Tokoroa Transfer Station Opens at a Welcome Time

Home , Tokoroa

South Waikato District Council - October (Whiringa-a-nuku) / November (Whiring local Council - Issue 54 a-a-rangi) / December ter from your (Hakihea) 202 hly newslet 0 A bi-mont Tokoroa Transfer Station opens at a welcome time Council officially opened the fewer large landfills (327 Opening hours don't differ from Staff have produced a video on Tokoroa Transfer Station to the landfills in 1995, to 43 landfills the previous Tokoroa Landfill how to use the Transfer Station. public in late October and it is in 2017). The increased focus hours. Fees and charges too It is accessible via our website: now operating as normal. on environmental performance have not changed and are www.southwaikato.govt.nz/our- and costs have been the biggest clearly shown at the facility and services/rubbish-and-recycling. The decision to construct the driver in this happening. on our website. Tokoroa Transfer Station came Check it out before your next following public consultation in The opening of the Tokoroa visit. early 2019. Transfer Station signalled the end of the nearby landfill. All Council committed to waste will be directed to the closing the Tokoroa Landfill, new transfer station for rubbish building the transfer station and recycling. at the Newell Road site and transporting rubbish out of the Final closure of the Tokoroa district to the Hampton Downs Landfill is underway, with Landfill for final disposal. intermediate capping, general tidying of the site and other For Council’s Assets Group remediation works. Manager, Ted Anderson, the new transfer station came at a Council acknowledges the work welcome time considering the of contractor DG Waste that has impact waste has on a global managed the landfill site over and national scale. the past several years. “Waste management and Furthermore, Council extends recycling is a priority for our its thanks to contractors CH community and now that the Construction that constructed Tokoroa Landfill has reached the transfer station building and full capacity and the end of the Civil Construction Services that resource consent timeframe, were responsible for the civils constructing the transfer station and associated site work. This was in the best interest of our project was completed within local residents and ratepayers.” budget and on schedule. Over the last two decades there The support Council received has been a significant change from EnviroWaste and the South in the way waste is viewed and Waikato Achievement Trust managed both nationally and (SWAT) is worth noting and has globally. made this transition from the landfill to the transfer station in There has been a shift from Tokoroa as seamless as possible. numerous small landfills to

• Council has committed to the CouncilMARK programme for Kōrero mai Mayor's message Produced in-house 2021. This is an accreditation run through Local Government for the South Waikato New Zealand that provides external and independent validation Council activity news community by the SWDC for quality of work, governance and management. Forestry Symposium Communications Team. Water & stormwater • Council’s tree maintenance programme continues. District reserve news Editorial: • A spate of vandalism in our parks and reserves is disappointing; Community news Kerry Fabrie and costs ratepayers money to repair and replace. Recycling improvement Renee Renata Anthony Momoemausu Facility xmas hours • The floors in the toilets in The Dog have been sealed and 07 885 0340 repainted. Be a good neighbour Print: GASP Designs • There are 45 people on the pensioner housing waiting list. Summer pool safety Councillor contacts 1 What is Council's Long Term Plan ? And why is it so important? The LTP is Council’s Long Term Plan. The next LTP looks out ten years from 2021 to 2031. It outlines Council’s direction for the future, including the services and projects planned and the issues and challenges facing our district Voting System & Māori Seats and community. It is a contract with the Council has resolved to retain First Past the Post as a voting community about what Council is going to do over system and not introduce Māori seats. The community can the next 10 years to make demand a poll on each of these topics. the South Waikato a great place to live, work and play. Representation is the her full name, and the either of these issues. Council governance arm of Council. We have already been address for which he or she is also doesn’t intend to make It affects how people in our speaking with you through qualified as an elector of the any representation changes to community are represented by the town concept plans, South Waikato District wards, numbers of Councillors Elected Members at Council. reserve management plans Council. and community boards, and other workshops and The Local Electoral Act 2001 • Delivered to the South however a demand for a poll engagement sessions. requires Council review its Waikato District Council could require Council to review representation every six its intention. You’ve given Council some office, Torphin Crescent, years. There are six parts great feedback and ideas to Tokoroa by 5pm Monday, Why? Elected Members believe to a representation review: SECURE TODAY. 22 February 2021. that there has always been voting system, Māori seats, good representation at Council Your feedback is helping to the concept of communities CURRENT SITUATION Currently in the South Waikato: both in the past and currently, develop the LTP to SHAPE of interest and appropriate communities are appropriately TOMORROW. representation - wards, • We use the First Past the Post represented, and the voting numbers of Elected Members (FPP) voting system. system works well and is easily This is our journey together and community boards. for a STRONG FUTURE. • We don’t have specific Māori understood. The Consultation Document representation through a Our community can lodge SECURING TODAY. covers Council’s resolutions Māori seat/ward. a demand for a poll for the made regarding the voting SHAPING TOMORROW. • We have one Mayor elected voting system and/or Māori system and Māori seats. This seats. STRONG FUTURE. information is also available on at large over the district. WHAT IS FAIR Look out for the LTP our website and from Council • In terms of communities of AND EFFECTIVE Consultation Document in offices and libraries. interest: REPRESENTATION? March/April next year. HOW TO MAKE A POLL − We have three wards Council must consider if There will be specific DEMAND represented by ten its community is fairly and consultation issues/topics A valid demand for a poll on Councillors – Tīrau (one effectively represented and that Council is seeking each of the two issues – Māori Councillor), Putāruru identifies communities of feedback on, as well as seats and/or voting system (three) and Tokoroa (six). interest. Council believes that seeking general feedback on current representation reflects - must be: − We have one community any other issue, activity or appropriate communities of board, the Tīrau service Council delivers. • Made in writing. interest and fair representation Community Board. across our district’s varied It's likely to look something • Signed by at least 5% of IS COUNCIL PROPOSING ANY demographic. like this (not yet final, so eligible electors of South CHANGES? could change). Waikato District Council. This For more info visit our website will require a minimum of No, Council has resolved no www.southwaikato.govt.nz 760 elector signatures. Every changes to the current voting and download the document. elector who signs a demand system nor Māori seats and has must also include his or resolved to not hold a poll on People have until Monday 22 February 2021 to demand a poll. Visit: www.southwaikato.govt.nz - Click on Community Engagement

