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Eastern Bay coucil's joint advantage
The Joint Committee will be made up of two elected members appointed by each Council and will hold its inaugural meeting in the Whakatāne District Council chambers on Monday 8 July. Members’ first job will be to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) setting out the purpose and principles of the committee.
The MOU confirms a commitment to “maximising collaborative initiatives for the benefit of Eastern Bay of Plenty communities” and speaking with one voice on matters of mutual interest and concern, to ensure that issues are responded to and managed on a sub-regional basis.
Key principles include:
Working in good faith in a pragmatic and collaborative relationship at both governance and executive levels
Sharing information, expertise and research where there is a mutual interest and benefit
Encouraging integration and consistency of planning across the Eastern Bay of Plenty
Developing agreed positions on matters of importance
Investigating opportunities for achieving cost efficiencies through shared responsibilities and services
The joint committee will make recommendations for each of the constituent councils to consider. Its chairperson will be elected annually, with responsibilities shared amongst the four councils on a one-year, rotating basis.
Kawerau: A comfortable retirement
Reasons for this are varied, but many potential retirees have, by necessity, needed to live in cities where they work, paying especially high property and mortgage costs.
Indeed some couples are still paying off their home when they retire. There are also the unfortunate ones who have been made redundant in their later work years when saving for retirement and, although they may have paid off a valuable property, have not had the opportunity to put much capital aside. Of course, others have also lost in the financial markets through no fault of their own.
Many New Zealanders have been led to believe that their house is an investment when in reality it’s really just an asset, and a cash-consuming asset at that. Mortgage interest over 25- 30 years practically doubles the amount you pay for your house. If your mortgage is $300,000 over 30 years the total you will repay for your home is approx $600,000. It may be a little less or a little more depending on the term of the mortgage and the interest rate, or a high-priced area where you work, so you don’t have many options so, you will have paid a lot of money to the bank.
Retirement costs money, especially if you want a reasonable standard of living. Many people have all their capital tied up in a large home or property. They are asset rich but cash poor. They may have paid off a hefty mortgage and have an expensive home but little actual cash for a retirement nest egg. Some will also find that if they try to sell that expensive home to trade down to a smaller and more manageable home in the same area, they cannot realise what they think the property is worth. Take a look at provincial New Zealand towns, like Kawerau.
Property prices are relatively cheap and provide a smart financial alternative. The weather, lifestyle, people, resources and close proximity to major centres makes Kawerau superior to many other retirement options. With all these benefits, the property prices are the icing on the cake.
A retiree with a lot of money tied up in an expensive home but only a couple of hundred thousand dollars to retire on, needs to consider avoiding being caught in that trap. Buying a home in Kawerau with its low costs can reverse that situation, leaving plenty of capital to make changes to suit your lifestyle, and still leave plenty for travel and any special future health care needs. Recently, a chap from Tauranga came to Kawerau for a look and decided buy and retire here. He sold his home in Tauranga for approximately $500,000 and bought a similar home in Kawerau for $180,000. After spending $20,000 on it in renovations, he had $300,000 left over to go to his retirement fund. But the story does not end here. His old neighbour came to visit him and was so impressed by the place and the deal, he also sold up and shifted to Kawerau to retire with similar results.
Money to live on, and not money tied up in a house that you can't use, is what makes for a comfortable stress-free retirement. Do yourself a favour. Come and look at what we have here in Kawerau. Use your imagination if it needs a make-over and you could have the property you desire in the town known as the Gem of the Eastern Bay of Plenty. Although houses in Kawerau are inexpensive and reasonably-priced at the moment, they can't always stay like this. The shift to being a sought-after retirement town is taking place, and attracts people with some means, because of the lifestyle and climate.
Source: Kawerau Online - Contributed by KEA
Many New Zealanders have been led to believe that their house is an investment when in reality it’s really just an asset, and a cash-consuming asset at that. Mortgage interest over 25- 30 years practically doubles the amount you pay for your house. If your mortgage is $300,000 over 30 years the total you will repay for your home is approx $600,000. It may be a little less or a little more depending on the term of the mortgage and the interest rate, or a high-priced area where you work, so you don’t have many options so, you will have paid a lot of money to the bank.
Retirement costs money, especially if you want a reasonable standard of living. Many people have all their capital tied up in a large home or property. They are asset rich but cash poor. They may have paid off a hefty mortgage and have an expensive home but little actual cash for a retirement nest egg. Some will also find that if they try to sell that expensive home to trade down to a smaller and more manageable home in the same area, they cannot realise what they think the property is worth. Take a look at provincial New Zealand towns, like Kawerau.
Property prices are relatively cheap and provide a smart financial alternative. The weather, lifestyle, people, resources and close proximity to major centres makes Kawerau superior to many other retirement options. With all these benefits, the property prices are the icing on the cake.
A retiree with a lot of money tied up in an expensive home but only a couple of hundred thousand dollars to retire on, needs to consider avoiding being caught in that trap. Buying a home in Kawerau with its low costs can reverse that situation, leaving plenty of capital to make changes to suit your lifestyle, and still leave plenty for travel and any special future health care needs. Recently, a chap from Tauranga came to Kawerau for a look and decided buy and retire here. He sold his home in Tauranga for approximately $500,000 and bought a similar home in Kawerau for $180,000. After spending $20,000 on it in renovations, he had $300,000 left over to go to his retirement fund. But the story does not end here. His old neighbour came to visit him and was so impressed by the place and the deal, he also sold up and shifted to Kawerau to retire with similar results.
