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By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Motorists could be paying a toll to drive a new bypass on State Highway 1, in North Canterbury, once it's complete.
Meanwhile, planned safety improvements to the area have been canned for now, as officials review the planned work as part of the … View moreBy David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Motorists could be paying a toll to drive a new bypass on State Highway 1, in North Canterbury, once it's complete.
Meanwhile, planned safety improvements to the area have been canned for now, as officials review the planned work as part of the Woodend Bypass design.
The Government is considering a proposal for its promised roads of national significance to be partially funded by a toll.
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) said the Woodend Bypass has been confirmed as one of the first five roads of national significance and that a safety review will be undertaken.
Associate Transport Minister Matt Doocey said the Government has backed recommendations by NZTA to introduce tolls in its Government Policy Statement on Land Transport.
‘‘As a Government, we are open to a wide range of funding tools to ensure we are able to deliver the roads that will allow kiwis and freight to get to where they want to go quickly and safely.’’
Safety improvements for Woodend’s Main North Rd were announced in December 2022, as part of a $35 million funding package for State Highway 1 between Saltwater Creek and Cam River, with work due to begin this year.
NZTA had previously advised the safety improvements were on hold, pending the revised policy statement on Land Transport.
Doocey said it made sense to have another look at the work programme.
‘‘When you look at the Woodend safety improvement programme, it was in response to Labour cancelling the bypass, so it is right to relook at that programme in the context of the new motorway.’’
The former Government included the Woodend Bypass in its policy statement on Land Transport announced in August 2023.
Funding was also announced in December 2022 for a $6 million project, including cycleways linking Kaiapoi, Woodend and Pegasus, as part of NZTA’s Transport Choices Programme.
But the programme was axed last December by the new Government.
Doocey said the proposed cycleways and an under-pass at the Pegasus roundabout would be considered as part of the final bypass design.
‘‘When you look at the Christchurch Northern Corridor, the (Christchurch to Kaiapoi) cycleway was an important part of it, so I think it would make sense to consider the cycleways and an underpass as part of the bypass design.’’
Woodend-Sefton Community Board chairperson Shona Powell said she welcomed news about the bypass, but the safety improvements were needed now.
‘‘It will take several years to build the bypass. It is just getting frustrating.’’
Waimakariri mayor Dan Gordon said he had been seeking clarity about the promised safety improvements without success.
But he welcomed Doocey’s comments that the cycleway and under-pass would be considered as part of the final design.
‘‘It makes total sense to construct this as part of the works and I know the community would be thrilled to have these included.
‘‘This is an incredibly important project for our district and I am delighted by the depth of consideration the Government is giving to it.’’
He would also like to see a cycleway clip-on added to the State Highway 1 bridge over the Ashley-Rakahuri River.
The council has been planning the Kaiapoi to Woodend and Woodend to Pegasus cycleways for several years, along with a Rangiora (Southbrook) cycleway.
Proposed safety improvements had included road widening, wider centrelines and safety barriers, and reducing the speed to 60kph at the Pegasus roundabout, which would have become one lane with raised safety platforms.
Traffic lights were also proposed at the Rangiora-Woodend Rd intersection, roundabouts at the Woodend Beach Rd and Williams St intersections and a crossing refuge for people using bus stops near Pineacres.
■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
Winter is here and it is a great time to get all your interior painting and decorating projects sorted.
Get in touch with Andy and the friendly team
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
North Canterbury’s three councils have thrown their weight behind a plan to tackle climate change.
The Waimakariri, Hurunui and Kaikōura councils have endorsed the Canterbury Mayoral Forum’s draft climate partnership plan.
Waimakariri mayor Dan … View moreBy David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
North Canterbury’s three councils have thrown their weight behind a plan to tackle climate change.
The Waimakariri, Hurunui and Kaikōura councils have endorsed the Canterbury Mayoral Forum’s draft climate partnership plan.
Waimakariri mayor Dan Gordon, who chairs the mayoral forum’s climate action reference group, said by working together larger councils could help the smaller councils.
‘‘Climate change doesn’t recognise territorial boundaries, so we need something that works across Canterbury.
‘‘Christchurch is further ahead, which is fantastic, and in Waimakariri we are developing our work programme.’’
The Waimakariri District Council adopted its natural environment strategy at a council meeting last week, after completing its consultation alongside the long-term plan.
The 30-year strategy aims to protect the district’s natural ecosystems and its special indigenous biodiversity.
Gordon said the mayors hoped to officially launch the Canterbury Climate Partnership Plan later this year and he planned to invite Climate Change Minister Simon Watts.
