News Archive

Ian Walker, the Council’s Deputy Chairman, says while Councillors have a good individual understanding of a myriad of issues – especially in their local areas – the mid-October tour will offer the chance for a collective, fact-finding mission on the region as a whole.

Cr Walker says although an exact timetable and itinerary are still being finalised, the tour proper will run from Tuesday 14 October to Thursday 16 October inclusive and will include the Council shifting its monthly full meeting from Whangarei to the Hokianga on Wednesday 15 October.

Community and business leaders are also to be invited to join Councillors and the NRC’s Chief Executive for working meetings/discussions over the three days during likely visits to Kerikeri, Kaeo, Kaitaia, Ahipara, Hokianga, Dargaville, Maungaturoto and Whangarei.

Cr Walker says while environmental custodianship remains a core Council function, Councillors are particularly keen to investigate economic and growth issues facing the region.

“We also wish to gather up-to-date information on parts of Northland – including the rural sector - which are facing challenges in terms of maintenance and access to services, as well as social and physical infrastructure.”

Among a raft of suggested activities are:

• Tours of flood protection schemes
• Examining wastewater treatment facilities at Maungaturoto and Kawakawa
• Meeting with Iwi Chief Executives
• Visits to ‘vehicles on beaches’ hotspots
• A site visit to check effluent treatment and other aspects of a working dairy farm
• Meeting with economic and business leaders

Cr Walker says the tour is very much work-orientated and designed to deliver maximum value for participants and ratepayers.

That was reflected in a heavy workload (including a full monthly Council meeting) – averaging 10 to 12 hours-plus a day – and which would continue even during meals, with working meetings/discussions.