Money to live on, and not money tied up in a house that you can't use, is what makes for a comfortable stress-free retirement. Do yourself a favour. Come and look at what we have here in Kawerau. Use your imagination if it needs a make-over and you could have the property you desire in the town known as the Gem of the Eastern Bay of Plenty. Although houses in Kawerau are inexpensive and reasonably-priced at the moment, they can't always stay like this. The shift to being a sought-after retirement town is taking place, and attracts people with some means, because of the lifestyle and climate.
Source: Kawerau Online - Contributed by KEA
Earthquakes rocking the bay
Small but shallow tremors are continuing to rock the Eastern Bay of Plenty.
GNS science say a total of 9 minor earthquakes have been registered today within the Eastern Bay of Plenty since 8am this morning.
A spokesperson says the small tremors range between 2 and 2.8 magnitude, mostly west of Whakatane.
A reader from Kawerau says they are getting 'scary'.
"We have been feeling them all day and it's quite scary thinking is there a big earthquake on the way."
Submissions on Green Bill heard
There was a very strong voice yesterday from local tangata whenua saying that they want their river protected not polluted said Green Party MP Catherine Delahunty.
The Local Government and Environment Select Committee today heard submissions on Green MP Catherine Delahunty’s Bill which would amend the RMA to protect rivers from pollution via the current "exceptional circumstances" loophole.
"Hearing people talk about the real cost of the pollution of their river strengthened my resolve to see this bill become law," said Ms Delahunty.
"People don’t accept that the companies cannot innovate to clean up their act.
"Solutions can be found. We need to put a line in the sand to make sure they are.
"The pulp and paper mills at Kawerau (Carter Holt Harvey and Norske Skogg) contradicted themselves, claiming to have cleaned up their act yet wanting to retain the right to pollute.
"As many of the submitters pointed out, the Tarawera River downstream of the pulp and paper mills is still one of the most polluted rivers in the country.
"While there has been some progress, the river is contaminated and discoloured - we need to do more.
"My bill still allows the mills 22 years of an existing resource consent to find a solution but they still want more.
"We heard how locals can’t eat the food, can’t take their children swimming and can’t serve the kai moana from the river mouth to their guests.
"Some of the submitters brought their children who spoke about wanting their river to be as clean upstream as downstream," said Ms Delahunty.
Whakatane library behind NZ music
Music lovers can join in the celebrations for New Zealand Music month at Te Kōputu – the Whakatāne
The ‘Red Freds’ will be delivering Sunday Sound Bites, with live renditions of a wide variety of Kiwi music, each Sunday between 11.00am and midday, until the end of the month. This talented, local ensemble will perform in the Horizon Energy Library or (weather permitting) the Little Orchard Activity Room and Atrium, providing their own unique take on classic NZ tunes.
Entry is free and space is limited, so interested members of the public are advised to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
Library team members have also assembled their favourite New Zealand music CDs and will be providing soft background music in the Little Orchard spaces throughout the month. Call in and check-out the eclectic mix of tunes from yesteryear and today.
Benefits numbers down
Social Development Minister Paula Bennett says there are 29,000 fewer New Zealanders receiving benefits since the last quarter.
This is the lowest benefit numbers have been at this time of year since 2009.
"I’m really pleased to see this significant reduction in benefits and I take my hat off to the more than 17,600 people who went off the Unemployment, DPB and Sickness Benefits and into work in the last quarter."
The Ministry of Social Development cancelled 525 benefits in the last quarter after it implemented an enhanced information sharing arrangement with Inland Revenue.
"MSD has been carrying out an outbound calling campaign to confirm that these people, identified through this new information, have been earning income at a level that means they should not have been paid the benefit," says Mrs Bennett.
"With the delegation for fraud, Associate Social Development Minister Chester Borrows follows these matters closely."
There are now 310,146 people on benefits, including 92,550 sole parents on DPB, 58,208 on Sickness Benefits and 48,756 on Unemployment Benefits.
Over the next reporting quarter, Work and Income staff will be trained on the new welfare reforms, which will involve a total of five days away from the frontline.
"It’s vital for staff to be well trained and prepared to take a new approach to helping people when the changes are implemented from July 15," Mrs Bennett says.
"The welfare reforms we’re introducing include clear obligations and expectations and will mean more people get better support to move off welfare into work."
Dawson takes on national champs in Kawerau
Tv3 Reporter Di O'Connell spoke to Olympian Mike Dawson before he hits the rapids this weekend for the National Slalom Champs.
Olympian Mike Dawson makes his return to kayaking at this weekend's national canoe slalom champs in Kawerau.
The Tauranga paddler has spent months recovering from a broken back after nearly drowning during an extreme event in Chile last November.
It's been a long time on dry land, but now he’s finally back on the water and says he is keen for his eighth title in as many champs.
“I'm expecting to hopefully win but it's only been a few weeks since I’ve been allowed to paddle so I’ll take it quite easy on the water,” he says.
Not surprising after the 26-year-old's horrific experience in Chile after winning the first stage of the elite extreme whitewater enduro.
