected representatives, maintaining majority control over their assets and service delivery

i)       agree that the set-up of the new entities should specify the requirements or principles for consultation, for example as they are set out in the Local Government Act 2002

j)       seek further engagement and information on the following aspects of the water reform proposals

i)       representation from and on behalf of mana whenua

ii)      integration with other local government reform processes

iii)     integration with spatial and local planning processes and growth

iv)     the nature, role and timing of economic regulation

v)      process for and decision-making regarding prioritisation of investment

vi)     the transfer of benefits and disbenefits of stormwater integration and transfer assets and functions

vii)    process for local authority decision-making on ‘opting in or out’ of the Three Waters Reform

viii)   conditions associated with the Government’s package of funding for local government 

ix)     transition arrangements, including for the council group workforce, information sharing and due diligence for asset transfers

k)      support local authorities being able to make the final decision on whether to ‘opt-in’ to or to ‘opt-out’ of the government’s final Three Water Reform proposal, and that the Reform is not made mandatory

l)       delegate to the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Environment and Climate Change Committee chair and Watercare liaison councillor, Cr L Cooper to approve Auckland Council’s initial feedback to government based on clauses b) to k) above

m)     note that the final letter to the government outlining Auckland Council’s initial feedback will be provided to the Governing Body for information.

n)      note these recommendations were formed with the government’s advice on stormwater yet to be received.

o)      agree that when Auckland Council has received from Government its final three waters reform proposal, the Council will consult with Aucklanders on this proposal to inform Council’s response.

CARRIED BY OVERWHELMING MAJORITY

The full report and minutes are available on the Auckland Council website.

 And here is a media article highlighting my push for Aucklanders to be consulted prior to Auckland Council decision making on the final 3 waters proposal from government

If you have any questions, comments or concerns, Please feel free to contact me

Kind regards

Desley

Development Contributions

Development Contributions

The amount of housing growth in Auckland is unprecedented. 10 years ago, fewer than 4000 dwellings were being consented in a year and in the last year we consented close to 20,000 dwellings. A lot of development is happening and all of this requires infrastructure to support it such as wastewater, stormwater, roads and community facilities.

Infrastructure is expensive.

Contributions are one of the ways the council recovers this cost. Charging development contributions enables us to recover costs from those who cause the need for, or will benefit from, the infrastructure Auckland needs to support our rapidly growing city. If we cannot recover a share of these costs from developers, the full cost will need to be recovered from ratepayers.

Currently we are consulting on an updated development contributions policy. To have your say please go to   https://akhaveyoursay.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/dc-policy before October 17.

To assist you with your feedback, here are some frequently asked questions            

What are contributions?

The council uses a number of tools to recover the costs of investment from those that cause the need for or benefit from the investment. Development contributions (DCs) are one of these tools (alongside rates and charges for services) and they recover a share of the costs of the investment we make to support new developments from those developments.

The cost of infrastructure has to be funded somehow. If it is not being funded by the developer then it has to be paid for by all Auckland ratepayers or Government contributions will have to increase i.e. the taxpayer. The council cannot control Government funding decisions.  We think it is fair that developers pay for an appropriate share of the infrastructure that their developments cause the need for and benefit from.

Why are we reviewing the policy?

The council has had a contributions policy since amalgamation and it is regularly updated to account for updates to projected growth, revision to the capital budgets and any relevant policy changes. We’ve made some big and exciting commitments in the 10-year Budget so we need to update our contributions policy in order to help fund these. We usually update the policy every three years following adoption of the 10-year Budget.

What is the process to finalise a new policy?

The Finance and Performance Committee is responsible for considering changes to the contributions policy. The committee considered the draft policy recommended by council staff on 16 September 2021 and approved the policy for consultation. Aucklanders are now able to have their say on the proposed policy from 20 September 2021 to 17 October 2021 Once the committee has considered the feedback from our communities and made any necessary changes, the final policy will be agreed in December and any changes will come into effect on 10 January 2022.

You can keep up with the progress by viewing agendas and committee meeting minutes on infocouncil.

What is being proposed?

The key changes to the policy being considered are as follows:

Updating for new information in the Recovery Budget

·         The Recovery Budget (our 10-year Budget 2021-2031) commits significant investment to support growth across the next decade. The 10-year Budget made provision for the Contributions Policy to be updated for these decisions and includes an assumption of the revenue from development contributions. To ensure contribution levels remain fair and appropriate across the region, they need to be updated to reflect new projects and updated timing and cost of existing plans.

·         Contribution levels are also updated to reflect latest projections for the pace and shape of Auckland’s development.

Inclusion of capital projects beyond ten years

·         The 10-year Budget commits significant investment to support growth in priority areas. This investment funds projects that will build infrastructure.  However, this is not enough to address the cumulative impact of growth. More infrastructure will be required to cope with the expected growth. Currently, contributions are charged to recover the growth share of the cost of infrastructure planned in the next ten years.

·         The council plans for the delivery of these required investments through its 30-year Infrastructure Strategy. This ensures future development has the high-quality infrastructure Aucklanders expect and that we can better manage the impacts of growth, including climate change. It will also signal to developers the level of council investment and the impact this will have on their future plans.

·         We propose that the growth share of the cost of all the investment in infrastructure to support growth (including that beyond 2031) is recovered through development contributions.

·         All development over the next 30 years adds to the need for and will benefit from this. We consider its fair that development happening now pays an appropriate share of the costs of infrastructure that it will benefit from in the future.

·         We plan to amend the contributions policy in stages for each investment priority area as sufficient information on infrastructure requirements becomes available, starting with Drury. The policy will apply to brownfield developments as well as greenfields.

