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Ros Connelly - Greater Wellington Regional Councillor
This is my second year as Upper Hutt’s representative on the Greater Wellington Regional Council, so here is my second annual report.
It’s been a challenging year, as we face the changes COVID will mean for our foreseeable future. COVID has affected Greater Wellington
Regional Council – especially our public transport operations. It meant a return to virtual meetings, which I still haven’t learned to love.
But despite the challenges, this year has seen many successes for Greater Wellington Regional Council.
Here are just a few of the highlights:
• The appointment of a new Chief Executive
• A Long Term Plan that will reduce regional council emissions by two thirds
• The creation of a $10 million dollar low carbon fund with over $2 million allocated this year to restore wetlands and forests in Raumati and Kaitoke
• Funding for a Living Wage base rate for all bus drivers and support for better driver pay and conditions
• New train stations at Trentham and Wallaceville, plus the installation of four new Upper Hutt bus shelters and the enhancement/renewal of 13 other Upper Hutt bus stops
• Restoring a cheaper public-run airport bus service, ready to roll by July 2022 (I proposed this service be extended to the Hutt Valley but this motion was not passed)
• A trial with Snapper on rail to be delivered by the end of 2021 ahead of integrated ticketing
• A Council commitment to pursue a threatened-species sanctuary in Wainuiomata
• An aerial predator control operation to protect the ecosystem (ancient rata in particular) in the Akatarawa Forest
• The purchase of 98 new electric buses
• A plan for our regional parks that commits to the phasing-out of animal grazing
• Consents lodged for the Riverlink project (the Greater Wellington, Hutt City and Waka Kotahi project to improve access and flood protection at Melling)
• Completion of the Whanganui-a-tara Whaitua – a plan for Fresh Water Management in the Hutt Valley and Wellington
• Fast response and action to restore the riverbank and river trail between Heretaunga and Trentham following flood damage
• The opening of a new, wheelchair-accessible bridge in the Kaitoke regional park
• Awhi for the development of Te Matarau a Maui – a Wellington regional Maori economic development strategy
• Helping with the COVID vaccination drive (through provision of the Delta BUSter mobile vaccination bus and supporting Kokiri Hauora to vaccinate the Hutt)
Please contact me if you want to talk about anything in this report or have questions or issues with which I can help.
Email: ros.connelly@gw.govt.nz
Facebook: fb.me/rosconnellyforupperhutt
Instagram: @rosconnelly
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Poll: Have you ever had a scary flight?
A plane flying from Christchurch to Wellington on Sunday had smoke billowing out of the engine and upon landing, passengers had to open the emergency exit and jump out. Have you had any scary flying experiences?
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56.7% Yes!
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43.3% No, it's always been smooth flying
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Wellington Home and Garden NEXT WEEK!
It’s all about idea’s, inspiration and exclusive show specials at the iconic Wellington Home and Garden Show opening the 13th September at Sky Stadium. Join the fun with our 2 for 1 Adult Ticket Offer
Wonderful range of exhibitors showcasing the latest in building, renovating, spas, landscaping, plants, home maintenance, sheds, spas, art, artisan goods, and more. Everything you need to kick off that Spring project all in one easy location! Take a break from the shopping and enjoy a bite to eat with a variety of street food options, get creative with Resene Paint-a-Pot from 11-2 on Saturday and Sunday in the Springfree Family Zone and enjoy a variety of free 'Ask an Exert' sessions!
Lock this one in your calendar today and we’ll see at the Show!
Fri & Sat 10 – 5, Sun 10 – 4
Sky Stadium, Wellington
Adults $8
Gold Card Friday $4
Under 16 free
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Happy Wednesday, neighbours, here's a riddle to get you through a day.
I can be cracked, made, told, and played. What am I?
Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.
Want to stop seeing riddles in your newsfeed? No worries! Simply head here and click once on the Following button.
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