Thank you for using Neighbourly
By Jonathan Leask, local democracy reporter
A popular camping spot with “million dollar views” in Mid Canterbury has been closed and blocked by bollards - infuriating locals.
Hakatere Huts is a coastal settlement at the Ashburton/Hakatere River mouth, which splits into two parts, upper … View moreBy Jonathan Leask, local democracy reporter
A popular camping spot with “million dollar views” in Mid Canterbury has been closed and blocked by bollards - infuriating locals.
Hakatere Huts is a coastal settlement at the Ashburton/Hakatere River mouth, which splits into two parts, upper and lower, based on the landscape's geographical divide.
Upper Hakatere had a camping area for about 60 years until the council closed it last year.
Wooden bollards were installed in February 2023 to block vehicle access and signpost it as a picnic area, while new picnic tables were installed. Camping is now restricted to Lower Hakatere.
Hakatere Hut representatives said it caught the residents by surprise as there had been no consultation.
Residents Gary Clancy, TJ Jonker, and Fritha Tagg are leading a campaign to bring back the campground, or at least get rid of the bollards.
“It was so easy to put them in, it would be so easy to take them out.”
The bollards don’t fit with the aesthetic of the site and are more suitable “in a farmyard or a prison”, Yonker said.
The council explained it was an operational decision in response to complaints, safety concerns, and wanting camping at the settlement to be self-funding.
Council business support group manager Leanne Macdonald said it had been discussed with hut residents last year.
The campground caretaker left and they were unable to fill the role so they needed "to limit where campers camp to keep maintenance and cleaning work down”, she said.
“When we met with the residents, we clarified that the minimal income received from people camping in this area did not cover the cost of a caretaker, and any cleaning or maintenance is primarily funded by the general ratepayer.”
However, Clancy said he didn't believe the suggestion it needed to be self-funding was a credible argument, based on other reserves, camping and picnic areas he looked at in the district.
Coastal erosion was also cited as a factor in the decision, but a setback fence was installed in 2017 to stop heavy vehicles from parking near the cliffs, Clancy said.
“There are plenty of examples of places where there is no overnight camping but you can picnic and people can park their vehicles on the grass without bollards, so why not here?” Clancy said.
“[Visitors] came here for the million dollar view. You never see anybody here now.”
Tagg said the bollards, parking, and undulating terrain also made it hard for the elderly and those with mobility issues to use the picnic tables.
“There were lots of people that would come for a picnic, cup of tea or sit for a while and soak in the view but they can’t do it now.
“The bollards prevent anyone from parking close."
Jonker said there was no signage to let visitors know of the change.
In response, McDonald said each area in the district was treated uniquely with its own appropriate solution.
“The bollards were primarily installed to discourage camping and direct campers to the lower level.
“We also hoped to create a picnic area that encouraged day visitors to enjoy the picnic area and the views on the upper level.
“People can, and still do park at the site."
The bollards make the picnic area a safe space for families with children, she said.
Additional signage to direct campers to Lower Hakatere would be considered, McDonald said.
The residents plan to present a petition to the council and submit to the long-term plan, calling for the campground's reinstatement, or at least the removal of the bollards.
The long-term plan is proposing to replace the old toilets at Lower Hakatere with a $240,000 new toilet block.
“Since we are encouraging campers to use lower Hakatere campsite, we are proposing to replace the existing septic tank toilets with new dry vault facilities nearer to the camping area, and away from the eroding coastline,” McDonald said.
The old changing shed was slated for demolition, but after discussion with the residents, it is set to be repurposed as a shelter, she said.
Hey neighbours! How has your power been treating you lately? Any sparks or stumbles in the past year?
Share the woes and let's brighten each other's day!
The Pet Life.
It’s the life you share with your pet, and the life they share with you. We believe the pet life’s a life worth protecting.
Which is why we are dedicated to helping pets live longer, healthier and happier lives every day.
We’re proudly born and bred in New Zealand, and … View moreThe Pet Life.
It’s the life you share with your pet, and the life they share with you. We believe the pet life’s a life worth protecting.
Which is why we are dedicated to helping pets live longer, healthier and happier lives every day.
We’re proudly born and bred in New Zealand, and are equally proud to partner with the NZ Veterinary Association and Pet Refuge. Just two ways we’re there to support the Pet Life community.
Protect the Pet Life.
By local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
A decision is expected soon on a second Ashburton bridge as the Government rolls out its 100-day plan.