‘‘I have raised with the Minister about attending a public launch to provide some inspiration of what can be done in other regions.’’
The plan sets out 10 climate actions to help the 11 Canterbury councils prepare for ‘‘a sustainable future’’.
The actions included understanding climate risks and improving resilience, reducing emissions, adaptation planning, nature-based solutions, education and advocacy, supporting papatipu rūnanga, integrating climate change considerations into council processes, identifying co-funding opportunities, monitoring and evaluation, and implementation.
Hurunui mayor Marie Black said her council had endorsed the plan in principle.
The Hurunui District Council was represented on the climate action reference group by Councillor Dave Hislop, a dairy farmer.
‘‘Dave brings a pragmatic approach and he is grounded in farming principles,’’ Black said.
Hislop and other rural councillors had questioned aspects of the plan and science behind it, before giving their support, chief executive Hamish Dobbie said.
‘‘I think it has been through a robust process and councillors of all persuasions have been involved.
‘‘We might not 100% agree with everything, but it is important Canterbury stands together and is seen to be working together.
‘‘There is a desire for us to thrive and do well and loom large in the consciousness of the Government and the Canterbury Climate Partnership Plan is just one of those things which we are working on collectively.’’
Kaikōura District Council chief executive Will Doughty said his council had endorsed the plan and budgeted for its contribution over the next three years in its long-term plan.
‘‘We believe it is a great initiative to be looking at the issues from a wider regional perspective.
‘‘We are very keen to see some tangible outcomes from the climate actions.’’
■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
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Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be loved by its new … View moreFor only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in gorgeous Mangawhai, worth almost $1.4 million dollars.
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Magnetic frames make it easy to change what’s on display – whether it’s wallpaper or works of art. Paint yours in Resene testpots to contrast what's on display and complement your home's décor.
Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.
Bicycle in good condition. 8 speed. Included - extra padded seat, front carrier basket, side mirror, helmet, hi-viz vest. Pick up Rangiora. Ph or text 021 084 37041. DO NOT use messenger to contact me. Thank you.
Hello Neighbours
I have two different blends of Magnesium Chloride Spray. One can be used by the whole family the other has Boron added to help anyone suffering from arthritis pain. The most recent research into the effectiveness of Boron for arthritis shows a dramatic reduction in symptoms has … View moreHello Neighbours
I have two different blends of Magnesium Chloride Spray. One can be used by the whole family the other has Boron added to help anyone suffering from arthritis pain. The most recent research into the effectiveness of Boron for arthritis shows a dramatic reduction in symptoms has been achieved within 3 – 6 months.
Magnesium is essential for life, but most people are not getting enough and aging much faster than necessary, both inside and out.
Pain, arthritis and osteoporosis are not caused by aging. We are NOT destined to grow old in pain. Magnesium is believed to be a natural pain receptor blocker, making it the perfect first go-to when muscles, nerves, connective tissue and bones need any kind of support.
Click on the Read More for information on each of the Magnesium Chloride Sprays
1st one - For the Whole Family
2nd one - Arthritis Pain
Pickup from Room to Heal or Courier Service available
Room to Heal in Rangiora
Reiki Practitioner
Therapeutic Massage Therapist
Bioptron Medical Hyperlight Light Therapist
Love and Light
Rae
Good condition, as photo I have used on a free standing lamp and as a shade on ceiling nice pattern display on ceiling pm me or text 0212095513
Looking for a window cleaner to do inside and outside of a 3 bedroom home in Burnt Hill.
Please text Rae 0273 621 601
...You can see right through them.
No, we haven't lost the plot! July 1st is International Joke Day and because laughter is good for your body, we want to get involved.
So, go on, jokers! Share your best joke below...
Note change of time from summer start time.
Next family-friendly monthly service - Sunday, 4 August at the Ashley Community Church. With shorter days the gathering will start at 3.30 pm with a shared afternoon tea. Remember to bring something to share!
Also remember to go before you come as … View moreNote change of time from summer start time.
Next family-friendly monthly service - Sunday, 4 August at the Ashley Community Church. With shorter days the gathering will start at 3.30 pm with a shared afternoon tea. Remember to bring something to share!
Also remember to go before you come as there is no toilet on site.
Enquiries to Paul or Lesley, Ph 021 140 2074
39 Canterbury St, Ashley.
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
A North Canterbury council’s bid for road funding has been rejected as too costly by the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA).
The Hurunui District Council requested to almost double its funding for the next three years, compared to the period 2021-24, NZTA … View moreBy David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
A North Canterbury council’s bid for road funding has been rejected as too costly by the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA).
