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    • Ewaste product stewardship receives region wide support
      • Eight Councils of the Wellington region have agreed to support a remit (see attachment) to the Annual Conference of Local Government NZ (LGNZ) for a national product stewardship approach for e-waste. Electronic waste (e-waste), including televisions and computers, has for years been a frequent reoccurring topic of discussion at the regional Waste Forum meetings, where [...]

    • Ewaste product stewardship receives region wide support
      • Eight Councils of the Wellington region have agreed to support a remit (see attachment) to the Annual Conference of Local Government NZ (LGNZ) for a national product stewardship approach for e-waste. Electronic waste (e-waste), including televisions and computers, has for years been a frequent reoccurring topic of discussion at the regional Waste Forum meetings, where I represent Greater Wellington Regional Council. A (Green) Waste Minimisation Bill was enacted in 2008, and provided a legislative framework for product stewardship. However, the Government has failed to recognise the need for follow-on regulations to implement the provisions of the Act. The Australians and the rest of the developed world put New Zealand to shame – they all have advanced product stewardship schemes while we sit and do basically nothing. The switchover to digital television created a fantastic opportunity to address this issue, but all we have seen is a subsidised interim take-back scheme (not unlike eDay) (TV Takeback). There is an urgent need for a long-term solution to address computers and televisions currently coming into the country now and into the future. Initiatives focused on e-waste and product stewardship are in the national interest and also are relevant to all local government because e-waste recovery and recycling is a cost to all of us. This will also stop the increase in illegal dumping of e-waste. In past years, the Regional Waste Forum has communicated its wish for a product stewardship approach for e-waste with successive Ministers for the Environment. My remit, when supported by all local Government councils at LGNZ conference 2013 (21-23 Jul 2013) will finally push National Government into action. Read the E-waste Remit [139KB, PDF] For more information Contact Regional Councillor Paul Bruce paul.bruce@greens.org.nz phone: 04 9728699 cellphone:021 02719370

    • Ewaste product stewardship receives region wide support
      • Eight Councils of the Wellington region have agreed to support a remit (see attachment) to the Annual Conference of Local Government NZ (LGNZ) for a national product stewardship approach for e-waste. Electronic waste (e-waste), including televisions and computers, has for years been a frequent reoccurring topic of discussion at the regional Waste Forum meetings, where I represent Greater Wellington Regional Council. A (Green) Waste Minimisation Bill was enacted in 2008, and provided a legislative framework for product stewardship. However, the Government has failed to recognise the need for follow-on regulations to implement the provisions of the Act. The Australians and the rest of the developed world put New Zealand to shame – they all have advanced product stewardship schemes while we sit and do basically nothing. The switchover to digital television created a fantastic opportunity to address this issue, but all we have seen is a subsidised interim take-back scheme (not unlike eDay) (TV Takeback). There is an urgent need for a long-term solution to address computers and televisions currently coming into the country now and into the future. Initiatives focused on e-waste and product stewardship are in the national interest and also are relevant to all local government because e-waste recovery and recycling is a cost to all of us. This will also stop the increase in illegal dumping of e-waste. In past years, the Regional Waste Forum has communicated its wish for a product stewardship approach for e-waste with successive Ministers for the Environment. My remit, when supported by all local Government councils at LGNZ conference 2013 (21-23 Jul 2013) will finally push National Government into action. Read the E-waste Remit [139KB, PDF] For more information Contact Regional Councillor Paul Bruce paul.bruce@greens.org.nz phone: 04 9728699 cellphone:021 02719370

    • Fracking motion success in Wellington
      • “The Council favours new rules on Fracking under a new management Plan,” said Greater Wellington Regional Councillor Paul Bruce. “I am delighted that Council is supporting the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment (PCE) investigation with the intention of using the outcome as a basis for provisions in its new natural resources management Plan”. An investigation [...]

    • Fracking motion success in Wellington
      • “The Council favours new rules on Fracking under a new management Plan,” said Greater Wellington Regional Councillor Paul Bruce. “I am delighted that Council is supporting the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment (PCE) investigation with the intention of using the outcome as a basis for provisions in its new natural resources management Plan”. An investigation into Hydraulic fracturing or “fracking” for oil and gas, is being conducted by the PCE , Dr Jan Wright, who determined that there is a “substantive case under the Environment Act”. Cr Bruce said there was a growing sense of unease from east coast farmers and iwi around the possibility of fracking following the drilling of exploratory wells in the region.  ”Last week I participated in a “Good Farm Tour” where hill country land holders are making a real difference to their farms, protecting against further loss of soil and contamination of their waterways through farm management plans and riparian planting. These farmers understand that the protection of their catchment was critical to healthy animals and the economy.” Regional Councillors all expressed concern about fracking, and the lack of consistent information around water use, toxic chemicals, air pollution, climate change, the problems of waste disposal and health impacts. Cr Bruce said that he stood for the Green Party on a platform of Quality of life, “We cannot have Quality of Life and a sound Economy without providing adequate protection for the environment.” Motion passed by GWRC unanimously 13th June 2012 “That the Council welcomes the investigation into fracking activity within New Zealand by the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment and notes that this investigation represents an essential prerequisite to an adequate understanding of the potential effects of this activity. The Council looks forward to the outcome of this investigation as a basis for deciding on suitable provisions relating to franking in its new natural resources management plan.” Cr Paul Bruce’s speech in support of notice of  motion on Fracking I stood for the Green Party on a platform of Quality of life. We cannot have quality of life and a sound economy without providing adequate protection for the environment. Last week I participated in a “Good Farm Tour” where hill country land holders are making a real difference to their farms, protecting against further loss of soil and contamination of their waterways through farm management plans and riparian planting. These farmers understand that the protection of their catchment was critical to healthy animals and the economy. Hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking” for oil and gas has seen a growing sense of unease from the public, east coast farmers and local iwi  and the quickest way to earn their ire, would be to allow further exploratory wells to go ahead. This morning we heard Green MP, Gareth Hughes outline the international concern around fracking where most countries now have some form of restriction in place. The last six months have seen here in New Zealand, Hawke’s Bay Regional Council calling for an investigation into fracking, Christchurch City Council unanimously voting to impose the first moratorium in New Zealand. Hastings District Council voted unanimously to take a precautionary approach and a whanau has ‘locked their gates’ barring Tag Oil from fracking on their land; resulting in Tag Oil backing away. Half a dozen other city and district councils considering or already requesting a moratorium. According to Hastings Mayor Lawrence Yule, the aquifer was the life blood of Hawkes Bay, and he says that they would provide opposition during a consenting process. An investigation into “fracking” is now being conducted after the PCE, Dr Jan Wright, determined there is a “substantive case under the Environment Act”. However, the most obvious way of ensuring transparency is to call for all consent applications to be publicly notified. Four exploratory wells have been drilled in Wairarapa and the expectation is that resource consent applications for production wells in the Shale rock utilising Fracking is now in the offing. The Government is also calling for tenders on 25 oil and gas blocks, including 14 offshore, and two in the Pegasus Basin, south of Cape Palliser. There are plenty of reasons to be concerned about fracking: massive water use, toxic chemicals, air pollution, climate change, the problems of waste disposal and health impacts. In New Zealand, to date fracking has only occurred in Taranaki and there we have seen poor waste disposal and consents being breached, after the comparatively small number of wells drilled during the last 18 years. The Council is only now revealing a litany of incidents, accidents and pollution that have resulted from lax processes. Chemicals used in fracking fluid can potentially get into underground aquifers and contaminate water sources; as could some of the hydrocarbons released. The implications for surface water and terrestrial ecosystems, has now also been looked at more closely in a new US study. The fact that wells are typically located close to surface water increases the risk to aquatic ecosystems in three main ways: water withdrawal, contamination and excess sediment. More recently, research focused on the increased possibility of earthquakes. In Britain, the Department of Energy and Climate Change published an independent expert report recommending measures to mitigate the risks of seismic tremors. And of course Global warming isn’t a prediction. It is happening with increased extreme weather events around the Globe. According to James Hansen, if we continue to burn oil, gas and coal supplies, concentrations of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere eventually would reach levels higher than in the Pliocene era, more than 2.5 million years ago, when sea level was at least 50 feet higher than it is now. Instead, our Government is facilitating oil exploitation, hydraulic fracturing, and deep ocean drilling. The cost of climate change from greenhouse gas pollution needs to be factored in. The question needs also to be asked, why are we so willing to facilitate fossil fuel extraction, when there are persuasive environmental and economic reasons to support alternatives? Today, we are considering a number of motions, which recommend paths which may give us a little more control of the process. Our new natural resources management plan, needs policies and rules related to oil or gas hydraulic fracturing. We also need agreement across this Council, that the uncertainties in risks of the fracking process will be taken into account, with a precautionary approach adopted. Paul Bruce For more information Cr Paul Bruce, 021 02719370 Paul.Bruce@gw.govt.nz | Facebook Authorised by Jon Field, 2/17 Garrett Street, Wellington

