Table of Contents
1 PURPOSE OF THE REPORT ...... 1
2 HOW WE VIEW THE DISTRICT...... 1
3 OUR PEOPLE...... 2
4 OUR COMMUNITY ...... 5
5 THE DYNAMICS OF OUR ECONOMY...... 11
6 THE VALUES PEOPLE PLACE ON OUR NATURAL RESOURCES...... 18
7 THE QUALITY OF OUR NATURAL ENVIRONMENT...... 20
8 THE EFFECTS OF NATURAL PROCESSES ON OUR ACTIVITIES...... 26
9 THE QUALITY OF OUR BUILT ENVIRONMENT ...... 29
10 THE VALUES THE COMMUNITY PLACES ON OUR HERITAGE ...... 30
11 THE SOLID WASTE (RUBBISH) OUR COMMUNITY GENERATES ...... 30
12 OUR TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE...... 32
Introduction
1 Purpose of the Report 1.1 There are many elements that, combined, make Wanganui District what it is and shape its unique character. Our people, our businesses, our natural environment, our city and rural areas, our farmlands all help define who we are and provide us with opportunities to live, work and spend our spare time. 1.2 This report has been prepared to help us understand the condition of our District. It brings together information to provide a snapshot picture of how we are doing right now. From this report we can begin to see where we, as a community, are doing well and where things could be improved. 1.3 This report will be developed and produced regularly as a summary document for all the information collected about the state of our District. At the same time other more detailed reporting is likely to be happening, reflecting the specific legislative and other needs of the agencies involved in our community. 1.4 Ultimately all this state-of-the-District monitoring and reporting will assist decision- makers in the community to make informed decisions about our resources and to improve the well-being of our community and our environment.
2 How we view the District 2.1 Here is a diagram of the elements that contribute to our District’s well-being. These provide a framework for the information contained in this report.
General Wellbeing
Economic Social
Environmental
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The Social Elements of Our District
3 Our People 3.1 Understanding the people of Wanganui enables us to look critically at ourselves as a community. We get a measure of how healthy and vibrant the community is. Where we identify problems we can start to work toward change. 3.2 A healthy, vibrant community makes Wanganui socially attractive and a pleasant place to live in and visit. It also makes Wanganui attractive to others who might want to come and live here. If we can achieve feelings of confidence in the community, we can avoid the negative effects that can occur when confidence is low.
Our demographics 3.3 Understanding changes and trends in our population allows us to see potential issues facing the community – health and housing standards, for example. It also gives us information about future resource needs, such as likely future housing or education pressures. A growing, youthful population needs more facilities like schools, hospitals and police. A declining population, or an ageing population, creates different resource pressures, such as specialised health care facilities and improved disability access into public areas. Most of us live in the City …. 3.4 Wanganui’s population is around 44,000. About 9% of people in the District live outside the Wanganui urban area. We are declining in numbers and our population is ageing …. 3.5 Wanganui District population has grown in the last 30 years, but at a relatively slow rate. This had slowed down to only 0.6% between 1991 and 1996. Between 1996 and 2001 the population declined by just under 4%. 3.6 Between 1996 and 2001 the largest growth (5%) was in the 40 years and over age group. The 0-19 years age group dropped by over 6% during this same period. The 20-39 years age group lost 15%. 3.7 Wanganui District has a higher percentage of people 50 years and older than the national average. In 1986, 27% of the Wanganui population was 50 years and older, compared with the national average of 24%. By 2001, 31% of the Wanganui population was in this age group, compared with 28% nationally. 3.8 The over-65 years age group made up just above 16% of the total Wanganui population in 2001. In the rest of New Zealand 12% of the population was 65 and over. 3.9 The under-five years age group has declined slightly over the past few years, at about 7% of the total population. This is the same as the national population. More of us are living alone …. 3.10 Households are changing in Wanganui, with more people living alone. In 1986, 22% of Wanganui households had a single occupant. By 1996 this group was nearly 26% of households and in 2001 it had risen to just under 28%. This compares with 23% of households nationally being single-occupant. This increase in people living alone may be related to the ageing population.
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A higher proportion of the Wanganui population is Maori than in NZ generally…. 3.11 The percentage of Maori in the population is growing. In 1986, 15% of the Wanganui population was Maori. By 1996 18% were Maori, especially young Maori, and in 2001 almost 21% were Maori. This is higher than the national average. In 2001, Maori made up fewer than 15% of the total New Zealand population.
Maori Population
25% 20% 21% 15% 18% 15% 10% 5% 0% 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005
3.12 In 2001, 13% of Maori were under 5 years and almost 4% were 65 years or older. At the same time 5.5% of non-Maori were under 5 years and 19% were 65 years or over.
The health of our people 3.13 The physical health of individuals is an indicator of the well-being of the community generally and can show where problems exist. Poor health can lead to reduced personal enjoyment of life. Health problems can also put significant economic pressures on the community. How healthy are we? 3.14 According to a report released in January 2000 by Good Health Wanganui and the Wanganui District Council, our area has hospital admission rates higher than the national average. In particular, we do not do well in rates of injuries (fractures, motor vehicle accidents, poisoning etc), cancers, asthma, cerebrovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and osteoarthritis. We are below the national average, though, for heart disease admissions and slightly below for diabetes-related admissions. 3.15 Admissions to the Wanganui hospital have increased in recent years. Between 1996 and 1998, total Good Health Wanganui patients increased by 11%, with “in-patients” (those that stay longer than 24 hours) decreasing and day patients increasing. Emergency attendances increased by 10% over that time, with outpatients dropping slightly. 3.16 A higher proportion of Maori are admitted to the public hospital than their proportion of the total population. Almost 40% of all acute admissions for children aged 0 to 4 years are Maori. Maori have high admission rates for acute respiratory infections and other infectious diseases, asthma and conditions related to pregnancy and birth. Non-Maori have higher rates of cancer, heart disease, other circulatory disorders, blood diseases (e.g. anaemia) and chronic degenerative conditions. 3.17 The hospital waiting list dropped by nearly 22% between 1997 and 1998, to 1791 in 1998.
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Our leisure and recreation activities 3.18 Active participation in leisure and recreation activities is an indicator of a community’s health. Active participation encourages communication between people from different cultures and backgrounds, improves how they feel about themselves and their community and generally improves their physical and mental well-being.
So, how active are we? 3.19 Many team sports in the District report declining numbers of participants, although some individual sports numbers are increasing. Notable increases include golf club membership (up 9% between 2001 and 2002), tennis club membership (up 16% for the same period) and Masters Games participants (a 70% increase between 1993 and 2002).
3.20 Halberg Sports (sport opportunities for school children with disabilities) has experienced a 142% increase in participants between 2001 and 2002. There were 208 participants in 2002. 3.21 The use of swimming pools in the City has remained roughly the same between 1999 and 2002 (around 25,000 at Wanganui East and 145,000 at the Splash Centre). The Gonville pool has experienced maintenance difficulties since the 2000-01 season, which is reflected in attendance numbers. 3.22 Visitor numbers to the Sarjeant Art Gallery have steadily increased, with a 7% increase between 2001 and 2002. School and other learning visits to the Gallery have increased by 17% over the same time. While the Art Gallery has had more visitors, fewer people are attending performances at the Opera House (an 18% decline between 2001 and 2002). Theatre attendance is up at both Amdram and Repertory by a combined 31% (2001 to 2002). Numbers visiting Museum exhibitions have declined by 16% for the same period. 3.23 The Wanganui Arts Festival was held four times between 1998 and 2004. The 1998 festival included 16 events, with 5,220 people attending. In 2000, there were 27 events with 16,000 attendances. The number of events decreased to 22 in 2002 but attendance held at 14,192. In 2004 the number of events continued to decrease (19) but attendance increased with 16,151 people attending. 3.24 Between 2000 and 2002 the number of library books issued has declined slightly (2%), from 745,047 in 2000 to 732,731 in 2002. The number of cardholders has dropped by 4% over the same period. About the same number of visits were made to the library between 1994 and 2002. What about our informal recreation resources? 3.25 Important informal facilities in the District are beaches, walkways, neighbourhood parks, streets (walking, cycling), the Whanganui River and the Tasman Sea. Levels of use are difficult to measure and predict, being influenced by changing demographics, fashion and income levels.
