Southland District Council’s magazine

Pumped at the park Page 2

1 Pumped at the park

There’s a happy buzz in the air around ’s newest cycling attraction.

e Anau Community Board chair Rachel Cockburn says reaction to the new pump track has been T“incredible” since it opened on 18 February. “Use of the track has been amazing,” she says. “It’s brought kids back to the skate park.” Scooter rider So much so that it’s given the community board plenty to Oliver Mann think about as to how the area can be further developed. Cover photo Ms Cockburn says seating, shading and water outlets will be Yves Broers installed near the track, which is an offshoot of the skate Magazine design park. Toilets are also a possibility for the area. Gloria Eno The pump track cost $70,000 to construct and is Produced by designed to give cyclists, BMX riders, scooter riders and skateboarders a different experience. Council Communications team The twin-looped asphalt track has a series of berms and smooth mounds, known as “rollers”, which are ridden without pedalling, by “pumping” the bike. Te Anau Community Board funded half the $70,000, with the rest coming from the Community Trust of Southland “It was a great and Meridian. Te Anau Cycling Inc got “right behind it”, Ms Cockburn community project. says, with president Andy McDonald heavily involved. We’re stoked.”

2 Dear 14 February Attended the Mayoral Forum at Environment Southland. 16 February Met ratepayers in Te Anau about Around the Diary Mountains Cycle Trail. 1 March CDA elections have kicked off with Deputy Mayor Paul Duffy and I sharing the workload. Excerpts from Mayor Gary Tong’s busy schedule … 3 March Visited the Department of Corrections for an overview of what they do in our community.

6 March I was at Bluff this morning to help an adventurous bunch of jetskiers and their support crews set off on a journey to fi ght melanoma. Up to 38 personal watercraft riders at any time were covering 1400km of water over 12 days, from to Auckland. The annual Yamaha Ski-nZ Max event has been running for four years, and this was their longest ride yet. As well as having fun, each rider raised funds to help Melanoma NZ to prevent avoidable deaths. New Zealand has the highest incidence of melanoma in the world. Travel safe and well, team. yg 6 March Attended the Vince Boyle Collection launch Bon voyage! at Winton Library.

8 March Hosted Janice Lee and Darren Ludlow and worked through Koha Kai’s presentation for the national TrustPower Awards, followed by a visit to their kitchen. What an awesome organisation!

9 March Here’s my fi rst crack at being an artist. I whipped up this sculpture in the workshop at home for the Southland Arts Society’s 50:50 exhibition at Invercargill’s City Gallery. I’m with City Gallery public programmes manager Gemma Baldock. My sculpture is of a fi sherman My first sale! and a cyclist holding hands, and it might just have something to do with the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail. All artworks in the fundraising exhibition were available although I donated my cut to the gallery. for sale for $200. Of that, $100 went to The exhibition, at City Gallery, 28 Don the artist and $100 went to City Gallery, Street, ran until 1 April.

Southland District Council is now looking again at its options for the Te Anau disposal of treated wastewater from Te Anau. Council chief executive Steve Ruru says due to circumstances out of Council’s and Fiordland Sewerage Options’ control, the Smith block on wastewater Sinclair Road is no longer a viable option. “Council staff are now working on a report to go to Council in May on what the next steps for this project will be,” Mr Ruru says. option off Fiordland Sewerage Options chair Alistair Paton-McDonald says the group is disappointed the Sinclair Road option has fallen through but the table thanks Council for the work it has done to move forward on this option. 3 MAYOR GARY TONG

etting on with the job is what we do best in Southland. As our communities evolve, representation needs to evolve alongside it. It’s crucial those changes are driven by Gpeople in our district’s towns and rural areas. The changes have already started to have an impact through tighter terms of reference for community development areas. Some communities have embraced a vision of future-proofi ng themselves as populations vary and boundaries change. Others are still talking about how best to tackle the changes around them. A representation review next year could see more changes as Council encourages people to be involved in what’s called participatory democracy versus representational democracy. Essentially, this means communities taking control of their own patches wherever possible. Councillors are one strand of representation but Southland district has long prided itself on bottom-up democracy through community boards and community development areas – allowing them to steer their own destiny as much as possible. An example of communities evolving is Riversdale, where people have built new dwellings outside the town boundary, meaning they are not covered by the current community “This means development area. These grey areas of people living in the district but not being covered by the current communities taking representation umbrella need to be addressed. It’s been six years since the last representation review, and the dwellings in Riversdale were built control of their since then. An example of a community-led initiative own patches that has captured local and national attention – and funding – is the Natural Heritage Centre. wherever possible.” Council’s role in providing infrastructure has melded relatively seamlessly into the development of the heritage centre and We received very few submissions and in the end it was a storytelling by the South Catlins Charitable reasonably straight-forward decision. The tourism heartlands of Trust, and the provision of a new carpark by our district need to be able to have their doors open whenever DOC to complement its existing facilities. the visitors are there, and this decision allows that. While there has been a lot of focus on tourism Employees can elect not to work on Easter Sunday, and they growth in , the centre, the new cannot be treated adversely for not working. wastewater treatment plant and carpark will provide real positives for local residents as well. Finally, I should mention the Te Anau Community Board’s initiative of asking people what their vision is for the area in 10 Continuing the theme of doing it for yourself, years’ time. Council has approved a new Easter Sunday trading bylaw whereby businesses are able to It’s another good example of positive, strategic thinking. make their own decisions instead of Council Other communities around the district are also refl ecting on telling certain shops they can open while telling where they are at and where they want to be in the future. These others they must close, in an ad hoc fashion. are important conversations for everyone in Southland.

4 CHIEF EXECUTIVE STEVE RURU

The time is right to have a frank and open discussion about this.

“ e’ve been thinking a lot about It is a legislative requirement community governance lately. to have a representation review every six years, which we will In particular we’ve been thinking be starting soon, and here at about the design of the governance Council we’re thinking about what structure we have in the district. a new structure might look like by We think it could be better. 2019 as part of our” Community W Governance Project. As it stands Council has a representational democracy model, whereby residents put themselves forward for Last month, CDA elections were election to Council, community boards and community held to elect six community development area subcommittees, and they have the representatives on to each of opportunity to be voted in. the 19 CDAs, a total of 114 There are eight community boards throughout community representatives to the district, and 19 community development area go with the 48 elected members subcommittees, or CDAs. of community boards and 13 elected to Council. That’s 175 CDAs are not controlled by the LLocal Government elected representatives in a AAct.ct. They are a construct of SouthlandSout District governance role that equates to Council, designed to allow broadbroadere community-focused one elected representative for representation across thethe region. every 165 residents. Until now, the CDA system has been considered an Such an unwieldy structure is appropriate vehicle for deliveringdelive democracy to your neither effi cient nor effective doorstep.doorstep. It has certainly givengiv some of the district’s as we think about the changing smaller communities a degree of autonomy in deciding Southland social, economic and howhow they administer their townshipstown and which projects environmental landscape and they wish to pursue, as well as creating a formal line of what it might look like another communication withwith tthehe territoterritorial authority, the Council. generation down the track. It’sIt’s not without its fl aws, thouthough.g We know that some Southlanders have been thinking about this too. IItt may come as a ssurpriseu to some of you that roughly one tthird of the people Among the issues hotly debated who live in SouthlandSouth district do not at our Community Conversations hhaveave the same lelevel of representation series of meetings last year was as those who lliveiv in an area covered demographic change, and the byby a communitycommunit board or CDA. effects it will have on those They are still representedr by a ward who will live and work in our councillor butbut they do not have the communities in the future. People opportunityopportunity tot have direct input rightly wanted to know how into local decision-makingde or make the cost of delivering current recommendationsrecommend to Council about levels of service across the local rates.rates district could be shared fairly and sustainably between a declining InIn terms of population, that number of ratepayers. means nenearly 11,000 people of thethe 30,030,0000 people who live in the The simple answer is, it probably districtdistrict ddon’to have access to this can’t be. kind of representation,ree simply becausebecause ththeyh live on the wrong The onus is on us, as a Council, side of a liline on a map. to develop more innovative and inclusive ways of doing things This is not be the best way to serve while also striving for greater ourour many communitiesc as we look effi ciencies. The Community to the future.future Governance Project is a step in the right direction, and we look The time is rright to have a frank and forward to talking to you about it openopen discussiondiscussi about this. some more. 5 PPioneeringioneering PPolesoles