    • Regional Council to question Fracking – Wed 13th June 9.30am
      • View the outcome of this participation: motion passed! Public participation: Wed 13th June 9.30am Contact Greater Wellington Regional Council on 04 830 4246  or Paul Bruce on 021 02719370 Paul.Bruce@gw.govt.nz Hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking” for oil and gas has seen a growing sense of unease from the public, and an investigation by the Parliamentary Commissioner [...]

    • Regional Council to question Fracking – Wed 13th June 9.30am
      • View the outcome of this participation: motion passed! Public participation: Wed 13th June 9.30am Contact Greater Wellington Regional Council on 04 830 4246  or Paul Bruce on 021 02719370 Paul.Bruce@gw.govt.nz Hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking” for oil and gas has seen a growing sense of unease from the public, and an investigation by the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment and Councils across New Zealand calling for investigations or a temporary halt. I’m putting fracking on the Greater Wellington Regional Council’s agenda and urging Wellington take a precautionary approach to this controversial drilling method. In the last six months we’ve seen Hawke’s Bay Regional Council calling for an investigation into fracking, Christchurch City Council unanimously voting in April to impose the first moratorium in New Zealand, and half a dozen other city and district councils are considering or have asked for a moratorium. France, Quebec, New South Wales and Vermont all have moratoriums in place. We can’t keep our heads in the sand over fracking anymore. Greater Wellington Regional Councillors Chris Laidlaw, Daren Ponter and Paul Bruce are looking for new policy on oil or gas hydraulic fracturing exploratory or production wells drilling as part of the single Natural Resource Regional Plan. They also want investigation into “fracking” being conducted by the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment to be completed before any consideration of the use of hydraulic fracturing in the greater Wellington region. It is quite possible we could see fracking within GWRC boundaries. Four exploratory wells have been drilled over the last decade in Wairarapa and the expectation is that resource consent applications for production wells in the Shale rock utilising Fracking is now in the offing. The Government is also calling for tenders on 25 oil and gas blocks, including 14 offshore, and two in the Pegasus Basin, south of Cape Palliser. Its important the council get its head around the fracking process, used to extract gas and oil from hard-to-access rock like shale. Shale, a clay-based rock, has natural gas and oil trapped in it, but this can flow if the rock is fissured and high pressure liquids displace them, pushing hydrocarbons to the surface through the well casing. To prepare for the fracking process, a drill hole is lined with steel casing and explosive charges are detonated in the pipe to induce hairline fractures in the rock. A mixture of about 97 per cent water and sand and 3 per cent chemicals (many toxic) is injected at high pressure into the fissures, allowing gas or oil to flow more freely. Shale oil and gas is generally deeper, and in less porous rock, than earlier traditional reservoirs which were closer to the surface. There are plenty of reasons to be concerned about fracking: massive water use, toxic chemicals, air pollution, climate change, the problems of waste disposal and health impacts. In New Zealand, to date fracking has only occurred in Taranaki and there we have seen water contamination, poor waste disposal and consents being breached, after a comparatively small number of wells were drilled in 18 years. There is growing concern worldwide that the toxic chemicals used in fracking fluid can potentially get into underground aquifers and contaminate water sources; as could some of the hydrocarbons released. The implications for surface water and terrestrial ecosystems has now also been looked at more closely in a new US study. The fact that wells are typically located close to surface water increases the risk to aquatic ecosystems in three main ways: water withdrawal, contamination and excess sediment. And more recently, research focused on an even more ominous byproduct of the technique – the increased possibility of earthquakes. In Britain, the Department of Energy and Climate Change on 17 April published an independent expert report recommending measures to mitigate the risks of seismic tremors from hydraulic fracturing and invited public comment on its recommendations. The jury is still out on fracking that’s why I am urging GWRC to delay considering any fracking consents it receives until the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment can assure Wellingtonians its safe. There are risks associated with fracking, and none more serious than climate change. The question needs to be asked, why are we so willing to facilitate fossil fuel extraction, when there are persuasive environmental and economic reasons to support alternatives? Greater Wellington Regional Council Wednesday 13th June 2012 Agenda item – Restrictions on Hydraulic fracturing Notes that preliminary work by the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment has resulted in a decision to examine more closely hydraulic fracturing issues. Accepts that information on risks to the Environment and people of hydraulic fracturing in NZ remains unclear. Expresses concern that Resource Consent applications for oil or gas hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”) exploratory or production wells received by GW are likely to suffer delays until sufficient information on environmental effects can be obtained. Directs Te Upoko Taiao – Natural Resource Management Committee to develop policy on oil or gas hydraulic fracturing exploratory or production wells drilling as part of the single Regional Plan. Agrees that the investigation into those risks being conducted by the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment should be completed before there is any consideration of the use of hydraulic fracturing in the greater Wellington region. Paul Bruce For more information Cr Paul Bruce, 021 02719370 Paul.Bruce@gw.govt.nz | Facebook Authorised by Jon Field, 2/17 Garrett Street, Wellington

    • Keep Our Assets!
      • Please support the petition calling for a citizens initiated referendum on asset sales. This is the best chance we’ve got to stop the government selling our power companies and Air New Zealand for a quick buck. Volunteer to help now Read more

    • Keep Our Assets!
      • Please support the petition calling for a citizens initiated referendum on asset sales. This is the best chance we’ve got to stop the government selling our power companies and Air New Zealand for a quick buck. Volunteer to help now Read more

    • Super city Wellington?
      • A “Wellington Council” with a smaller number of Councillors would unnecessarily restrict representation, just at a time when the public is becoming increasingly interested in participating in the very important issues of public transport, the three waters and a regional spatial plan.

    • Super city Wellington?
      • Great debate on merits of super city which is important to get into the public arena. I don’t believe that has actually happened yet, with only a small number of people contributing to this particular forum – thanks Wellington.Scoop (see Cr Andy Foster’s and other contributions). I do not like the idea of a “Wellington Council” with a smaller number of Councillors, which would unnecessarily restrict representation, just at a time when the public is becoming increasingly interested in participating in the very important issues of public transport, the three waters and a regional spatial plan. Cr Andy Foster diminishes the area of importance of the areas already under Greater Wellington jurisdiction, but also makes some very good points. The Regional Council (Greater Wellington) needs to be strengthened in a number of areas, which would lead to better planning and functionality across the region. Organisations such as Capacity restrict community influence on outcomes. A regional spatial plan is urgently needed to assess where structural change should occur to address the issues of declining fossil fuel availability, climate change, ageing population, increased localisation and uptake of green tech. A spatial analysis could not be completed or implemented without the input and collaboration of city councils and neighbourhood communities, but it helps if it is carried out under the auspices of a regional committee elected for that purpose, rather than a Mayoral Forum with restricted delegation. The need for a regional spatial plan was highlighted by the constrained focus of the WCC 2040 strategic plan. 30,000 commute into the CBD from outside Wellington city and the rest of the region looks to the CBD as the cultural and social centre. Many new employment opportunities exist outside Wellington, and travel demands will change significantly in the coming decade with the tightening economic climate and diminishing fossil fuels. City and district councils must enhance and increase the resilience of their local communities, meaning more engagement at the neighbourhood level, and at the same time a regionally focussed council will needs to anticipate the changes needed at the regional level to optimise use of infrastructure and natural resources. My plea is that we don’t retreat into parochialism, and continue to debate the issues. Paul Bruce For more information Cr Paul Bruce, 021 02719370 Paul.Bruce@gw.govt.nz | Facebook Authorised by Jon Field, 2/17 Garrett Street, Wellington

    • Wellington’s Green Candidates
      • The Greens have launched their election advertising – find out more about the campaign on the Green Party website. We have also elected candidates for the 2011 election – check out their profiles below on the Green Party website: Hutt South Holly Walker Contact: Email | Phone 021 180 2597 Twitter | Facebook Mana Jan [...]