2 End of year message from the Mayor

Well what a year 2020 has been! • Provided a zero percent rate • Received awesome positive Fair to say, in all my 19 years revenue increase for our district news coverage in on Council, this past year has community. mainstream media, TV and a certainly been the most unusual. range of sector magazines. • Progressed Putāruru Without doubt the biggest re-zoning for growth. New • Moved Council’s loan funding impact on our community – and development coming soon. to the Local Government Council, has been the COVID-19 Funding Agency to secure pandemic. New buzz words • Started, completed and loans at reduced levels. like lockdown, bubbles and opened the Tokoroa Transfer alert levels became everyday Station. • Council and the community language. Hand washing, social coming together to organise a • Started the Tokoroa basketball Christmas promotion. distancing and contact tracing court in collaboration with the became the norm. Tokoroa Lions. Hopefully by A list of highlights wouldn’t be The impact of COVID-19 the time you read this it will be complete without mentioning on our businesses and our open for play. our fantastic community groups and individuals that provided community is huge. As a • Progressed the Tokoroa CBD. community we did what we support to our people during always do, we stepped up, we • Launched the Space to COVID-19 – my sincere thanks teamed up, we stood together. Grow initiative to encourage to all our community heroes. The impact of the pandemic business and economic Lowlights are hard to focus on, will be felt for many years growth. but the lowlights often bring to come. Council is working • Participated in community learning for the future and I through this recovery hand events such as Matariki and am pleased that we rose to the Ma te in hand with our community, Festival of Cultures. challenges and despite all, still partners, stakeholders and other had a good year. Government agencies. • Improved sector partnerships rangimarie, ma such as forestry, community Our challenges were: Amid the complexities of and education. COVID-19, Council had a big • COVID-19 and the ongoing te atawhai, me year too. Reflecting on our • Started the $9.6 million economic impacts on our highlights made me proud Tokoroa digester build. businesses and community. of what we have achieved • Added new playgrounds • COVID-19 related deaths that te whakapono, ka together, especially given the and other leisure facilities, have touched our community. unusual times. including opening the Tīrau • No ANZAC Day. ora ai te hapori. Highlights: Domain. • Delays on the Tokoroa CBD • Improved relationships • Partnered with others to project. with community, partners secure significant central and stakeholders to further Government funding for • Lengthy SH1 works. projects in our community. collaboration. • Poor behaviour around • Developed community • Encouraged our people to recycling and illegal dumping. support local businesses Concept Plans for Arapuni, I want to end off by wishing Tokoroa and Tīrau alongside through the Spend Local campaign. everyone a wonderful and our community. peaceful summer holiday with whanau and friends.

3 Photo compliments of Arthur H Hiscock

Above and right: Our South Waikato Sport and Events Centre hosting some pretty cool events – regional Tainui Waka Kapahaka, the Motorhome Association and a Christmas market (organised by Lions). Working with Arapuni Village residents on Civil Defence planning to make the community more resilient. Awesome involvement from the community through the Association, which has been Below: Super recycling habits Above, right: Cute-as () babies critical in developing a tailored from our community. Pictured is at Lake Moananui… not so plan. the Tīrau recycling site looking cute is being chased off by very Warmer weather, summer is very neat and the emptied protective parents! Sorry mum coming. coloured glass containers at and dad, we were just looking at the Tokoroa Transfer Station... your adorable wee bubs! Awesome feedback from our fantastic sorting! community on the first round of engagement on our parks and reserves future development for the next ten years. Being thanked on social media by Central Kids Balmoral Kindergarten for our contribution to the new Above: Awesome to have Tainui sunshade over their swings. Waka Primary Schools Regional You’re very welcome. Hope Kapahaka held in our district. the tamariki enjoy the benefits of the shade over the sunny summer months! Below, right: South Waikato Community Health Transport (SWCHT) is transporting people in the community to medical Delays at summer roadworks... appointments if they have no but let's remember we all want other means to get there. This the end result! Please be patient service was previously run by and kind to the team on the the Putāruru Red Cross, but a ground. change of strategic direction Below: Continued poor by New Zealand Red Cross behaviour from a handful of meant its discontinuation of people at the recycling drop off community transport. Members zones, especially mussel shells of Putāruru Red Cross formed in the cardboard container… the SWCHT to continue this really! important service for South Waikato communities. Bookings are essential and donations Photo compliments of SWCHT are appreciated. For bookings, please ring the coordinator on 07 883 6022.

4 Tokoroa digester takes shape

Progress on the Tokoroa Construction on two additional budget and sits comfortably wastewater digester project is tanks has yet to start; with parts with the original time frame going well. already delivered to site. of an August 2021 completion date.” The external walls of the In the new year, an interesting largest tank (on the right in milestone will be the installation The total budget for this project the main photo) are complete, of the roof on the main tank. is $9.6 million. with internal works underway, This will require significantly including mechanical fixtures complex crane operations. The new digester will deliver and creating the sloping efficiencies not possible from floor. This tank is the largest “It is pleasing to see the entire our old digester that has component of the total project. site starting to take shape,” said reached the end of its useful life. Paul White, Council’s Project It will also ensure we can cater The sludge blending tank Manager. “The project has for our growing communities (smaller tank in the main photo tracked smoothly to date, is on into the future. and far right) is also underway. New basketball court at Tokoroa skate park By the time this edition of to the construction of the new Often their work goes In Touch hits mailboxes, the basketball court. unnoticed and many people basketball court at the Tokoroa are unaware of their voluntary Murray Scarlett, who has been skate park will have been involvement in projects. a Lions Club member for over unveiled to the public. 30 years, mentioned that the They prefer to roll up their The Tokoroa Lions Club has Club is delighted to be a part of sleeves and continue to give been instumental in many this project and has had several back to their community. community projects since skilled members involved who Council wants to ensure the being formed in 1962 and have all love to support community Club’s involvement in this volunteered countless hours initiatives. project is well known.