·         The cost of these projects may have a significant impact on the level of contributions in the areas where they are imposed.

Drury

·         For the draft Contributions Policy 2021 we propose starting with Drury. Drury is the area where we have the best information in order to implement the changes. Other areas will follow as work progresses.

·         The draft policy includes almost $2.5 billion of investment in local and arterial roads and parks in the Drury area. Under the new draft policy, the level of contribution would rise from between $11,000 and $18,300 currently, to $84,900 (taking into account the impact of the other proposed changes).

·         Our proposal is to gradually update the contributions policy to include the infrastructure required to support growth in Auckland over 30 years, focussing first on the other investment priority areas:

­          Auckland Housing Programme (Mangere, Mt Roskill, Oranga, Northcote, Tāmaki)

­          Drury and the North-West (Red Hills, Westgate and Whenuapai)

­          CRL stations at Karangahape Rd and Mt Eden.

Payment timing

·         We are proposing that payment of contributions required at building consent are payable at the grant of the consent. This will apply to all development (residential and non-residential). This is earlier than currently required and reverses the extension to payment timing we made for residential development in 2019. The council’s finances were significantly impacted by COVID-19. Requiring contributions to be paid earlier will mean council can recover the cost of infrastructure sooner.

Māori Land

·         For Māori land we are proposing to continue to support the development of marae and papakāinga and Māori housing on Māori land through grants available through the Cultural Initiatives Fund.

·         We propose an exemption for not-for-profit development on Māori land from reserve contributions.

·         We propose retaining the current payment timing for contributions payable at building consent for non-commercial development on Māori land, if changes are otherwise made to payment timing.

Why is the council proposing an increase to contributions in some areas?

The 10-year Budget includes a substantial increase in investment in infrastructure to support growth and allow development to proceed. In the draft policy, contributions do not increase on average but across the region some areas will see increases depending on the level of investment we have committed to and the growth we are expecting in those areas. This allows us to fund investment. 

Raising the level of contribution:

·         better aligns contributions with the actual cost of infrastructure

·         increases certainty that infrastructure will be delivered

·         ensures ratepayers don’t bear the full cost of growth

·         encourages developers to more accurately price land purchased for development to reflect future contribution costs

Who has to pay contributions?

Developments that require a subdivision consent, land use consent or building consent are assessed for contributions. This includes:

·         new subdivisions

·         new house builds

·         student accommodation

·         minor units (granny flat)

·         Kainga Ora developments

·         new retail space

·         new office space

·         commercial premises

·         new apartments in old buildings.

Extensions to a house don’t have to pay contributions.

How are DCs calculated?

DCs are calculated by dividing the council’s capital expenditure for growth by the estimated number of new residential and non-residential developments.

To understand how the council calculates DCs, read How we set Development Contribution charges.

How does this affect house prices?

National and international evidence shows us that an increase in contributions fees does not cause house prices to rise.

The price of housing is not determined by the cost of land and building but by supply and demand for houses.

Over time, the development contribution costs are deducted from the price paid for land. Developers will adjust the price they are prepared to pay for land reflecting the price they can sell a house for less construction costs, development contributions, other costs and a margin for profit.

Can the payment of DCs be deferred? 

DC payments can’t be deferred. The council seeks payment of DCs when they are due. The council funds its capital investment with borrowing. To keep borrowing within our debt limits we have had to constrain our investment. If we offered deferment of DC payments, ratepayers would be effectively providing a lending facility to developers, rather than borrowing funds to invest in building new assets.

Do all types of development pay the same price?

Different types of development pay different DCs.  DCs are set at different levels depending on the demand they place on the need for the council to invest in infrastructure.

For example, a shopping centre will require more transport investment than a house. The transport contribution will therefore be higher. However, shopping centres don’t require investment in parks and community facilities. These are only charged to residential development.

The contributions policy includes a schedule showing different development types and the associated demand factors.

What are funding areas?

Funding areas are used to ensure the allocation of costs to areas reflect its demand on infrastructure.

We have funding areas that are Regional (everyone pays, e.g., Regional Parks), Sub-Regional (larger areas where projects benefit a larger area) and Local (small areas of targeted benefit).

‘How we set development contributions charges’ sets out additional information on how funding areas have been determined.

A new Drury-Opaheke funding area has been created for the local investments required to support Drury development. The contributions charges collected for the local investment in this funding area will be applied to the building of infrastructure in this area.

How is development in Auckland determined?

The Auckland Plan 2050 sets out our Development Strategy, which plans how we will manage growth over the next 30 years. It ensures we have enough capacity for growth and identifies development areas around the region where our planning and investment will be targeted.

Auckland Council’s 10-year budget includes a 30-year Infrastructure Strategy informed by the Development Strategy and sets out a capital programme of $31.8 billion.

Are DCs charged for affordable or social housing?

Central government is responsible for affordable and social housing. 

The council supports affordable and social housing through the investments it makes in infrastructure.

Affordable and social housing are charged DCs as they place the same demand on the need for the council to invest in infrastructure as other developments.

The council may consider providing grants for some developments on a case-by-case basis. 

Why does the policy not recover the full amount of capital required to fulfil all the infrastructure requirements in the Auckland Plan?

The council’s 30-year Infrastructure Strategy looks to address the big issues that impact our infrastructure and forecasts that this will require over $120 billion of capital investment over the 30 years. Our funding tools such as rates and development contributions can only pay back the investments we have made or are committed to making in the future. Our ability to invest is constrained in any particular time period by limits on our borrowing and intentions to keep general rates increases at affordable levels.