    • Wellington’s Green Candidates
      • The Greens have launched their election advertising – find out more about the campaign on the Green Party website. We have also elected candidates for the 2011 election – check out their profiles below on the Green Party website: Hutt South Holly Walker Contact: Email | Phone 021 180 2597 Twitter | Facebook Mana Jan Logie Contact: Email | Phone 021 038 6101 Twitter | Facebook Ōhariu Gareth Hughes Contact: Email | Phone 027 422 9290 Twitter | Facebook Ōtaki Michael Gilchrist Contact: Email | Phone 04 479 5640 Twitter | Facebook Rimutaka Tane Woodley Contact: Email | Phone 021 264 6277 Twitter | Facebook Rongotai Russel Norman Contact: Email | Phone 04 817 6712 Twitter | Facebook Wairarapa Sea Rotmann Contact: Email | Phone 021 2469 438 Twitter | Facebook Wellington Central James Shaw Contact: Email | Phone 021 337 675 Twitter | Facebook View all candidates on the Green Party website

    • Wellington’s Green Candidates
      • The Greens have launched their election advertising – find out more about the campaign on the Green Party website. We have also elected candidates for the 2011 election – check out their profiles below on the Green Party website: Hutt South Holly Walker Contact: Email | Phone 021 180 2597 Twitter | Facebook Mana Jan Logie Contact: Email | Phone 021 038 6101 Twitter | Facebook Ōhariu Gareth Hughes Contact: Email | Phone 027 422 9290 Twitter | Facebook Ōtaki Michael Gilchrist Contact: Email | Phone 04 479 5640 Twitter | Facebook Rimutaka Tane Woodley Contact: Email | Phone 021 264 6277 Twitter | Facebook Rongotai Russel Norman Contact: Email | Phone 04 817 6712 Twitter | Facebook Wairarapa Sea Rotmann Contact: Email | Phone 021 2469 438 Twitter | Facebook Wellington Central James Shaw Contact: Email | Phone 021 337 675 Twitter | Facebook View all candidates on the Green Party website

    • Mid-year update: STV win, inner-city transport and more
      • Mid yearly update report from Regional Councillor Paul Bruce - July 26th 2011 In this update: Successful change to STV electoral system for Regional Council Wellington Regional Strategy Review Wellington Community Wind Farm Major weather events Consultation on inner-city transport network Successful change to STV electoral system for Regional Council! I am delighted to report [...]

    • Mid-year update: STV win, inner-city transport and more
      • Mid yearly update report from Regional Councillor Paul Bruce - July 26th 2011 In this update: Successful change to STV electoral system for Regional Council Wellington Regional Strategy Review Wellington Community Wind Farm Major weather events Consultation on inner-city transport network Successful change to STV electoral system for Regional Council! I am delighted to report that a majority of regional councillors voted for a change to the single transferable vote (STV) system for the next GW local body election. The change to STV will bring GW into line with Wellington and Porirua City Councils, Kapiti District Council  and the District Health Board, leaving us with just one voting system. It will give vote/s greater value, allowing the candidates with the most support to win. See Greater Wellington’s report on the Electoral system for the 2013 triennial elections 11.379 (PDF) for more information. Councils have the opportunity to change the electoral system every three years from first past the post (FPP) to STV where voters rank candidates in order of preference. However, the two Hutt Councils and the three Wairarpa District Councils have decided to remain with FPP. It is also fantastic to see eight percent more use of public transport in the three months to April than the same time last year (40 million passengers annually!). There has also been a doubling of commuter cyclists over recent years.  I am working as your Regional Councillor to make these services more reliable and convenient and our roads safer for everybody.  Real time information is now rolling out. This August, the Wellington Bus review will be made available for comment, and it is my hope that we will be soon also having more evening and weekend bus services and greater frequency to places like Brooklyn Heights. Next step is an integrated ticketing system, Bike Racks on buses, and Hifi on all services (as proposed by Gareth Hughes), not just on the airport flier. We believe that it is time to move public transport up a few grades to make it the premier transport mode of convenience! Earlier this year, I gave presentations on the Environmental Impacts of a Kapiti Express Way to a Waikanae Hui, changes in the GW Transport Plan to Kilbirnie Residents Association and submissions together with Rational Transport Society to the EPA Board of Enquiry on the Freshwater Plan for Transmission Gully Highway. On the 19th and 20th of August Gareth Hughes, Green MP will be holding the first ever national Smart Transport for NZ Conference in Wellington. This conference aims to bring together those of us who are working to promote diverse sustainable transport modes in New Zealand such as rail, bus, walking, cycling, rail freight, sea freight and coastal shipping. If you would like to register for this conference then you can do so online at https://my.greens.org.nz/conferenceregistration If you have any good news stories, suggestions or complaints, make sure you get in contact, and also send a copy to Metlink at www.metlink.org.nz . Decrease in NZTA public transport funding assistance rate I have supported the GW submission opposing the proposed changes in the (central government) transport funding assistance rate, highlighting the significant financial impact on local rates and lack of sound rationale in some of the detail. The proposed changes amongst other things, remove demand management and behaviour change activities from the road safety category,  and could reduce support for essential studies such as the Wellington Public Transport Spine study and the introduction of electronic/integrated ticketing. The changes will lead to an additional 3% increase in Wellington Regional Council rates for the 2011/12 year. Attachment 2 (PDF) Wellington Regional Strategy Review The strategy was developed prior to 2007 to deliver certain economic development initiatives through a regionally funded development agency. The focus on export led growth was contentious at the time, and a review this year has bourn out the need to give greater support to the local economy, with a systematic measurement of outcomes achieved. I go along with this, and support further decisions being made on the activity within the LTP (Long Term Council Plan) 2012-22 process. Toward 2040: Smart Green Wellington – Draft City Strategy GW has written a submission to the WCC draft city strategy endorsing the overall aim to build resilience, economic and social, physical and environmental. However, the submission points out that the success in achieving the vision and goals is dependant on players and factors outside Wellington city.  For example, 30,330 people commute to work to Wellington CBD on a daily basis. The city is at the same time dependent on the science and research sector, some of which is located outside the city. Associated with this, is the question of how these documents relate to the Wellington Regional Strategy (see above). We also requested more detail on how transport plans might be integrated with existing and future land use patterns, to guide decision making and resource allocation for both GW and WCC. An excellent example of collaboration is the strong support from all Councils of the region for the construction next year of a cycle/walk way between Petone and Wellington in the new year as part of the Hutt Corridor Plan. NZTA has other priorities (new expressways etc) and has put in a contrary submission stating that timing for construction was premature and should be delayed until 2016/17. These questions are of course related to the ongoing discussions around governance. Transport is already dealt with on a regional basis, but frustratingly overridden by Nationally Government most recently. There is clearly room for better collaboration on local issues such as the three waters (potage, storm water and sewage) and shared facilities. It is also very important to maintain that connection to place, which comes from having wards and Councils of a size that lends to easy and accessible Councillors.  Submissions to the Governance issues are being analysed, and further consultation is likely later this year. Wellington Community Wind Farm Since a public meeting in November 2010,  a steering group has been investigating how to progress sustainable energy projects in the Wellington region on a cooperative basis. Extensive research on community wind, such as options for governance and management, financial feasibility, assessment of wind resource date, along with the suitability of various legal and financial structures has been carried out. Our energy plan relates to a household consumer group to promote renewable energy on the consumers’ terms, and the opportunity to exploit the Long Gully site as a community-owned wind farm. We hope to be able to reveal further details about these exciting initiatives in the next few months. We welcome as many supporters as we can who may be willing to be involved and possibly in the future to invest in community wind energy. We want to start raising some funds soon to help us towards developing our web presence and other materials in order to grow the consumer group, as well as supporting of the community generation umbrella group as outlined above. A website will be up shortly. Subscribe to our mailing list windywelly99@gmail.com and be kept up to date with progress and upcoming events. Major weather events Some of you will know that I am a weather forecaster with MetService as well as a Regional Councillor.  I hope you have been keeping warm in the recent cold outbreak.  Extreme weather events have been increasing globally, but with more heat waves than cold outbreaks. Earlier this year, May was a record warm month for NZ, and this unusual snow event was also preceded by quite mild weather. Dr Kevin Trenberth, a climate expert from NCAR expert, reported that more violent and frequent storms, once merely a prediction of climate models, are now a matter of observation. The presentation can be found at http://www.victoria.ac.nz/climate-change. And if you want to catch up to local thinking on Biophysical Limits and their Policy Implications a ground breaking conference was held here in Wellington in June. The excellent presentations can be found at http://ips.ac.nz/events/previous_events-2011.html Consultation on inner-city transport network Everybody should have received a document in their mail box outlining the proposed basin reserve flyover, and widening of roads such as Ruahine Street and Wellington Road. There appeared to be a failure in the delivery system, so if you didn’t receive yours, please complain to frank.fernandez@nzta.govt.nz. Submit your feedback on the NZTA website The original Ngauranga to Airport Plan supported public transport measures and further reassessment before the building of new tunnels and new four to six lane roads. Traffic volumes are declining in light of high oil prices, and still the Government wants to spend all the money on new express ways with 100% subsidies. This is having the result of syphoning money away from the local authorities for safety measures, maintenance of local roads, public transport and new measures such as integrated ticketing. Cabinet has just approved amendments to the Land Transport Management Act which Transport Minister Steven Joyce said would streamline the planning process and remove convoluted decision making and ambiguity. However, the Government is in fact giving more power to its own motorway builders at the expense of local communities and the economy. The Architecture Centre has launched the real alternative to the NZ Transport Agency’s disastrous plans for the Basin Reserve. Check out the Save the Basin website and read more or make a submission on the Green Party website. For more critique of Wellington City RoNs and alternatives, contact davidalaing@gmail.com and kent@mtvictoria.org.nz, and please consider making a submission before Friday 26th August, even if it is to just request that some of allocated funding be turned over to a high quality tram train extension through the city and traffic calming! Best wishes Cr Paul Bruce For more information Cr Paul Bruce, 021 02719370, 04 972 8699 Paul.Bruce@gw.govt.nz | Facebook