The work of a pair of pioneering Polish scientists may soon Forsters discovered 119 plants and 38 bird species in both be commemorated with a plaque at . Dusky Sound, Fiordland, and Queen Charlotte Sound in the Marlborough Sounds. Southland District Council staff are working with the Polish Embassy in Wellington to unveil a plaque at Pearl Harbour The Polish Trails in New Zealand project was started by the commemorating the botanical discoveries of father-and-son Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Wellington. scientists Johann and Georgg ForsterForster,, who were on ItIt was one ofof severaseverall proprojectsje started in 2013 to Captain James Cook’s secondd southern expedition.expedition. celebrate the 40th anniversaryannive of Poland-New The Manapouri plaque projectct was instigated Zealand diplomatic relations.rela Ten plaques issued in on behalf of the Polish communitymunity by Te AnAnauau memory of famous PolishPol people were unveiled writer Alina Suchanski. Councilncil communitycommunity around New Zealand thatt year. The Forsters’ partnership leader Simon Moranoran has been liaisingliaising plaque will be a continuationcontin of that historical trail. with Polish Ambassador Zbigniewgniew Gniatkowski AmbassadorAmbassador GniatkowskiGniatkow says the Forsters’ to see the project through to completion. connection encouragedencouraged him to visit Fiordland in It is 245 years since Cook’s expeditionxpedition ships DecemberDecember and mmeet with Mayor Gary Tong HMS Resolution and Adventureure ssetet ssailail andand Council staff. from Plymouth Sound in 1772,72, and the “It was anan excellent choice to place the Polish embassy and communityity want plaque in Pearl Harbour, Manapouri, to mark the anniversary with a plaque byby the RealRe Journeys wharf – a dedicated to the Forsters. starting pointp of boat departures to Ms Suchanski says the projectt was DoubtfulDoubtful and Dusky Sound where interesting to her because it’s a the ForstersForste made a whole range of “colourful convergence of Polisholish magnimagnifi centcen scientifi c fi ndings.” and New Zealand history”. MoMorere thanthan 7000 Poles live in While in New Zealand, the New ZealaZealand.n Polish Ambassador Zbigniew Gniatkowski. 6 Pearl Harbour OHANN REINHOLD FORSTER at Manapouri, where the plaque (22 October 1729-9 December 1798) will be placed. was a Reformed (Calvinist) pastor and naturalist of Polish and Scottish descent who made contributions to the early Jornithology of Europe and North America. He was born in the city of Tczew (Dirschau) in Poland, and is best known as the naturalist on James Cook’s second Pacifi c voyage, where he was accompanied by his son Georg Forster. These expeditions promoted the career of Johann Reinhold Forster and the fi ndings became the bedrock of colonial professionalism and helped set the stage for the future development of anthropology and ethnology. They also laid the framework for general concern about the impact that alteration of the physical environment for European economic expansion would have on exotic societies.

OHANN GEORG ADAM FORSTER (November 27, 1754-January 10, 1794) was a naturalist, ethnologist, travel writer, journalist, and revolutionary. At an early age he accompanied his father, Johann Reinhold JForster, on several scientifi c expeditions, including James Cook’s second voyage to Captain James Cook the Pacifi c. His report of that journey, A Voyage Round the World, contributed signifi cantly to the ethnology of the people of Polynesia and remains a respected work. As a result of the report, Forster was admitted to the Royal Society at the early age of 22 and came to be considered one of the founders of modern scientifi c travel literature.

7 Big tick for Curio Bay

$500,000 Government grant for our project recognised at Government level.” the Curio Bay Tumu Toka Natural Construction was scheduled to begin on March A Heritage Centre and Experience is a 13 and building is expected to take fi ve months, huge boost for the project, Southland District followed by the exhibition fi t-out. Council Deputy Mayor Paulaul Duffy sayssays.. The project has involved three organisations In March, Tourism Ministerster Paula Bennett with Southland District Council installing announced $500,000 towardswards the nnewew the wastewater system, and DOC a new attraction as one of the rrecipientsecipients of carpark, with public toilets to come. Tourism Growth Partnershiprship funding.funding. The South Catlins Charitable Councillor Duffy says thee stories of the Trust is about to erect the endangered yellow-eyed ppenguins,enguins, Hectors new visitor centre. dolphins and New Zealandnd sea lions, as well It has been able to do this as the 160 million-year-oldld petrifi ed forest, through funding from will be able to be told in an engaging way. Community Trust of Southland, Interactive exhibitions wiwillll also capture the NZ Lotteries, Mataura Licensing Trust, early Maori connection too Curio BayBay TumuTumu Southland Regional Heritage Committee, Toka to a much higher standard.tandard. and local community, and support from Venture Southland. Cr Duffy says the fundingng for the “These initiatives will provide real benefi t interpretation componentnt is a hugehuge boost to their regions, creating new tourism for the South Catlins Charitablearitable Trust. offerings and more local jobs,” Ms “It is gratifying to have thehe signifi cance of Bennett said, at the time.

It is gratifying to have the “signifi cance of our project recognised at Government level.” - Southland District Council Deputy Mayor Paul Duffy

8 ‘Positive’ result for Council

outhland District Council has Council is audited every two years The auditors commented positively on been reaccredited as a building by International Accreditation New the building team’s technical knowledge, S control body. Zealand (IANZ) to make sure Council the general robustness of processes, and is compliant with the Accreditation the co-operative approach from staff to Under the 2004 Building Act it is a the audit process. statutory requirement to be accredited of Building Consent Authorities in order to issue building consents. Regulations 2006. Team leader-building solutions Michael Marron says the accreditation is an endorsement of the entire Council’s good work. “This is a positive refl ection on our organisation and the auditor commented on the positive and friendly approach the IANZ team encountered throughout the entire organisation.” - Michael Marron

He credits the many Council staff who helped prepare documentation for the IANZ audit, notably the customer service, records and IT teams. He also pays tribute to the “pioneering” work of former building control manager Kevin O’Connor, who left Council to take up a position with Central Otago District Council last November. The council building team’s systems and processes are documented in a manual developed by Mr O’Connor. That manual is the framework for how the building control team operates, not only at SDC but also at Invercargill City Council, Gore District Council and the Clutha District Council. IANZ accreditation recognises Team leader-building technical competence and effective solutions Michael Marron processes, including full compliance with and building control international standards. team leader-systems Keri Longman at work. Council’s next reaccreditation audit will be in 2019.