Development contributions are just one tool the council uses to fund our infrastructure investments and are limited to investments made to support growth. As growth investments also benefit existing properties, a fair share of the costs are funded by ratepayers and road users (via transport subsidies from Waka Kotahi funded by fuel taxes and road user charges).

Investments made to address other challenges such as climate change, natural hazards, or service level equity are funded through other sources such as rates or charges for services.

Why do Private Developer Agreements (PDA) not allow for a reduction in DCs to be paid?

A PDA is an agreement between the council and a developer(s) to provide for the provision of infrastructure in a development area. The Contributions Policy accounts for the level of infrastructure required in the 10-year Budget and sets funding levels to pay for this. If offsets are included in the Contributions Policy, then the amount of revenue to be received is reduced and budgets are mis-aligned.To ensure all developments are treated fairly under a PDA, the council will pay for any work developers undertake on behalf of Council (which doesn’t include any developer mitigation), and charge them and other benefiting developments development contributions for the relevant project.

Why are transport costs for locations that have little public transport links so high?

DCs do not just fund public transport, but the transport network as a whole. This includes arterial roads and connections to locations throughout the region. By servicing the network as a whole, council is maintaining the ability of all Aucklanders to move around the region.

Development benefits the entire region so why aren’t the costs more equally shared?

All productive economic activity benefits the Auckland region. Where only private investment is required all the costs are met by the producers and consumer of the products or services . However, development requires public investment to ensure new communities have access to the same high quality services enjoyed by all Aucklanders.

Public infrastructure investments allow the developer to realise a price for their development that couldn’t be matched without council investment. In addition, without these investments existing resident might incur costs indirectly e.g. through congestion in our transport system. These investments incur costs which the council needs to recover from either the developers or ratepayers.

Some of the investments the council makes benefit, or are caused by, development across the city, regional, or are wider than the local development area (sub-regional). These are charged for across all development in those areas.

Some investments are only required for, and only benefit, a local area. They are only charged for in those areas. If these local costs were spread across the city developers building in areas requiring less investment would be subsidising those who needed less investment. This would not send the right cost signals and result in wasted investment.

How can people have their say?

The Consultation Document will be live on the Auckland Council website, where people can register for Have Your Say events.

Is the level of contributions being increased everywhere in Auckland?

The weighted average contributions charge across urban Auckland will fall from $23,900 to $21,500. This is because the pace of growth we are forecasting exceeds our increases in capital expenditure. We have also adjusted the charges to reflect a fairer share of the costs of growth between the development we expect in this decade and the next. The actual change in different parts of the city may vary from this, higher or lower, depending on the scale of investment we are planning to make.

If longer-term infrastructure for other growth areas in Auckland will be added to the policy later, does this mean development in Drury will be subsidising other areas in the meantime?

No, the local charges in Drury will only fund investment in Drury. The regional and sub-regional charges in Drury are the same as applied in other areas.

Will this policy change see Drury having the highest development contributions in New Zealand?

No, for example the proposed contributions charge of $84,900 in Drury is lower than the $93,226 charge for Rotokauri in Hamilton.

What is the impact if we don't proceed with the proposal to include projects beyond 10 years for Drury?

Early development will proceed without making a contribution to the cost of the longer-term infrastructure they create a need for and will benefit from. This will make it more difficult for the council to provide this infrastructure in the future and place more of the future funding burden on ratepayers.

Won't the council receive rates from the new houses which could pay for the infrastructure?

Yes, the council will receive additional general rates. These will fund the operating costs of the new assets in Drury and a share of the operations of the rest of the city the Drury properties will then be part of and benefit from.

Given that landowners get a significant increase in value when land is rezoned for development, why doesn't the council just demand a fair share of infrastructure costs from them at that point?

While this approach is commonly used in some overseas jurisdictions, existing legislation and current resource management in New Zealand mean that approach is not straight-forward to implement here. The use of development contributions provides a kind of proxy for this approach, to the extent that the landowners when the land is rezoned are largely the same group as the landowners when the DC policy is implemented, which our information suggests is largely the case for Drury

How accurate are the council's estimates of future infrastructure costs, and what happens if cost estimates change?

Any cost estimate for future infrastructure projects necessarily involves a degree of uncertainty. For all the infrastructure costs that we are seeking to recover via the contributions policy we have used the best information presently available and applied a consistent approach to all asset budgeting decisions to estimate future costs. We will continue to update our estimates to ensure they are as accurate as possible. If the costs change over time the policy will be adjusted accordingly and if appropriate developers will be refunded.

Newsletter - 8th September

As we come to the end of our third week at Level 4, I hope you’re all still managing okay in your bubbles and staying safe. As I write this its pouring with rain, but we have been lucky overall with the weather during this lockdown. It’s been noticed that as people and families are looking to get out and about for fresh air and exercise, Tamaki Drive particularly is getting very busy. I’m working with the Orakei Local Board and Auckland Transport to look at the possibility of creating temporary separated areas for walkers and cyclists along Tamaki Drive from Ngapipi Road to Kohimarama Road, creating a bit of extra space for pedestrians so they can keep the 2 m distance and potentially a designated cycle lane so they would not need to share the footpath. AT are currently investigating options for this, with no loss of vehicle lanes and hopefully we’ll see something in place soon, for the remainder of Level 4 and throughout Level 3.

In non-Covid news, and for a change of pace, I wanted to provide an update on the great work happening in our area to improve water quality. You might recall that fast-tracking water quality improvements was an important part of the 10-year budget we signed off in June. The Water Quality Targeted Rate is enabling an additional $256 million of investment and has allowed us to get started on the Eastern Beaches from Parnell to Glendowie, Newmarket and the Tamaki Estuary, six years earlier than initially planned.