Dawson slipped into the Trancura River while taking photos and was swept away and wedged under rocks, inhaling water into his lungs.
His back was broken in the accident, forcing him to miss a whole winter of training, and confining him to the gym.
Now that he is back in the water, he says he’ll be avoiding the extreme white water.
“Mainly due to my back, I don't want to break it,” he says. “I don't want to injure it any worse than it already is so concentrate on the slalom and getting my eyes set on Rio 2016.”
Extreme fire risk puts Ultramarathon off course
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| Photo [Trailrunz] |
The event on this Saturday, was scheduled to run from Rotorua to Kawerau. However, because of a prolonged drought the fire risk is so high that the last 40 kilometres is now closed to event organisers.
Race director Paul Charteris said the race this year will be alot more challenging but abit more exciting he says.
"Instead of finishing on relatively easy forestry roads in Kawerau, the runners will turn-around at the 60km mark of the race, next to the Tarawera Falls - and run another marathon over rugged, hilly trails."
"The Tarawera Ultramarathon has a reputation as being relentlessly tough, but achievable – even for a first-time ultra-runner." Mr Charteris said.
Kawerau attack to feature on Police Ten7
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| Photo [ Police Ten 7 host Graham Bell talks with Constable Rebecca Mitchell outside the River Rd property] |
A vicious attack on an elderly Kawerau woman in her home over the Christmas holidays is to feature on Police Ten-7 this week.
The 71-year-old woman suffered serious facial injuries in the early hours of Saturday, December, 29 when she opened the door to a man, mistaking him for an overseas relative she was expecting.
The offender demanded cash, before assaulting her and stealing her car which was later found abandoned by the river.
An investigation has been ongoing and there have been some positive lines of enquiry but to date no-one has been arrested.
Detective Sergeant Darren Thomas said: "The public are rightly outraged by this attack and it's important that we resolve it, not only for the victim but for everyone else in the Kawerau community who have felt fearful since this attack. We can solve this with the community's help and Police Ten-7 is an effective platform for us to spread the message."
Filming took place in the town earlier this week and the appeal will air this Thursday (14 March) at 7.30pm on TV2.
Police Ten-7 Presenter Graham Bell said during filming: "It's never hard to get the public interested in a case like this. To get a response we need indignation and crimes don't get much worse than this.
"We'll be giving some clues about the offence and giving the public an opportunity to be the detective and help us out."
Free nursing qualifications on offer in Kawerau
The six-month National Certificate in Health, Disability, and Aged Support (Core Competencies) (Level 3) is for students who wish to work in a support role in the health industry.
The classes for the qualification will be taught at the Presbyterian Church in Kawerau central.
Waiariki’s School of Nursing and Health Studies administration manager Jonathon Hagger said interest had been strong and so far 26 enrolments had been received which confirms the demand and need for the training.
It is the first time the national certificate has been offered by Waiariki and depending on the pilot’s success it may be offered at other sites around the region in the future.
This pilot is being offered with zero fees which encourages and supports the Kawerau community.
Waiariki has had a long-standing place in health education in New Zealand with its flagship Bachelor of Nursing providing many nurses to the region and hopes are high for strong pass rates in 2013.
The nursing school works closely with the Lakes and Bay of Plenty district health boards and many other local health providers to ensure what they teach is relevant and required professionally.
Nursing is a high-demand vocation in New Zealand and regionally, and the feedback from the workforce is they are very interested in recruiting young nurses with an understanding and interest in Māori and Pasifika health for 2014 and beyond.
Meanwhile, Waiariki is also a partner in the new Rural Health Interprofessional Immersion Programme (RHIIP) to be officially launched by Minister of Health Tony Ryall and Minister Anne Tolley on Friday, March 8, at Whakatane Hospital.
The programme is based out of the clinical school at Whakatane, and is a partnership between Waiariki, Bay of Plenty District Health Board and Auckland University. It brings together students from a range of disciplines including nursing students, medical 5th and 6th year, pharmacy and physiotherapists.
In practical terms, students on practicum participate in the programme one day a week while on their four- to five-week practicum. There are opportunities for up to four Waiariki students to be involved in each group and Waiariki has a number of Bachelor of Nursing students who are doing this practicum component of their study as part of this initiative. Students get to work with a broad collaborative team of health professionals including doctors.
Self-storage business in Kawerau up for sale
The only self-storage complex in Kawerau has been placed on the market for sale.
It will be auctioned as a freehold going-concern by Bayleys on 6 March, unless sold prior by private treaty.
The purpose-built 102 unit facility in Paora Street would suit an owner-occupier or an investor according to Brendon Bradley of Bayleys Tauranga.
"Kawerau Secure Storage has been owned and operated by the current owners since 2005 and is a member of the Self Storage Association of Australasia.
"The current owners have an established trading history and, based on demand and enquiry, believe there is still scope for further growth and expansion with a captive local market to capitalise on," says Bradley.
The business offers unit storage, external storage and an office tenancy which spreads risk.
"As a freehold going concern, it offers an excellent opportunity to purchase a low risk business generating continuous cash flow and having shown steady ongoing growth since the commencement of the business," says Bradley
"The current year when annualised indicates a 60.67% occupancy as of February 2013 so there is rental and revenue potential in the future from the current storage facilities. This unit storage income is supplemented by external storage and the office rental."