All shops in the Southland district are An employer who wants an employee to now able to trade on Easter Sunday. work has to notify the employee of their right to refuse to work on Easter Sunday. Southland District Council’s Easter An employee who elects not to work must Easter Sunday Shop Trading Policy has taken notify the employer of their intention to eff ect and it will be up to business refuse to work. There are specifi c time owners to decide whether they want to periods before Easter Sunday when these Sunday open on Easter Sunday. Shop employees notifi cations must be made. have the right to refuse to work on Easter An employee cannot be compelled to Sunday without repercussions. Trading work or be treated adversely for electing Employers and employees have not to work on Easter Sunday. obligations placed on them by the The policy does not apply to the sale or Shop Trading Hours Act 1990 and the supply of alcohol. Alcohol sale and supply Employment Relations Act 2000. is regulated in the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. 9 Edendale plan unveiled

dendale residents are largely happy with the fi nal “The safe fl ow of traffi c on the highway is affected by the plan for the proposed heavy traffi c bypass and varying speed limits, road geometry and layout, along with are looking forward to the project becoming a railway crossings and heavy vehicles travelling through the reality, Edendale-Wyndham Community Board town,” he says. chair Pam Yorke says. In November, the Transport Agency held an open day, where EEdendale is affected by highway traffi c noise, so the two proposals were presented to the public for feedback. proposed bypass will improve the environment for residents, A survey was also produced to gather information. This the NZ Transport Agency says. consultation showed strong support in favour of the option which allowed traffi c from the north to make a left turn off The preferred option for addressing these issues is to realign the new alignment onto the existing Pioneer Highway, in State Highway 1 to the northwest of Edendale with a much the same way as drivers do now. roundabout close to the southern end of the new route. This option future-proofs the highway and supports Fonterra’s use Mrs Yorke says it is pleasing the fi nal plan has been of rail as a freight option. announced as it represents progress for the town. NZTA project manager Jason Forbes says the project has “I think it’s fi ne and people have been waiting a long time.” been developed to increase the route’s effi ciency and to The fact that north-bound traffi c will not be able to access improve both community safety and safety on State Highway the town from the south is not ideal, but the plan is probably 1 between Invercargill and Mataura. 95 per cent right, she says. “It will do this by shifting the heavy traffi c away from NZTA intended to have lodged its consent applications in homes and the school on Salford Street on to a new and March and people are encouraged to enter a submission. safer highway which will pass around the back of the Fonterra plant. It aims to start construction at the end of the year. 10 or 10 years the past has been brought to life, the lost “It’s good when I can help people track down have been found and a region’s history preserved thanks missing family members,” he says. to painstaking work by Southland District Council staff members. Missing headstones, missing records and paupers’ F graves mean that discovering the identities of Donna Hawkins and Dave Joll have spent a decade discovering the everyone buried at each cemetery is a massive job, names of the folk buried in cemeteries throughout Southland, and cross-referencing information with Births, Deaths tastefully displaying the information so that visitors and families can and Marriages and working with families to ensure easily navigate the grounds. the information is correct. The project began in 2007 when the Balfour cemetery sexton was Ms Hawkins, an SDC graphic designer, says it is a inundated with visitors discovering the joys of genealogy. great feel-good project. It was obvious a list or board was needed at the cemetery, so Council “Families are now able to go and fi nd where their was approached to discover the best way to do it. It has proved so people are. A lot of graves didn’t have headstones, successful that the project has been rolled out all over the district. so there was no memorial for them.” It was decided that a memoriam board housed, in most cases, People buried in unmarked paupers’ graves have in a purpose-built shelter, would be the best way to display the now been named. information. Time is spent deciding on the best structure for each particular cemetery, and the boards are future-proofed so they can be Looking at the names and dates of the dead also added to as more people are buried. provides an amazing snapshot of a community, Ms Hawkins says. Visitors can look up a family member on the board and then, using the map on the board, easily fi nd who they are looking for. SDC The old cemetery holds the story of provides the staff time, while local Lions groups raise money to fund a diphtheria epidemic, where one family lost four the boards themselves. children within days. Mr Joll, an SDC property data administrator, was given the task of keeping the database and reconstructing lost records. In memoriam

“It’s so emotional and so personal and means so much to everybody. It’s a great community project.” - Donna Hawkins

Mayor Gary Tong opens the Woodlands Cemetery memorial board. 11 Southland district ratepayers’ feedback will be used to improve Council services. Council has just completed a three-yearly residents’ survey. Information gathered during the month-long survey will be useful for Council managers to measure performance and identify trends or areas where Senior Council staff Joe Bourque, left, and Hartley improvements can be made in Hare investigate an issue on a district road. service delivery. A phone survey was conducted on Council’s behalf by Christchurch research company Research First until 21 March, and residents were Safety as able to complete the survey on Council’s website. It was an opportunity for ratepayers to let Council know a service how we’re doing. Residents play an important role in how Council develops and any positives came out of Council by calling the customer improves services, and the MSouthland District Council’s support team on 0800 732 732. survey was one important and fi rst road focus group meeting in easy way that you can have Te Anau in February. Armed with this information, Council your say. road safety staff are able to build a The focus group was organised as better picture of road safety hot spots The objectives of the survey a forum for members of the public on the network, and to develop crash were to: and Council staff to discuss road- prevention strategies. related issues and explore possible ○ Identify the communities’ solutions. The small but lively focus group was in perception of Council general agreement that the condition services and activities Safety as a service was the main of roads in Southland District theme of Council’s presentation, Council’s network is very good. ○ Provide a cost-effective with driver safety emphasised as a means of performance priority over driver comfort. Several specifi c road safety concerns measurement for some raised by group members about Te activities where other Focus group members were Anau roads are being investigated performance measures encouraged to help spread the by Council staff, who are staying in would be expensive or word that crashes on district contact with the people who raised impractical roads should be reported to the concerns. ○ Identify areas where improvements in service delivery may be required ○ Allow comparison with the performance of other councils.