Powerco update Powerco is investing over $78 by a single Transpower line million in the South Waikato to between the Karapiro and future proof power delivery. Hinuera Substations. One of their projects is When this Transpower line the construction of a new experiences an outage or needs connection to the national grid. maintenance there is complete They’re investing over $33 loss of power to 11,500 million to build a new circuit customers. between Transpower’s Arapuni This is a Powerco project, not a For more on the project visit Substation and their existing Once complete, the new circuit Council project, however there Powerco's website here: Putāruru Substation. will improve reliability and is a high level of interest from https://powercodelivering. increase capacity by providing our communities in the north of co.nz/projects/south- Currently the Putāruru, Tīrau a new source of supply to the district, so we thought we'd waikato-national-grid- and Hinuera areas are supplied Powerco's Putāruru Substation. include this short story. connection/.

5 Service delivery in the north Bringing the Tīrau i-SITE back under the management of Council has provided the opportunity to improve and increase the services offered in Tīrau. The facility is open seven days a week, from 9am to 5pm (summer hours). This is unique to other towns in the district because the Council agency doubles as an i-SITE that is required to be open every day. “This is a big bonus for the Tīrau community,” said Ebony Curtin, Council’s Customer Service and Library Manager. “Not only is the facility open seven days, but the number of services we offer has increased.” In the past, Tīrau residents could purchase rubbish bags and crates and pay rates and dog registrations, all via a manual receipting system. The i-SITE is now fully integrated with Council’s systems with access to up to date account information and service requests. Books and more... The space provides for a small range of around 130 books and some DVDs for adults and children. The full range of books is accessible on search and the books are transferred from our larger libraries, usually overnight. The Book-a-Librarian service is increasingly popular. This service provides assistance on e-readers and tablets, online services, computer basics, creating a CV, Government information and rates rebate applications, among many others. “We have added student i-SITE assistant roles to our weekend rosters so that we can provide suitable cover,” continued Ms Curtin. “We’re pleased to be able to provide both employment and opportunity to three local school students.” The library holiday programmes, including the Summer Reading Programme and the STARS programme are also delivered offered from our main office from the Dog which means in Tokoroa, except perhaps participants no longer have technical staff availability for to travel to Putāruru to do a drop in callers. report in or participate in these initiatives. “People can call the office and book an appointment in On top of the Council services, Putāruru with our technical staff is the i-SITE service that assists so they don’t have to travel all There is a JP Service running with activities and services for locals and visitors with business the way to Tokoroa,” continued out of the Putāruru office every the community. and tourist queries. In this way, Ms Curtin. Friday from 10am to noon Council is better able to support and Mayor Jenny Shattock is A reminder too, that the local businesses. Ms Curtin highlighted that there available every fourth Thursday Library’s Books-2-U housebound are still a number of people in of the month at 10am. service is available across the And out of Putāruru... our community who may be district for people with mobility eligible for a rates rebate; and Putāruru also hosts a number of issues, either long term or short The services offered from the encourages people to call in to other groups and organisations term. Putāruru office/library has enquire. always been similar to those

6 Central North Island Wood Forestry industry Council Wood councils across New leaders - a SW Zealand are active in promoting forestry careers and training strength at schools and in the wider community. They are also the conduit between the industry, its stakeholders and the Government. The Central North Island is responsible for one third of New Zealand’s forest assets and employment. "We’re very excited to have our own wood council representing the sector given that around In March 2019 Mayor Jenny Shattock and Council hosted nearly 80 stakeholders from across the 25% of employment in the Central North Island forestry industry at the South Waikato Forestry Symposium. The main aim of district is directly or indirectly the symposium was to explore growth opportunities for the region afforded by the Government’s related to this sector of massive One Billion Trees programme. the economy," said Paul Bowden, Council's Economic Mayor Jenny wanted Council Dennis Neilson from DANA, in Tokoroa to support young Development Manager. to take a more active role in Paul Gamble of Waratah and people from across the Central supporting this sector given the representatives from Te Uru North Island to take up careers Several people and significant opportunities that Rakau. in the forestry sector. organisations have driven or existed to grow employment supported this project: locally, as Mayor Jenny stated, Generation Programme Students earn while they learn and there is flexibility for them • Prue Younger, Forest Industry ‘’forestry and timber is in the The Generation Programme is a Contractors Association DNA of our community, both to move mid-stream to other real-world learning experience parts of the industry. our heritage and our future’’. that combines training and • Brent Donaldson, Hancock Forest Management Fast forward to November 2020. hands on work experience. It The program is delivered in starts with a 12-week base camp partnership with Toi-Ohomai • Amanda Hema, The In October, Council hosted designed to get participants Institute of Technology in Stakeholder Agency the third Forestry Symposium, work ready before introducing Tokoroa. Participants are rather appropriately at the them to a range of training and also assisted with supported • South Waikato Investment New Zealand Timber Museum employment opportunities learning, pastoral care and Fund Trust (SWIFT) in Putāruru. This featured throughout the forestry regular reviews to ensure they • Ministry of Social the launch of the Generation industry, from nurseries through can transition successfully from Development (MSD). Programme and the Central to pulp and paper production. the program into employment North Island Wood Council as with local companies, initially in well as hearing from a range of Having operated successfully the district and then throughout industry professionals including in Gisborne for three years, this the Central North Island. program is being established