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The skills and education achievements of our people 3.26 Education is a key factor in improving access to employment (and to determining social and economic well-being). Our future depends on the skills of our people so we need to know what skills we currently have and what new skills might be needed so that our economy can grow. What sorts of qualifications do our adults have? 3.27 We have less people with formal qualifications than the rest of NZ. 3.28 In 1996, 31% of people in Wanganui had a tertiary qualification. This compares with 36% for the rest of the country. Conversely 38% of us have no qualifications (including school qualifications), compared with 31% in New Zealand generally.
3.29 Between 2000 and 2002, enrolments at the Universal College of Learning (UCOL) Wanganui campus (formerly the Wanganui Regional Community Polytechnic) declined by 36%. Enrolments in Community Education Services courses remained static (about 1200 enrolments) for the same period.
Where all this information came from……. • Statistics NZ Census data. • Social Indicators Report, Wanganui, June 2003.
4 Our Community
How our community feels about Wanganui 4.1 Knowing what makes our community unique, and what we identify with, gives us an idea of the elements that contribute to community pride. Knowing if people in Wanganui feel good about the District indicates where things are going well. It can also indicate that things aren’t so good. 4.2 Discovering which aspects of Wanganui people feel good about can provide an opportunity for community and facility enhancement. Where people have negative feelings about the place then steps may be taken to improve things. 4.3 So, how do people feel about living in Wanganui? In October 2003 the Wanganui District Council included in the Community Views Survey, which included both urban and rural residents, a section called “Wanganui as a Place to Live”.
44% of residents indicated they think Wanganui is better in terms of the range and standard of community facilities and services on which Council can have an influence than it was three years ago (30% in 2000). 42% say it is the same (47% in 2000). 8% feel Wanganui is worse than three years ago (18% in 2000).
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Wanganui residents are similar to like districts and on a par with residents nationwide in saying their district is worse than three years ago.
Wanganui residents more likely to think Wanganui is better than it was three years ago are:
Urban residents.
Residents aged 18 to 39 years.
NZ Maori residents.
Residents with an annual household income of $50,000 or less.
Those residing in the District more than 10 years.
Non-ratepayers. In the “Living in Wanganui” section of the September 1999 Community Views Survey, significant trends included:
Fewer people indicated they are very likely to still be in Wanganui in 1-2 years’ time (85% in 1991 to 81% in 1999).
More people said they would move from Wanganui if they had the opportunity (33% in 1994 to 41% in 1999).
More people said they would move away from Wanganui for employment opportunities (23% in 1994 to 44% in 1999). These points were not explored in the 2003 survey. 4.4 The 2003 survey identified the following advantages (in ranked order) of living in Wanganui:
Climate.
Compact/easy to get around.
Good lifestyle/quiet pace of life/rural environment.
Geographic location/central.
Friendly people/community spirit.
Good size/small community/not overcrowded. These advantages remained much the same over the 1991, 1992, 1994, 1999 and 2003 surveys. The friendly people/good community category ranked first in the 1991, 1992 and 1994 surveys, but dropped to fifth place in 1999 and 2003. Climate jumped from third to first between 1999 and 2003. 4.5 The disadvantages (2003) were ranked as:
Unemployment/lack of employment opportunities (also the most-stated disadvantage in 1999), particularly for youth.
rd Rating levels (3 in 1999).
Council conservatism (not reported in 1999).
Poor Council performance/consultation (not reported in 1999).
nd Racial tension/Maori issues (2 in 1999).
Lack of economic/industry growth (not reported in 1999).
Youth issues/lack of youth activities (not reported in 1999).
th Crime rate/gangs/prison (5 in 1999).
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Roading/traffic/Dublin St Bridge (not reported in 1999).
th Shopping facilities/lack of variety (4 in 1999). 4.6 Over the successive surveys different issues were identified. Previously, for example, the state of the Whanganui River had been stated as a disadvantage of living in Wanganui. This did not rate as an issue in the 1999 or 2003 surveys. 4.7 In the 2003 survey, the “Most Important Issues Facing Wanganui District in the Next Few Years” section was included. The main issues reported (in order) were:
Dublin St Bridge upgrade/replacement.
Developing the Port/Deep Water Port.
Unemployment/jobs for youth.
Attract/encourage business/industry.
Keep rates down.
Improved roads/traffic issues.
Riverbank maintenance/flood control.
Population growth. What is our community’s sense of identity and how do we define “our place”? Respondents to the 1999 Community Views Survey thought that Wanganui was most known throughout New Zealand for the River (62%) (positively, negatively and neutral), Moutoa Gardens (40%) and Sports/sports facilities (35%). How does our community view other parts of the region? Country? How parochial are we as a community? The question as it stands is difficult to provide information for. Perhaps it would be ok to turn the problem around: “How is Wanganui perceived locally? Nationally?” To this question we can respond: • The image that Wanganui presents to people at both a local and a national level was considered to be a major problem by the participants in the Local Business Forum and the Arts, Culture and Heritage consultation process, both held in late 2002. • The Postcard Tourism Survey 2003 had 90 respondents – 38% New Zealanders (from a variety of locations), 62% from overseas (mostly from Europe, Australia and Britain). Most (64%) said that Wanganui was “wonderful”, with the best features (in order) being:
The Waimarie.
The people.
The River.
The town centre.
The Museum.
The Sarjeant Gallery. Most respondents said “nothing” was the worst aspect of Wanganui.
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Levels of harmony within our community 4.8 Harmony is an important part of any healthy community. Knowing how members of a community feel about each other provides an opportunity to enhance the positives and maybe address issues affecting harmony. The more harmonious the community, generally the nicer it is to live in. What is the state of inter-cultural relationships in the community? Why? What is the basis? The 2003 Community Views Survey identified “racial disharmony/Maori issues” as the ninth most important issue to face Wanganui in the next few years (8%), down from fourth place in 1999. How do young people feel about Wanganui and their role in the community?
In 2001, there were 6687 people aged between 10 and 19 years in the Wanganui District. This was 15.4% of the total population. Any particular year in this age range has about 700 members. Numbers of 20 to 34 year olds are somewhat less than those for younger age groups, reflecting the tendency for this age group to leave for training, employment and travel.
The 2000 Youth Crime and Safety Survey considered what young people like and dislike about Wanganui, what improvements they could suggest, what young people thought they would do when they left school, whether this would be in Wanganui and whether the young people had any particular worries. The 616 respondents aged from 10 to 19 years were from 10 city schools. The good things about Wanganui, in order, were:
Mainstreet 7%
Sports grounds 7%
Small city, easy to get around 6%
Attractions, e.g. Kowhai Park, Virginia Lake 6%
What respondents thought was not good about Wanganui were:
The people 14%
Crime 9%
Shops 6%
Gangs 5%
Fighting, violence, abuse 3%
The most suggested improvements were:
More youth activities 14%
More shops 12%
More attractions 7%
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66% thought they would move from Wanganui for work, mainly due to better wages and opportunities elsewhere. 42% thought they would return to Wanganui, 39% would not return and 19% were unsure.