    • Mid-year update: STV win, inner-city transport and more
      • Mid yearly update report from Regional Councillor Paul Bruce - July 26th 2011 In this update: Successful change to STV electoral system for Regional Council Wellington Regional Strategy Review Wellington Community Wind Farm Major weather events Consultation on inner-city transport network Successful change to STV electoral system for Regional Council! I am delighted to report that a majority of regional councillors voted for a change to the single transferable vote (STV) system for the next GW local body election. The change to STV will bring GW into line with Wellington and Porirua City Councils, Kapiti District Council  and the District Health Board, leaving us with just one voting system. It will give vote/s greater value, allowing the candidates with the most support to win. See Greater Wellington’s report on the Electoral system for the 2013 triennial elections 11.379 (PDF) for more information. Councils have the opportunity to change the electoral system every three years from first past the post (FPP) to STV where voters rank candidates in order of preference. However, the two Hutt Councils and the three Wairarpa District Councils have decided to remain with FPP. It is also fantastic to see eight percent more use of public transport in the three months to April than the same time last year (40 million passengers annually!). There has also been a doubling of commuter cyclists over recent years.  I am working as your Regional Councillor to make these services more reliable and convenient and our roads safer for everybody.  Real time information is now rolling out. This August, the Wellington Bus review will be made available for comment, and it is my hope that we will be soon also having more evening and weekend bus services and greater frequency to places like Brooklyn Heights. Next step is an integrated ticketing system, Bike Racks on buses, and Hifi on all services (as proposed by Gareth Hughes), not just on the airport flier. We believe that it is time to move public transport up a few grades to make it the premier transport mode of convenience! Earlier this year, I gave presentations on the Environmental Impacts of a Kapiti Express Way to a Waikanae Hui, changes in the GW Transport Plan to Kilbirnie Residents Association and submissions together with Rational Transport Society to the EPA Board of Enquiry on the Freshwater Plan for Transmission Gully Highway. On the 19th and 20th of August Gareth Hughes, Green MP will be holding the first ever national Smart Transport for NZ Conference in Wellington. This conference aims to bring together those of us who are working to promote diverse sustainable transport modes in New Zealand such as rail, bus, walking, cycling, rail freight, sea freight and coastal shipping. If you would like to register for this conference then you can do so online at https://my.greens.org.nz/conferenceregistration If you have any good news stories, suggestions or complaints, make sure you get in contact, and also send a copy to Metlink at www.metlink.org.nz . Decrease in NZTA public transport funding assistance rate I have supported the GW submission opposing the proposed changes in the (central government) transport funding assistance rate, highlighting the significant financial impact on local rates and lack of sound rationale in some of the detail. The proposed changes amongst other things, remove demand management and behaviour change activities from the road safety category,  and could reduce support for essential studies such as the Wellington Public Transport Spine study and the introduction of electronic/integrated ticketing. The changes will lead to an additional 3% increase in Wellington Regional Council rates for the 2011/12 year. Attachment 2 (PDF) Wellington Regional Strategy Review The strategy was developed prior to 2007 to deliver certain economic development initiatives through a regionally funded development agency. The focus on export led growth was contentious at the time, and a review this year has bourn out the need to give greater support to the local economy, with a systematic measurement of outcomes achieved. I go along with this, and support further decisions being made on the activity within the LTP (Long Term Council Plan) 2012-22 process. Toward 2040: Smart Green Wellington – Draft City Strategy GW has written a submission to the WCC draft city strategy endorsing the overall aim to build resilience, economic and social, physical and environmental. However, the submission points out that the success in achieving the vision and goals is dependant on players and factors outside Wellington city.  For example, 30,330 people commute to work to Wellington CBD on a daily basis. The city is at the same time dependent on the science and research sector, some of which is located outside the city. Associated with this, is the question of how these documents relate to the Wellington Regional Strategy (see above). We also requested more detail on how transport plans might be integrated with existing and future land use patterns, to guide decision making and resource allocation for both GW and WCC. An excellent example of collaboration is the strong support from all Councils of the region for the construction next year of a cycle/walk way between Petone and Wellington in the new year as part of the Hutt Corridor Plan. NZTA has other priorities (new expressways etc) and has put in a contrary submission stating that timing for construction was premature and should be delayed until 2016/17. These questions are of course related to the ongoing discussions around governance. Transport is already dealt with on a regional basis, but frustratingly overridden by Nationally Government most recently. There is clearly room for better collaboration on local issues such as the three waters (potage, storm water and sewage) and shared facilities. It is also very important to maintain that connection to place, which comes from having wards and Councils of a size that lends to easy and accessible Councillors.  Submissions to the Governance issues are being analysed, and further consultation is likely later this year. Wellington Community Wind Farm Since a public meeting in November 2010,  a steering group has been investigating how to progress sustainable energy projects in the Wellington region on a cooperative basis. Extensive research on community wind, such as options for governance and management, financial feasibility, assessment of wind resource date, along with the suitability of various legal and financial structures has been carried out. Our energy plan relates to a household consumer group to promote renewable energy on the consumers’ terms, and the opportunity to exploit the Long Gully site as a community-owned wind farm. We hope to be able to reveal further details about these exciting initiatives in the next few months. We welcome as many supporters as we can who may be willing to be involved and possibly in the future to invest in community wind energy. We want to start raising some funds soon to help us towards developing our web presence and other materials in order to grow the consumer group, as well as supporting of the community generation umbrella group as outlined above. A website will be up shortly. Subscribe to our mailing list windywelly99@gmail.com and be kept up to date with progress and upcoming events. Major weather events Some of you will know that I am a weather forecaster with MetService as well as a Regional Councillor.  I hope you have been keeping warm in the recent cold outbreak.  Extreme weather events have been increasing globally, but with more heat waves than cold outbreaks. Earlier this year, May was a record warm month for NZ, and this unusual snow event was also preceded by quite mild weather. Dr Kevin Trenberth, a climate expert from NCAR expert, reported that more violent and frequent storms, once merely a prediction of climate models, are now a matter of observation. The presentation can be found at http://www.victoria.ac.nz/climate-change. And if you want to catch up to local thinking on Biophysical Limits and their Policy Implications a ground breaking conference was held here in Wellington in June. The excellent presentations can be found at http://ips.ac.nz/events/previous_events-2011.html Consultation on inner-city transport network Everybody should have received a document in their mail box outlining the proposed basin reserve flyover, and widening of roads such as Ruahine Street and Wellington Road. There appeared to be a failure in the delivery system, so if you didn’t receive yours, please complain to frank.fernandez@nzta.govt.nz. Submit your feedback on the NZTA website The original Ngauranga to Airport Plan supported public transport measures and further reassessment before the building of new tunnels and new four to six lane roads. Traffic volumes are declining in light of high oil prices, and still the Government wants to spend all the money on new express ways with 100% subsidies. This is having the result of syphoning money away from the local authorities for safety measures, maintenance of local roads, public transport and new measures such as integrated ticketing. Cabinet has just approved amendments to the Land Transport Management Act which Transport Minister Steven Joyce said would streamline the planning process and remove convoluted decision making and ambiguity. However, the Government is in fact giving more power to its own motorway builders at the expense of local communities and the economy. The Architecture Centre has launched the real alternative to the NZ Transport Agency’s disastrous plans for the Basin Reserve. Check out the Save the Basin website and read more or make a submission on the Green Party website. For more critique of Wellington City RoNs and alternatives, contact davidalaing@gmail.com and kent@mtvictoria.org.nz, and please consider making a submission before Friday 26th August, even if it is to just request that some of allocated funding be turned over to a high quality tram train extension through the city and traffic calming! Best wishes Cr Paul Bruce For more information Cr Paul Bruce, 021 02719370, 04 972 8699 Paul.Bruce@gw.govt.nz | Facebook