Check out Council’s Council's smart switch to Online Mapping Tools low interest rates Did you know that Council has a significant amount This year Council joined the New Zealand Local of geographic information available to the public via Government Funding Agency Ltd (LGFA) its IntraMaps website. scheme, which allows local authorities to borrow at significantly favourable interest rates. IntraMaps allows users to access Council’s spatial The LGFA is a Council Controlled Organisation data including property information, three waters service (CCO) which has 31 shareholders, comprising the New Zealand information (including stormwater modelling), the South Waikato Government (20%) and thirty councils (80%). District Plan, rubbish and recycling collection service and sites, information on our recreational spaces, community and education Given the higher levels of loan funding required to take information, contour information and aerial photography. advantage of district and community growth over the next several decades, lending at favourable interest rates is an obvious Visit this link on Council’s website: https://www.southwaikato. key benefit for our community. govt.nz/our-district/maps/online-mapping-tools. Council joined LGFA because it enables us to borrow at lower There is a helpful user guide link on the page too that will explain interest margins. These benefits outweigh any costs associated more about the various features available on the site. with the LGFA scheme. LGFA has a higher credit rating than The page also has links to the South Waikato and Waikato any bank in New Zealand, second only to the New Zealand Regional Open Data Portals. These contain information about Government, so risk of being involved with the fund is low and Council-owned datasets. the benefits high.

7 South Waikato Water Supply Series - Arapuni Wrapping up our water supply series in the South Waikato is the beautiful township of Arapuni. IN date Significant investment has been made in recent years into the processes, monitoring instrumentation, storage, and process controls to improve the final water quality and safety of the supply.

The Arapuni township is the Putāruru Summer Pools most affected in the South Now open for the summer. Waikato whenever water Will close in March 2021. restrictions are imposed. Entry fees apply. Residents will soon see special Located: 84 Reservoir Street, The scenic Waikato River Trails The Arapuni drinking water water conservation signage 12 noon to 6pm. supply provides water to a also run through the catchment installed at town entrances. population of approximately alongside the river. This trail Tīrau Summer Pools 300 people in Arapuni and is is fenced to prevent people The water restrictions are Now open for the summer. therefore classified as a small wandering into the farmland enforced as a part of Council’s Will close in March 2021. supply under the Health Act. and to keep them away from resource consent. As part of this Entry fees apply. the water supply assets. consent, Council is required by The Arapuni bore is located Waikato Regional Council to Located:11 Goodwin Street, on the south-western side of The water sourced from the have approved conservation 12 noon to 6pm. Arapuni adjacent to the Waikato Arapuni bore is pumped plans. River. through a greensand filter, Putāruru Christmas cartridge filters, UV light and The aim of these plans is to Parade The catchment consists of then chlorinated prior to ensure there is plenty of water Bring the family, come farmland with a mixture of entering the Arapuni Reservoir, all year round for all residents. along and enjoy the annual exotic and native trees along from where it is pumped to the festivities that Putāruru has the Waikato River. network. to offer. Float parade travels up and down Princes Street ending at Glenshea. Protect our stormwater systems Friday 11 December 2020 When it rains, water comes into contact with many surfaces that Hours: 5 - 9pm it cannot soak through. These include rooves of houses, sealed Twilight Christmas Block roads and footpaths. Party - Tokoroa When rainwater cannot soak or by direct connection to the Come and join the away, it can pond and may pipes from properties. community for a Block Party eventually cause flooding in celebration in Leith Place. We have to protect our some areas. stormwater system by not Good music, live Therefore, water runoff must discharging anything other than entertainment, range of be managed correctly. One stormwater to the system. market stalls, great food, effective way to dispose of lots of giveaways and so It is everyone's responsibility to stormwater is draining this into much more! Bring your chair prevent unwanted debris from the ground through a process or picnic mat! entering the stormwater pipes. called soakage. Late night madness market, Council must be informed as Stormwater runoff can contain Rosebery Mall from 4pm soon as possible about any materials that have been prohibited material entering the Christmas Parade, Bridge washed off the ground, rooves stormwater system, so that our Street from 5pm and streets. The quality of team can get out and sort it. stormwater and its effects Block Party, Leith Place from on the environment, such as We also need to make sure 6pm land erosion and waterway that the open drains that drain Saturday 12 December 2020, pollution, will differ depending the stormwater away, are kept 4pm to 8pm, Tokoroa CBD. on where the stormwater has clear of rubbish. So please drained from. don’t dump your rubbish over Check out Council's the fence, if you happen to live Stormwater and wastewater website for more events: beside one of these open drains. systems are quite different. www.southwaikato.govt.nz Stormwater often goes directly If you see poor behaviour into waterways. that could compromise our Anyone can submit an event stormwater system, report it. using the blue SUBMIT EVENT Stormwater generally enters button on the right of the the network through sumps Keep it clean South Waikato! Events Calendar page to display their event here.