The relationships within our community and the levels of “connectedness” 4.9 Communities are all about people and their relationships. Understanding those relationships can provide a picture of the quality of our community and the quality of life of our people. Information about the levels of connectedness can tell us where things are good and where improvements can be made. If loneliness, for example, is common throughout the community then understanding the extent to which people are affected by it can provide a basis for eliminating it. 4.10 Strong positive relationships within a community provide the basis for that community to be able to effectively compete. This can improve the economic growth potential of a community. Having shared goals also assists communities in achieving environmental outcomes. 4.11 By understanding the level of connectedness within the community we can start to put in place measures so that ultimately we have a strong, functional community. Are there barriers to social interaction in our community?
The total number of mobility trips taken has levelled between 2001 and 2002 at about 38,000 trips.
In the September 1999 Community Views Survey, 3% rated the Opera House and Memorial Hall as “not good/poor” due to poor access/facilities for disabled. 1% claimed that entry to local swimming pools was too expensive. 2% claimed costs made the use of sports grounds too expensive. 1% said that the Library fees are excessive. 1% said that wheelchair access to the Gallery was an impediment to use. 5% rated the CBD services as “not good/poor” due to parking issues. Some of the main disadvantages of living in Wanganui were unemployment/lack of employment opportunities (29%), racial disharmony/tension (7%), lack of things to do/social activities/nightlife (7%), retail downturn/lack of retail variety (5%), poor public transport/lack of public transport (5%). Conversely, the Community Views Survey found that 12% felt one of the main advantages of living in Wanganui was excellent facilities/amenities/services/everything a city needs. 16% felt good sports facilities/opportunities was a main advantage. Do we generally support each other?
18% of respondents to the 1999 Community Views Survey felt that one of the main advantages of living in Wanganui was the friendly people/nice people/good community. How socially active are Wanganui People?
The Wanganui District Council 1999 Community Views Survey found “Lack of things to do/social activities/night life” was (at 7%) the sixth most highly rated
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response to “What are the things you like least, or you see as the greatest disadvantages of living in the Wanganui District?”
People’s access to resources 4.12 Understanding how much access people in our community have to resources will tell us where access might be a problem. Where people don’t have access they are likely to have a reduced quality of life. This could affect the economic well-being of our community. How good is the community’s access to basic resources, e.g. telephones, power, transport?
No Vehicle
One Vehicle
100% 90% 90% Two Vehicle's 80% Three or more Vehicle's 70% 60% No Heating Options 50% 44% 40% No Access to Communication 29% 26% 30% Facilities 16% 13% Telephone Access 20% 9% 5% 10% 2% Fax Access 0% Wanganui Urban Households Internet Access
Do rural people have good access to resources they need, e.g. telephones?
Community's Basic Resources No Vehicle
One Vehicle 100% 92% 90% Two Vehicle's 80% Three or more Vehicle's 70% 60% 47% No Heating Options 50% 37% 40% 30% 32% No Access to Communication 30% Facilities 18% 20% Telephone Access 10% 2% 0.50% 2% Fax Access 0% Wanganui Rural Households Internet Access
Where all this information came from……. • Youth Crime and Safety Survey, Crime Prevention Unit, Wellington, with the Wanganui Safer Community Council, 2000. • Wanganui Census 2001. • Community Views Survey, Wanganui District Council and National Research Bureau Ltd, Auckland, August 2000. • Social Indicators Report, Rosemary Hovey, Wanganui District Council, June 2003. 1 0
Our Economy
5 The dynamics of our economy 5.1 The economic health of our District impacts on the well-being of our community and individuals within the community. It affects the affordability of services and the access we have to resources that influence the quality of our lives. 5.2 Economic development is a key element in the present and future quality of life in the District. Understanding the dynamics of our economy will help us facilitate economic growth that, with good management, will benefit everyone in our community.
To start with, where is our economic District? 5.3 The economy cannot easily be defined in spatial terms. It is wider than the place we know as our District, which is a political area. Our economy is not a discrete area – we are part of a national economy and, in some instances, a global economy. Of course, this will vary from industry to industry and sector to sector. In this respect monitoring “our economy” is a very tricky exercise! 5.4 In simple terms we could consider our economy to be the economic activities that happen within, say, the circulation area of the Wanganui Chronicle newspaper. It could also be the catchment of Affco, or our retailing areas. Knowing what’s happening in these areas will give us some idea about how we’re doing on the economic front.
Money flows Where do households source their money?
Wage,Salary or Self Employ ment
36% Superannuation 56%
Gov ernment Benefits
44% 26% Interest, Div idends, Rent & Non- Gov ernment Superannuation
(Note the percentages total more than 100% because most households have more than one source of income).
A general picture of our economy How strong is our economy compared with our peers? The median Wanganui income of $14,800 is 80% of the national median income of $18,500 (2001 Census). In Wanganui 61.9% of people aged 15 years and over have an annual income of $20,000 or less (52.8% NZ) while 6.4% have an annual income of $50,000 or more (11.5% NZ).
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The March quarter 2004 CPI for Wanganui was 1117 (index June quarter 1999 = 1000). Comparable figures were New Plymouth 1113, Palmerston North 1117, Napier Hastings 1122, Tauranga 1114, Rotorua 1116, New Zealand 1115. This indicates that the cost of living in Wanganui changes at much the same rate as the rest of New Zealand. Property values are one measure of household investment. The Wanganui Price Index for the December quarter 2003 was 1236. This index was set at 1000 in December 1989. Comparable values are New Plymouth 2095, Palmerston North 1408, Napier Hastings 2427, Tauranga 2251, Rotorua 1757, Gisborne 1750, New Zealand 2185. The April 2004 business confidence survey found that 93% of businesses surveyed considered the Wanganui economy had improved or remained stable in the previous six months. Eighty-one percent of businesses considered the local economy would improve or remain stable over the next six months. Ninety-seven percent of businesses believe their staffing numbers will either remain the same or increase over the next six months. Unemployment has fallen 37% over the last five years. Several businesses have received Fastforward funding from New Zealand Trade and Enterprises (NZTE) as high growth companies. The combined Regional Partnership of Ruapehu, Rangitikei and Wanganui districts has attracted $2 million for tourism development over the next three years.
Does the community have an economic development mentality?
The 1997 Community Strategic Plan identified long-term jobs and career choice as an important priority, through growth in the business sector. Economic opportunities for youth were also identified. The 2003 Community Outcomes show that employment and economic growth are major current issues.
The district’s 2003 Economic Development Plan resulted from positive consultation carried out with the Wanganui business and rural communities. The plan identifies eight projects for the development of the local economy. These are: Strategic Marketing Tourism Product Development Supporting Business Growth and Development Training for Wanganui Workforce Transport and Communication Infrastructure Industrial Land Council’s Response to Business Rural Economy Support Services A range of agencies are involved in these projects, including WDC, Enterprise Wanganui, Destination Wanganui, UCOL and businesses.