As with just about everything else, Level 4 restrictions have had an impact on planned works across the region and are causing delays for many of our projects. A major environmental enhancement project was due to start in Portland Road this month, starting with clearing the vegetation that restricts and blocks Portland Stream, and followed by removal of sediment in the stream channel. In autumn next year, we’ll be planting 15,000 native plants, which will significantly improve the ecology of the area. The silt from the stream will be used to create a land feature in Waitaramoa Reserve, reducing the carbon footprint of the project, and waste to landfill. In the Portland Road sub-catchment, 80% of stormwater network screening investigations have now been completed.

Another priority area is the Newmarket sub-catchment. In the commercial areas, the networks are deep and complex, so water sampling access can be very challenging for our teams. The high-tech solution is CCTV, used to conduct network investigations of public stormwater and wastewater networks to identify contaminants and track them to their source. Further investigations are underway in the wider catchment area.

At Hobson Bay, Hapua stream is the biggest concern, and is being prioritized for network investigations. Our teams are carrying out dye testing of private wastewater drainage in this area and CCTV investigations are nearing completion. Planning is underway to remove accumulated sediment and mangroves that cause water to hold in Hapua Stream in low tide.

Although Level 4 restrictions have been disruptive for our projects, council staff are working hard to make sure all of our core services are still ticking along throughout lockdown. Animal control are taking priority calls, our noise control officers are attending with health and safety measures in place, and building and resource consents are still being processed remotely.

If you have any areas of concern or feel I can assist in any way, please do not hesitate in contacting me.

Stay safe,

Desley

Current locations of interest 26/8/21

Q. What do I do if I visited a location of interest?

People who visited these locations during the relevant times, should immediately isolate at their home or accommodation and contact their GP or Healthline for advice getting a test.

Q. I haven’t been to a location of interest, but I live in the same household as someone who has. What should I do?

Isolate or quarantine in your usual place of residence (which for visitors, includes accommodation), except as required to report and submit for testing. You need to do this until the person who was at a location of interest has received a negative Day 5 test, or until after an earlier negative test, if contact between you and the person who visited the location of interest has ceased.

Q. I haven’t been to a location of interest, but I have been in contact with someone who has been to a location of interest, what should I do?

Please stay home in Alert Level 4 and monitor yourself for symptoms. If you do get symptoms call your doctor or Healthline for advice about getting a tested.

Orakei Ward Locations of Interest

University of Auckland OPTOM 272B Building 503 Room 124 Grafton Campus

85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland 1023

Monday 16 August

9:00 am - 11:00 am

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

26/08/2021 14:00

University of Auckland, STATS101: Building 260 Room 115 OGGB Fisher and Paykel lecture theatre City Campus

12 Grafton Road, Auckland Central, Auckland 1010

Friday 13 August

12:00 pm - 2:00 pm

All at Statistics 101; Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

26/08/2021 14:00

Breadwinners Bakery

8 Saint Heliers Bay Road,, St Heliers,, Auckland 1071

Saturday 14 August

10:50 am - 11:10 am

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

25/08/2021 18:00

Burger Fuel Mission Bay

61 Tamaki Drive, Mission Bay, Auckland 1071

Saturday 14 August

5:00 pm - 5:15 pm

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

25/08/2021 18:00

Krispy Kreme Westfield Newmarket

277/309 Broadway, Newmarket, Auckland 1023

Saturday 14 August

11:00 am - 12:10 pm

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

25/08/2021 18:00

Mission Bay Liquor Mission Bay

21/35 Tamaki Drive,, Mission Bay,, Auckland 1071

Saturday 14 August

4:40 pm - 4:55 pm

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

25/08/2021 18:00

St Heliers Mall

33-39 Saint Heliers Bay Road, St Heliers,, Auckland 1071

Saturday 14 August

10:00 am - 11:00 am

Stay at home, test immediately and on or around day 5 after last exposure and continue to stay at home until you receive a negative day 5 test result. Call Healthline for what to do next.

25/08/2021 16:00

Browns St Heliers Mall Cafe

33-39 Saint Heliers Bay Road, St Heliers, Auckland 1071

Saturday 14 August

10:00 am - 11:00 am

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

25/08/2021 14:00

Maskell Street Liquor

29 Maskell Street, St Heliers, Auckland 1071

Tuesday 17 August

6:30 pm - 7:00 pm

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

24/08/2021 12:00

Meadowbank Roast

8 Saint Johns Road,, Meadowbank, Auckland 1072

Tuesday 17 August

1:00 pm - 1:15 pm

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

24/08/2021 12:00

Mobil Clearview

350 Saint Heliers Bay Road, Kohimarama, Auckland 1071

Monday 16 August

6:00 am - 6:15 am

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

24/08/2021 12:00

The Village Dairy

543 Remuera Road, Remuera, Auckland 1050

Tuesday 17 August

10:00 am - 10:15 am

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

24/08/2021 12:00

Upland liquor spot

545 Remuera Road, Remuera, Auckland 1050

Saturday 14 August

4:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

24/08/2021 12:00

Upland liquor spot

545 Remuera Road, Remuera, Auckland 1050

Monday 16 August

5:30 pm - 6:00 pm

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

24/08/2021 12:00

Upland liquor spot

545 Remuera Road, Remuera, Auckland 1050

Tuesday 17 August

5:30 pm - 6:00 pm

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

24/08/2021 12:00

Moretons Bar & Restaurant St Heliers

425 Tamaki Drive, St Heliers, Auckland 1071

Monday 16 August

5:45 pm - 8:00 pm

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

23/08/2021 18:00

Level 1 to Level 3 Green Car Park including escalator Westfield Newmarket

277 Broadway, Newmarket, Auckland 1023

Saturday 14 August

11:10 am - 12:20 pm

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

23/08/2021 16:00

Level 3 Green Car Park to Level 1 including escalator Westfield Newmarket

277 Broadway, Newmarket, Auckland 1023

Saturday 14 August

10:50 am - 12:00 pm

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

23/08/2021 16:00

Knobs & Knockers Grafton

1 Burton Street, Grafton, Auckland 1010

Monday 16 August

12:00 pm - 12:20 pm

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

22/08/2021 19:00

Optometry Lab Room 039 MDL Ground floor Building 502 Grafton Campus University of Auckland