    • Have your say on the Proposed Greater Wellington Regional Council Annual Plan
      • Please find some suggestions for comments on Greater Wellington Regional Council on the proposed Annual Plan. Remember that submissions  close on 28 April 2011. Read summary and full plans on the GWRC website The Regional Council proposes to raise 84.571 million via general and targeted rates in 2011/12.  The average proposed rates increase for the Wellington City area as a whole is 4.00%.  The average rates increase for Wellington City residential property owners will be 0.45%. The big item of expenditure contributing to this years rates increase is debt serving for new and refurbished rail units.  This is all part of a significant upgrade to the Wellington rail network.  Funding is also being provided for a third water reservoir at Kaitoke (Upper Hutt).  The Kaitoke reservoirs provide all of Wellington’s water supply. The proposed rates have been prepared on the assumption that there will be a 5% fare increase for Public Transport services.  The Annual Plan includes a complete review of public transport fare structures in the region, along with further public consultation. The Annual Plan also includes ongoing funding for protection of the environment, flood protection, land management, water supply and resource management. My recommendations Focus on items that increase resiliency in the face of growing impacts from climate change and increasing cost of fossil fuels. Support expenditure items on public transport, with the qualification that refurbishment of rail units (Ganz mavag) should be limited, and funds put aside instead for the urgent purchase of tram train (light rail) for extension of rail through the city to the Hospital and the Airport. A new item of expenditure for the trial of cycle racks on buses on two city routes, anticipating a staged introduction over the whole region in 2012/13. Rating finance be extended from the “warm home” scheme (for insulation and heating) to purchase of domestic rain water collection tanks for emergency and backup during extended dry periods. Review of public transport fare structures in the region, to include integrated ticketing, fare packages that encourage long term use of public transport, concessions to students, negotiated discount packages with businesses and zero fares within the CBD.  The Wellington Bus Review currently under way, should produce significant efficiency improvements, allowing a further increase of passengers and income. I have not supported fare increases for the reason that prices are not competitive with car travel over shorter distances and I believe that we can operate the service more efficiently with new contracts and adjustment of the network. Support existing programmes encouraging sustainable transport choices, such as school travel plans, the regional Cycling and Walking Journey Planner Support early completion of Wellington Public Transport Spine Study, so a decision can be made for Tram-Train (light rail). Support early investigation of Petone to Nguaranga cycle/walk way (part of Hutt Road Corridor Plan) Support development of new regional plan addressing issues such as water allocation, land use, and stronger policies to restrict cattle from river beds etc. Continue our Take Care and Take Action environmental education programmes with close involvement with the Enviro schools programme including funding for the Regional Coordinator. There are many other major issues such as the Governance review, the regional freight plan, Roads of National (Party) Significance. However, most of these are having separate consultations. I am very keen to meet with you or attend a meeting of your group to discuss the proposed annual plan and any other issues that may concern you. The Wellington Regional Council is holding annual plan clinics around the region as well. Please remember that submissions on the proposed Annual Plan close on 28 April 2011. I look forward to hearing from you. Paul Bruce For more information Cr Paul Bruce, 021 02719370 Paul.Bruce@gw.govt.nz | Facebook

    • Have your say on the Proposed Greater Wellington Regional Council Annual Plan
      • Please find some suggestions for comments on Greater Wellington Regional Council on the proposed Annual Plan. Remember that submissions  close on 28 April 2011. Read summary and full plans on the GWRC website The Regional Council proposes to raise 84.571 million via general and targeted rates in 2011/12.  The average proposed rates increase for the Wellington City area as a whole is 4.00%.  The average rates increase for Wellington City residential property owners will be 0.45%. The big item of expenditure contributing to this years rates increase is debt serving for new and refurbished rail units.  This is all part of a significant upgrade to the Wellington rail network.  Funding is also being provided for a third water reservoir at Kaitoke (Upper Hutt).  The Kaitoke reservoirs provide all of Wellington’s water supply. The proposed rates have been prepared on the assumption that there will be a 5% fare increase for Public Transport services.  The Annual Plan includes a complete review of public transport fare structures in the region, along with further public consultation. The Annual Plan also includes ongoing funding for protection of the environment, flood protection, land management, water supply and resource management. My recommendations Focus on items that increase resiliency in the face of growing impacts from climate change and increasing cost of fossil fuels. Support expenditure items on public transport, with the qualification that refurbishment of rail units (Ganz mavag) should be limited, and funds put aside instead for the urgent purchase of tram train (light rail) for extension of rail through the city to the Hospital and the Airport. A new item of expenditure for the trial of cycle racks on buses on two city routes, anticipating a staged introduction over the whole region in 2012/13. Rating finance be extended from the “warm home” scheme (for insulation and heating) to purchase of domestic rain water collection tanks for emergency and backup during extended dry periods. Review of public transport fare structures in the region, to include integrated ticketing, fare packages that encourage long term use of public transport, concessions to students, negotiated discount packages with businesses and zero fares within the CBD.  The Wellington Bus Review currently under way, should produce significant efficiency improvements, allowing a further increase of passengers and income. I have not supported fare increases for the reason that prices are not competitive with car travel over shorter distances and I believe that we can operate the service more efficiently with new contracts and adjustment of the network. Support existing programmes encouraging sustainable transport choices, such as school travel plans, the regional Cycling and Walking Journey Planner Support early completion of Wellington Public Transport Spine Study, so a decision can be made for Tram-Train (light rail). Support early investigation of Petone to Nguaranga cycle/walk way (part of Hutt Road Corridor Plan) Support development of new regional plan addressing issues such as water allocation, land use, and stronger policies to restrict cattle from river beds etc. Continue our Take Care and Take Action environmental education programmes with close involvement with the Enviro schools programme including funding for the Regional Coordinator. There are many other major issues such as the Governance review, the regional freight plan, Roads of National (Party) Significance. However, most of these are having separate consultations. I am very keen to meet with you or attend a meeting of your group to discuss the proposed annual plan and any other issues that may concern you. The Wellington Regional Council is holding annual plan clinics around the region as well. Please remember that submissions on the proposed Annual Plan close on 28 April 2011. I look forward to hearing from you. Paul Bruce For more information Cr Paul Bruce, 021 02719370 Paul.Bruce@gw.govt.nz | Facebook