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What is the economic activity around property? Real estate activity in Wanganui has been relatively flat for several years, with below average sales and values. However, the market has picked up recently. March quarter 2004 sales are averaging $19,442 (24.6%) above GV. March quarter 2003 figures were $1,343 (1.4%). Total house sales in 2003 were 1076, compared to 618 in 2002. Mainstreet Wanganui reports vacancies in the Mainstreet part of Victoria Avenue as follows: February 2001 36, February 2002 24, February 2003 14, February 2004 15, giving a 91.5% occupancy rate. Side streets immediately off Victoria Avenue also have reduced vacancies. Following a gradual decline in the value of number of building consents during the 1990’s, there has been a strong increase during 2001- 2003, with 2003 being at record levels. (see following table & graph)
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Executive summary
this report presents data generated from the BERL Regional Database outlining the recent performance of the Wanganui1 economy, as well as analysis within the longer-term context of its industries and businesses.
data for Wanganui for the period 1994-2003 (March years) are fully comprehensive and consistent with NZ-wide totals from official Statistics New Zealand series.
while data for the 2004 March year remains provisional, we believe the latest numbers are sufficiently robust to provide valid indicators of the present-day state of the Wanganui economy.
the story of the past decade for Wanganui can best be described as a game of two halves (Figure 1.1).
Figure 0.1 Wanganui : the last decade - a game of two halves
GDP and employment growth
∗ the five years since 1999 has seen an average GDP expansion of the order of 2.6%pa, with full-time equivalent (FTE) employment increasing at the rate of 1.3%pa.
latest data suggest the year to March 2004 saw economic activity in Wanganui rise by an estimated 3.9% (Figure 4.1 and Figure 4.2). ∗ Wanganui GDP for the March 2004 year is estimated at $964m (measured in constant 1996$), nearly 14% higher than five years earlier.
∗ employment expansion saw a net 330 FTE positions added over the year - an increase of 2.2% (Figure 4.3 and Figure 4.4).
employment in Wanganui in March 2004 year is estimated at 15,404 FTEs, 940 (or nearly 6.5%) higher than five years earlier.
1 All references to Wanganui in this report refer to the Wanganui District TLA (Territorial Local Authority).
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the sector performances over the past decade reinforces the importance of Manufacturing and Building to Wanganui (Figure 4.7 and Figure 4.8), as well as the overall balance of activity in the Wanganui. ∗ GDP in Manufacturing & Building has expanded by more than 40% over the past ten years. Employment in this sector has increased nearly 28% over the last five years to now record a total of over 4,150 FTEs.
∗ Business Services and Social Services - the servicing components of the people-driven and production-driven arms of the economy - also continue to grow and reflect the integrated nature of the area’s activity.
shifts in confidence amongst Wanganui business over the past couple of years mirror those of the nation. ∗ noticeably, while the national mood continues in a gloomy pessimistic vein, Wanganui business remains relatively more positive about short-term prospects (Figure 3.3).
in line with our recent BERL Forecasts publications, we remain confident that growth at the national level will remain conducive to the continuation of expansion across a broad range of regions and industries. ∗ on-going expansion in tourism visitor numbers, continued positive migration inflows, resurgent global economic growth and rising labour participation rates coupled with much-needed infrastructure investment all contribute to a robust growth environment over the medium term.
∗ in this context, the robustness, breadth and integrated nature of economic activity in Wanganui are assets that bode well for its future.
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Building Consents
Source: Wanganui District Council, Environmental Services Value and Number of Building Consents, quarterly and annual
Value of Consents Number of consents
Jan-Mar 95 $6.57 million Annual 277 Annual
Apr-Jun 95 $9.79 million 376
July-Sep 95 $7.27 million 360
Oct-Dec 95 $10.92 million $34.55 329 1342
Jan-Mar 96 $9.44 million 280
Apr-Jun 96 $7.66 million 358
July-Sep 96 $5.92 million 304
Oct-Dec 96 $12.42 million $35.44 283 1225
Jan-Mar 97 $6.75 million 284
Apr-June 97 $13.04 million 393
July-Sep 97 $11.47 million 310
Oct-Dec 97 $5.25 million $36.51 242 1229
Jan-Mar 98 $9.07 million 284
Apr-Jun 98 $4.85 million 357
July-Sep 98 $11.15 million 322
Oct-Dec 98 $9.02 million $34.09 256 1219
Jan-Mar 99 $6.48 million 225
Apr-Jun 99 $6.80 million 310
July-Sep 99 $9.07 million 336
Oct-Dec 99 $8.70 million $31.05 310 1181
Jan-Mar 00 $6.60 million 247
Apr-Jun 00 $8.15 million 355
July-Sep 00 $6.53 million 294
Oct-Dec 00 $7.35 million $28.63 225 1121
Jan-Mar 01 $7.05 million 261
Apr-Jun 01 $10.64 million 349
July-Sep 01 $10.90 million 344
Oct-Dec 01 $8.60 million $37.19 279 1233
Jan-Mar 02 $11.51 million 372
Apr-Jun 02 $7.81 million 575*
July-Sep 02 $8.62 million 438*
Oct-Dec 02 $7.55 million $35.49 311* 1696
Jan-Mar 03 $4.08 million 262*
Apr-Jun 03 $11.14 million 605*
July-Sep 03 $31.34 million 482*
Oct-Dec 03 $17.10 million $63.62 413* 1762
Jan-Mar 04 $11.87 million 437*
* Consent numbers boosted by private wastewater separation consents
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Building Consents - Wanganui District
2000 70 1800 60 1600 1400 50 1200 40 1000 30 number 800 $ millions 600 20 400 10 200 0 0 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
Number of Consents Value of Consents
Where all this information came from…….
• Wanganui Census 2001. • Community Strategic Plan, 1997. • Preliminary Community Outcomes information, 2003. • Professional First National media release, April 2003. • Mainstreet Wanganui.
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The Environmental Elements of Our District
6 The values people place on our natural resources 6.1 Understanding how people value the environment is important because values change over time. Knowing what values people hold will influence how we manage our resources and the level of protection that might be given. We can also make sure that future developments do not compromise people’s values.
Our rivers and streams 6.2 Of all our rivers and streams the Whanganui is the special one. The Whanganui River is a taonga (treasure). Its values include:
Significant cultural and spiritual values, especially for Maori.
Recreation values, including for canoeing, jet-boating, swimming and fishing.
Historical values, including its value as a transport route.
Intrinsic values, particularly with the identity it provides for the communities living on its banks, including Wanganui City.
Conservation values, including as a habitat for migratory native fish species. 6.3 The River dominates the District’s landscape. Understanding the River and knowing its condition will help us protect and celebrate this important feature of our community. 6.4 The other rivers and streams within the District are also important for us to acknowledge and better understand.
So, how does the community value our rivers and streams? What aspects are important?
Swimming is a popular summer River activity at Mosquito Point. Surfers use the River mouth area year round, depending on conditions.
Yachting is popular in the lower River basin area.
Rowers use the stretch between the bridges and upper Aramoho.
Land-based recreational fishing takes place at the Castlecliff fishing platforms, the City Marina and Hatrick’s Wharf. Whitebaiting is popular at many District streams.
Recreational boaties use most of the navigable waterways, as do tourist canoeists.
Steam boats are part of the regular Heritage Weekend event.
The PS Waimarie makes daily excursions from Wanganui to Upokongaro and return.
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Bridge to bridge walks – these are both organised (annual Chronicle fun run) and informal.
The City to Sea walkway is being extended and now runs from the City Bridge almost to Bedford Avenue. A connection to the Cobham Bridge walkway is a recent addition.
Artists and businesses value access to the River – Ross Mitchell-Anyon (potter), Q-West boat builders, Amadeus café. In Wanganui City we’ve improved things for the River. Does the community believe the Wanganui City sewage scheme upgrade has been value for money? Is money spent on the River a good investment?