85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland 1023

Tuesday 17 August

4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

22/08/2021 9:00

Remuera Exchange Auckland

2A Dilworth Avenue, Remuera, Auckland 1050

Monday 9 August

6:30 am - 7:45 am

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

22/08/2021 9:00

Remuera Exchange Auckland

2A Dilworth Avenue, Remuera, Auckland 1050

Tuesday 17 August

1:22 pm - 1:37 pm

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

22/08/2021 9:00

Remuera Exchange Auckland

2A Dilworth Avenue, Remuera, Auckland 1050

Monday 16 August

6:40 am - 7:17 am

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

22/08/2021 9:00

Stats 101 Room 115 OGGB Lecture Building 260 Fisher and Paykel lecture theatre City Campus University of Auckland

12 Grafton Road, Auckland Central, Auckland 1010

Tuesday 17 August

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm

Isolate at home for 14 days from date of last exposure. Test immediately, and on days 5 & 12 after last exposure. Call Healthline for what to do next.

22/08/2021 9:00

Newsletter - 24th August

Hello from my home office 24/8/21

It’s a worrying time for us all, as we return to Level 4 lockdown for the first time in over a year. The daily routines of managing work and childcare from home, the daily update at 1pm and walks around the neighbourhood are somewhat familiar by now, but I know this will be a very difficult time for many in the community, and that the lockdown affects everyone in different ways. Business owners in particular are still recovering from the serious setbacks of 2020. If you are aware of anyone who needs help or support during this lockdown, please reach out. There are many community groups offering assistance, and I’m happy to help co-ordinate if needed. Remember to virtually check in with friends, family, and neighbours to make sure everyone is doing okay.

Face coverings are now mandatory at all businesses and services still open at Level 4. This includes supermarkets, pharmacies and petrol stations. Everyone is encouraged to wear a mask whenever leaving their home, but it is not mandatory to wear a mask when you are outside, so long as you keep your distance and at no stage come within 2 metres of any other bubble. Take one with you anyway, just in case! This new variant spreads so quickly, it’s really important that we’re all extra cautious out there.

Remember to keep checking the Ministry of Health website for updates on locations of interest. Sadly our ward currently has identified sites in Remuera, Newmarket, Mission Bay and St Heliers. Due to the nature of the Delta strain and how infectious it is, we know these locations will continue to grow along with those who will be required to self-isolate and get tested. Remember that you are only required to get a test if you were at a location of interest at the time and date specified, if you have been classified as a close contact, or if you have cold and flu symptoms.

On the subject of testing, I want to acknowledge the huge efforts of the many health professionals working long hours to process tests. Let’s continue to be patient and kind towards those staff that are integral to the fight against Covid-19.

I understand how tempting our many wonderful Ōrākei neighbourhood playgrounds and park facilities are. However, if we are to beat this, we need to resist the temptation and work together to stop the spread. Staff have taped off our most popular playgrounds, but sadly we are already seeing some of our taping destroyed. So please, even if you can’t see a closed sign on the equipment, stay clear of all playground equipment, basketball courts, pump tracks, skate parks, and park benches. These are the rules set by the Ministry of Health.  Dog rules also change under Level 4 restrictions. All dogs should be kept on a leash, including when exercising in off-leash areas. This reduces the risk of coming into close contact with someone else, or with other dogs.

As you will have heard, libraries are closed under Level 4. If you have library books at home, hold on to them for now and return them when libraries re-open.  I know the library is important for many in our community, particularly at this unsettling time, so don’t forget we have an extensive online collection available through our library website.

Finally, whilst our lockdown is frustrating for many, we have done it before, and if we want to get out of Level 4 as quickly as possible, we need to work together and do it again.  So please, stay in your bubble and stay local. I am always available if needed, 021 971 786 or desley.simpson@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Desley

Newsletter - 1st July

Earlier this week, Auckland Council signed off its 10-Year Budget (2021-2031), our Recovery Budget. The plan consists of a record $31.8 billion investment to assist economic recovery, deliver increased renewals for our ageing infrastructure, fast-track improvements to water quality, alongside a reduction in non-essential spending. It has one of the highest levels of investment back into our ward of any Long-Term Plan in the history of Auckland Council.

How is it funded? First, this budget builds on our record $120 million in savings and efficiencies from the Emergency Budget, locking in $90 million of savings for every year of the ten-year budget. It’s a target we need to meet, and it is achievable. Second, we will temporarily increase our borrowing, having discussed this with our rating agencies. They have indicated that in this Covid-impacted environment, they are comfortable with our budget as outlined. Our average general rates increase of 5% then 3.5% for the remaining years gives us a $900 million investment opportunity in the first three years of the budget, to deliver more, faster.

Feedback on the draft budget from the Ōrākei Ward showed more support for than against. Both local boards (Ōrākei Local Board and Waitematā Local Board) supported the budget (in fact, 20 of the 21 local boards were in support) and based on that feedback, so did I.

So, what’s confirmed in the plan for the Ōrākei Ward area over the next 3 years?