12 The Hideaway 201 chef Karl Robinson discusses the new changes with Council environment health offi cer Veena Lal-Boon. Food changes on the menu

Southland businesses have responded well to new Food Act While new businesses have to comply straight away, existing changes which require some to prepare food control plans, businesses are changing over to the new rules in stages. Southland District Council environmental health offi cer Other businesses that needed to register by 31 March Veena Lal-Boon says. included Early Childhood Education centres that serve food; The deadline for some businesses, including restaurants and processors of nuts, seeds or coffee beans; and manufacturers cafes with an alcohol licence, was 31 March. of food for vulnerable people (like babies or the elderly), ready-to-eat salads, and sauces, spreads, dips or soups that Mrs Lal-Boon says most restaurants, cafes and bars with on- need to be kept cold. licences in Southland have responded well to the changes. Businesses can fi nd out how the rules apply to them by using “Businesses have done really well.” a tool called “Where do I fi t?” on the MPI website: Some people are fi nding it challenging to come to grips with www.mpi.govt.nz/foodact the new system but she is happy to talk people through the Food service businesses without on-licences, such as requirements. some cafes, takeaway shops, caterers and accommodation The new law aims to improve food safety by moving to a businesses, will be required to transition to the new system by risk-based approach. 31 March next year.

13 ANIMAL CONTROL A new dog registration system is being introduced by Southland District Council to encourage responsible dog ownership through a system of incentives.

Incentives for dog owners

Environmental health manager Michael Sarfaiti says the behaviour. Only incidents of irresponsible dog ownership new dog registration fees come into effect from 1 July 2017. from 1 July 2016 will be taken into account. From July 2018 onwards, only the previous two years’ history will be taken The new fees are designed to encourage responsible into account with the good behaviour discount. ownership with a range of discounts built in recognising the steps responsible dog owners have taken. Previously Council currently does regular microchipping for free Council had a fl at fee for all dog registrations. around the district, for dogs registered with Southland District Council, and that will continue. “It’s an entirely different way of doing it. It’s a signifi cant change.” Registration forms and payment can be done online through the Council website without the need for people to A new proposed fee of $90 for non-working dogs fi ll in paper forms or travel to a Council offi ce. is in place, with discounts if dogs are spayed or neutered, are fenced or in a controlled property, and “A lot of people prefer to do their payments online now, microchipped. Responsible dog ownership is another and we encourage that,” Mr Sarfaiti says. criteria. The fee reduces to $30 if the dog owner When dog owners receive their registration pack in the post qualifies for all the discounts. in early June, they can go to Council’s website and click on The new system is similar to a model used by many other the ‘Pay It’ section on the home page. councils throughout New Zealand. “The aim overall is to reduce the amount of aggression and wandering dog incidents and encourage responsible ownership,” Mr Sarfaiti says. Most dog attacks in the district are on dogs or other animals, with a small proportion of attacks on people. One of the aims of the new system is to reduce the possibility of future incidents, he says. Council surveyed people in 2015 during the dog control bylaw review process and received positive responses around introducing incentives. “We want to make sure people are very aware of the new system. It’s a very transparent system with clear criteria.” Council is adopting a clean slate approach to good 14 THE PROPOSED from your vet that your dog has been neutered or spayed, $ such as a receipt or a certifi cate. FEES ARE: If your dog was neutered before 1 July 2016, then Council will work off its existing records, unless the dog owner advises that the records need to be updated. Registration fee non-working dog $90 (before possible discounts) Fencing or a controlled property Possible discounts: To receive the fencing discount, ensure that your dog is contained on your property in one of the following ways: ► The dog is spayed or neutered ► A fully fenced property; or ► The dog is in a fenced or controlled property ► A fenced or portable enclosure; or ► Responsible owner (according to Council’s criteria) and microchipped dog ► A dog motel; or Registration fee non-working dog if all discounts apply ► A kennel with an enclosed run attached; or - $10 discount ► A leash attached to a running wire. - $20 discount Responsible owner - $30 discount To receive this discount, you must meet the following criteria: Working dog registration $30 ► The dog is microchipped as required by the Dog Late registration penalty (for all dogs) 50% of the Control Act 1996 total registration fee ► There has been no written warning, barking abatement notice, seizure or infringement under the Dog Control Dogs neutered after 1 July 2016 Act 1996 from 1 July 2016 onwards relating to any dog You will need to provide Council with evidence owned by the person applying for the registration

MICROCHIPPING TIMETABLE

AREA MAY JUNE JULY Invercargill None Wednesday 7th None Offi ce car park 11.30 – 12noon Lumsden Wednesday 10th None Wednesday 5th Railway Station 11.30 – 12noon 11.30- 12noon Nightcaps None Thursday 8th None Fire Station 11.30 - 12noon Offi ce None Tuesday 13th None (at rear) 11.30 – 12 noon Riverton Offi ce Tuesday 2nd None Tuesday 4th 11.30 – 12noon 11.30 – 12 pm Te Anau Offi ce Thursday 4th None Thursday 6th (at rear) 11.30– 12 noon 11.30 – 12noon Wyndham Offi ce None Tuesday 6th None (at rear) 2pm – 2.30 pm Tuesday 9th None Tuesday 11th Old railway station 11.30– 12noon 11.30 – 12noon Winton None Thursday 1st None Opposite SDC Offi ce 11.30 – 12noon

PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL DOGS MUST BE CURRENTLY REGISTERED WITH SDC AND WEARING THEIR TAGS TO BE MICROCHIPPED. 15 OUR SOUTHLANDER

hehe heavy clouds and rainrai have rolled away at thethe coast, leaving an eye-wateringly T brightbright Southland autumnautum day. Cars, campers and the odd totouru bus form a near- constant procession up and downdo the road to the Curio Bay camping ground. VisitorsVi eat lunches fromfrom the boots of their cars wwhile hopeful seagulls and a solitary big brownbr petrel patrol the new carpark.carpark. AtAt the top of the road,road a huge orange diggerdigger is making shortsho work of a stand ofof fl ax, paving ththee way for a new hheritageeritage centre, tthe South Catlins Charitable TrTrust’su latest and greatest proproject.je The centre represents tthe culmination of years of wworko by the trust, whose cocommitmentm and vision hhasa seen Curio Bay mamakeke ttheh leap from sleepy camp ssite with a lonely yeyellowllow signpost pointing the wway to the world- renownedrenow petrifi ed forest,fores into what will be a comprehensivecom visitor experience.exper Greta Buckingham is hhelpingelping with the planting of natnativeive shrubs and trees around a newn wastewater treatmenttreatment plant at the top ofof the roadroa leading into the camping ground.g A life-long local,lo she eyes the stream of vevehicles,h and gives practised directions tto a backpacker who wants to get to DunedinDunedin..