Transport Minister Simeon Brown last week announced the axing of the Auckland Regional Fuel Tax at the end of June, and said the … View moreBy local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
A decision is expected soon on a second Ashburton bridge as the Government rolls out its 100-day plan.
Transport Minister Simeon Brown last week announced the axing of the Auckland Regional Fuel Tax at the end of June, and said the Government's Policy Statement on Land Transport “which will be released in the coming weeks".
In Mid Canterbury, there is hope it will confirm plans, funding and a timeline for the second bridge across the Ashburton/Hakatere River.
Infrastructure and open spaces group manager Neil McCann said the council is eagerly waiting and expecting an announcement soon.
The second bridge is a resilience project, providing a secondary crossing of the river with the existing bridge having closed twice in recent years due to flooding, cutting off the South Island.
It will also alleviate the congestion issues on State Highway 1.
The whole project, including connecting the bridge to existing roads, is expected to cost at least $113 million.
The council has budgeted $7.5m for the project, carried over from previous long-term plans.
“But obviously if the bridge gets fully funded we won’t need it," McCann said.
Ashburton’s mayor hoped the council wouldn't have to fund the bridge via ratepayers.
At a recent council workshop, mayor Neil Brown said when he meets with the Transport Minister he won’t be committing $7.5m to the project.
“The last Government committed 100% funding.”
The Labour Government included the second bridge as one of 14 key strategic projects in its land transport policy, which Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency uses to develop its 10-year National Land Transport Plan.
The coalition Government is preparing its own version of the policy.
“I know it’s being reviewed at the moment but it is in there at 100% funding,” Brown said.
The mayor said he hoped it remained that way, but some contribution may be required depending on the nature of the project.
During the election campaign, National pledged to build the bridge in its first term.
As the bridge will be built off Chalmers Avenue, and not along State Highway 1, it will be considered a local road once completed.
The council may be called on to fund any necessary upgrades on Chalmers Ave and the new connecting roads on the south side of the river, with the Government funding the bridge construction.
The council’s long-term plan has the construction slated to start in 2025-26 on the Chalmers Ave route, which will be determined by the Government's redrafted policy.
******
Not just transport resilience
Ashburton’s second bridge has been described as a resilience project that will benefit the whole South Island roading network.
That’s because the second bridge provides a backup for the 93-year-old SH1 Ashburton/Hakatere River Bridge.
Money is also set aside in the long term plan to lay a water main across the new bridge to provide resilience to the water supply.
The council is budgeting $4.62m for a new water main to be installed across the new bridge.
The bridge will also be built to allow for “all sorts of cabling and ducting in mind for the future”, McCann said.
That will provide an opportunity to lay alternative communications cables, as a fibre optic cable to the rest of the South Island runs across the SH1 bridge.
Photo caption: In the lead up to last year's election, National's local government spokesperson Simon Watts, council chief executive Hamish Riach, National’s Rangitata candidate James Meager, deputy mayor Liz McMillan, and National transport spokesperson Simeon Brown were on site at the SH1 bridge to discuss the plans for a second Ashburton/Hakatere River bridge. Photo credit: Jonathan Leask/LDR
Experiencing broadband troubles? Our recent neighbourly poll reveals the top two issues: unstable connections and pricey bills!
Don't worry! Check out our latest article for expert tips to solve these issues.
PLUS, use Broadband Compare to compare NZ's best broadband deals & … View moreExperiencing broadband troubles? Our recent neighbourly poll reveals the top two issues: unstable connections and pricey bills!
Don't worry! Check out our latest article for expert tips to solve these issues.
PLUS, use Broadband Compare to compare NZ's best broadband deals & save up to $300/year. Enjoy smoother internet while keeping cash for treats!
By local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
A fact-finding exercise is taking a look at what appetite there is for public transport in Ashburton.
Safer Mid Canterbury and the Ashburton District Council have launched a survey to gather information about the future need for public transport in … View moreBy local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
A fact-finding exercise is taking a look at what appetite there is for public transport in Ashburton.
Safer Mid Canterbury and the Ashburton District Council have launched a survey to gather information about the future need for public transport in Ashburton, including what people are willing to pay.
Ashburton mayor Neil Brown has previously stated that whatever option the district came up with there would need to be “some innovative ways of how it would work and how it would be funded”.