Parks
Colin Maiden Park will receive nearly $3 million to upgrade sports fields, add lighting, paths, and other amenities to improve its use. Secure funding will also support the development of a third sports field and lighting at Shore Road East Reserve. Thomas Bloodworth Reserve will also receive funding for an upgrade.

Transport
The north-south links to the Glen Innes to Tamaki Drive Shared Path (which I have advocated for since 2013) are finally funded. This will improve road safety and reduce congestion by providing off-road access to schools and commuters and connect multiple communities across the Pourewa Valley. This has been in the Ōrākei Local Board’s top three most advocated for projects for every ten-year plan since Auckland Council began. Great to finally have it funded.

The seaward-side footpath on Tamaki Drive, alongside the new separated cycleway on the causeway, will also be funded, allowing this project to be fully realized. Don’t ask why it wasn’t part of the road raising/separated cycleway project in the first place!

Often the most wanted transport improvements are smaller things like new bus shelters, safety improvements around pedestrian crossings or footpath improvements. The Ōrākei Local Board will receive just under $3 million over the next three years to deliver these small but often requested transport improvements. The Waitemata Local Board will also receive just under $3 million.

Environment and Climate
Funding from the Natural Environment Targeted Rate will go towards restoring and enhancing the natural environment of the Pourewa Valley, including St Johns Bush, Kepa Bush, Selwyn Bush and Tahapa Reserve. A dedicated staff member will oversee the delivery of the Pourewa Integrated Plan, which will see some wonderful environmental outcomes for the valley. The Natural Environment Targeted rate will also ensure continued delivery of Kauri dieback mitigation measures in our area, including at Dingle Dell in St Heliers.

Tamaki Drive will receive funding for climate mitigation work, which will include the implementation of temporary flood barriers along the sea wall, as well as installation of the non-return valves on existing stormwater outlets.

The reserves alongside Portland Road will also receive funding for work to restore and enhance their wetlands this year, finishing with the road raising component – both reducing the impacts of flooding.

Community
The Meadowbank Community Centre will receive funding to deliver a major rebuild. Again, this has been on the ‘most wanted’ list for over 9 years but now the Ōrākei Local Board will make it happen.
Regional grants have been reinstated and are now available to support the incredible work done by the various groups dedicated to positive community outcomes. A key example of region wide grants for our area includes the funding of our Eastern Bays Songbird project, which has significantly reduced pests in the Eastern Bays and tangibly brought back more birdlife to our area.

As a result of more grant funding, Ōrākei Local Board grants will also be available for community groups to deliver further local investment where needed.

Water
Responding to health warning signs all around Hobson Bay, the increase in the Water Quality Targeted Rate (WQTR) will enable significant investment six years earlier than planned into the Eastern Beaches from Parnell to Glendowie (in the first instance focused on Hobson Bay), Newmarket and the Tamaki Estuary. This project is called the Eastern Isthmus Programme and had a strong level of local support in ward feedback.

As Watercare deliver new wastewater infrastructure projects such as the Newmarket Gully Tunnel, we will optimise that investment by undertaking stormwater upgrades and stormwater separation. In fact, the one off 5% rates rise (dropping down to 3.5% for the remaining years) also delivers 50% of below the ground infrastructure renewals for us in central Auckland.

We have a long way to go in terms of improving the quality of our water, but the level of investment provided through the WQTR is a big step in the right direction and one I have particularly championed for this budget. Overall, this rate will enable an additional $255.9 million of investment.

Regional funding will also deliver renewed sluice gates at our much-loved Ōrākei Basin. This will result in improved water quality through better flushing of the basin.

Whilst we shouldn’t always compare, it’s worth noting that other councils around New Zealand such as Tauranga, Wellington and Dunedin have decided on a much higher general rates rises than Auckland, as they too tackle the issue of replacing ageing infrastructure and planning for future growth. It is also worth noting that while our rates income has increased, the percentage of revenue we get from rates has decreased to 37% in year one. We are doing more ourselves and relying less on ratepayers to fund all we do.

So, is it perfect? No, nothing is. We don’t know what the future will hold but in my personal opinion, backed by our treasury and finance team and the Office of the Auditor-General, this budget is fiscally prudent enough to ensure that if we stay safe in our Covid-impacted world, we can recover well. If we don’t, we can weather that storm too.

Happy to discuss any aspects of the budget with you if required.

Newsletter 30th April

Earlier this month in our Finance and Performance Committee meeting, I moved a resolution noting council had reached a record $119 million of savings in just 9 months, $1 million short of our Emergency Budget savings target of $120 million. It’s sometimes hard to articulate how big that achievement actually is, so for context I’ll tell you that this figure is larger than the total rates income from 16 of our 21 local boards, and higher than the residential income from three more – no mean feat let me tell you. As we continue to search for more savings and more efficiencies, I will continue to push the council to deliver cost efficiency while ensuring that we focus on improving essential services that Aucklanders rely on. Good council news isn’t always easy to find, but I’m sure you’ll agree this is definitely one.

On a slightly different tack, yesterday you might have read about the High Court action against Auckland Council to stop the ongoing Queen Street pedestrian trial. Last year, a decision for the City Centre Masterplan refresh came to council’s Planning Committee. The report outlined the future of the central city and council’s approach to placemaking. While much of the plan had merit, one of its key changes was no east-west connection. As the mayor put it, central Auckland would now be a place to go to, not through.

Vehicles wanting to go east-west would need to travel an ‘around’ route via The Strand (which is a state highway designation) to the motorway and back off on the western side. My concerns voiced at the meeting covered three key points:

1.   Before we adopted any new plan, we needed to know the practicalities of how this would work, along with the associated traffic modelling. Auckland Transport commented (quite rightly in my opinion) they would need at least a year to figure this out and I believed we should see that work first.