South Catlins Charitable Trust secretary Greta Buckingham 1616 GRETA BUCKINGHAM

Greta was born in Balclutha. Her “Hopefully we will educate people parents had the grocery shop in at the heritage centre about the Takahopa, and the family moved to precious species, such as not getting Niagara when she was a toddler and “I love between penguins and their young, then to a farm at Otara when she was as the penguins might then go out at primary school. to sea and not come back to feed the youngsters.” When she married her husband, Geoff, this area.” they moved to the family farm at Funnily enough, building work Quarry Hills where the pair ran sheep - GRETA BUCKINGHAM on the centre was delayed when a and beef, and had six children. penguin nested on the intended site. “I didn’t get far away,” she says. “Curio Bay was our recreation area “You can’t say we’re not working with nature,” she says. Greta and Geoff still live on the farm, when I was a child. It’s part of your with their son running the property. community, so you care about it.” It is hoped the heritage centre will Her children are all active members of The fi rst order of business for the trust have a theatre telling the story of the community, Greta says, no doubt was bringing the camping ground into Curio Bay’s world-famous petrifi ed following in their parents’ footsteps. the 21st century. forest. Visitors can already wander through a magnifi cent stand of Greta has been involved with Girl “People would come and sleep in a tent native bush, a living example of the Guides and Rural Women NZ, is an and there was only cold running water,” forest that lies frozen in time on the active member of the Presbyterian she says. rocky shore. Church, and has been the South Catlins Charitable Trust secretary for 14 years. The trust obtained a lease for the “Some children from overseas have “I love working with people. I suppose camp and set about improving the site never been in the bush before and I’ve done my bit in the community.” for visitors, most recently installing a some never by the sea before.” modern ablutions block. The trust was initially born from For Greta, sharing the place that she concerns about the sale of local Today, Greta is working with volunteers loves with visitors comes naturally. farmland to overseas investors who from ANZ and trustees who are “You can’t really cut it off from were planting huge tracts of land with helping plant out shrubs donated by people. It’s for everybody to enjoy.” gum trees, she says. Southland District Council that will help screen the camp’s new wastewater Out in the fresh air planting or The group embraced the growing plant from the road. pottering around in the bush, being tourist interest in the Curio Bay a trustee means Greta is never short petrifi ed forest, its native wildlife, Next on the list for the trust is the of something to do, and that’s the stunning, rugged coastline and the construction, already under way, of way she likes it. long, curving and inviting stretch of a heritage centre to round out the Porpoise Bay. experience for visitors. “It’s like caring for your patch. Who else is going to do it? If you turn “You’ve got to get out and promote “The aim of the game is to protect your back and walk away, that’s not where you live and try and attract what’s here - penguins and dolphins and the way I live. I think you should people to come here.” sea lions from time to time,” she says. look after what you’ve got.”

17 enture Southland creative Vprojects manager Angela Newell spends a lot of time every year making sure the Southland Festival of the Arts programme includes plenty of performances around the region, and not just in Invercargill. Stewart Island, Otautau, Tokanui, Lumsden, , Winton, Te Anau and Riverton audiences can all expect to have at least one Arts Festival event come to town in April and May. In particular, the play Anzac Eve is being performed in six locations, mostly schools, for students who might not have the resources or the ability to travel to Invercargill to see the show. However, the show, which is suitable for ages 13 and over, is defi nitely not just for young people, Ms Newell says. She is also excited to be bringing The Nukes, a vaudevillian ukulele trio, to Otautau, where people can not only come and enjoy the show but can also join in a workshop hosted by the acclaimed musicians. Madcap children’s show The Messy Magic Adventure is being held in Invercargill, but with a specially priced schools’ show to better enable schools to access the festival. Southland District Council supports the festival in two ways – the Creative NZ Communities Scheme and the SDC Community Initiatives Fund. Coming out to see live theatre or music is good for everyone, Ms Newell says. “Any art event allows the community to come together and have a shared experience. It can be uplifting and positive and thought provoking. It takes you away “IT’S ALWAYS IMPORTANT from the ordinary.” The more support these performances get, the more THAT ARTS HAPPEN IN patrons can expect to see in future festivals. “The more support we get in rural areas, YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD.” the more we’ll bring to you.”

18 ers for Southlanders Exclusive off

What do jet boating on Lake Hauroko, kiwi spotting on Stewart Island, and wandering the wild Catlins coast all have in common? They are among the activities many Southlanders are yet to experience on their own doorstep. The On Your Doorstep campaign, beginning on 2 May, is encouraging Southlanders to take advantage of some generous deals offered by local operators, and get out and explore their own back yard. Southlanders have all of May to grab some exclusive offers. Not only is this a chance to experience the best activities the region has to offer, it is also an opportunity to enjoy some unique accommodation in other parts of Southland, and take advantage of some of the great food and drink offerings. Southland is the New Zealand we all dream of - it has much to offer in terms of wildlife, scenery and adventure, with people travelling from all over the world to experience it. Venture Southland tourism digital marketer Maree Davidson says “there were 50-plus deals on offer last year and we hope to get many more operators on board with this great campaign”.

“We’re building up the promotion and getting more people involved. It’s in its sixth year now and locals responded really well to the fantastic deals on offer last year. “A lot of people would be looking to snap up deals to keep busy during the winter months, while others would be tucking away an offer to use next summer,” she says. Public feedback on the promotion has been extremely positive, with some saying they’ve been watching out for the launch of On Your Doorstep, revealing the high value locals place on the campaign. The initiative will continue to generate local ambassadors for the region by building pride in the things to do and places to visit around Southland, resulting in more people infl uencing friends and family to visit the region. • Locals wishing to book any of the deals can go to onyourdoorstep.co.nz. Deals will go live 1 May 2017. • If you’re a Southland tourism operator and would like to get involved in the campaign please contact: Maree Davidson, Venture Southland, (03) 211 1427.

19 WATER SERVICES

onstruction of the new Curio CBay wastewater treatment plant is complete, with the fi rst batches of effl uent having been processed Plant project at Christmas. Strategic manager water and waste Ian Evans says there were days over summer where the plant got fairly busy, but the patchy weather meant visitor a success numbers to the areas were not as high as anticipated. There were days when loadings were high, such as when the Big Dig was on. Effl uent is not being processed on-site at the moment, and is being trucked out. No discharges will occur until all conditions of the consent are met by the contractor, Mr Evans says. There were some teething problems during summer with a couple of pump blockages and buildups needing to be cleared but they were resolved by changing the type of toilet roll used, he says. “It seems to be more reliable now.” The plant project has been a success and is an integral part of the wider Curio Bay upgrade, Mr Evans says. Native planting work has been done around the site by members of the South Catlins Charitable Trust, with plants supplied by Council. Invercargill ANZ staff also spent a day helping with the planting on the bunds around the site in March. The new Curio Bay wastewater treatment plant. Quake delays work