8 Get out and enjoy what the South Waikato has to offer The holiday season is here. Little Waipa, on Horahora Road, While many people may have rounds out the main river written 2020 off, for residents in side reserves and is an ideal the South Waikato it’s a chance spot where holiday goers can to enjoy the great outdoors and exchange noise for peace. still take in what a Kiwi summer has to offer. In addition to our reserves, a visit to Te Waihou Walkway There is plenty to do for and Blue Spring is a must. Over everyone in our picturesque time we’ve noticed a significant reserves, where friends and improvement of the vegetation whanau can soak up the in the riverbed and on the summer sun, relax around a banks. Swimming continues sizzling BBQ or swim the waters to be discouraged in the Blue for hours on end. Spring environment. This taonga is special and beautiful. Whakamaru Reserve is one Let's all try to keep it that way. of the South Waikato's more popular rural reserves. Situated For bush walks through natural on the edge of Lake Whakamaru forest with an abundance of with a boat ramp located at the birds and native trees, Jim north end and a small beach at Barnett reserve is a must do. the south end, it's a lovely spot to pitch a tent. The Putāruru and Tīrau summer pools are open and the Indoor Dunham's Point located east Heated Pools in Tokoroa remains of Whakamaru Reserve on open over summer. Ongaroto Road is a popular location where visitors can park If you're looking for a a bit of up and enjoy the scenery and quiet time, the South Waikato be amongst nature. libraries will have a plethora of activities and programmes to Jones Landing remains another cater for all ages. camping spot that attracts locals and visitors. Close by is Whatever you and your family Note: If you plan on camping in the South Waikato, you do need a the Arapuni leg of the Waikato get up to these holidays, enjoy permit. Apply online at www. southwaikato.govt.nz. the festive season in the South River Trails, which provides Permits are free. rewarding views of the Waikato Waikato at our local parks, River and gets the heart reserves and leisure facilities. pumping. Have your say on our parks and reserves Council is now into its second Draft RMPs have been phase of consultation with streamlined into Rural, Urban the community and calling for and Sportsground Plans, and an written submissions and/or overall strategic/policy Reserve objections to the draft Reserve Management Plan. They include Management Plans (RMPs) future development options before we adopt and implement for each park, reserve and them from 2021. sportsground. The Consultation Document Results from the first (CD) invites members of the consultation showed some key public to view the draft RMPs findings that our communities compiled by the Parks and hope to see improved in the Reserves Manager and offer future, including: any written suggestions or objections. • Dog parks A Council hearing will take place • Basketball court in 2021 where submitters will • Skate park items have the opportunity to speak to Council on their submission. • Court resurfacing This is a chance for the public • Shelters to have their say on how our reserves are managed, and the • Seating options put forward for the Consultation closes on Monday further development of our 18 January 2021. Head to our reserves over the next 10 years. website for information on how The RMPs will then be reviewed to submit or obtain the CD and and adopted by Council. draft RMPs.

9 Recycling bins for Forest View High School In 2019, Forest View High doing restoration projects with farmers with riparian planting Forest View High School School became the first an emphasis on Matarawa programmes on both the acknowledged Council for secondary school in the stream and Lake Moananui, Matarawa and Pokaiwhenua the environmental funding, district to sign up to the gathering seasonal data on the streams. All these projects will the Enviroschools coordinator Enviroschools programme. water quality, clearing rubbish continue into 2021 with NCEA Camilla Carty-Melis and most Every Wednesday students from the lake and supporting credits for all three levels. importantly the positive participating in the school’s approach from the students. Akoranga programme, have been involved in a range of school and community environmental projects. The school-wide recycling project has already begun and will be an important focus throughout 2021. Council is proud to support the recycling project and recently gifted new recycling bins for use at the tuck shop area. Some of the other projects the school is involved in include planting over two hundred natives trees thanks to Council environmental funding,

Kerbside clean up – well done South Waikato! Key issues Since kicking off the recycling education campaign in July this year, contamination levels in LIDS, CAPS, TOPS household urban crates is nearing zero! This is a fantastic effort from our urban households. Remove ALL lids, caps and tops on plastics, glass and Data for the first Monday in effort of our urban residents contamination at the recycling tins. These items – regardless November from the recycling and the high levels of care and drop off zones in Tīrau, Putāruru of plastic type – are too collection run in Arapuni and responsibility almost everyone and Tokoroa. Tīrau’s move to its small to process through Tīrau revealed close to zero is taking regarding their new site and limited hours with the machine. For those contamination. What a great recycling. the education officer on site has wondering about this effort. But it’s not just a great reduced contamination levels In the early days of the change - our recycling used effort from Arapuni and Tīrau, significantly. The new Tokoroa to be sorted manually, but Putāruru and Tokoroa residents education and more stringent Transfer Station has also seen stickering regime upwards of it isn’t anymore. Small tops are showing similar near zero huge improvement, with near jam the machines and cause contamination levels. 800 household crates district perfect coloured glass recycling. wide were stickered in a considerable downtime. “We know it’s been a bit of a fortnight period. Compare that Unfortunately continued abuse Please put them in the rough road for our residents, to the last fortnightly cycle in at the rural stations resulted rubbish. and there have been numerous October when only 31 crates in the Te Waotu and Kuranui DIRTY PRODUCTS frustrated calls to Council while were stickered across the stations closing. Council will be Dirty, unrinsed and residents get to grips with the district! looking at possible alternatives unwashed recycling new recycling rules,” said Phil for rural recycling. The key contamination issues contaminates the rest of the Burt, Council’s Infrastructure recycling. Clean all products. Maintenance Manager. “These continue to be lids, tops and Rural residents are encouraged caps, incorrect plastics and to coincide their normal If that is not possible, put rules are necessary to ensure them in the rubbish. that our recycling isn’t rejected unwashed products. For a shopping trips into town with by the processing plant.” recap of the rules see the box the urban recycling drop off PLASTICS alongside. zone opening days and times. ONLY plastics 1s and 2s can These results speak volumes These are on our website. be recycled. Key issues that for the tremendous collective Also on the positive side is the significantly lower levels of continue to cause confusion are margarine containers, Only plastics yoghurt pots, ice cream Please rinse 1 and 2. containers, soft plastics like containers. lettuce bags, chip packets Horoi He kirihou tahi me and plastic wrap – all of te rua anake. these need to go in the o ipu. rubbish. OR, as in the case with ice cream containers that are quite durable, reuse them for leftovers, lunch If in boxes or craft/toy containers.