2.   No east-west connection. Many of you have contacted me voicing dismay at this change. Concern from me was further enhanced due to the re-routing option that would only work if Waka Kotahi- NZ Transport Agency (central government) prioritised infrastructure for this – which has yet to happen despite this plan dating back to 2012. Hasn’t the central city enough cones and disruption already? Why don’t we wait until the CRL and other key works are completed before embarking on even more disruption?

3.   The cost. Transport infrastructure is expensive, we have many competing demands from all parts of Auckland, and we have already spent considerable millions on the central city. We need to be mindful to spend equitably.

So, while I believed in some of the long-term outcomes presented, I was nervous about the practical implications of pushing forward with that work without knowing details around implications.

So did not vote for the refreshed City Centre Masterplan but was considerably outnumbered!

Fast track from last year to this year. East /west route is now limited to one lane on Quay street and busses are taking up almost all of Customs Street. Victoria street is a chicane for west/east vehicles in and out of bus lanes (kachink for $150 driving in bus lane fines) and Queen Street is, well,……I’m struggling for words here….let’s just say it’s not working well for most people. As for the inclusion of that around the city off ramp? Still not in any plans.

So, what we now see today is a group of people totally frustrated as to their lack of ability to be heard re their concerns and looking at the courts to resolve.

Sad this could not be settled in another way as the cost of legal support for both sides comes at a financially challenging time for all. My understanding is that the court hearing will take place next week - will keep you posted 

Finally, we are currently in the final stages of the process to determine our 10-year budget. In the next weeks, I will provide further detail about the steps to get us to the final decision, including unpacking the feedback we received from our local communities. What we know to date includes the response from the Colmar Brunton feedback. This was an independent piece of research speaking to more than 4000 Aucklanders from every local board area and found that 46 per cent of respondents supported the proposed 10-year budget, with 37 per cent of respondents opposed.

Enjoy your weekend and remember school is back next week.

Newsletter - 4th March

Going into lockdown twice in as many weeks is a worrying time for all of us but specifically business owners who are still recovering from last year. Knowing that the losses in previous lockdown were estimated at between $30-40million per day in lost GDP - as well as around 200 jobs lost per day – there is no doubt Auckland is still taking an economic hit from Covid.

Council playgrounds are closed under level 3 so if you need to leave your home by car please be extra vigilant as there will be potentially more children and adults getting some ‘out of the house time’ on our footpaths. Many small businesses are shut but try and check out those who are open and support them if you can. Equally ‘at home time’ can be stressful for some, so a friendly phone call to check in on neighbours, friends and family can make a positive difference.

I’ve shared with you previously that Auckland Council’s drop in revenue last year was significant. We now know the impact will be ongoing and with losses estimated to total $1billion by 2024. We are committed to the prudent management of our finances and a continued focus on a large amount of savings, while maintaining the essential services that Aucklanders rely on and supporting the region’s economic recovery. Therefore, the 10-year budget we will adopt in June, and now open for public consultation, will be one focused on recovery rather than business as usual.

I understand the scrutiny that is placed on the setting of rates. It is really important to me that we address any concerns about rates and the way we spend ratepayer dollars upfront. Pre-Covid, much of council’s income - 60% - came from non-rates sources, much greater than any other council in New Zealand. In this budget, we will need to do more to help ourselves and to this end we are increasing our short-term borrowing; continuing our drive for savings and efficiencies; and selling surplus assets to reinvest in critical infrastructure.  We are also looking at other income, like introducing a targeted rate on Vector of $10.5 million per year (which they support). This seeks to reduce the risk of Vector’s powerlines from trees owned by council, ultimately improving public safety around power lines and reducing power outages. As for rates in general, the Mayor’s proposal seeks to retain an annual 3.5% rates increase with a one-off general rate increase of 5% for 2021/2022. This increase forms part of an overall investment package which will enable $900 million of additional investment over the next three years and would mean amongst other things a higher level of investment in projects in our two local board areas (Waitemata and Orakei). Some specific examples include restoring the Auckland Art Gallery’s beautiful heritage building and the long-awaited north/south links to the Tamaki Drive to Glen Innes shared path. However, without this level of investment projects like the restoration of the Art Gallery would be deferred out for at least three years of the plan.

As part of the budget, we will also remain committed to making savings and providing value for money to ratepayers. On that, it’s worth noting that the savings we have made since 2011/2012 mean we are operating for $316 million less than we would have otherwise, all without impacting service levels. That’s a cumulative total of just under $2Billion.

Further to that, as part of our current Emergency Budget, as of the end of January, we have made a record $105 million of savings through organisational restructuring including a review of how and where services are delivered, a reduction in the council’s vehicle fleet and more efficient procurement. We are now proposing to lock in $90 million of the savings that have been made in the current financial year, as well as selling surplus property that is no longer needed or fit for purpose, to play our part in reinvesting in the critical infrastructure Auckland needs.

Knowing how important feedback has been on water quality in the past, the mayor has also proposed we extend the Water Quality Targeted Rate (WQTR) out from 2021-2031, which makes sense in terms of enabling further investment around the region. However, I personally don’t think that proposal goes far enough. That extension would see investment in the likes of Hobson Bay held up for another six years.  Based on the numerous sites across Ōrākei that have public health signage, I’m interested in your views as to whether we should wait six years for that much-needed investment or get it started now. To that end, there is an alternative proposal I’ve put forward to increase the WQTR in line with the general rates increase and bring forward work that will address the conditions of our water along the Eastern Beaches from Quay Street to Glendowie, as well as the Tāmaki catchment, along with issues facing the communities of Parnell and Newmarket. The cost of that equates to $3.30 for the average residential ratepayer.