78% of respondents to the 2000 Community Views Survey answered “no” to the question “Is there any other Council work, service or facility residents would like Council to make a higher priority than the sewerage system upgrade?”
Our coast 6.5 The coastal strip is an important and highly valued area for a number of reasons. It is popular for recreation activities, many people live along the coast and the coast has special qualities that are enjoyed by many people. The coast is part of the identity of our District. So, how does the community value the coast? What aspects are important? 6.6 There are two main beaches in the District used for swimming – Castlecliff and Mowhanau. Surf lifeguards regularly attend both beaches during summer. South Beach is also very popular with swimmers, surfers, walkers, fishers and recreational vehicles. Morgan St beach is often used by surfers, fishers and sightseers. Other beach access-points (Brick Lane - Ngaio St, Seafront Rd extension, Kapiti Tce and Longbeach Drive) are used frequently by swimmers, surfers and walkers. 6.7 In the summer of 1999-2000 14,571 people were recorded at Mowhanau Beach and 12,648 at Castlecliff between mid-December and the end of February. On average 264 people each day spent time at Castlecliff Beach and 315 used Mowhanau Beach. The most popular day at Castlecliff was January 21 (750 people). The most popular day at Mowhanau was January 19 (670 people). 6.8 Over the past summer (2002-03) more people spent time at Castlecliff Beach during the weekends than during the week. At Mowhanau weekdays were generally just as popular as weekends.
Development of the port facility is currently being explored (2003).
Both Mowhanau and Castlecliff beaches have children’s playgrounds which are frequently in use. The new facilities at Castlecliff (Rangiora St) have meant that this playground is now in use almost every day of the year.
The views at Castlecliff are highly valued by all Wanganui residents (often both Mt Taranaki and the Tararua Ranges can been seen), making the beach a destination all year. A strong community interest has been expressed in the preservation of the signal light land in Karaka St for this reason (among others).
Residential property in Castlecliff is in growing demand and property values have increased in the last valuation round (2003). The provisional data for the Quarter Ending March 2003 gives an average sale price for houses in Castlecliff as $51,595 (average capital value $55,786), with 21 sales, and an average sale
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price for sections in Castlecliff of $30,667 (average capital value $33,800), with three sales. (Revision date for both, 01/07/02).
An increasing number of artists are choosing to reside in Castlecliff. The community is also serviced by two small shopping centres – the auction room frequently attracting out-of town buyers.
Local horse trainers regularly exercise their horses at both Brick Lane and South Beach. A horse riding business also uses the beach at Castlecliff.
The general amenity of our environment 6.9 There are many elements in our environment that impact on us personally. Amenity is part of this. Understanding generally what people expect and want in terms of amenity will help those managing the environment to get it right.
Where all this information came from……. • Jim Campbell, Department of Conservation, Wanganui. • Residential Property Sales Summary: Quarter Ending March 2003, QV on- line, A division of Quotable Value New Zealand Ltd. • Wanganui Community Views Survey, 2000. • Surf Lifeguard records.
7 The quality of our natural environment 7.1 We cannot separate ourselves from the natural environment. We are dependent on it for our health and well-being. As well as providing for our basic needs, the natural environment in our District supports our tourism industry and our recreation pursuits. Understanding the natural environment and the changes occurring to it is important for protecting the District’s resources. For example, the quality of the Whanganui River is especially important because the River gives Wanganui a sense of identity and its health affects the way we feel about our community.
Our biodiversity 7.2 Extinctions of species are still happening in New Zealand and overseas. Wanganui has comparatively large tracts of hill country bush, but native vegetation in coastal dune lands and wetlands is sparse and under threat. Each area contains a number of rare and unique species which form a significant part of the character and value of our District. Examples include the blue duck (Whio) (an indicator of riverine system health), river-sea migratory native fish (including the short jawed Kokopu), North Island Kaka, Australasian Bittern, Wrybill, New Zealand Falcon and North Island Brown Kiwi. Threatened plant species which are located in the Wanganui district include Pterostylis micromega (a swamp orchid) Seba ovata, Mazus movaseelandiae and Pimelea ‘Turakina’. These plant species have a threat of ranking of ‘nationally critical’. 2 0
7.3 On a national and international scale biodiversity has become a significant issue, both to protect resources that may be needed in the future in the development of food and medicines, and also to maintain complex ecosystems and the biological balance.
How important is biodiversity to the community?
Most of Wanganui’s ecological resources are rural. Four distinct ecological districts (three ecological regions) have been identified within the area serviced by the Wanganui District Council. The Matemateaonga District has significant existing natural vegetation, the Manawatu Plains and Rangitikei Districts have minimal natural vegetation and the Foxton dunelands have relatively little natural vegetation.
Rural ecological resources include:
Whitiau Reserves (2). These are located in the sand dunes between the Kaitoke Stream and the Whangaehu River, to the south of Wanganui, and are administered by the Department of Conservation. The reserves are significant as a habitat for the threatened katipo, two critically endangered plant species and six to eight threatened plant species. They also include important dune slacks (wetlands in the dune hollows) and related ecologies.
Gordon’s Bush and Bushy Park are both important remnants of the original forests of the area. Bushy Park operates an important wildlife rehabilitation programme, with regular possum control. Species of significance include kiwi, robins and rata.
Plimmer Reserve
Kauarapaoa Valley
The Whanganui National Park is a significant natural habitat. The National Park is a habitat for several species under threat including the long-tailed bat and blue duck (Whio). The forest hosts one of the largest remaining populations of the North Island Brown Kiwi in New Zealand.
Urban ecological resources include:
Castlecliff Beach
Titoki and Kokohuia wetlands are important remnants of an original, large wetland area. Both are in the process of being revitalised, with involvement from Iwi and the community.
The River estuary (adjacent to Gilberd St) supports a wide variety of wading birds, including royal spoonbills.