    • 8 key issues for Wellington in 2011 – have your say!
      • Major decisions are being made – and your involvement at every level is crucial – in your communities,  also at local, regional and central Government level. The infrastructure of our transport, electricity, and food systems – as well as our building stock – have been designed and built to suit the unique characteristics of cheap [...]

    • 8 key issues for Wellington in 2011 – have your say!
      • Major decisions are being made – and your involvement at every level is crucial – in your communities,  also at local, regional and central Government level. The infrastructure of our transport, electricity, and food systems – as well as our building stock – have been designed and built to suit the unique characteristics of cheap oil and electricity. The post-fossil-fuel economy of this century will profoundly differ from all that we are familiar with now. The difference will be reflected in urban design, land-use patterns, food systems, manufacturing output, distribution networks, the job market, transportation systems, health care, tourism, and more. It will also require a fundamental rethinking of our financial institutions and cultural values. We face increased calls for restraint on local body expenditure as the Government deficit grows – although programmes such as RoNs (the Trucking Roads of National Party significance) continue unabated, and herein lies the challenge. Issues that I believe are important are listed below, followed by some advice on how to influence the process. Let  2011 be the beginning of effective community involvement in local Government. Eight key issues Water strategy. Should the strategy support household rain collection, governance of the three waters (waste, potable and storm water) by regional Committee (from the Council controlled trading body Capacity), require tougher resource consents for water allocation and pollution of water ways (dairy farmers)? Increased water take off from the Hutt River while remedial work is carried out on storage lakes. Should we instead consider new conservation initiatives that will decrease short and long term demand? New policy on cycle carriage on trains. Should GW also allow cycle carriage on buses utilising racks as in Christchurch? New cycle path between Petone and Horokiwi. The NZTA’s new Petone-Horokiwi cycle path project will be on the RTC Agenda in February. Should RTC and GW make the construction of safe cycle ways on arterial routes* the highest priority, given their high benefit to cost ratios (BCRs)? Should parking of vehicles on city arterial roads be replaced with protected cycle paths and discounted rates for CityHop garages on council property? * the Great Harbour way seaward cycle/walk path between Petone and Nguaranga; along Aotea Quay; Adelaide Road etc. The ‘high quality public transport feasibility study’. Will this mean another delay of 10 to 15 years?  Or will it incorporate the 1995 light rail study – which 15 years ago called for implementation of a network plan with tram train through the CBD? How will the proposed refurbishment of the Ganz Mavag units affect the Tram Train units purchase decision? National ticketing program for public transport, which NZTA has agreed to establish.  How should GW start planning right now for a fully integrated ticketing system? Should planning include consistent fare concessions to grow long term patronage and off-peak travel?  And what is the right mix between cash and electronic fares? Spatial Plan for the Wellington region – who should be involved, and what should be considered? Commercialisation of bright ideas from Grow Wellington’s innovation competition. Will GW also support an annual community group forum to generate projects that grow community resilience and decrease carbon footprints? Should GW support community orchards and gardens on Council land? What about local currencies? And community-run energy projects such as the Wellington Community Wind Farm? How you can influence the process The usual way of contributing is through submissions, and these are also a very important way of getting your thoughts in front of Councillors. The most important thing is the half page summary of key recommendations and actions. Bullet points often help, but keep the list short.  And remember that Councillors are not going to have time to wade their way through a ten page manuscript, especially if they have a 100 submissions to read! A very effective use of your time is to contact relevant Councillors prior to meetings and workshops with your thoughts on the agenda item. Councillors welcome your input (as I certainly do), but keep the call short! Greater Wellington now deals with issues through committees organised around the four well beings – environment, cultural and social, and economy.  See below for relevant GW committee and workshop meetings over the next few months. Committees GW Committee structure and membership Councillor contact details Committee and full Council meetings all start at 11am and have space for public participation at the beginning. GW workshops start at 9.30am and are restricted to councillors, but you might try to make contact prior to the meeting to make sure your ideas can be represented. Regional Transport Committee The Regional Transport Committee comprises two Councillors from Greater Wellington, the Mayors and special interest representatives. The special interest representatives will be nominated 16 February 2011. I look forward to your help and support. Kia kaha Paul Bruce For more information Cr Paul Bruce, 021 02719370  Paul.Bruce@gw.govt.nz | Facebook Meetings and workshops  Feb-April 2011 (the full work program is available on request) Meetings are held at: Greater Wellington Regional Council Te Pane Matua Taiao 5th floor, 142 Wakefield St,  Wellington See map for location Transport 3 February Economic Wellbeing 9.30am workshop (councillors only) Pre-RTC (Regional Transport Committee) Draft Hutt Corridor Plan (includes Petone to Horokiwi cycle/walk way proposal) Pre RTC Ngauranga to Airport Feasibility Study Muri Station (possible closure) 11am Economic Wellbeing Committee meeting (open to the public) Regional Public Transport Plan – decision on process for approval 15 February 9.30am Full GW Council workshop (councillors only) Fare revenue recovery policy Transport rating model 16 February 11am Full GW Council meeting (open to the public) Annual fare revenue review Ref Group 17 March 9.30am Economic Wellbeing Committee workshop (councillors only) Pre RTC freight study Rolling stock Role of public transport – objectives and policies, Regional Public Transport Plan 11am Economic Wellbeing Committee meeting (open to the public) Stations, platforms funding and ownership Policy for carriage of cycles on trains Muri Station Water security and supply 2nd February 9.30am Social and Cultural Wellbeing Committee workshop (councillors only) Rail Trail and Pukuratahi future water catchment Water security of supply standard review 11am Social and Cultural Wellbeing Committee meeting (open to the public) Household rain water capture in metropolitan Wellington – consultant’s report. 15th February 9.30am Full Council workshop (open to the public) Wairarapa irrigation funding proposal 16th February 11am Full Council meeting (open to the public) Review of Council’s Dangerous Dams policy Lower Wairarapa Valley Development Scheme – Tobin Stopbank 3rd March 11am Full Council meeting (open to the public) Appointment of member to Hutt Valley Flood Management Subcommittee 15th March 9.30am Environmental Wellbeing workshop (councillors only) Wairarapa Moana (approach and programme) Akura Nursery expansion 16th March 9.30am Social and Cultural Council workshop (open to the public) Water supply emergency storage 11am Social and Cultural Wellbeing Committee meeting (open to the public) Water security of supply 5th April 11am Full Council meeting (open to the public) Flouridation Governance 15th February 9.30am Full Council workshop (councillors only) Wellington Governance (PWC Report) Local Government debt vehicle 11am Full Council meeting (open to the public) Long term plan 2012-22 programme Six month review 3rd March 11am Full Council meeting (open to the public) Proposed Annual Plan 2011/12 approval 15th March 9.30am Environmental Council workshop (councillors only) Wairarapa Moana Akura Nursery expansion 16th March 9.30am Social and Cultural Council workshop (councillors only) Baring Head research findings 30th March 9.30am Full Council workshop (councillors only) Long Term Plan Community Outcomes 5th April 11am Full Council meeting (open to the public) Decision making