But none of the projects are guaranteed.

Feedback is now open on the Recovery Budget (until March 22) and it’s really important to me that we hear your thoughts on all that is proposed. For information on how to take part in the consultation process online or at one of our events (depending on alert levels), please see our website here. As always, if you want to discuss any matters including our proposed Recovery Budget please reach out to me. 

Stay safe in your bubbles and best wishes as always.

Desley

Newsletter 27 January

I hope you are all feeling refreshed after a break over the festive period and enjoying our wonderful Kiwi Summer. Even though Council meetings were in recess I stayed in touch assisting with constituent queries including an urgent issue for one St Heliers resident on Christmas Day. With overseas travel being a ‘no go’ it was wonderful to spend time at various NZ locations, a reminder as to what a great part of the world we live in. My holiday included time on  Waiheke with my family, especially my 3 wonderful grandchildren whom I love but some days definitely tyre-ed me out! I’m missing being at the beach, but happy to be back in the office and raring to go - our official council meetings start up again next week.

The next few months will be busy as we enter the consultation and deliberation phases of the Long-Term Plan 2021-2031 (10-year budget) process. Public Consultation will be open from 22nd February until 22nd March and will involve a series of public meetings; webinars; drop-in sessions across the region as well as the opportunity to Have Your Say online. I’ll provide details of those events in my next newsletter. In the meantime, you can read over the Mayor’s proposal here and consider how we might best respond to the impact of COVID-19; climate change; water quality issues and our options for rating and regional investment. I’ll also update you on my amendment to the mayor’s proposal to assist water quality next time too.

I’ve received a lot of feedback from cyclists about the uneven surface on the new cycleway on Tāmaki Drive between Ngapipi and Solent Street. Owing to the width of the path, the asphalt was laid by hand rather than by machine. This has worked successfully in other locations but in this case the delivery was not up to standard. The contractor will be fixing this, obviously at no extra cost to the ratepayer.  Auckland Transport acknowledged that the path was slightly uneven before Christmas and after confirmation that the undulations did not pose a safety risk for cyclists made the decision  to allow it to be used and  delay its repair until after the festive period to prevent the chaos of a new holiday period traffic management plan. I find it unacceptable we didn’t get this right the first time around, however I’m pleased to hear improvements will be made - at no extra cost.

In terms of the broader Tāmaki Drive project (which as you know isn’t just a cycle lane project), work between the Ngapipi Bridge and Solent Street intersection will be completed in May 2021. Work will commence on the next section – between Solent Street and the Strand – and be completed in August of this year. At this stage I have managed to keep tidal flows for peak hour vehicle traffic to somewhat mitigate the considerable inconvenience this project causes to regular Tāmaki Drive users.

Sticking with Auckland Transport news – they announced last week that Off-Peak fares will become permanent on 7th February. Anyone using an AT-HOP card between 9am and 3pm and after 6.30pm during the week; and anytime at weekends will receive a 10% discount on their fare! They’ve also introduced a daily cap of $20 for all buses, trains and inner harbour ferry services no matter how far you travel.

KiwiRail are in the midst of some vital track improvements meaning that rail closures will continue into February. Buses will replace trains on the Eastern Line this weekend – full details of which lines are operational and when are available here. Again, this is an inconvenience, but one they are not able to avoid.

I know those of you not able to watch cup racing  live at one of our local vantage points or on the water, have been glued to the television following the exciting Prada Cup races – what a great opportunity to show the world our beautiful Hauraki Gulf! I’ve also been down to visit the America’s Cup Village and the big screen at Summer in the Square. One thing to remember though is that ferry timetables will be slightly altered on race days. If you’re planning on taking a ferry anytime soon, best to double check if your sailing will be impacted here

Did you know you can also purchase a limited edition 36th America’s Cup AT HOP card? These can be purchased online or at your nearest location – a great memento!

You will no doubt have heard about New Zealand’s first community case of COVID-19 since November. As of Wednesday 27th January, it appears the infected person has not passed the virus onto anyone else, included to 15 close contacts who have all tested negative. While important questions are being asked regarding how the woman contracted the virus in a managed isolation facility, we can consider ourselves very lucky that she did everything right – she used the COVID Tracer app everywhere she went, and she was tested when she showed symptoms. A big thank you to her for doing her bit to keep us all safe; and a fitting reminder of how important using your COVID Tracer app is when you are out and about.

Although most of us are back at work, we can look forward to some public holidays including Auckland Anniversary this Monday 1st February. Below are just some of the events being held this weekend:

·         Vector Lights show on Auckland Harbour Bridge every 15minutes from 9pm until midnight between 29th January and 1st February.

·         New Zealand Folk Festival in Kumeu Showgrounds

·         The Auckland International Buskers Festival across the waterfront and Viaduct Harbour

·         The Chinese New Year Festival and Market Day will be held on Saturday 30th January at the ASB Showgrounds

·         The Auckland Anniversary Regatta will be held on February 1st – you can watch from Westhaven or various other locations across the city.

·         The SeePort Festival will be held Sunday 31st January at Captain Cook Wharf

The following weekend, head down to Ōrākei Domain next Saturday 6th February from 10-3pm for Waitangi Day ki Ōkahu hosted by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei. This is a free day out involving delicious food, arts & crafts stalls and health screenings and is a smoke-free, alcohol-free and zero-waste event!

Best wishes to you all and lets hope 2021 is a better year for everyone

Desley