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Our rivers, lakes and streams How healthy is the Whanganui River? 7.4 The Whanganui River generally has poor clarity levels, although upstream of the lower tidal reaches can have quite high clarity during summer following several weeks without rain. At these times the clarity levels are similar to other comparably sized rivers in the Manawatu-Wanganui Region. Around Wanganui City the clarity of the River is always low. 7.5 The Whanganui River appears to act as a “sink” or storage for sediments coming into it from tributaries. This sediment originates from the easily erodible soils in the catchment (see discussion on soils). When flows are low, sediments are deposited in the bed of the River. When flows increase, this sediment is picked up by the flowing water and flushed. These sediments reduce water clarity. 7.6 Bacteria levels in the River do not generally pose a significant health risk to contact recreation users (swimmers, canoeists etc) during low flow periods. Health risk increases during about seven days following a high summer flow. The origin of this contamination appears to be land used for pastoral agriculture (animal pathogens). The monitoring carried out by the Regional Council over the summer of 1998-1999 in the mid sections of the River (top of Wanganui District) showed that the River was only marginally acceptable in terms of public health guidelines for bathing. The indicator used to measure health risk was enterococci levels. 7.7 During winter when flows are generally higher (and rainfall throughout the catchment generally increases) the bacteria levels in the River are also high. This is unlikely to pose a major health risk as fewer people use the River for contact recreation purposes in winter. What are the effects of the Wanganui City Stormwater and Sewage Discharges on the Whanganui River? 7.8 Historically, all sewage has discharged to the Whanganui River. From 1979-1984 the Council completed works that included a 2km outfall, under-river crossing, a large interceptor that collects wastewater from the Castlecliff and Balgownie areas and a large pump station at Beach Road. The interceptor extends from a Pump Station located on the riverbank in Tregenna St to the Beach Rd Pump Station and the majority of the industrial wastes flow through this sewer. At the Beach Rd Pump Station the wastewater is screened and pumped via the under-river crossing to the outfall discharging off South Beach into the sea. 7.9 Under a further scheme, for which 15-year consents were obtained in 1992, an interceptor system was built up and down both sides of the River to collect the sanitary flow from the rest of the city and direct the sewage to the Beach Rd Pump Station. Because most of the pipes upstream of the riverbank interceptors are combined sanitary and stormwater sewers, and because of the limited interceptor capacity, overflow occurs during rainfall. 7.10 It has been ascertained that the network overflows about 4% of the time. Because of the tidal conditions in the estuary, overflow into the River continues to affect the River for one tidal cycle and so the River is affected by overflow up to 18% of the time. 22
7.11 Background bacteriological quality in the River is measured at a site at Upokongaro. The median level of faecal coliforms from 1974-1993 was 250 faecal coliforms per 100ml of water. 7.12 The quality of the water in the city limits is monitored by the Wanganui District Council using samples taken in the River opposite Tregenna St. Median levels for 1974-1985 (before and during the early works) were 1600fc/100ml and for 1987-1993 (after completion of the early works but prior to interceptor construction) were 1100 fc/100ml. From 1997-1999 (since the construction of the interceptor) there has been a median level of 400 E.Coli/100ml. (E.Coli are a subset which make up the majority of faecal coliforms). 7.13 This improvement can be attributed mainly to the completion, in 1995, of the combined sewer interceptors, which marked a major change in the management of sanitary sewage in Wanganui. 7.14 During an overflow, the level of faecal coliforms in the River can rise to as much as 18,000fc/100ml. This is flushed after one tidal cycle but is generally followed by another increase with the arrival of a River fresh from the upper catchment. 7.15 With sewage discharges going into the River, the lower River and coastal water qualities are affected. However, sampling at several sites along the coast has shown that the water does conform to the Water Quality Guidelines, which are based on medians. 7.16 Dispersion and statistical modelling demonstrates that the River coliform load is probably the primary contributor to the higher beach concentrations. Since the coming of the outfall it appears that the discharge has contributed to somewhat higher “background” levels of faecal coliforms but there has been an improvement in this since 1972. Also, extreme levels of faecal coliforms have diminished, probably as a result of removing the discharge from the city reach of the River. 7.17 The next step in the scheme to clean up the River began in 2001 and will continue for six years. All property owners are obliged to ensure that stormwater and sewage are directed to separate pipe systems, with one area of the city being targeted each year. Aramoho and Wanganui East have been completed to date. The reduced volumes in the sewer pipes will be carried to the pump station by the interceptors, with no overflow, while the “clean” stormwater will be directed to the River. 7.18 As separation progresses, some local flooding problems will also be fixed as the drainage network is gradually replaced.
Our air 7.19 We generally take our air quality for granted. The only time we really notice it is when there is a bad smell around or lots of smoke. However, we should be keeping an eye on our air quality so that we can stop problems happening before they start affecting us and those with whom we share our environment.
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What’s our air quality like? How smelly is the District? 7.20 There are about 75-80 complaints made each year to the Council about smell. Most months the Council receives up to about six complaints. In the period September 1997 to August 1999, the Council received a total of 157 complaints. 7.21 The Council received 14 complaints in February 1997 and 20 complaints in February 1998. In October 1998 16 people complained to the Council about smells. 7.22 The rest of the time complaint numbers have remained relatively low.
Our groundwater 7.23 Groundwater is an “invisible resource”. While we can’t see it, it is an important part of our environment. Knowing about the condition of our groundwater can help us protect it. Two groundwater sources have been investigated and developed as part of the Wanganui drinking water supply. The Aramoho/Brunswick Rd supply is now in use, with the Wanganui East supply coming on-line in the near future.
Our coast What is the state of our coastal water?
The results of an analysis of the effects of Wanganui’s sewage discharge on seafloor-dwelling animals suggest that the discharge is affecting the seafloor animal communities close to the discharge and is probably also causing effects up to at least 1.2km to the southeast. There was no indication that the discharge had significantly affected metal or organics concentrations in seafloor sediments. (Source: Revised Wastewater Scheme Appendix G).
Construction of the Whanganui River mouth moles (late 1800s) has resulted in progradation of the beach at Castlecliff (the coastline is now relatively stable at 300m out from its pre-mole state), but the expected reduction of sediment input to South Beach has been offset by heavy siltation following River floods so that the sediment regime in this area remains variable. (Source: Revised Wastewater Scheme Appendix H).
The predominant flow direction is downcast to the southeast (parallel to the coast).
The soils in the District 7.24 Soils are a basic element contributing to the life-supporting capacity of the environment. The soils in the Wanganui District also play a vital role in our primary production industries. 7.25 Many of the soils in the District experience accelerated erosion. This results not only in a direct loss of its productive capability, but also in increased sediment in waterways. This can adversely affect aquatic habitats and result in poor water quality.
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What about our soils – what state are they in? 7.26 We have a major erosion problem in the District. Accelerated erosion results from combinations of unstable soils, heavy regular rainfall and unsustainable land use practices. Soil erosion results in a direct loss of soil and associated impacts on the productive capability of the land. It also has impacts on water quality. What about our high quality soils? 7.27 About 8.5% of the total land of the District falls within the New Zealand Land Resource Inventory Use Capability of Class I and II. This land has a very high productive capability and is a scarce resource nationally and in the District. There are three main areas of Class I and II land in the District. These are at Maxwell, Westmere and Fordell. 7.28 Currently about 0.21% of Class I and II land in the Westmere area is used solely for residential purposes (less than 1 hectare properties).
Where all this information came from……. Revised Wastewater Scheme: Assessment of Effects on the Environment. Appendix G: Wanganui Sewage Outfall Discharge: Assessment of Effects on Seafloor Animals and Sediments (NIWA), Ellis, J. et al, Montgomery Watson, September 1999. Whanganui Catchment Strategy, Manawatu-Wanganui Regional Council. Operative December 1997. Rangitikei Ecological Region: Survey Report for the Protected Natural Areas Programme, Lake, C.M. and Whale, K.J., Department of Conservation, 1995. Manawatu Plains Ecological District: Survey Report for the Protected Natural Areas Programme, Ravine, D.A., Department of Conservation, 1995. Foxton Ecological District: Survey Report for the Protected Natural Areas Programme, Ravine, D.A., Department of Conservation, 1992. Matemateaonga Ecological District: Survey Report for the Protected Natural Areas Programme, Ravine, D.A., Department of Conservation, June 1996.
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8 The effects of natural processes on our activities Understanding the effects of natural processes is important because some processes can impact on our economic development options (both positively and negatively). Having a good understanding also allows us to respond to possible future impacts, for example the potential impacts from rising sea levels resulting from climate change.
Natural hazards Not only do we need a good understanding of the threats we might face from natural hazards, we should also have a good idea about how ready we are to respond in the event of something major happening. When the “big one” hits will our community know what to do and are we in a position to help each other? Knowing this will help us plug any gaps so that we can be prepared. What are people’s perceptions/levels of knowledge of natural hazard risks?
In March 2000, a multi-agency survey of Castlecliff residents was undertaken. 57% of households or families surveyed had discussed how they would get out of the house if it caught fire. 28% of households did not have smoke alarms. 90% of those with alarms said that they were working.
The November 2000 College Estate Residents’ Survey had a “Yes” response of 67% to whether the household had an escape plan in the event of fire. 60% also said that guests are made aware of the plan. 15% of households did not have smoke alarms. 91% of those with alarms said that they were working. 28% of College Estate households had a fire extinguisher and 30% of these said it had been checked in the last few months.