inton’s water main upgrade Council has budgeted $1.1 million Wis making good progress for the project in the 2017-2018 despite some delays related to the year to complete the upgrade. Kaikoura earthquake. Feedback from Winton residents Southland District Council senior and commercial users has been project engineer Matt Keil says largely positive with the new pipes work is about a month behind the performing well, Mr Keil says. original schedule. “People like to know what’s going “The Kaikoura earthquakes haven’t on and they get grumpy if we don’t helped with that because equipment is tell them.” being freighted down from Hamilton.” The upgrade was replacing old Mr Keil says the project is about 60 asbestos pipes which had not lasted per cent complete, with about 70 as long as expected. per cent of the town’s water mains renewed by mid-March. Mr Evans says the new pipes have a life expectancy of about 100 years. Strategic manager water and waste Ian Evans says the mains upgrade had “People are going to end up been done progressively in Winton with a reliable supply and fewer with signifi cant advancement during inconveniences around system the past two years. breakdowns,” he says. New pipes go into the ground in Winton. 20 Koha Kai - making a difference Southland District Council Mayor Gary Tong was thrilled to be there at the moment Koha Kai was announced the supreme winner at the annual Trustpower National Community Awards in Rotorua in March. Invercargill deputy mayor Darren Ludlow, Nicole McKnight and Janice Lee from Mr Tong accompanied Koha Kai Koha Kai, and Southland district Mayor Gary Tong at the awards presentation. project leader Janice Lee and Nicole Photo: TRUSTPOWER McKnight to the awards, along with Invercargill City Council deputy mayor Darren Ludlow. lunches for some schools in Invercargill. difference, in turn, for schoolchildren. It’s the ultimate win-win, he said. He was very proud to be at the awards “Trustpower recognises volunteers in with the team, he said. the community who make a difference, “I was very proud to be up there and very and the judges saw this was an proud to hear what they were saying. You “Koha Kai is tipping volunteering on opportunity to get people involved in could have heard a pin drop when Janice its head.” communities who would normally be gave her presentation,” he said. just sitting at home.” The non-profi t organisation provides “This just stood out as a whole new training in hospitality and horticulture for Koha Kai volunteers are getting real concept, and we need to take people with a disability, who then provide life experiences, all while making a it nationwide.” That’s the spirit, Lane Fiordland College student Lane McDuff is a young man making a huge impact in his community. The Year 13 Fiordland College student won the Southland District Youth Council Community Spirit Award 2016 – an achievement which adds to a growing list of local and national honours. The annual award celebrates the efforts of a young Southlander who has had a positive impact on their community. This is the fi rst time the award has been won by a student from the school. Lane was nominated for the award by youth councillor Casey Taylor in Mayor Gary recognition of his outstanding service Tong presents to the community, particularly in Lane Mc Duff with the services to the environment. Community He was presented with his award by Spirit Award. Mayor Gary Tong at a ceremony at a Council meeting in February. 21 Getting up-to-date messages to farmers whose farms were isolated by landslips and who were without power was an issue. Broadcasting radio messages or with a fl ying visit by helicopter were the main means of getting information and resources to them. The Rural Support Trust and rural service industry did a IN CASE OF great job of identifying these farmers and assisting them. Isolated farms with satellite internet and a generator were able to keep contact with the outside world EMERGENCY more easily than those without. We have upgraded our website in an effort to present better information to the public in an event. In the case that internet or cell coverage is down or cell coverage in an area is limited there are other means of communication. Radio is still the most reliable source of information if power and internet are unavailable. Even if you don’t have a battery-operated radio most people have access to a car radio to pick up information. We will work with the local radio stations to Craig Sinclair get information out to you. Emergency Management Southland advisor Social media also has a big role in The main role of Civil Defence Emergency Management Southland spreading information. So how do we sort Emergency Management is to (EMS) staff recently assisted in the out the truth from speculation, rumour, co-ordinate the response to an Kaikoura earthquakes in Christchurch, and blatant misinformation? emergency with our partners Amberley and Kaikoura. Getting including the emergency services, the best information to the public If you are following social media channels, industry groups, clubs, community was a real challenge. In Kaikoura, due please make sure that the reference you groups and the public. to the lack of power, it was managed are looking at is from a reputable source by having daily public meetings so the - either a page shared from EMS or a These partnerships require council page. communication during an emergency. people managing the incident could We have a team providing the media talk and answer questions directly We have produced a small pamphlet that with material that can be broadcast and from the public. This also benefi ted the is available in Southland district libraries updated on their websites to get the community by bringing people together showing the various ways that people can latest information out there. to share experiences and resources. get information from us in Southland.

RECEIVE SOUTHLAND CIVIL DEFENCE WARNINGS BY TEXT

TEXT START TO 219

22 TELL US, TE ANAU

e Anau Community Board will be working its way through a T wide range of feedback on the future of the town.

Over the last two months the board has sought opinions from residents, holiday homemakers, and domestic and international visitors on how they want to see Te Anau develop over the next 10 years. Community board chair Rachel Cockburn says Te Anau is a fantastic place to live, work and play, “and we want to keep it that way”. “We all need to continue to build on our town’s strengths and on work that has been done before. The Te Anau community has always been pro- active and has made things happen for itself because of that. She says the board was especially interested in good strategic projects that will feed into the Long Term Plan, as well as bricks-and-mortar infrastructure items. Over the next few months the board will prepare a draft plan and then it will ask the community for its feedback on that.

23 Changes in Wyndham

Changes are Council will sell its former area offi ce in Balaclava Street, has been deemed and library building at 24 Balaclava an earthquake risk and will close its planned for Street. It bought the building from the doors to the public on 31 December BNZ in 1997, but moved to a leased 2017. The museum collection can stay Southland District building at 41 Balaclava Street in 2012. in the closed building for a maximum of fi ve years, until a suitable alternative Council’s presence Residents were surveyed last year is found. as part of a review of all Council’s in Wyndham. facilities and services in the town. No specifi c plans have been made Feedback from the survey showed that yet regarding the museum building’s the people of Wyndham felt the library future. However, retention of the was really important, and there was building is not an option. The widespread support for the service to engineer’s report indicates that be retained in some form. strengthening it is not economically viable, and its future will be discussed One of the options Council is looking with the Museum Committee. at is housing the library and Council services in the Wyndham Hall. Meanwhile, the Edendale Hall building is also in the process of Meanwhile, the museum building, also going on the market. 24 In search of salmon

tewart Island will be the focus Consultation with community and Sof a Southland Regional interest groups, focusing on the Development Strategy (SoRDS) social, cultural and environmental ecological survey to investigate the issues relating to potential environmental and commercial aquaculture activity, began last year. feasibility of salmon farming. Southland District Mayor Gary Scientists from the Nelson-based Tong, together with representatives Cawthron Institute are scheduled from SoRDS, and other partner to carry out fi eld work, including organisations, visited Stewart Island exploratory seabed surveys in the recently to discuss the latest phase of north arm of Port Pegasus, in an the project with the community. effort to understand whether the area is suitable for aquaculture. SoRDS has identifi ed aquaculture, particularly salmon farming, in the SoRDS new industries team leader Action Plan as a leading opportunity Mark O’Connor says a combination to boost regional economic and of video footage and sonar imagery social development. will be used to delineate habitats at the bottom of the ocean and take Mr O’Connor says the areas samples of the sediment. identifi ed for survey are all outside protected marine reserves. It follows preliminary research carried out last year in fi ve Meanwhile, the Southland Southland marine locations Education Alliance programme identifi ed as having aquaculture is also forging ahead. It aims to potential for fi nfi sh farming. increase international student numbers at rural and urban The project is the result of a central secondary and primary schools government-funded programme in Southland, and get more rural put together by SoRDS in schools hosting students. collaboration with Ngai Tahu, the Department of Conservation, the A programme co-ordinator is Ministry for the Environment and being employed, with funding from the Ministry of Primary Industries. Education New Zealand.

