It’s December, its summer, and we are only now a few weeks away from 2024.
Saying 2023 started badly is an understatement, however we have ended the year in a somewhat brighter position. Summer is finally here; schools have or will soon close for the holidays and hopefully you have booked some time off for some rest and relaxation. We all need time to reset.
I will be taking a break in January so won’t be as accessible as I usually am. I am sure you will be fine, but not to leave you in the lurch my team will be checking my emails in my absence as will I. However, here are a few key contacts to have to hand if you want to raise any issues with the council or would like to be pointed to some useful resources.
The weather forecast is predicting El Niño– extreme heat and potential drought so here are some useful resources.
Slip, slop, slap and wrap – excessive sun exposure isn’t good for anyone, please protect your skin, wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen, slap on a hat and wrap on a pair of sunglasses. Also remember your pets too. SPCA have some tips to keep your pets cool in hot weather.
If you are having a staycation and want to explore what is in our backyard, take a look at the Discover Auckland website for inspiration. The best Auckland walks have reopened so you may like to take the opportunity to try something new.
Heading to the beach? – We would all like to think our beaches are safe to swim in, but accidents do happen. Safeswim.org.nz is the best source of up-to-date information about water quality and other potential hazards at Auckland’s beaches. Here, you will be able to find which beaches are lifeguarded (where you and can safely swim between the flags) as well as information about water quality before you head out. If you see a black pin, it isn’t safe to swim.
Camping? You can find and book accommodation in our regional and holiday parks, however these are popular so you do need to check availability.
If Freedom camping is more your thing, remember you can only stay for two nights in the same road or off-road parking area. Please check out the rules.
Don’t be a statistic- DRIVE SAFELY. Those travelling by car locally or further afield, please take breaks, watch your speed, and don’t drink and drive. Over Christmas and New Year last year 21 people were killed in crashes on New Zealand roads. This is not a statistic that NZ should be proud of.
Deter burglars – I have heard that petty theft has begun in the ward with the stealing of resident’s brass door and letterbox numbers. To keep your home safe and appear to be lived in whilst you are away, here are some good tips from the police .
And finally, some practical council housekeeping information.
Bin collection days will change due to the public holidays – you can check when your collection dates are on this link
We have had more than our fair share of issues related to Watercare like faults, outages, broken sewer pipes. If you experience any issues, please report to Watercare immediately.
Up to date council news and events is provided in a newsletter called Our Auckland which you can sign up to and is a great resource. https://ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Auckland Council will be operating with skeleton staff over the holiday period. To report something that is causing an immediate risk to the safety of a person, people or property. You can phone 093010101 or contact them online 24/7.
Local news
As always, I like to end on a good note. In the Ōrākei ward we have faced many challenges including those from the aftermath of the severe weather events. However, we have also had several things happen to be proud of. The completion of the raised and upgraded western Tāmaki Drive footpath, Kepa road stabilisation works are completed, St Helier’s library strengthening works, Remuera Library improvements, Domain Wintergarden upgrades, new sports fields as a result of the investment from the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, Portland road environmental upgrade, upgraded Mission Bay playground, a new Padel Court, deep clean of the Mission Bay fountain, new artwork at Judges Bay, upgraded seating in Kohimarama, new heritage signage in Newmarket, a huge amount of new planting in Waiatarua, Remuera and Pourewa and after some false starts the reopening of Parnell Baths!
So now, it’s time now for me to sign off until 2024.
Thank you for your support, have a fabulous break yourselves, enjoy time with your friends and family and see you in the New Year
Desley