The College Estate Survey also questioned residents on the items they could easily locate in the dark:
Important Personal Documents 82% Food for Three Days 85%
45% First Aid Kit with 0 Insturction Book 58%
Battery Powered 84% Radio that Works
Battery Powered Torch that Works 0% 50% 100%
The November 2000 College Estate Businesses Survey found that 32% had discussed what to do after a significant earthquake, 64% had developed an evacuation plan, with testing largely either not indicated (54%) or each six months (28%).
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The October 2001 Laird Park Residents’ Survey asked residents their preparedness for a Civil Defence emergency, with the following results:
Important Personal Documents 85% Food for Three Days 87%
56% First Aid Kit with 1 Insturction Book 53% Battery Powered 68% Radio that Works
Battery Powered Torch that Works 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
60% of Laird Park residents have discussed how to get out of the house in the event of a fire. 66% have an agreed place outside to meet. 34% of households did not have smoke alarms installed. 81% did not have a fire extinguisher. The Community Views Survey 2000 found that the “natural hazard that concerns residents the most” was: 1. Earthquakes (50%). 2. Floods (33%). 3. Climate changes, which could increase flooding in the future (8%). 4. Forest fires (2%). 5. Cyclones (1%). 6. Volcanic eruptions (1%). 7. Something else (1%). 8. None (4%).
The survey also found that the “equipment residents could easily find in a Civil Defence emergency” was: 1. Important personal documents (92%). 2. Dried, frozen or tinned food to feed your household for three days (89%). 3. A battery-powered torch that works (81%). 4. A battery-powered radio that works (62%). 5. A first aid kit, with an instruction book (61%).
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Our climate and its influence on us 8.1 Knowing the nature of our climate gives us the opportunity to monitor changes that might indicate changes to natural hazard threats. It might also give us the chance to promote ourselves (if our climate is better than others’) and identify where we could grow crops that might not do too well in other places. So, what’s our climate like?
The annual average rainfall for Wanganui City is 906mm.
Wanganui boasts a mean temperature of 13.9°C, with extremes from 0.5°C to 29.0°C. Wanganui has an average of 2051 sunshine hours and 7 days’ ground frost annually.
Groundwater-related problems 8.2 Groundwater is an important resource. However, it can cause some problems when levels are high and we’ve built buildings over the top of it.
Where all this information came from……. Wanganui Community Views Survey, August 2000. Castlecliff Residents’ Survey, March 2000. College Estate Residents’ Survey, November 2000. College Estate Businesses’ Survey, November 2000. Laird Park Residents’ Survey, 8-10 October 2001. Well Worth the Journey Wanganui New Zealand (A city marketing publication, produced by the Wanganui District Council). c.2001
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9 The quality of our built environment 9.1 Our built environment provides us with the infrastructure that we need to work, play and trade. The quality of our structures and infrastructure influences the quality of our lives and our economic development opportunities. It can also have an impact on our health and our safety, especially in the event of an earthquake. 9.2 The built environment, especially our urban areas, gives us a sense of identity and an economic status. The state of our buildings can influence how we feel about the place and, in some instances, can encourage crime and affect how safe we feel. Our older buildings can become an important part of our heritage (and sometimes preserving that heritage can come into conflict with economic development and the use of those buildings). Is Wanganui an attractive place to live, shop and play? What makes it attractive/unattractive? The 2000 Community Views Survey found that 7% of residents who think there is an action/decision Council should be taking mentioned the need to deal with derelict buildings in Castlecliff. The Survey also found that 2% of the total District mentioned “housing issues” as “[one of the three] the most important issues facing Wanganui District in the next few years”. According to the 2000 Community Views Survey, overall, 45% of Wanganui District residents have in mind a recent Council action or decision they approve of, compared with 41% in 1999. Main actions/decisions approved of were: 1. Majestic Square project (9%). 2. CBD area (7%). 3. Riverbank improvement (5%). 4. Virginia Lake walkway/upgrade (4%).
Overall 60% of Wanganui District residents have in mind a recent Council action or decision they disapprove of (59% in 1999). Main actions/decisions disapproved of were: 1. Information Centre location issue (11%). 2. Majestic Square (6%). 3. Rates too high (5%). 4. Wastewater separation cost (5%). 5. Rubbish issues (5%). 6. Moutoa Gardens issue (4%). 7. Use of contractors (4%). 8. Poor attitude (4%).
Where all this information came from……. • Community Views Survey, 2000.
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10 Our heritage and the values the community places on our heritage resources Our heritage is a big part of our identity. No matter who our ancestors were and what cultural group we identify with, we all have heritage resources in the District that we value. Being able to identify these resources and their condition will enable us to put in place mechanisms to ensure they are protected for future generations. What is the community’s sense of history and what are our important heritage resources? Protected heritage resources include Putiki Church, Kawana Flour Mill, War Memorial Hall, Royal Wanganui Opera House, Bushy Park Homestead and bush (especially Ratanui), Strachan’s Cave, Alexander Redoubt, St Peter’s Church, Gonville, Gilfillan Memorial. There are over 200 other buildings and sites listed. The Old Town Conservation Zone and protected in the District Plan gives additional protection to buildings in the old commercial area of the city. The Council supports owners of heritage buildings by offering assistance in having their upgrading requirements professionally assessed. How does our community value its history? The Whanganui Regional Museum receives substantial community support and Council funding. A major community effort resulted in the recovery, restoration and operation of the paddle steamer “Waimarie”. Planning is underway for the return of a fully restored and operational tram to Wanganui. There is a significant display (Te Awa Tupua) showing the Whanganui Iwi perspective currently under way at Te Papa Museum of New Zealand, Wellington, for a two and a half year period (from late 2003).
11 The solid waste (rubbish) our community generates 11.1 Around New Zealand there is a big move to reduce waste. We are part of that movement. Collectively we are becoming more and more aware of the effects of waste and the opportunities to use waste in ways we have not previously contemplated. We are starting to view waste as a resource, rather than a problem. How do we manage our domestic rubbish? 11.2 The District no longer has an operational public landfill. Waste is now disposed of outside the District, at Bonny Glen in the Rangitikei District. The Council has recently withdrawn from direct involvement with solid waste collection in the City and collection and disposal is now undertaken by three private contractors. 11.3 There are two waste transfer stations in the City, also owned and operated privately – one in Gilberd St and one in Liffiton St. 11.4 The Council’s role is now limited to managing recycling educating on waste minimisation, provides a hazardous waste drop off store and to processing complaints. On the complaints front, there have only been a few complaints since the Council withdrew from direct involvement with rubbish collection. 11.5 Information is sketchy on the quantities of waste being generated in the District although the ‘waste to land’ consenting authority Horizons MW, is in the process of monitoring waste going to landfills from this district. Prior to “privatisation”, however, approximately 35,000 tonnes was collected each year – about 20,000 tonnes of rubbish and 15,000 tonnes of clean fill material. Anecdotal evidence suggests that
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through the exiting of solid waste collection, and as the true costs of waste is now charged, there is considerably less waste going to landfill.
How much is the community prepared to pay for “green waste management” e.g. recycling?