The Hurunui District Council requested to almost double its funding for the next three years, compared to the period 2021-24, NZTA director regional relationships director James Caygill said.
He said the council’s funding bid sought an increase of 184% from the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme.
‘‘This increase was amongst the highest sought nationally.’’
About the country, councils put in bids totalling $6.5 billion for the 2024-27 period, up 42% on the previous three year period, Caygill said.
‘‘The total bid put forward nationally was unaffordable to the National Land Transport Programme, making it difficult to honour everyone’s bid.’’
Caygill said the agency had approved Hurunui’s request for an increase of nearly 50% in its funding for road resealing, and it ‘‘should be adequate to maintain and renew its network’’.
But at a council meeting on June 25, council chief executive Hamish Dobbie described NZTA's response as ‘‘under-whelming’’.
‘‘It is extremely disappointing given the amount of work we put into getting our roading programme together and it looks like they (NZTA) didn’t even look at it.’’
NZTA’s overall funding had increased, but Hurunui’s allocation was not enough to fund the upgrades needed to ensure the resilience of the district’s roading network, he said.
But funding for increased resilience works and other improvements were assessed separately under the ‘‘Local Road Improvements Activity Class’’, and funding information had yet to be released.
The council has deferred the adoption of its long-term plan until July 15.
■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
Christchurch Police are urging the community to ensure children are properly restrained following a concerning vehicle stop in Harewood. About 11:30am yesterday, Thursday 4 July, Police stopped a vehicle travelling almost 20kmh above the speed limit on Harewood Road.
When Police came to the … View moreChristchurch Police are urging the community to ensure children are properly restrained following a concerning vehicle stop in Harewood. About 11:30am yesterday, Thursday 4 July, Police stopped a vehicle travelling almost 20kmh above the speed limit on Harewood Road.
When Police came to the window, four children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years were seen in the back and front passenger seats with their car seats incorrectly fitted.
The driver was issued a formal warning and an infringement notice. Police are working with the driver around the correct way to secure seats, secure the children, and making sure they have the right seat for their size.
Inspector Ash Tabb says, ensuring car seats are properly attached and kids are properly restrained is essential in reducing the risk of serious injuries or worse if a crash occurs.
“I am glad this didn’t result in more serious consequences; not only were the kids not properly restrained, but the vehicle was also travelling almost 20 kmh above the speed limit, two of four known crash and serious crash contributors, labelled RIDS (Restraints, Impairment, Distraction, and Speed).
"We understand parents, and caregivers may not know what the right seat is, or how to attach it correctly for your child. There are several services available to assist people with this, including child restraint technicians who can provide advice on what restraint may be needed. They can also help you fit them to your vehicle,” Inspector Tabb says.
Check out Whānau Āwhina Plunket website here.
Or the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi website here.
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Slow progress is continuing to be made to resolve future road access to a Canterbury golf course.
Hurunui District Council chief executive Hamish Dobbie said he has met with members of the Amberley Beach Golf Club to agree to ‘‘a way forward for the… View moreBy David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Slow progress is continuing to be made to resolve future road access to a Canterbury golf course.
Hurunui District Council chief executive Hamish Dobbie said he has met with members of the Amberley Beach Golf Club to agree to ‘‘a way forward for the consent process’’.
The 18-hole golf course is under threat from coastal erosion, with the council agreeing in August last year to investigate extending Grierson Ave through the narrowest part of a wetland.
The proposal would secure access to the club’s course and clubhouse, as well as mahinga kai areas in the Waimaiaia Reserve, and the Waipara River mouth.
Dobbie said the club had verbally agreed to a process and he was waiting for written confirmation from the club.
The cost of the consenting process and hiring a consultant would be borne by the council, he said.
There was no agreement yet on the cost of purchasing land, but Dobbie said he would be following up with the land owner.
A report to the council’s May meeting said staff had met with Environment Canterbury staff and members of the golf club in April to discuss the consenting requirements.
An assessment of environmental effects, an ecological assessment and a hydrological wetland assessment would be required.
Constructing a road through a natural inland wetland was likely to be a non-complying activity under the National Environmental Standards for Freshwater.
Staff estimated it would cost $1.155 million to meet the consenting requirements to build the road.
An alternative option of linking Webbs and Hursley Terrace roads with Golf Links Road from the northern end has been considered.
This option would secure access to most of the golf course, but not the clubhouse and would reduce the course to 16 holes.
It would also secure access to the Waimaiaia Reserve and the Waipara River mouth.
■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
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