Currently, the only form of public transport in the district is the Mid Canterbury Connector service, a vehicle that travels from rural towns to Ashburton.
The new survey considers bus options as well as escooters and ebikes.
The council has asked Environment Canterbury (ECan), which runs public transport in the region, to consider public transport options for Ashburton as part of its regional land transport plan.
As per the council’s request, ECan is looking into innovative transport solutions in Ashburton in the plans.
The Ashburton survey and research will be valuable in preparing a submission on the plan, council infrastructure and open spaces group manager Neil McCann said.
The survey responses will be analysed alongside feedback from community groups, businesses, and transport operators, to help the council gauge if a public transport pilot is feasible.
The process is aimed at finding out the likely level of demand for a public service in Ashburton, McCann said.
“We want to know how often people would use public transport, what sort of schedule they want and if they would be willing to pay.
“This is a great chance to see if we should trial something like a MyWay or if we need any sort of public transport at all.”
The annual operating cost of the MyWay on-demand bus service in Timaru is $2.7m, consisting of $1.1m from rates, $1.3m from NZTA grants, and $0.25m from fare revenue.
Passengers book directly for the MyWay service using an app, website or the call centre.
They then catch the bus from a nearby ‘virtual bus stop’ or an existing stop, allowing for quick and efficient shared trips.
ECan and the Canterbury Regional Transport Committee are working on the 10-year plan for the region’s transport system.
It proposes a $10.8 billion investment in Canterbury over the next decade, with Ashburton’s second bridge the top project on the list.
The draft document points to public transport development in Ashburton.
The draft suggests “potential private innovations” be investigated to support the community transition to a public transport service being rolled out.
Classical crossover singer Rebecca Nelson told a captivated Cambridge audience how the town holds a special place in her heart for several reasons.
Rebecca’s performance was one of three shows lined up to entertain residents and soon-to-be residents of Ryman Healthcare’s Patrick Hogan … View moreClassical crossover singer Rebecca Nelson told a captivated Cambridge audience how the town holds a special place in her heart for several reasons.
Rebecca’s performance was one of three shows lined up to entertain residents and soon-to-be residents of Ryman Healthcare’s Patrick Hogan Village in Cambridge, Hilda Ross Village down the road in Hamilton and James Wattie Village in Havelock North.
Describing her connection to Ryman, she says: “It feels like coming home and performing for friends and family.”
Click read for the full story.
This Valentine’s Day, why not snuggle up with your loved one for a movie night in?
We've curated the ultimate list of the latest romantic flicks and binge-worthy shows to make your evening extra special.
Plus, don't forget to compare broadband options on Broadband Compare for the… View moreThis Valentine’s Day, why not snuggle up with your loved one for a movie night in?
We've curated the ultimate list of the latest romantic flicks and binge-worthy shows to make your evening extra special.
Plus, don't forget to compare broadband options on Broadband Compare for the best streaming deals!
It's back for a fifth year! Recognise the best local businesses in your neighbourhood by nominating them in the 2024 Prospa Local Business Hero Awards.
Whether it's a bakery team who occasionally sneak you an extra sweet treat, a supermarket employee that's helped carry your bags… View moreIt's back for a fifth year! Recognise the best local businesses in your neighbourhood by nominating them in the 2024 Prospa Local Business Hero Awards.
Whether it's a bakery team who occasionally sneak you an extra sweet treat, a supermarket employee that's helped carry your bags to the car or a bookshop that goes out of its way to find the best read just for you. Prospa Local Business Hero helps you show some love to the small businesses with the biggest hearts.
Plus your nomination could help a small business win over $10,000 worth of prizes!
Be a local hero yourself; give your favourite local business owner the recognition they deserve by nominating them in the 2024 Prospa Local Business Hero awards.
Happy Chinese Lunar New Year from the team at NZ Compare!
May your year be as powerful and fortunate as the mighty dragon!
Don't forget to enter our Year of the Dragon contest to WIN 1 of 3 X $50 gift cards.
By local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Methven Resort's expansion plans are headed to the Environment Court after a neighbour appealed a decision to grant it consent.
The resort in the Canterbury town had been given the green light on December 22 to build two accommodation wings … View moreBy local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Methven Resort's expansion plans are headed to the Environment Court after a neighbour appealed a decision to grant it consent.
The resort in the Canterbury town had been given the green light on December 22 to build two accommodation wings with 36 units and 40 units, extend the restaurant/bar area, and add a new swimming pool and spa area.