62% of residents in the August 2000 Community Views Survey rated the recycling of refuse as “just acceptable”, “good” or “very good”, with 25% rating this service as “not good”/”poor”. Those residents who rated recycling as “just acceptable”, “not good” or “poor” give the following main suggestions to improve to “very good”:
• Do more to encourage recycling 10% (of total District 2000)
• Lower costs/dump charges too high 9%
• More promotion/encouragement/education needed/ more information 8%
• Sort the recyclable rubbish/
• don’t throw it all in together 7%
The October 2001 Laird Park Residents’ Survey found that 5% of those surveyed gave “rubbish/recycling” as a “burning issue they wanted passed on to Council”. Specific comments included cost of disposal (too high) and that recycling should be a major issue.
In April 2004, Council ceased its problematic kerbside recycling collection service and constructed a community ‘Drop Off’ Recycling Centre. This ensures Councils money and efforts in recycling are spent in actual ensuring the product is recycled rather than in the collection of the product. The service is free, 24/7, increased range of product and more importantly has credibility. In its early stages the centre is receiving and recycling 20 tonnes of waste product a week and on target to reach 1000 tonnes of product diverted from landfill and recycled per year. The previous Kerbside service collected 10 tonne per month or just over 100 tonne per year. The ‘Drop Off’ Recycling Centre is seen as the ‘springboard’ for other waste minimisation initiatives in the future.
Where all this information came from……. • Wanganui Community Views Survey, August 2000. • Laird Park Residents’ Survey, October 2001.
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12 Our transport infrastructure 12.1 Transport systems enable people to move to different parts of urban areas, between urban areas and throughout rural areas. They allow people to shop, work and play. They are vital communication links for the effective functioning of the District. 12.2 Transport systems can impact on the environment and those impacts need to be understood if we are going to manage them properly.
How we get around How we get to work …. 12.3 In 1996, nearly 50% of Wanganui City people over 15 travelled to work in a private car. This is slightly higher than the 46.5% of people nationally using private cars. Seven percent of Wanganui people travelled to work on a bike, compared with 3% nationally. Fewer Wanganui people go to work on the bus, with 0.4% of Wanganui people bussing, compared with 3% for the rest of New Zealand. How many of us catch the bus? 12.4 The number of bus concession tickets sold since 1994 has increased steadily. Since 1995 there has been a 35% increase. Most bus users are eligible to use concession tickets. In 1999, 96,282 concession tickets were sold. What about people with disabilities? 12.5 People in Wanganui also have access to Total Mobility service. This is a subsidised taxi service offered to people with disabilities. The number of Total Mobility trips has increased dramatically over the past six years. In 1994, 12,300 trips were made. In 1999, this number had increased to more than 30,000. This increase is most likely due to more people having access to, or knowing about, the service (rather than a dramatic increase in people with disabilities in the District). How many of us own a car? 12.6 In 1996, the percentage of households in Wanganui owning no motor vehicle was 15%. This is higher than the 11.5% of households nationally with no vehicle. Forty-six percent of households in Wanganui own one motor vehicle (compared with 41% in the rest of New Zealand), with 34% owning two or more (compared with 43% nationally).
Road safety What’s our road safety record like? 12.7 The Land Transport Safety Authority (LTSA) reports each year on road safety in Wanganui. Its 1999 report covers the period 1994-1998. From this report the following features were identified:
The cost of traffic crashes in Wanganui District during 1998 is estimated to be $29.79 million ($17.90 million for urban crashes and $11.89 million for rural crashes).
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Although there was a small rise in the number of injuries and deaths in 1998, longer term there is a downward trend.
The percentage of motorcycle casualties was higher than the proportion of motorcyclists on the roads in the 1996 figures, despite the number of motorcycle casualties being the lowest in 10 years.
There are more car drivers and motorcyclists in the 15-19 years age group than the rest of New Zealand.
Cycle casualties involving the 10-15 years age group are high. 12.8 In urban Wanganui we have the following road safety trends:
Car drivers are the largest category of road user injured, but the proportion of car drivers injured is below the rest of New Zealand.
Cyclist casualties are high in urban areas and are more than the rest of New Zealand.
Pedestrian casualties are below average compared with New Zealand.
More accidents occur during crossing or turning movements than any other during other times, which is higher than the rate for the rest of New Zealand.
The most common contributing factor of accidents in the City is a failure to give way or stop. The rate of these factors is higher than the rest of New Zealand.
Other common factors include alcohol, tiredness or inattention, speed and inadequate checking.
The percentage of urban crashes in which alcohol was involved rose in 1998 for the first time in six years.
12.9 In rural Wanganui the following road safety trends exist:
Head-on or loss of control on bends is the most common rural crash type and the rate is much higher than the rest of New Zealand.
Speed is the most common contributing factor of accidents and the rate is above the national average.
Other common contributing factors of accidents include inattention or tiredness, alcohol and poor handling. All these factors, except alcohol, are higher than the national average. Our use of road safety devices…. 12.10 Our use of seatbelts has been a little irregular over the past few years. In 1998, 84% of front seat adults used seatbelts, compared with 90% in 1997 and 78% in 1996. Child restraints in cars were used by 78% of vehicles carrying young children, compared with 79% the previous year. 12.11 Cycle helmet usage has remained fairly constant at about 97% for the past few years, with a small hiccup in 1996 when only 93% of cyclists wore helmets.
Where all this information came from……. • Land Transport Road Safety (LTSA) Road Safety Report, 1999. • Social Indicators: Wanganui, June 2003.
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13 Reference Material 1. Community Views: Public Perceptions and Interpretations of Council Services and Representations Survey, NRB Ltd, August 2000. This survey has been carried out in 1990, 1991, 1992, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2003. 2. Social Indicators Wanganui, Wanganui District Council (Co-ordinator: Rosemary Hovey), June 2003. 3. Castlecliff Residents’ Survey, March 2000. 4. College Estate Residents’ Survey, November 2000. 5. College Estate Businesses’ Survey, November 2000. 6. Laird Park Residents’ Survey, 8-10 October 2001. 7. Land Transport Safety Authority (LTSA) Road Safety Report 1999. 8. Statistics New Zealand Wanganui Census 2001. 9. Youth Crime and Safety Survey, Crime Prevention Unit, Wellington, with the Wanganui Safer Community Council, 2000. 10. Wanganui Community Strategic Plan 1997. 11. Preliminary Community Outcomes information 2003. 12. Mainstreet Wanganui occupancy rates data 2003. 13. Professional First National media release April 2003. 14. Jim Campbell and Nic Peet, Department of Conservation, Wanganui. 15. Residential Property Sales Summary: Quarter Ending March 2003, QV on-line, A division of Quotable Value New Zealand Ltd. 16. Surf Lifeguard records, Wanganui. 17. Srian Fonseka, Wanganui Water Services. 18. Revised Wastewater Scheme: Assessment of Effects on the Environment. Appendix G: Wanganui Sewage Outfall Discharge: Assessment of Effects on Seafloor Animals and Sediments (NIWA), Ellis, J. et al, Montgomery Watson, September 1999. 19. Wanganui Catchment Strategy, Manawatu-Wanganui Regional Council. Operative December 1997. 20. Rangitikei Ecological Region: Survey Report for the Protected Natural Areas Programme, Lake, C.M. and Whale, K.J., Department of Conservation, 1995. 21. Manawatu Plains Ecological District: Survey Report for the Protected Natural Areas Programme, Ravine, D.A., Department of Conservation, 1995. 22. Foxton Ecological District: Survey Report for the Protected Natural Areas Programme, Ravine, D.A., Department of Conservation, 1992. 23. Matemateaonga Ecological District: Survey Report for the Protected Natural Areas Programme, Ravine, D.A., Department of Conservation, June 1996. 24. Well Worth the Journey, Wanganui New Zealand (A city marketing publication, produced by the Wanganui District Council), c.2001.
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