    • 8 key issues for Wellington in 2011 – have your say!
      • Major decisions are being made – and your involvement at every level is crucial – in your communities,  also at local, regional and central Government level. The infrastructure of our transport, electricity, and food systems – as well as our building stock – have been designed and built to suit the unique characteristics of cheap oil and electricity. The post-fossil-fuel economy of this century will profoundly differ from all that we are familiar with now. The difference will be reflected in urban design, land-use patterns, food systems, manufacturing output, distribution networks, the job market, transportation systems, health care, tourism, and more. It will also require a fundamental rethinking of our financial institutions and cultural values. We face increased calls for restraint on local body expenditure as the Government deficit grows – although programmes such as RoNs (the Trucking Roads of National Party significance) continue unabated, and herein lies the challenge. Issues that I believe are important are listed below, followed by some advice on how to influence the process. Let  2011 be the beginning of effective community involvement in local Government. Eight key issues Water strategy. Should the strategy support household rain collection, governance of the three waters (waste, potable and storm water) by regional Committee (from the Council controlled trading body Capacity), require tougher resource consents for water allocation and pollution of water ways (dairy farmers)? Increased water take off from the Hutt River while remedial work is carried out on storage lakes. Should we instead consider new conservation initiatives that will decrease short and long term demand? New policy on cycle carriage on trains. Should GW also allow cycle carriage on buses utilising racks as in Christchurch? New cycle path between Petone and Horokiwi. The NZTA’s new Petone-Horokiwi cycle path project will be on the RTC Agenda in February. Should RTC and GW make the construction of safe cycle ways on arterial routes* the highest priority, given their high benefit to cost ratios (BCRs)? Should parking of vehicles on city arterial roads be replaced with protected cycle paths and discounted rates for CityHop garages on council property? * the Great Harbour way seaward cycle/walk path between Petone and Nguaranga; along Aotea Quay; Adelaide Road etc. The ‘high quality public transport feasibility study’. Will this mean another delay of 10 to 15 years?  Or will it incorporate the 1995 light rail study – which 15 years ago called for implementation of a network plan with tram train through the CBD? How will the proposed refurbishment of the Ganz Mavag units affect the Tram Train units purchase decision? National ticketing program for public transport, which NZTA has agreed to establish.  How should GW start planning right now for a fully integrated ticketing system? Should planning include consistent fare concessions to grow long term patronage and off-peak travel?  And what is the right mix between cash and electronic fares? Spatial Plan for the Wellington region – who should be involved, and what should be considered? Commercialisation of bright ideas from Grow Wellington’s innovation competition. Will GW also support an annual community group forum to generate projects that grow community resilience and decrease carbon footprints? Should GW support community orchards and gardens on Council land? What about local currencies? And community-run energy projects such as the Wellington Community Wind Farm? How you can influence the process The usual way of contributing is through submissions, and these are also a very important way of getting your thoughts in front of Councillors. The most important thing is the half page summary of key recommendations and actions. Bullet points often help, but keep the list short.  And remember that Councillors are not going to have time to wade their way through a ten page manuscript, especially if they have a 100 submissions to read! A very effective use of your time is to contact relevant Councillors prior to meetings and workshops with your thoughts on the agenda item. Councillors welcome your input (as I certainly do), but keep the call short! Greater Wellington now deals with issues through committees organised around the four well beings – environment, cultural and social, and economy.  See below for relevant GW committee and workshop meetings over the next few months. Committees GW Committee structure and membership Councillor contact details Committee and full Council meetings all start at 11am and have space for public participation at the beginning. GW workshops start at 9.30am and are restricted to councillors, but you might try to make contact prior to the meeting to make sure your ideas can be represented. Regional Transport Committee The Regional Transport Committee comprises two Councillors from Greater Wellington, the Mayors and special interest representatives. The special interest representatives will be nominated 16 February 2011. I look forward to your help and support. Kia kaha Paul Bruce For more information Cr Paul Bruce, 021 02719370  Paul.Bruce@gw.govt.nz | Facebook Meetings and workshops  Feb-April 2011 (the full work program is available on request) Meetings are held at: Greater Wellington Regional Council Te Pane Matua Taiao 5th floor, 142 Wakefield St,  Wellington See map for location Transport 3 February Economic Wellbeing 9.30am workshop (councillors only) Pre-RTC (Regional Transport Committee) Draft Hutt Corridor Plan (includes Petone to Horokiwi cycle/walk way proposal) Pre RTC Ngauranga to Airport Feasibility Study Muri Station (possible closure) 11am Economic Wellbeing Committee meeting (open to the public) Regional Public Transport Plan – decision on process for approval 15 February 9.30am Full GW Council workshop (councillors only) Fare revenue recovery policy Transport rating model 16 February 11am Full GW Council meeting (open to the public) Annual fare revenue review Ref Group 17 March 9.30am Economic Wellbeing Committee workshop (councillors only) Pre RTC freight study Rolling stock Role of public transport – objectives and policies, Regional Public Transport Plan 11am Economic Wellbeing Committee meeting (open to the public) Stations, platforms funding and ownership Policy for carriage of cycles on trains Muri Station Water security and supply 2nd February 9.30am Social and Cultural Wellbeing Committee workshop (councillors only) Rail Trail and Pukuratahi future water catchment Water security of supply standard review 11am Social and Cultural Wellbeing Committee meeting (open to the public) Household rain water capture in metropolitan Wellington – consultant’s report. 15th February 9.30am Full Council workshop (open to the public) Wairarapa irrigation funding proposal 16th February 11am Full Council meeting (open to the public) Review of Council’s Dangerous Dams policy Lower Wairarapa Valley Development Scheme – Tobin Stopbank 3rd March 11am Full Council meeting (open to the public) Appointment of member to Hutt Valley Flood Management Subcommittee 15th March 9.30am Environmental Wellbeing workshop (councillors only) Wairarapa Moana (approach and programme) Akura Nursery expansion 16th March 9.30am Social and Cultural Council workshop (open to the public) Water supply emergency storage 11am Social and Cultural Wellbeing Committee meeting (open to the public) Water security of supply 5th April 11am Full Council meeting (open to the public) Flouridation Governance 15th February 9.30am Full Council workshop (councillors only) Wellington Governance (PWC Report) Local Government debt vehicle 11am Full Council meeting (open to the public) Long term plan 2012-22 programme Six month review 3rd March 11am Full Council meeting (open to the public) Proposed Annual Plan 2011/12 approval 15th March 9.30am Environmental Council workshop (councillors only) Wairarapa Moana Akura Nursery expansion 16th March 9.30am Social and Cultural Council workshop (councillors only) Baring Head research findings 30th March 9.30am Full Council workshop (councillors only) Long Term Plan Community Outcomes 5th April 11am Full Council meeting (open to the public) Decision making

    • Community Wind Farm Proposed for Wellington
      • A citizens’ initiative for a community wind farm in Long Gully is inviting wider public participation this month, at an open meeting  planned for Friday 19th November in Wellington at Crossways Community Centre, Mt Victoria. Community wind farms like this one have several major advantages over large commercial wind farms: they are smaller in size [...]

