A Word from the Mayor
Before I look forward I want to look back and thank all those who made a significant contribution to the number of ANZAC services that were held across our district, every event takes meticulous planning and attention to detail, therefore I want to acknowledge and thank those who attended to this preparation for the events to occur and of course to all our community who attended to ensure we were able to remember and show our respect.
Next Sunday we should take the opportunity to recognise our Mums. The importance of Mother’s Day is to acknowledge the unique and invaluable role that Mums play. From the moment of giving birth to nurturing and guiding the lives of their children. It’s a day of appreciation for their love, sacrifice and dedication, so make sure you give thanks to your Mum next Sunday.
Its very exciting from a visitor attraction perspective that the spectacular venue at Waipara Winehouse is again opening its doors for live performances and how special that attendees next Sunday will welcome Six60 an iconic New Zealand band, you cannot get much better with the perfect backdrop of the picturesque Waipara valley. This I am sure will be the beginning of many more successful performances.
The Adverse Events Committee is meeting on a regular basis capably led by Chair Dan Hodgen. We are aware that whilst some rain had been forecast this has not materialised across the district and the extreme dry conditions remain. We are committed to help and guide our district through, and urge contact with the Rural Support Trust as a trusted ally during these trying times.
As many of you will be aware our council has just completed the engagement and consultation for the Long-Term Plan. Under the Local Government Act 2002 the council is required to use the Special Consultative Procedure and It was satisfying to me that we received good attendance at the public meetings held in Hanmer Springs, Cheviot and Amberley. As a council we were focussed on reaching as many people as possible and I want to show appreciation to my fellow elected members who attended various community meetings to ensure our residents and ratepayers had the opportunity to understand the issues and the process and last but not least I am encouraged that many have taken the time to read, listen and understand the draft LTP and submit your thoughts for councillors to evaluate and consider.
This is an important time as together we shape the future of the Hurunui District for the next 10 years and beyond. We are indeed fortunate to live in a district that is bountiful in its natural attributes, with wonderful people that do so much to enable our place to flourish let’s take a moment to celebrate what we have got not focus on what we haven’t.
Kia kaha.