Computech Alarms Limited have a lease on office premises, five storage units and 100sq m of yard area for three years from 1 April 2013 with two, three-year rights of renewal and a final expiry of 2022.
At present, storage units utilise around half the total 4697sq m site area with the balance being used for external parking and container storage.
"This offers potential for further development of storage units on the site and the area has already been compacted and filled for this purpose. Future demand for self storage could easily be accommodated on this property," says Bradley
Although residential users currently dominate the storage facility, commercial tenants are increasingly seeing the benefits of using it as a form of warehousing for products.
Bradley says the business requires minimal management, can be run on a part-time basis, and would suit someone who is semi-retired.
"This opportunity may suit a couple whereby one can run the facility and the other have outside employment, or alternatively it may appeal to an investor looking to run the business with a contract manager."
The facility is currently managed by owner/operator Carol Reid and her role is predominantly administrative, whilst co-owner Colin Reid looks after general maintenance of the complex. Renting of a unit involves the completion of a Standard Self Storage or Vehicle Storage Agreement, receiving a deposit and establishing method of payment for future rental.
This storage complex comprises 102 units which are spread over two storage buildings. The facility has 16 different unit sizes ranging from lockers to double garage sizes allowing flexibility for customer requirements by offering a number of options.
The larger of the two buildings includes the storage business reception/office with two front carparks together with the adjacent office tenancy with all facilities and three front carparks. The other building is predominantly storage units.
The property is alarmed and monitored 24 hours per day, 365 days per year with unrestricted tenant access day or night. The land is fenced with 2.3 metre high security fencing on all boundaries together with security gates and lighting.
There are 16 cameras positioned to cover both the interior and exterior of the property while sensor security lighting operates around the complex. The premises are also currently monitored by the on-site office tenant, Computech Alarms Limited.
Access is via automated electronic entry and exit gates that operate on a swipe tag/card system.
Customers store and control their own goods as well as being liable for their own customer contents insurance. This means there is no ‘Bailee’ relationship between storer and storage facility business, so therefore no liability in respect of the storer’s items. As long as the customer maintains their monthly payments in advance they have unrestricted access to their storage unit, however, if in arrears this access can be denied until paid and in extreme cases the contents may be sold to recover unpaid revenue. This has proved to be a very effective debt recovery measure for financial management purposes. Payment is generally by automatic payment or internet banking.
"One of the major benefits of the lockup business is that, unlike conventional commercial or industrial investments where rentals can only be reassessed every two to three years, rental rates are continually able to be reviewed according to supply and demand," explains Bradley.
The business is five minutes from Kawerau’s CBD and located off Tamarangi Drive, which forms part of a main road connecting Kawerau with Rotorua, Tauranga, Whakatane and the eastern Bay of Plenty.
Onepu Bike Jam on tomorrow
Photo[Supplied]
A new children and family-oriented mountain bike event is set to introduce several hundred people to the joys of the Onepu Mountain Bike Park.
The inaugural ‘Onepu Strawberry Bike Jam’ will be held on Wednesday (13 February) and features a great programme of events aimed at primary and intermediate school groups, senior riders, families and, at the end of the day, more competitive cyclists.
Organiser Kim van der Aa says entry to the Bike Jam will be free to all participants, thanks to event funding provided by the Whakatane District Council, as part of its Bike-wise month activities.
“Our aim is to get as many kids and schools involved as possible and encourage children, their parents and grandparents to experience the thrill of mountain biking in this fantastic new, purpose-built facility,” he says. “The day kicks-off with the Kids Relay event at 10.00am followed by a fun ‘strawberry hunt’ and prize-giving. Then at 12.15pm, Paul Langlands - one of the country’s top jump exponents will be providing a demonstration in the dirt jump area dubbed ‘The Sandpit’. This will enable folks to witness first hand one of the most exciting off shoots of off-road cycling and one which has captured the imagination of many of our local kids and adults.”
Children’s events will conclude with a fun bike orienteering event at 1.00pm. This will be followed at 3.00pm by a ‘Gold Card Ride for Seniors’, which aims to introduce active, older cyclists to the Park’s various mountain bike courses.
“At 4.30pm, we have a Family Fun Ride planned then at 6.00pm, the serious excitement starts with the All-comers Cross Country Race. We’re aware that a number of top riders are participating in the Rotorua Bike Festival that’s running this week so we are hoping some will come over and take part. However, this is a fun event and we’d love to see a big turn-out of local people who want to see just how much fun mountain bike racing can be,” Mr van der Aa says. Registration for the Cross Country race begins at 5.15pm with a race briefing at 5.50pm.
The day will conclude after the Cross Country race – around 7pm, with a freestyle jump competition with prize money donated by earthcycles (aka Kim van der Aa) and Jason Hubbard from Hubbard Contractors Ltd. Paul Langlands will be guest commentator. Lastly there will be the senior prize-giving and a barbecue.
The Onepu Mountain Bike Park is a recent addition to the region’s cycling attractions and has been developed by the Onepu Community Care Group in conjunction with the owners of the forest venue, Norske Skog Tasman.
Schools wishing to take part in the relay event are asked to contact Kim van der Aa as soon as possible (email: earthcycles@hotmail.com or phone 021 053 1501).