25 Green light for Catlins road

Southland district councillors have approved letting a contract to fi nish sealing the Catlins coastal road. The Roading Company has won the contract to seal the fi nal 23 kilometres of the Catlins coastal road on the Southern Scenic Route, from Haldane to Curio Bay, including the side roads leading to Slope Point and the lighthouse. The work is needed to address safety concerns and rising maintenance costs related to higher traffi c demand. Councillors accepted The Roading Company’s tender price of $8,536,458.73 excluding GST. It is intended that work will be carried over the next 15 months with the majority of the physical construction works to be done in the next construction season. The total cost of the project is expected to be $9.5 million, with NZ Transport Agency subsidising more than 50 percent of that. Council’s share will be funded through a combination of a 20-year loan and money already available from its 2015-2018 renewals programme.

26 BBUSINESSUSINESS ASAS USUALUSUAL

ll is going to plan, in terms of Southland Further construction of stage two of the Around ADistrict Council’s Annual Plan. the Mountains Cycle Trail is on hold while Council considers possible alternatives. Council is not putting any signifi cant new proposals forward this year that would deviate Some fees and charges will rise in the coming from what was scheduled in year three of the year, including the cost of taking rubbish to a 2015-2026 Long Term Plan, so we did not hold Council transfer station and having your wheelie any formal consultation on our Annual Plan for bin collected. This is because we have to recover 2017/2018 fi nancial year. additional Emissions Trading Scheme charges for landfi ll gas emissions. Instead, we asked for feedback on how ratepayers thought Council was performing. There were District rates will rise 3.64 percent, slightly more eight submissions, and six submitters spoke about than expected, because of a range of factors them to the full Council meeting on 6 April. including higher road maintenance contract costs and increased funding for asset depreciation. In the draft plan, two of the biggest projects on our books – the Te Anau wastewater scheme Council will deliberate on the proposed changes and sealing the last section of the Catlins Road later in April and, all going well, adopt the Annual Southern Scenic Route – were delayed, meaning Plan in June. there are changes in those budgets this year. CYCLE TRAIL Council will make a decision on the next steps for the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail in May. The Environment Court last year upheld Fish & Game’s appeal against Council’s resource consent for a section of the trail which would have run next to the . Council has appealed that decision. Any decision made by Council about the next steps will have to take into account several factors, including the range of community views, legal advice and contractual obligations with funders and the Government. 27 LIBRARY SERVICES Back to

Nature

Elliott Filmer gets his raft in the water.

The annual Playdate with Nature kitchen, fl ax weaving and the Children’s Day event at Te Anau’s Ivon giant fl ying fox and ropes course. Wilson Park was another resounding A Children’s Day volunteer, SDC success, with more than 250 people librarian Jo Mann, says it’s a great Times are taking part. way for families to celebrate Co-ordinated each year by a group Children’s Day and pick up some of enthusiastic local volunteers simple easy-to-replicate ideas for a changin’ representing organisations that work free fun in the outdoors to use with children, the event is supported throughout the year. at Winton by Southland District Council, the “Seeing lots of happy faces, Department of Conservation and children running, rolling or even Kids Restore the Kepler. The event fl ying through the park and Library encourages families to get outdoors and exploring new play ideas makes have fun together. the day rewarding for all of us.” In the past Winton Library has been open on Tuesday and Friday This year’s Playdate incorporated 13 Mayor Gary Tong and councillor nature-based play stations, including evenings until 7pm over summer and Ebel Kremer came along to show until 6pm during winter. camp cooking, raft making, a mud pie their support. However, demand for this service Lily, Alice and Grant has dwindled, almost to the point of Newcombe make their raft. extinction, and it has been decided to close all weekdays at 5pm beginning Monday 3 April. Winton Library staff recognise that households now have different needs, and lifestyles, and to refl ect this they are extending opening hours on Saturdays. Beginning Saturday 1 April, Winton Library will be open from 10am until 3pm for all services. They hope you will come in to visit, borrow a book or DVD and even play a board game. 28 Mobile Library Timetable

April - July 2017 * Denotes a public holiday Athol Shop Noon-1pm Tues * 16-May 13-Jun 11-Jul Balfour Tavern 4.30-6.30pm Tues 4-Apr 2-May 30-May 27-Jun 25-Jul School 1.30-3.00pm Thurs 20-Apr 18-May 15-Jun 13-Jul Blackmount School 10-11am Mon * 15-May 12-Jun 10-Jul Dacre Hall 9-10am Fri 7-Apr 5-May 2-Jun 30-Jun 28-Jul Dipton School 11-Noon Tues 4-Apr 2-May 30-May 27-Jun 25-Jul Drummond School 10.30-Noon Wed 5-Apr 3-May 31-May 28-Jun 26-Jul Edendale Car park 1-4pm Fri 21-Apr 19-May 16-Jun 14-Jul School 10.30-Noon Fri 7-Apr 5-May 2-Jun 30-Jun 28-Jul Fortrose Picnic Area 3-4pm Fri 7-Apr 5-May 2-Jun 30-Jun 28-Jul Garston School 1.30-2.30pm Tues * 16-May 13-Jun 11-Jul Village 2.30-3.30pm Tues * 16-May 13-Jun 11-Jul Glenham School 1-2pm Fri 7-Apr 5-May 2-Jun 30-Jun 28-Jul Gorge Rd Hall 11am-12.30pm Tues 11-Apr 9-May 6-Jun 4-Jul Hauroko Valley School 1-2pm Mon * 15-May 12-Jun 10-Jul Heddon Bush School 1.30-2.30pm Wed 5-Apr 3-May 31-May 28-Jun 26-Jul Hedgehope School 11am-12.30pm Fri 28-Apr 26-May 23-Jun 21-Jul Hillside School School 11am-12.30pm Thurs 27-Apr 25-May 22-Jun 20-Jul Isla Bank School 9-10am Wed 5-Apr 3-May 31-May 28-Jun 26-Jul Limehills School 9.15am-10.30am Thurs 27-Apr 25-May 22-Jun 20-Jul Longbush Kindergarten 9-10am Fri 21-Apr 19-May 16-Jun 14-Jul RSA 9.30-10.30am Tues * 16-May 13-Jun 11-Jul School 1.30-3.30pm Tues 4-Apr 2-May 30-May 27-Jun 25-Jul Com Centre 2-4pm Thurs 27-Apr 25-May 22-Jun 20-Jul Main St 3-4pm Mon * 15-May 12-Jun 10-Jul Otara Hall 2.30-4pm Wed 12-Apr 10-May 7-Jun 5-Jul Pukerau School 9.30-11.30am Wed 19-Apr 17-May 14-Jun 12-Jul Rimu School 10.30-11.30am Fri 21-Apr 19-May 16-Jun 14-Jul Riversdale Com Centre 11am-12.30pm Thurs 20-Apr 18-May 15-Jun 13-Jul Com Centre 2-4.30pm Thurs 6-Apr 4-May 1-Jun 29-Jun 27-Jul Playcentre 9.15-10am Tues 11-Apr 9-May 6-Jun 4-Jul Ryal Bush Com Centre 2.30-4pm Fri 28-Apr 26-May 23-Jun 21-Jul School 9.30-10.30am Fri 28-Apr 26-May 23-Jun 21-Jul Thornbuy Hall 3-4pm Wed 26-Apr 24-May 21-Jun 19-Jul Tokanui Main St 1.30-4pm Fri * 12-May 9-Jun 7-Jul School 9.30-11am Mon 3-Apr 1-May 29-May 26-Jun 24-Jul Hall 1-2pm Wed 26-Apr 24-May 21-Jun 19-Jul Waikaia School 9-10.30am Thurs 20-Apr 18-May 15-Jun 13-Jul Com Centre 10.15-11.30am Thurs 6-Apr 4-May 1-Jun 29-Jun 27-Jul Waikaka Com Centre 2-4pm Wed 19-Apr 17-May 14-Jun 12-Jul Waikawa Hall 10am-Noon Fri * 12-May 9-Jun 7-Jul School 11.30am-1pm Wed 12-Apr 10-May 7-Jun 5-Jul Waituna Playcentre 9.30-10.30am Wed 12-Apr 10-May 7-Jun 5-Jul Wallacetown Com Centre 9am-Noon Wed 26-Apr 24-May 21-Jun 19-Jul Wendon Hall Noon-12.30pm Thurs 6-Apr 4-May 1-Jun 29-Jun 27-Jul Wendonside Hall 9.30-10am Thurs 6-Apr 4-May 1-Jun 29-Jun 27-Jul Willowbank School 12.30-1.30pm Wed 19-Apr 17-May 14-Jun 12-Jul Woodlands Shop 2-4pm Tues 11-Apr 9-May 6-Jun 4-Jul School 2-4pm Mon 3-Apr 1-May 29-May 26-Jun 24-Jul Any queries, requests or renewals: please telephone the Winton Library 0800 732 542. Note: the following areas have fortnightly visits: Balfour, Riversdale, Waikaia, Mossburn, Edendale, Tokanui, Woodlands. Renewals can be made by email to: [email protected] 29 A FAIR GO FOR THE SOUTH