Coming along: Thedoubt, works at the Tokoroa Transfer Station continue to 1 2 develop. Pictured below is the transfer station building and photo to the left is an aerialchuck view the overall it site 10 out! South Waikato Mayoral Scholarships awarded for 2021 Mayor Jenny Shattock is proud to announce the recipients of the UP COMING EVENTS two Mayoral Scholarships and one Mayoral Merit award at the schools' respective prizegiving ceremonies held recently. Aspire Dance Academy - Mini Show - Sat 12 Dec, 11am - Congratulations to Colin Phayer of Tokoroa High School and Tickets available through Shontelle Wilson and Deklin Taumata of Forest View High School Eventfinda. Witness the who were the successful candidates. cuteness of young performers as they imagine and dream, Mr Phayer and Miss Wilson were each awarded a $10,000 Shontelle Wilson through dance and drama, scholarship, payable at $2,500 per year for a maximum of four years, about what they want to be depending on their course of study. Mr Taumata received a special when they grow up. Merit award of $5,000, a one-off payment for his first year of study. "We received numerous applications this year from exceptional students of South Waikato families," said Mayor Shattock. "Every year I say the same thing - deciding which students to award these scholarships to is one of the toughest jobs I have to do as Mayor." Applicants indicated interest in a range of degrees such as medicine, surveying, management, engineering, law, science, nursing and the arts. Students were shortlisted and interviewed by the panel of Mayor Shattock, Deputy Mayor Bill Machen, Council's Colin Phayer and Mayor Jenny Human Resources Manager Sue Brown and Gateway Coordinator Dianne Collins. "It is always one of the best days at the office when we get to interview such fantastic young people," said Mayor Shattock. "The students all displayed such confidence, determination and ability." "Special congratulations to Colin, Shontelle and Deklin. You all interviewed exceptionally well and have all the credentials. You will Aspire Dance Academy - Big surely do yourselves, your school, your Council and your district Show - Sat 12 Dec, 4pm and proud. Sun 13 Dec, 11am - Tickets available through Eventfinda. "If the calibre of these young people is anything to go by, we can all The Story of Scarecrow, rest easy that our future is in extremely capable hands," concluded Tin Man and The Lion who Mayor Shattock. Deklin Taumata are looking for their heart, courage, brain and a belief in themselves.

Hancock Forest Management forest clean up! For the second year running, Hancock Forest Management’s forestry crews have done a massive clean up of public roads leading into Kinleith forest. This year, the most common items Be brave... be kind... be you! were bottles and cans thrown from vehicles. Sadly, there was an - A performance featuring our increase in dumped household rubbish bags. Picking up rubbish students from eight years to on the sides of roads poses safety issues for the crews, the risk of adults as they showcase their broken glass, needles, rotting food and the unknown. Thankfully drama, hip hop, jazz, ballet, all safety procedures and process in place kept the crews safe! tap, acro, musical theatre, and Unfortunately, the team barely scratched the surface in retrieving lyrical pieces. all rubbish from the roadside. Over ten trailer loads of rubbish were sent to the landfill which was such a shame! Council sponsored the landfill fees and DG Waste assisted with resource outside of normal operating hours. A big thank you all Hancock forestry crews for their outstanding efforts this year. We look forward to the 2021 Hancock annual clean up. 07 883 8596/0276 559 715 www.plaza.org.nz Email: [email protected] Facebook: theplazaputaruru 11 Chorus cabinet art is spreading Arapuni Hall throughout district turns 50! The Chorus cabinet art initiative began in 2010 to try to reduce the amount of vandalism on cabinets. It proved so successful they have extended it throughout the country and now complete on average 100 murals a year. Four cabinets, one each in Tokoroa, Arapuni, Putāruru and Tirau, were chosen for beautification and painting is either complete or underway.

Mark Brawn, local Arapuni - Louis Mikaere Arapuni artist in front Korimako - these birds are painted to raise of his mural in the hall. awareness on the effects we have towards our natural world. Over 70 mostly ex-residents of “Judging by comments on Why Korimako for Arapuni? It reflects the Arapuni attended the recent the day and the emails I kaupapa/purpose of the wildlife sanctuary 50th birthday celebration of the have since received, it seems (Maungatautari) in the background. Arapuni Hall. people really appreciated the event,” said Trish. “I also want The weather played ball as to acknowledge the generous guests visited the hall, bowling support from local businesses Putāruru – Dylan King club and enjoyed a few walks and the effort of the volunteers.” Kotahitanga Tiki signifies unity of two. around the village and a bus Dylan has tribal links to this area. tour to the dam and surrounds; likely a trip down memory lane Why Kotahitanga Tiki for Putāruru? Because for many people who attended. it signifies unity of cultures, man and woman and earth and sky. Thanks to Neville Ormsby who drove one of his busses and long-time resident Dean Tīrau – Sarah Kolver Gittings for sharing his vast Tīrau at sunrise - this design focuses on knowledge of Arapuni. bright colourful shapes and tones, with Organiser Trish Murray the central front image being a Kingfisher commented that the tour sitting on a wire at sunrise. guides probably learnt more The sunrise colour continues through the about the village from the sides and back of the cabinet, where cubist attendees than they themselves shapes merge and join to create optical knew! illusions. Lunch options included local "I would love this cabinet to be a business Rhubarb Café or the celebration of colour that embraces the Bowling Club; which was a The cake cutting was done by vibrancy of the Tīrau township," said artist popular option probably due the guest from the furthest away Sarah. again to memory lane. Kirsty Garner (right) who drove up from Lawrence and the oldest Hats off to Trish and her Why Tirau at Sunrise for Tirau? As Sarah guest Shirley Briggs (left) who is organising committee for suggests, it celebrates the vibrancy of the now living at Rangiura Village. town. recognising the significance of this milestone so that users and ex-users of the hall could enjoy this celebration. What a difference a week makes in Spring The Spring Event at the Putāruru Community Garden planned for took a healthy profit to put towards their 8 November was postponed due to an unsettled forecast. fixed running costs. Seven days later a perfect Sunday brought people along wanting to The Putāruru Community Garden hold make the most of a big selection of plants and second hand tools at monthly sales. The next one is on Tuesday good prices – there are some seriously keen gardeners in Putāruru! 29 December, from 9.30am to 10.00am. Some fresh vegetables are available for sale, All age groups over a busy couple of hours meant the organisers when spare.