Video marks paper machine's final turn
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| THE END: Workers on the final shift gather to watch the final roll being made before the closure of the Number 2 Paper Machine at Norske Skog in Kawerau. |
110 jobs were axed after the company decided to close one of two news print machines at the mill, witch was built in the 1950s.
The remaining machine will continue producing newsprint, mostly for New Zealand and Australia.
In a statement last week, general manager, Peter McCarty, said the company could be proud of operating the mill successfully and bringing wealth to the region for more than 50 years.
He said the company would be diversifying into renewable energy and biofuels.
A video documenting the final day on the job has been produced by local Kawerau film maker and mill worker Frans Roozendaal.
In a statement last week, general manager, Peter McCarty, said the company could be proud of operating the mill successfully and bringing wealth to the region for more than 50 years.
He said the company would be diversifying into renewable energy and biofuels.
A video documenting the final day on the job has been produced by local Kawerau film maker and mill worker Frans Roozendaal.
MP urges Government to help Kawerau
Waiariki MP for the Maaori Party Te Ururoa Flavell is disappointed at the decision confirmed yesterday by Norske Skog that 100 workers will lose their jobs at the Kawerau-based Paper Mill.
‘The next few months will be difficult for the families of Kawerau and workers from across the Bay of Plenty,’ said Mr Flavell.
‘From its peak a few years ago of employing 2,000 people, the plant now has less than 200 staff. This makes for tough times not just in Kawerau but for the whole Eastern Bay of Plenty region. The flow-on effect of the machine closure in Kawerau will mean less demand for wood products from forestry companies close by, inevitably leading to more job losses in the industry.’
‘The Government needs to move quickly to protect increasingly fragile local economies, not just for the benefit of local whÄnau and businesses, but for New Zealand as a whole.’
‘The downsizing of industries like this mill in Kawerau could unravel the closeness of heartland New Zealand and of iwi and hapu still living within our own tribal territories. These people may soon have no choice but to find jobs and decent wages further afield from their papakainga.’
‘What is even more concerning is that this closure could contribute to an increase in poverty and benefit dependency and a lack of opportunities for those left without employment. It is up to all of us to ensure that the affected whÄnau have our support in times of need.’
Mr Flavell urges the Government to assist small local communities like Kawerau to find solutions that will breathe life into our ailing economy.
Car hits tree in Kawerau
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| [PHOTO: LHPA/FILE] |
The crash happened just before 10pm when the car collided with a tree near the intersection of Tamarangi Drive and Manukorihi Drive.
The sole female occupant was taken to Whakatane Hospital with possible head injuries.
A fire communications spokes person says a crew from the Kawerau Fire Brigade was dispatched to assist Police and Ambulance at the scene after smoke was seen coming from the vehicle.
Jess Johnston who was at the scene told The Boplive the car was just 'munted'
"The whole tree was wedged in the centre of the car and its hard to imagine how anyone could have survived that." She says.
"Its just unbelievable. The driver is really lucky to be alive considering all the damage to the vehicle and the tree."
Kawerau Police were unavailable to comment.
Jess Johnston who was at the scene told The Boplive the car was just 'munted'
"The whole tree was wedged in the centre of the car and its hard to imagine how anyone could have survived that." She says.
"Its just unbelievable. The driver is really lucky to be alive considering all the damage to the vehicle and the tree."
Kawerau Police were unavailable to comment.
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Kawerau community's help sought following cowardly attack
A 71-year-old Kawerau woman is in a serious but stable condition in hospital following a brutal and cowardly attack in the early hours of this morning (Saturday 29 January).
Detective Constable Ash Clements of Whakatane Police said they were keen to hear from anyone in the local community with information about the attack, which happened as the woman opened her door to a man about 1am, after mistaking him for a male relative she had been expecting to arrive late from overseas.
The man demanded cash before attacking the woman, leaving her covered in blood on the floor of her home, before then stealing her car. No cash was taken.
"This was a cowardly, callous attack on a defenceless elderly woman, and is a reminder of the need for all of to be careful when answering the door, even if we are expecting someone.
"Police don’t want to see a repeat of this type of attack and encourage anyone in the local community with information that may help us to catch this offender to contact us immediately, no matter how unimportant it may seem," Mr Clements said.
"We’d particularly like to hear from anyone who may ay have seen anyone acting suspiciously in the River Road area at about 1am today."
Mr Clements said the stolen vehicle had since been recovered and Kawerau police and CIB staff were currently completing forensic investigations.
Anyone with information can contact Kawerau Police, ph 07 323 1400, or Whakatane police, ph 07 308 5255. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via the free Crimestoppers phone line, ph 0800 111 555.
Car crashes into house in Kawerau
Emergency services are at an address in River Road, Kawerau after a car crashed into a house.
The crash happened just before 8am this morning.
No persons are trapped or injured police say.
The Fire service, Police and StJohn Ambulance remain at the scene.
More details soon on theboplive.com or on twitter @baysnews.
Inquiry launched into crisis in manufacturing
The Labour Party, the Green Party and New Zealand First have today announced a parliamentary inquiry into the crisis in manufacturing.