    • Community Wind Farm Proposed for Wellington
      • A citizens’ initiative for a community wind farm in Long Gully is inviting wider public participation this month, at an open meeting  planned for Friday 19th November in Wellington at Crossways Community Centre, Mt Victoria. Community wind farms like this one have several major advantages over large commercial wind farms: they are smaller in size and number and can be community owned rather than externally imposed. We think this provides a great opportunity to local citizens to make a small ethical investment in renewable energy and obtain credit for clean power generation, all without having to have a suitable site themselves. There are similar  community wind farm projects currently at the planning or discussion stage, in the Waitati – Blueskin Bay district near Dunedin, and  in Otaki, where there is a community board initiative.  The Mill Creek wind farm proposal in Ohariu also comes out of an approach from local farmers. The Long Gully wind farm project has a resource consent, held by Wind Flow Technologies, which has now been lodged with the Wellington City Council. A contract is at present being negotiated with an electricity supplier to purchase the electricity generated. The next steps will be to set up a suitable banking and investment structure for the purchase and construction of the wind turbines. Open public meeting Interested members of the public are invited to come to the November 19th meeting which will be held at 6 pm at Crossways Community Centre, 6 Roxborough St, Mt Victoria, Wellington. More on Community Wind farms Waitati Energy Project Dunedin’s Waitati North is to become the first community in New Zealand to own their own power company, build a community-owned wind farm, and sell electricity back to the grid. Community Small Scale Wind Farms for New Zealand Comparative Study of Austrian Development, with Consideration for New Zealand’s Future Wind Energy Development [PDF] Is there an appropriate model for community wind turbine ownership in NZ? [PDF] A study by Jane Pearce. For more information Cr Paul Bruce, 021 02719370  Paul.Bruce@gw.govt.nz Conor Coady  021 0748237 Chris Freear, Windflow Technology Ltd, chris.freear@eml.net.nz 021 946332 A citizens’ initiative for a community wind farm in Long Gully is inviting wider public participation this month, at an open meeting  planned for Friday 19th November in Wellington at Crossways Community Centre, Mt Victoria. Community wind farms like this one have several major advantages over large commercial wind farms: they are smaller in size and number and can be community owned rather than externally imposed. We think this provides a great opportunity to local citizens to make a small ethical investment in renewable energy and obtain credit for clean power generation, all without having to have a suitable site themselves. There are similar  community wind farm projects currently at the planning or discussion stage, in the Waitati – Blueskin Bay district near Dunedin, and  in Otaki, where there is a community board initiative.  The Mill Creek wind farm proposal in Ohariu also comes out of an approach from local farmers. The Long Gully wind farm project has a resource consent, held by Wind Flow Technologies, which has now been lodged with the Wellington City Council. A contract is at present being negotiated with an electricity supplier to purchase the electricity generated. The next steps will be to set up a suitable banking and investment structure for the purchase and the erection of the wind turbines. Interested members of the public are invited to come to the November 19th meeting which will be held at 6 pm at Crossways Community Centre, 6 Roxborough St, Mt Victoria, Wellington. For more information contact: Cr Paul Bruce, 021 02719370  Paul.Bruce@gw.govt.nz Conor Coady Cel 021 0748237 Chris Freear, Windflow Technology Ltd, chris.freear@eml.net.nz Cel 021 946332 Background information on Community Wind farms Waitati Energy Project Dunedin’s Waitati North is to become the first community in New Zealand to own their own power company, build a community-owned wind farm, and sell electricity back to the grid. http://www.transitionnetwork.org/projects/waitati-energy-project Community Small Scale Wind Farms for New Zealand: A Comparative Study of Austrian Development, with Consideration for New Zealand’s Future Wind Energy Development http://researcharchive.lincoln.ac.nz/dspace/bitstream/10182/961/3/thomson_mnrm%26ee.pdf Is there an appropriate model for community wind turbine ownership in NZ A study by Jane Pearce.  Email: ecoternatives@internet.co.nz http://muir.massey.ac.nz/bitstream/10179/798/1/02whole.pdf

    • Community Wind Farm Proposed for Wellington
      • A citizens’ initiative for a community wind farm in Long Gully is inviting wider public participation this month, at an open meeting  planned for Friday 19th November in Wellington at Crossways Community Centre, Mt Victoria. Community wind farms like this one have several major advantages over large commercial wind farms: they are smaller in size and number and can be community owned rather than externally imposed. We think this provides a great opportunity to local citizens to make a small ethical investment in renewable energy and obtain credit for clean power generation, all without having to have a suitable site themselves. There are similar  community wind farm projects currently at the planning or discussion stage, in the Waitati – Blueskin Bay district near Dunedin, and  in Otaki, where there is a community board initiative.  The Mill Creek wind farm proposal in Ohariu also comes out of an approach from local farmers. The Long Gully wind farm project has a resource consent, held by Wind Flow Technologies, which has now been lodged with the Wellington City Council. A contract is at present being negotiated with an electricity supplier to purchase the electricity generated. The next steps will be to set up a suitable banking and investment structure for the purchase and construction of the wind turbines. Open public meeting Interested members of the public are invited to come to the November 19th meeting which will be held at 6 pm at Crossways Community Centre, 6 Roxborough St, Mt Victoria, Wellington. More on Community Wind farms Waitati Energy Project Dunedin’s Waitati North is to become the first community in New Zealand to own their own power company, build a community-owned wind farm, and sell electricity back to the grid. Community Small Scale Wind Farms for New Zealand Comparative Study of Austrian Development, with Consideration for New Zealand’s Future Wind Energy Development [PDF] Is there an appropriate model for community wind turbine ownership in NZ? [PDF] A study by Jane Pearce. For more information Cr Paul Bruce, 021 02719370  Paul.Bruce@gw.govt.nz Conor Coady  021 0748237 Chris Freear, Windflow Technology Ltd, chris.freear@eml.net.nz 021 946332 A citizens’ initiative for a community wind farm in Long Gully is inviting wider public participation this month, at an open meeting  planned for Friday 19th November in Wellington at Crossways Community Centre, Mt Victoria. Community wind farms like this one have several major advantages over large commercial wind farms: they are smaller in size and number and can be community owned rather than externally imposed. We think this provides a great opportunity to local citizens to make a small ethical investment in renewable energy and obtain credit for clean power generation, all without having to have a suitable site themselves. There are similar  community wind farm projects currently at the planning or discussion stage, in the Waitati – Blueskin Bay district near Dunedin, and  in Otaki, where there is a community board initiative.  The Mill Creek wind farm proposal in Ohariu also comes out of an approach from local farmers. The Long Gully wind farm project has a resource consent, held by Wind Flow Technologies, which has now been lodged with the Wellington City Council. A contract is at present being negotiated with an electricity supplier to purchase the electricity generated. The next steps will be to set up a suitable banking and investment structure for the purchase and the erection of the wind turbines. Interested members of the public are invited to come to the November 19th meeting which will be held at 6 pm at Crossways Community Centre, 6 Roxborough St, Mt Victoria, Wellington. For more information contact: Cr Paul Bruce, 021 02719370  Paul.Bruce@gw.govt.nz Conor Coady Cel 021 0748237 Chris Freear, Windflow Technology Ltd, chris.freear@eml.net.nz Cel 021 946332 Background information on Community Wind farms Waitati Energy Project Dunedin’s Waitati North is to become the first community in New Zealand to own their own power company, build a community-owned wind farm, and sell electricity back to the grid. http://www.transitionnetwork.org/projects/waitati-energy-project Community Small Scale Wind Farms for New Zealand: A Comparative Study of Austrian Development, with Consideration for New Zealand’s Future Wind Energy Development http://researcharchive.lincoln.ac.nz/dspace/bitstream/10182/961/3/thomson_mnrm%26ee.pdf Is there an appropriate model for community wind turbine ownership in NZ A study by Jane Pearce.  Email: ecoternatives@internet.co.nz http://muir.massey.ac.nz/bitstream/10179/798/1/02whole.pdf

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