12 Council grant allocations benefit many

Many people may not be The aim of the Creative $60,000. The aim of this scheme • Marae capital rebuild aware that Council funds and Communities scheme is to is to help organisations with supports a large number of increase participation in the a range of initiatives, such as • Purchase of new van organisations in the South arts at a local level, and increase helping to get an event or • Establish a kindergarten Waikato with programmes, the range and diversity of arts programme started, helping mara kai (garden) events, administration, available to communities. organisations become self office support and other sufficient, upgrading existing • Venue hire for convention This year, over $27,000 was projects. These projects add facilities to improve the safety • Educational resources considerable value to the social requested and considered and wellbeing for users and fabric of our communities. for five projects ranging from supporting projects that benefit • Project delivery murals, productions, carry a range of groups. Council funds the Community pillows and market decorations. • Building improvements and Development Grants and This year alone over $120,000 equipment administers the Creative Due to funds available only was requested by 14 groups and $11,313 was allocated to • Safety upgrades to sports Communities Scheme on organisations. arena. behalf of Creative New support these requests. Council was able to contribute Zealand. The Community Development More information on grants and support requests such as: can be found on Council's The respective Allocation Scheme provides support for a wider range of initiatives. • Kindergarten shade sails website: www.southwaikato. Committees recently met to govt.nz decide which applicants were The Community Development • Kitchen upgrades to receive project funding. Grant allocation for 2020 was

Whakahaumaru Aotearoa 2020 Whakahaumaru Aotearoa - New Zealand ShakeOut is our national earthquake drill and tsunami hīkoi. This year ShakeOut was held on 15 November. It's a great way to remind people of the right action to take during an earthquake — Drop, Cover and Hold — and to practice a tsunami hīkoi (evacuation) if in a coastal area. Every year thousands of people around the country participate. A number of organisations in the South Waikato participated this year too. We snapped a few photos of Council staff and received more photos from South Waikato Pacific Islands Community Services (SWIPICS). Here we are practising the Drop, Cover and Hold exercise and other more obscure methods to ensure safety like doorways, bubble wrap and mind power.

13 COUNCIL OFFICES The Council offices in Tokoroa and Putāruru# will be closed from 3pm on Thursday 24 December 2020 and will re-open again at 8am on Tuesday 5 January 2021. Council can be contacted 24/7 through the holiday period via the main office 07 885 0340 or Putāruru office 07 883 7189. Reports via Antenno will continue to be logged into the Service Request System, but only once a day, not as they come in. # Putāruru Library opening hours are below.

THURS FRI SAT SUN MON TUES WED THURS FRI SAT SUN MON TUES 24 Dec 25 Dec 26 Dec 27 Dec 28 Dec 29 Dec 30 Dec 31 Dec 1 Jan 2 Jan 3 Jan 4 Jan 5 Jan SW Sport & open closed closed closed closed closed closed closed closed closed closed closed open Events Centre Tokoroa open closed closed closed closed open open open closed closed closed closed open Library Putāruru Library open closed closed closed closed open open open closed closed closed closed open

Tīrau i-SITE open closed open open open open open open open open open open open (Library Link)

POOLS The South Waikato Heated Indoor Pools are open during the festive season from Monday to Friday from 5.30am to 8pm and on weekends and public holidays from 7.30am to 8pm, except for: • Open on Christmas Eve (Thursday 24 December 2020) closing at 3pm • Closed on Christmas Day (Friday 25 December 2020) • Open on New Years Eve (Thursday 31 December 2020) closing at 3pm • Open on New Years Day from 12 noon (Friday 1 January 2021) The seasonal pools in Tīrau and Putāruru will be closed on Christmas Day, and open every other day from 12 noon to 6.00pm. URBAN CONNECTOR The Urban Connector bus service will run as normal during the Christmas period - Monday to Friday, normal times. The only days the service won't be running is on public holidays such as Friday 25 December 2020, Monday 28 December 2020 (ie Christmas) and Friday 1 January 2021and Monday 4 January 2021 (ie, New Years).

Every year thousands of people suffer from food poisoning. Most of these cases occur in homes just like yours. You can help Noise, neighbours and respect over Xmas prevent your whānau from becoming ill by following the 3Cs - With summer holidays clean, cook, chill. and the festive season Clean Chill upon us, we're all settling Before you prepare food and To stop bacteria contaminating down to a Christmas break after handling raw meat: or growing in your food: with whānau and friends. The days are longer. The • Wash hands, chopping boards, • Don't leave food out of the nights warmer. Christmas dishes and utensils (like fridge for too long. celebrations are underway. knives) in hot and soapy • Cover and keep in the fridge. These get togethers and water. celebrations can come with a • Dry them properly - preferably • Keep cooked and raw food bit more noise than usual. separate. air dry (not with a towel). Here's some tips regarding Cook • Refrigerate within two hours noise, neighbours and respect • Cook food (especially chicken or bin it. If in doubt, throw this festive season. it out! and mince) thoroughly all the • Let your neighbours know if way through until the juices For more information on food you are having a party that run clear. safety this summer visit: is likely to run late into the • Reheat until hot. Warm does www.mpi.govt.nz night. Most people are okay not kill bacteria, hot does. with the odd party. • Be respectful of your neighbours with music and merriment noise levels. Loud music and noisy boisterous behaviour fuelled by an abundant supply of 14 RUBBISH AND RECYCLING ONLY Christmas Day and New Year's Day collections are affected. These are the ORANGE areas in Tokoroa.

If your normal collection is Friday 25 December and Friday 1 January, your collection will move to the following days, ie, Saturday 26 December and Saturday 2 January. These are the DARK ORANGE & LIGHT ORANGE collection days on the recycling calendar. NO OTHER COLLECTION AREA IS AFFECTED. Residents - please note the Tokoroa and Putāruru Transfer Stations will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year's Day. District recycling drop off zones are available on normal days. See our website. These sites will be cleared daily or as required over the Christmas period. Recycling drop-off zone customer behaviour. PLEASE: • Flatten and fold cardboard boxes. Unflattened boxes fill the cages too quickly. • Put the right colour bottles in the right coloured bins. • All recycling must be clean. Rinse plastic, glass and tins. Remove food scraps. If it can't be cleaned put it in the rubbish. • No lids, caps or tops. • ONLY plastics 1s and 2s can be recycled. Look for these symbols:

THURS FRI SAT SUN MON TUES WED THURS FRI SAT SUN MON TUES 24 Dec 25 Dec 26 Dec 27 Dec 28 Dec 29 Dec 30 Dec 31 Dec 1 Jan 2 Jan 3 Jan 4 Jan 5 Jan Tokoroa open closed open open open open open open closed open open open open Transfer Station

Putāruru open closed open open closed open closed open closed open open closed open Transfer Station

PUBLIC TOILETS at the Impact Hub space in Leith Place, Tokoroa The public toilets in Leith Place will be open (seven days a week) during the festive season from 9am to 5pm, except for Christmas Day (25 December 2020) and Boxing Day (28 December 2020); and New Year's Day (1 January 2021) and Monday 4 January 2021.