The parties decided to launch the inquiry after government members of the Finance and Expenditure Select Committee last month blocked an attempt to hold a select committee inquiry into the crisis in manufacturing.
All other parliamentary parties will be invited to join the inquiry.
The inquiry will have a broad scope, looking both at the current crisis and the future role for manufacturing in the New Zealand economy. The parties agree that manufacturing is vital to building a prosperous future for New Zealand and reducing the flood of young people to Australia.
The parties also agree that real change is needed to protect and grow manufacturing in New Zealand, and that the current National Government has failed to provide any leadership on this issue.
Unlike National, the parties are not prepared to stand by while 40,000 manufacturing jobs are lost and pretend that nothing is wrong.
"The crisis in manufacturing is hammering communities from South Auckland to Bluff, from Kawerau to Greymouth. The future of our country depends on a modern manufacturing sector that creates better jobs and higher wages to keep Kiwis in New Zealand. It’s time to work together to achieve this," said Labour Leader David Shearer.
"I believe New Zealand’s future is in smart, green manufacturing with high-skill, high-wage jobs that add value to our exports. Under National’s watch, manufacturing has been decimated. We urgently need to turn that around," said Green Party Co-leader Dr Russel Norman.
New Zealand First Leader Winston Peters says he is pleased to cooperate with the inquiry into the woes facing our manufacturing and exporting sectors.
"New Zealand urgently needs economic policies that support export led growth. That is the only path to build a lasting prosperity and escape our international indebtedness.
"Amendments to the Reserve Bank Act to allow it to pursue a balanced economic policy supporting growth, exports and employment are a vital first step," said Mr Peters.
The Inquiry Committee invites submissions from all people concerned with the crisis in manufacturing.
We are particularly interested to learn from the personal experiences of workers and businesspeople who have lost jobs and income in recent years, and hear ideas for what government should be doing to give manufacturing the support it deserves.
The Committee will hold hearings of oral submissions in several cities in early December.
A report will be published early in the new year.
Written submissions and requests to present oral submissions can be sent by email to manufacturinginquiry@parliament.govt.nz . The deadline for written submissions is November 30th.
National's spin machine ignores harsh reality
The Government’s attempt to spin the state of the books as a success ignores the harsh reality of low wages, job cuts, a manufacturing crisis and a record exodus to Australia, says Labour Leader David Shearer
"After four years of John Key’s Government, most New Zealanders are working harder but going backwards. National blames everyone else in the world but the truth is New Zealand was in a strong position to handle the downturn, we could control our future.
"Instead we have job losses announced every week and tens of thousands of people leaving for Australia.
"The Government’s claim to be a credible manager of the books has also been blown out of the water. Its deficit is $800 million more than it forecast in May. This statement is for June so it has lost $800 million in a month.
"New Zealand should have turned the corner by now but National’s economic management is letting New Zealand down.
"This Government is losing its grip and all it has left is a fistful of failures. National said selling state assets would raise billions but it’s a complete shambles. They promised to create 170,000 jobs but 40,000 have been lost in manufacturing alone. They promised to stop Kiwis leaving for Australia but they have fled in record numbers - 160,000 on National’s watch.
"Today is about the Government’s record and whether the past four years have improved our lives.
"The people in the devastated communities of Kawerau, Huntly, Greymouth and Bluff, where major industries are shutting down, know the answer. The thousands leaving for Australia and the families struggling to make ends meet know as well. We’re going nowhere under National.
"John Key has made promise after promise but he simply can’t deliver. He has let New Zealand down."
57th iconic mountain climb in Kawerau
Mountain fever is almost upon the Eastern Bay of Plenty again with the annual 57th Kawerau King of the Mountain taking place on Saturday 27th October.
Organised by the Kawerau Harriers Club and involving up to 160 Athletes from around New Zealand and the world who will take part in the gruelling 8 km race to the summit of Mt Putauaki [Mt Edgecumbe] – 852 metres above sea level.
The winner is granted the title "King of the Mountain" and the first female is given the crown as "Queen".
Events begin on Saturday from 9.30am at Firmin Field with the newly named Radio 1XX King of the Mountain School Relays at 9.30am followed by the popular Norske Skog Prince & Princess of the Mountain from 11am and the main event The Kawerau King of the Mountain race from 12pm.
Kawerau District Council's events coordinator Lee Barton says entries are already flowing in for this years iconic mountain climb with one entry raising a few eyebrows coming in from Calgary, Canada.
"With the possible absence of last year's second place and Eastern Bay running icon Sjors Corporaal and last year's first place champion Shay Williamson struggling from injury, there is no clear favourites for "King of the Mountain" as yet so it is anyones title."
"10 times Queen Meagan Edhouse will also be entering after several years away along with New Zealand running champion Helen Rountree from Hamilton who has just returned back to NZ after competing for the World Mountain Climbing trophy in Italy but her relative inexperience with Putauaki could play into the hands of some of the locals." Mr Barton says.
For those that just want to challenge themselves and their mates against the mighty mountain it’s time to get your mountain goat boots on and be ready for another excellent Kawerau King of the Mountain race, 27th October 2012.
Early bird entries are available until 13 October and you can enter online through www.kaweraudc.govt.nz/newsandevents or www.kawerauharrierclub.co.nz
You can also find the Mountain Race on Facebook where important updates and the latest info will be posted. www.facebook.com/KawerauKingOfTheMountain
Why subsidising Kawerau newsprint mill is not good economics.