Independent commissioner Darryl Millar granted the consent, but with a raft of conditions.
However, neighbour Mark Brownlie filed his appeal on January 30.
During the hearing last year, Brownlie described the proposed expansion as a “brutal privacy intrusion”.
He said he was not opposed to developing the site, but was against the proposed plan, which would deny him “privacy and outlook”, with the effects “much more than minor”.
Brownlie purchased his section in 2022, under the impression no further development would take place.
That was due to a 2007 council decision to deny an application to expand.
That application was denied because it was determined the resort's initial 1982 consent had been exhausted.
Methven Resort was originally built as Centrepoint Ski Lodge following the 1982 resource consent, but was not developed to the full extent provided for in the consent.
The consent “is enduring and unlimited in time”, Miller determined. There was also no condition that the original 1982 design had to be adhered to.
Brownlie is appealing the latest decision to green-light expansion plans on the grounds that it is a non-complying activity and the proposed height of the west wing exceeds 8m height limitations in the district plan.
He also questioned the validity of applying the original 1982 consent to allow the expansion. He argued the new expansion plans differed from the design that was approved under that consent.
As for the proposal being a non-complying activity, Millar determined that any adverse effects would be acceptable.
In his decision to grant the consent, Millar stated the proposal would achieve the "purpose and principles of the RMA (Resource Management Act)".
Brownlie disagreed with the decision and it will now fall to the Environment Court to determine.
The Environment Court’s practice is often to send the parties into mediation, rather than proceeding directly to court.
The process can take months.
The consent had been processed under limited notification but now it has been appealed to the Environment Court. Under the RMA, other people who have “an interest in the proceedings that is greater than the interest that the general public has” can join proceedings.
Makeover a stool with Resene paints and reuse as a table or organiser. Find out how to rejuvenate your old furniture with these easy step by step instructions.
Discover the Best of the Best! The 2024 PriceMe Award Winners have been revealed, voted by thousands of Kiwi consumers!
From household favourites to tech essentials and more. Explore now for top-rated brands and unbeatable deals!
Do you often shop at one of the winning stores or brands?
By local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Predators of birds must be first tackled before building a Canterbury nature sanctuary, a Methven Lions spokesperson says.
Mac McElwain is leading the Lions' Methven birdsong initiative, which aims to bring back birdsong to the area by turning … View moreBy local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Predators of birds must be first tackled before building a Canterbury nature sanctuary, a Methven Lions spokesperson says.
Mac McElwain is leading the Lions' Methven birdsong initiative, which aims to bring back birdsong to the area by turning some vacant council reserve land into a native sanctuary.
“If you plan to establish a habitat you have to protect it.
“The second you start a bird-friendly habitat, the predators will be equally aware of it and be sitting there waiting for lunch to arrive.”
The plan is to first start removing the predators from the equation while they work towards a plan and permission for the reserve in Methven.
“It’s two separate things that have a huge amount of overlap.”
Establishing a trap library will be the project’s first step to help locals trap pests and predators in their backyards.
That plan got a $10,000 boost from the Methven Community Board last week.
The trapping library is estimated to cost $46,850 to purchase or build a range of traps that are then borrowed by locals to begin eradicating pests - including rats, possums, hedgehogs, stoats, weasels, ferrets and feral cats.
Trapping technology has developed considerably in recent years, McElwain said.
Some traps were now able to detect if a micro-chipped domestic cat was inside, and not go off, with feral cats being the target, he said.
Microchipping cats is not mandatory in the Ashburton District, and the council has yet to consider this option.
With the pest control plan underway, the Methven birdsong initiative is seeking the go-ahead for the other aspect of the plan to establish the sanctuary at its preferred location.
Chairperson Kelvin Holmes said the Methven Community Board is supportive of the birdsong initiative and their plans for the reserve but it’s a process.
“We have started the process with the council to go through things like the land use and occupancy,” Holmes said.
The unused council reserve they have their sights set on is a grass paddock with only the historic RDR pipe shed in the middle.
It backs onto the Garden of Harmony which is an area of council reserve already planted as a community space.
Unlock the potential of your unused space, whether it's a shed, garage or paddock and start making it work for you.
Kiwis from all over New Zealand are looking to rent affordable space for storage, a workshop or an event.
Visit - let us help you find the perfect renter for your space.
© Neighbourly 2024
Loading…