Noise, neighbours and respect over Xmas alcohol can be annoying to those in your neighbourhood who are If there are any follow up queries regarding noise control services trying to sleep. or complaints made, please contact the Environmental Health team for further information; again by calling 07 885 0340. • When the party is winding down, it can sometimes spill out on to the street as we say our goodbyes. It's a nice gesture for your Council Officers can investigate noise complaints and, under neighbours to keep goodbyes on the footpath short and quiet. legislation, can require the noise to stop. Ultimately however it is the responsibility of the occupier of a property to control or limit Got a noise complaint? noise. For those who are having issues in the night with loud party noise, Be respectful of your neighbours this Christmas. you can report this through to the on-duty After Hours Noise Officer. Here's some clarity into how noise complaints work. It is best to call 07 885 0340. If the call is made after-hours, follow the voice prompts to be put through to the after-hours contractor. While you are welcome to contact Council via Facebook and Antenno, please note that these mediums are not attended 24/7, so immediate action won't always happen. You're welcome to use these methods to let us know of concerns you have, but calling 07 885 0340 is the best way to get quick action. 15 • There are two multi-day events at the Tokoroa airfield in December. See website for details. Keeping our temporary • South Waikato road repairs pools safe for our tamariki by Council and Waka More information, visit Council’s website: www.southwaikato.govt.nz Mayor Jenny Shattock Kotahi are underway. Keep our tamariki safe this summer by ensuring that you follow 0274 416 230 • Work to fix the vehicle and some basic safety guidelines for your pool that contains less Jenny.Shattock pedestrian bridge at than 400mm of water. Most often these are the pools that aren’t @southwaikato.govt.nz Te Waihou is complete. installed all year round but are purchased from retailers for our • Site preparation for the whanau and friends to enjoy over the hot summer holidays… Tīrau wastewater wetland well at least we hope it’s going to be hot! Bill Machen Deputy Mayor is set to start by Christmas. If you do buy a pool that can Some more great hints: 0274 715 899 hold more than 400mm then • Community feedback on Bill.Machen you may need a building • Always supervise children in or the changing face of the near your pool. @southwaikato.govt.nz Putāruru waterpark has consent for its installation which Arama been extremely positive. may include the provision of • Maintain garden fences and Ngapo-Lipscombe Next step is the detailed compliant barriers, fences, gates keep gates and other means of 0275 339 988 design phase. etc. This is a significant cost that access in good condition. is often overlooked at the time Arama. • Over 50% of the budget for of purchase. • Always make sure the gate Ngapo-Lipscombe the Warm Homes Clean Air to the yard is safely shut and @southwaikato.govt.nz programmes is committed. Pools that can’t hold more than can't be propped open. Thomas Lee 400mm of water don’t need 0273 321 292 • Set rules of behaviour around • The after-hours call centre to be fenced and therefore Thomas.Lee the pool and teach your service continues to show registered with Council, @southwaikato.govt.nz efficiencies. however there are some children water safety, swim and survive skills. • The 2020 STARS school sensible practices around their Marin Glucina holiday programme is use. The following is important • Empty the pool when not in 0210 284 3214 complete. for the safety of our community. use. Marin.Glucina @southwaikato.govt.nz • Library Lovers sessions Don’t place these pools in an • Clear away toys and flotation open front yard. You have no have resumed at the aids from the pool area when Hamish Daine control over other children Tokoroa Library for our not in use (these can be super 021 125 9225 finding their way into your avid readers. tempting for littlies). Hamish.Daine pool. This could have tragic @southwaikato.govt.nz • Keep up with contact consequences. • Learn first aid and tracing for COVID-19. resuscitation. Alex Jansen 0279 581 906 Alex.Jansen TALKING @southwaikato.govt.nz You can keep up to date with Putāruru Ward council information via: ROAD SAFETY Sandra Wallace 0210 291 3702 www.southwaikato.govt.nz With the weather warming If you plan on towing a boat or Sandra.Wallace up and the sun shining caravan a good cooling system @southwaikato.govt.nz www.facebook/ (sometimes!), here are a few is especially important! SouthWaikatoDistrictCouncil reminders for those about to hit Hans Nelis Remember both your boat the road over the holiday. 0210 552 306 trailer and caravan need to have Download Antenno FREE Hans.Nelis Warm weather means a warm a current warrant of fitness so @southwaikato.govt.nz car. Check that your cooling don’t leave it too late. Check the or email system is working well. An tyres on both and ensure that all [email protected] overheated car can cause the coupling devices, tow-ball, Gary Petley expensive damage and ruin safety chain and brakes (if fitted) 0274 836 809 your holiday. Check cooling are working and corrosion free. Gary.Petley fluids are at the correct level and @southwaikato.govt.nz your radiator is clear. Modern Don’t forget you and your family (and pets) need cooling too! If you would like to receive car radiator fans no longer run Tīrau Ward continuously so can be hard to Ensure you have plenty of fluids this newsletter via email with you (non-alcoholic) and Peter Schulte contact: kerry.fabrie find fault. When in doubt talk to 021 434 933 your mechanic. don’t forget to plan your journey @southwaikato.govt.nz. stops to flush out the fluids. Peter.Schulte @southwaikato.govt.nz