The government is defending its decision not to step in to help keep newsprint production at full capacity at a Kawerau mill, saying the developments reflect the flexibility of the New Zealand economy.
Norweigian company Norske Skog confirmed last week that it would halve production at its Kawerau newsprint mill, with unions warning the move could lead to the loss of about 100 jobs.
Falling demand for newsprint and unfavourable exchange rates, making large scale exports to Asia unprofitable, were given as reasons for the move.
At the same time, the company announced an A$84 million investment - funded mainly from Australian central and state government - in its Boyer Mill in Tasmania to enable that mill to produce different types of paper.
Speaking on TVNZ's Q&A programme on Sunday, Prime Minister John Key defended the government's economic policies in the face of attack from opposition parties claiming the Kawerau job losses were another indication those policies had failed.
Key said the developments reflected the flexibility of the New Zealand economy. He attacked those calling on the government to subsidise production at the mill to ensure jobs were not lost, saying subsidies led to an economy "which is likely to produce not what the world wants but something quite different; Under that strategy, we’d still be making cars."
'NZ$ level due to fundamentals'
Meanwhile, Economic Development Minister Stephen Joyce told TV3's The Nation programme on Saturday that while jobs would be lost at the Kawerau mill, there were other opportunities in the region and in others like Taranaki and Christchurch.
He said the level of the New Zealand dollar - alluded to by Norske Skog as one of the reasons it was cutting production at Kawerau - was due ultimately to market fundamentals.Norske Skog had not asked the government for a subsidy for the Kawerau newsprint mill, Joyce said.
"Ultimately nobody's going to bid the New Zealand dollar beyond what they consider it should be at. Now even if it bounced through say, for example, the quantitative easing that's coming through at the moment, it will come back again," Joyce said.
"Because fundamentally the value of the New Zealand dollar is determined by what the world believes is the future of the New Zealand economy, and if they bid it up too high, then they will look at it and say well actually we've bid it up too high, and we'll bid it down again," he said.
A significant fall in the New Zealand dollar would lead to substantial rises in living costs in New Zealand as the prices of imported goods rose, Joyce said.
"Unfortunately you only have one exchange rate [as opposed to different settings for exporters and importers]. The exchange rate is the assessment of what people think of the future of the New Zealand economy," he said.
"The quickest way to get it down would be to do some very reckless things that would actually put our economy at risk."
'Flexible economy'
On Q&A, Key said the government's economic policies were aimed at making the economy more competitive. He said jobs were constantly created and lost in New Zealand's "flexible" economy.
"If you take Kawerau, why is there a reduction in demand for pulp and paper? Well, people don’t buy their newspapers," Key said.
"It’s the same reason why APN have got the New Zealand Herald for sale. It’s the same reason why Fairfax’s print media around the world is struggling. It’s because people are not going to the newspaper in the same way they used to. They go online, and so that’s why the government’s supported ultra-fast broadband," he said.
"New Zealand’s a small economy. It’s flexible in the world. In any one given year, this economy creates about a quarter of a million jobs and loses a number slightly smaller than that. We create net positive jobs.
"So if you want to preserve what we’ve always done, of course you can do that, but that will deliver you an economy which is likely to produce not what the world wants but something quite different," Key said.
"Under that strategy, we’d still be making cars and we’d still be selling legs of lamb to Europe instead of racks of lamb and better cuts and moving up the value chain and Fonterra producing nutraceuticals and all of those things," he said.
There would always be job losses across the economy as its make-up changed.
"There will always be parts of the economy where, for whatever reason, there’s a change in pattern. Years ago, we all did different things from what we’re doing today," Key said.
"In the case of the auto industry, that decision was made a long time ago for New Zealand not to have that on a subsidised basis. And, yes, that caused pain and dislocation for the industry," he said.
"But it also bred a new competitive industry. So let’s look at wine. Years ago, it was a totally protected industry. Yes, we got rid of all that protection, but what did we build? A world-class, highly successful industry based on new types and varieties."
Key said many of the governments in the developed world which were subsidising industry were highly indebted.
"So the whole problem in Europe, the whole reason why you’re seeing countries like Spain, like Greece and right through Southern Europe in the sort of mess they are is they have huge levels of government debt," Key said.
"The answer in New Zealand is not necessarily coming up with a make-work scheme funded off taxpayers’ taxes. It comes off New Zealand having a competitive industry, making sure that we have flexible labour markets, making sure that we are investing in things that will make the economy go faster, like science and innovation," he said.
Nothing ‘inevitable’ about mass redundancies
The Engineering, Printing and Manufacturing Union says the Government’s claim that mass redundancies are ‘inevitable’ is a sign their ‘hands-off’ approach to the economy has failed.
The call follows comments from Finance Minister Bill English and Economic Development Minister Steven Joyce that large scale redundancies are ‘unavoidable’, ‘inevitable’ and a result of ‘declining industries’.
EPMU national secretary Bill Newson says the comments are a cop-out.
“There’s nothing ‘inevitable’ about mass redundancies. With comments like that you have to wonder whether this Government has simply given up on New Zealand manufacturing.