outhland has a global transmission costs – not subsidising costs competitive edge with for people living further north, especially Shydropower generation on when we pay more for other things such its doorstep – but a fair electricity as roads because of where we live.” transmission pricing system is needed to maximise this position. Consumers in Southland pay the same rates for electricity transmission that consumers Southland District Council was one further north pay. of 202 organisations and individuals that made a submission on the Currently North Island users consume Electricity Authority’s review of the 80 percent of New Zealand’s power, Transmission Pricing Methodology. but are charged for only 66 percent of Submissions closed on 24 February. transmission charges. About 25 submissions from the People living throughout most of the south argue that, at the moment, the and parts of the central and way electricity transmission prices are lower North Island have subsidised grid spread out across New Zealand isn’t upgrades in Auckland. fair or equal. The way costs are spread out doesn’t Southland District Council, along just affect people’s wallets. It also with Invercargill city and Gore affects Southland’s industries, Southland district, spearheaded a campaign councils say. encouraging people in the south to When Southland is trying to attract more make submissions. industries and people, the advantage Southland district Mayor Gary Tong we could have through a fair pricing says the south just wants a fair go. mechanism is lost. “Southlanders shouldn’t have to The Electricity Authority board expects to pay more than their fair share in make its fi nal decisions in April.

30 Southland District Council has FUNDING & GRANTS a range of scholarships and grants available for residents of Southland district. SDC GRANT FUNDING Full details, criteria and application forms are available on our website: Communityy District Heritage Fund southlanddc.govt.nz > My Council Available to support the conservation of > Funding & Grants Initiativeses FunFund heritage collections and encourage the For more information on any of Available for communityommunity development and application of professional these funds and scholarships, facilities or amenities. museum standards. Applications close 31 call Bronwyn Affl eck at Venture Applications closese 31 March March and 30 September. Southland 03 2111 426 and 30 September.be Creative Communities Sport NZ – Rural Travel Fund Available for arts and cultural projects and initiatives which stimulate and Available to assist with transport expenses associated with strengthen local arts activity participating in regular local competitions. Ages 5-19. and participation. Applications close 31 March and 30 September. Applications close 31 March and 30 September. SDC SCHOLARSHIPS/BURSARIES

SDC Eric Hawkes Valmai Robertson Centennial Bursary Memorial Outward Arts Scholarship Two scholarships valued at Bound Scholarship Contestable fund of up to $2,000 each, awarded annually. $2,500 annually. Applications close 20 December. Two scholarships in this category: one for 18 to 26 years and one for Applications 27 years and over. Applications close 20 close 20 December. December.

OTHER Stewart Island/Rakiura Visitor Levy Fund Available to support activities and facilities for the benefi t of visitors to Stewart OPPORTUNITIES Island; and activities and facilities that mitigate the adverse eff ects of visitors on the environment. Applications close 31 March each year. Community Housing Southland District Council has community Northern Southland Ohai Railway Fund housing in Edendale, Lumsden, Otautau, Ohai, Available for residents of the Nightcaps, Riversdale, Riverton and Wyndham. Development Fund former Ohai Railway Board area, for While priority is given to senior citizens, Available for the development the development of community you may still be eligible. of initiatives which benefi t the facilities, programmes and other residents of the Northern Southland activities, tertiary education and To fi nd out more or to make Development Fund area (represented employment training. an application, visit any by the Southland District Council Southland District Five Rivers ward and the Dipton Applications close 31 March and Council offi ce or Community Levy area). Applications 30 September. call 0800 732 732. close 31 March and 30 September. Contact us All offi ces: 0800 732 732 0800 732 329 District Libraries: 0800 732 542 @ [email protected] Rural Fire Permits: 0800 773 363 southlanddc.govt.nz 31 The Port William wharf. Photo: JONTY CRANE What next for wharves? The present and future needs of wharf The main wharf at Halfmoon Bay Council has engaged Christchurch-based users on Stewart Island are being is not included, as it is owned and contractor Sandra James to carry out studied as Southland District Council operated by South Port. the work. attempts to identify priorities for six The Port William wharf was rebuilt island wharves. “We were looking for someone between 2014 and 2015 and the Ulva independent, and independent of Community partnership leader Island wharf is due for replacement the area. Michelle Stevenson says Council in 2018. The Golden Bay wharf is has embarked on a community and in a state of disrepair and needs “We’re in the infancy of looking at stakeholder conversation around the complete replacement. priorities in terms of wharf maintenance.” fi ve Council-owned Stewart Island About two-thirds of all island visitors Mrs James was planning a preliminary visit wharves and the Golden Bay wharf, use the Golden Bay wharf as it is the to the island in late March to look at the owned by South Port. departure point for Ulva Island, she says. wharves and talk to people about issues South Port has indicated it regards the As well as visitors, it is used by salmon and timeframes, Ms Stevenson says. Golden Bay wharf as a community farm staff, cruise ship passengers, water Consultation proper is likely to begin asset, not a commercial asset, she says. taxis and other recreational users. after Easter, when visitor numbers “South Port wish to divest themselves “It’s a signifi cant wharf in that regard.” ease off. of Golden Bay wharf.” The fi ve Council-owned wharves “It’s quite a broad piece of work and the That approach has sparked the need have varying degrees of use – from Council’s very open to hearing what to look at priorities around the trampers, to DOC workers to Kiwi- comes back.” other wharves. spotting trips, Ms Stevenson says. 32