“While other countries are taking an active role in their economies to protect jobs and promote manufacturing, our Government has chosen to cling to a job-killing economic model that’s failing Kiwi businesses and Kiwi workers.
“Steven Joyce says the Norske Skog paper mill in Kawerau is a declining industry, yet the same company is upgrading and expanding its business across the Tasman because it’s getting support from the Australian government.
“Unlike in Australia, our Government refuses to support manufacturing by taking an active role in the economy, even to support firms through hard times or to transition to new technologies.
“It also refuses to act on a New Zealand dollar that’s highly overvalued and which fluctuates wildly because it’s one of the most highly traded currencies in the world.
The fact is we can’t build our economy based on cheap imports and a declining manufacturing sector. Real economic growth comes from high skill, high value manufacturing firms that drive innovation and keep people in jobs.
“The current model has failed, and we see this failure in the 40,000 manufacturing jobs lost since National came to power, the growing dole queues and the record 54,000 Kiwis leaving for Australia in the last 12 months.
“There are alternatives, and as a country we need to discuss them. Thankfully there is a growing consensus among businesses, unions, economists and political parties that things have to change.”
Four years since GFC began and still no ideas - Cunliffe
Four years to the day that Lehman Brothers collapsed, the National Government still refuses to take action to help New Zealand businesses compete and support the economy, says Labour’s Economic Development spokesperson David Cunliffe.
"Four years ago the worst financial crisis in a generation began. New Zealand wasn’t hit as hard as others because of the Labour Government’s strong fiscal policy. We should be turning the corner now but the Government still has no ideas beyond hoping it will be rescued by market forces.
"On The Nation today Steven Joyce astonishingly claimed that ‘a lot of manufacturers are doing well’. What planet is he on? It’s time he got back to the real world. The real world of Kawerau, the real world of Bluff and the real world of Greymouth where hundreds of hard-working Kiwis are losing their jobs.
"Four years ago John Key told New Zealanders "I'm going to need to have all of the armoury of government focused on keeping as many people in jobs as we can."
"Four years on and jobs are being lost every week. Creating jobs isn’t in National’s DNA, they rely on the market and publishing glossy pamphlets. It’s not working.
"Labour stands for a realistic exchange rate, prudent management of finances, appropriate structural reforms to back positive business and hard working Kiwis and new industry policies that will get manufacturing going again.
"The world has changed. New Zealanders and Labour know this. It’s time National got change too."
Bill to close loophole on pollution of our waterways
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| THE BLACK DRAIN: Tarawera River. |
Green Party MP Catherine Delahunty's Resource Management (Restricted Duration of Certain Discharge and Coastal Permits) Amendment Bill was drawn from the ballot today.
The bill closes a loophole allowing on going pollution of waterways in "exceptional circumstances" a provision which is being abused to allow for on-going pollution of rivers in some cases up to 35 years. This Bill restricts exceptional circumstances to 5 years.
"It is great that my Bill to protect our rivers and coast from being treated as drains has been drawn," said Green Party MP Catherine Delahunty.
"Exceptional circumstances are real but it should not take 25 years to fix - a 5 year timeframe is much more reasonable.
"The 'exceptional circumstances' provision has been applied in a number of places to allow 25 to 35 years of pollution with no end in sight.
"The Kawerau pulp and paper has been pumping waste into the Tarawera River since 1955 - it is a national disgrace and this loophole needs to be closed," said Ms Delahunty.
Celebrating World Breastfeeding Week in the Bay
This year’s World Breastfeeding Week will see mothers across New Zealand attempting to break the record set last year of 1564 women breastfeeding simultaneously.
Locations are being set up across New Zealand for mothers and babies to come together and celebrate breastfeeding.
Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service has been working to support two Big Latch On venues in the Bay of Plenty. Those wanting to join the event in Tauranga, which has been organised by the Breastfeeding Advocacy and Advisory Group for Western Bay of Plenty, can come along to Bayfair Shopping Centre, opposite Farmers at Mount Maungauni at 10am on Friday 3rd August. Whakatane mothers wanting to join the event can come along to Whakatane Library at 9.30am on Friday 3rd August. This Big Latch On has been organised by Ukaipo.
The Big Latch On will also be held at other venues across the Bay of Plenty:
§ Katikati – Katikati Midwives Clinic, 14 Jocelyn Street, Katikati
§ Kawerau - Tuwharetoa Health, Ranfurly Building, Kawerau
§ Opotiki - Whakatohea Iwi Social & Health Services, 128 Church St, Opotiki
§ Tauranga – Grindz Café, 50 First Avenue, Tauranga
For contact details, visit the Women’s Health Action Trust website – www.womens-health.org.nz
This year it is anticipated that even more mothers will participate in the Big Latch On which will again break the record, which has been broken every year since 2005.
World Breastfeeding Week takes place annually in the first week of August in over 170 countries. Every year World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) sets a theme for Breastfeeding Week, this year it is “Understanding the Past - Planning the Future, celebrating 10 years of WHO/UNICEF's Global Strategy for Infant and Young Child Feeding”.
Toi Te Ora - Public Health Service recommends that mothers exclusively breastfeed their babies for the first six months and then continue to breastfeed along with the introduction of solid foods.
For more information about World Breastfeeding Week and the Big Latch On event visit www.toiteorapublichealth.govt.