Latest Manawatu News http://www.www.ourregion.co.nz Thu, 20 Nov 2008 12:07:14 +1200 FeedCreator 1.7.2 http://www.ourregion.co.nz/images/ourregion_02.gif http://www.ourregion.co.nz Feed provided by OurRegion - Manawatu. http://www.ourregion.co.nz/news.php?articleID=814 A HAIR-LOSING experience!Makino Aquatic Centre Manager, Iain Brown (centre), and lifesavers Luke Dodunksi (left) and Justin Butler, contemplate life without curls after going bald for child cancer. The Manawatu District Council representatives were among the 80 volunteers who faced the razor last week to raise more than $35,000 for the Child Cancer Foundation. Mr Brown said it was a fun event for a worthy cause and organisers were surprised at the number of people willing to lose their locks. Late donations can be made to the MAC trio at the fundraising website, www.fundraiseonline.co.nz/IainBrown/ Source: Manawatu District Council. News Sat, 15 Dec 2007 11:00:00 +1200 http://www.ourregion.co.nz/news.php?articleID=815 MANAWATU District Mayor, Ian McKelvie, is looking forward to being the district’s first elected representative on Local Government New Zealand’s National Council.Mr McKelvie is the Zone 3 representative on the 15-member council, elected every three years following the local government elections. Local Government New Zealand is the national voice of New Zealand’s 85 councils.“I don’t like sitting around and this is a chance to look further within local government,” he said. “That’s what really interests me.”He said it also provided the opportunity for closer contact with central government, and though LGNZ was its own entity, it proved in recent years that it could influence the Government “a little bit and get things going our way”.Mr McKelvie said decisions taken by central government in the last six years had put a significant onus on local authorities, resulting in a lot more work and lot more costs to the community.“The building industry is a classic example, with government putting in place a whole lot of rules and asking local government to enforce them. It’s not easy.”He said a number of issues that affected rural New Zealand had a much greater impact on regions like Manawatu than they would in urban areas, with infrastructure costs often proving similar in projects for 10,000 people or 100,000 people.“That’s one of the great problems we’ve got after making us all the same – we are not all the same.”Environmental sustainability was of primary interest to Mr McKelvie and one that he hoped to canvas with the national body.“It particularly applies to farming and the way we look after our hills and the potential for our future income.”He felt other issues surrounding water, sewage and roading would also be identified and shared by other council representatives.“It’s interesting to see the middle ground well represented, with four members from councils similar to Manawatu. It’s a good cross-section of people and will be an interesting group to work with,” said Mr McKelvie. Source: Manawatu District Council. News Sat, 15 Dec 2007 11:00:00 +1200 http://www.ourregion.co.nz/news.php?articleID=816 NEW Makino Aquatic Centre Manager, Iain Brown, is in his element because of a close and long-held affinity with water.A passionate fly fisherman, former New Zealand underwater hockey representative, recreational diver and fishery officer, Iain is now surrounded by plenty of the wet stuff and that’s how he likes it.And he’s also eager to meet the demands of a job that’s provoked his interest in the past, although he intends to retain much of the status quo as he eases into the managerial role.“It will be business as usual as we carry on the good work that’s been done before,” he said. “I have a few innovations in mind and it will be hands-on as much as possible.”Iain is not a new face in Feilding as he’s been resident in the town since 1999, finishing off a 16-year police career as the uniformed sergeant at the local station and then as owner-operator of the Fitco Feilding gym. In the past year he’s also been a Ministry of Fisheries’ officer, firstly in Opotoki and then Masterton, commuting to those towns at the start of each week from his Feilding home.Iain said the Makino had many good systems in place and played a vital role in the community and he intended to retain and sharpen its family focus.“People feel comfortable coming here and kids are among our biggest customers. A lot of people meet at the pool and life-long friendships grow as a result.”Iain said he would look at the pool’s activities programme and the possibility of arranging more outdoor events, such as concerts, during the school holidays in an attempt to bring more people into the complex.“People know we are here, but we want to make them realise what else we can do. The Makino is a fantastic place and is right up there nationally as far as community pools go – certainly when it comes to having a 50-metre outdoor pool. There are not many of those pools around.”Iain, who represented New Zealand at the world underwater hockey championships in Chicago in 1984, said he would “test the waters” as to any possible interest in establishing a Makino team.“I’ve spoken to a few old divers around here but there are not many underwater hockey players still active. There used to be a few some years ago, so we’ll see what interest there is.”Iain said he enjoyed his time with the police – “you either do it for the rest of your life or you get in, go hard, and get out. You do some fantastic things and help a lot of people along the way, but there’s also the other side which can get you down”.His year-long service as a fishery officer also left some fond memories, especially with his personal interest in beaches and boats.“The only thing that did worry me was working on your own and finding yourself dealing with known poachers and half-an-hour away from radio contact. You had to be careful.”Iain takes every opportunity to indulge in his “passion” for fly fishing, usually targeting tributaries in the Urewera back country, where he recently hooked some good-sized rainbow trout on a lucrative two-day trip.But it’s the Makino that now captures most of Iain’s attention and he is looking forward to further enhancing its appeal as “a place to go” in Feilding! Source: Manawatu District Council. News Sat, 15 Dec 2007 11:00:00 +1200 http://www.ourregion.co.nz/news.php?articleID=817 EIGHT rural halls in Manawatu District have been targeted for upgrading work in the 2007-08 financial year.Funding of $38,035 for capital programmes, actions and projects at the halls is contained in the Manawatu District Council’s Annual Plan 2007-08.Property Officer, Peter Willoughby, said a renewal/maintenance fund for the halls’ interior and exterior assets was in place and reviewed annually and a works programme had been determined for a three-year period.“Projects are prioritised and based on council’s halls and management matrix and guided by crucial maintenance and health and safety issues and the levels of volunteer support, usage, location and long-term viability of each hall,” he said.The largest project is exterior painting of the Rangiwahia Hall (pictured), valued at $10,250, followed by $8200 projects at Colyton (main hall interior upgrade) and Himatangi Beach (re-roofing). Other hall projects approved involve a water tank at Kairanga ($3589), repairs to the west wall at Apiti ($2563), a roof paint at Cheltenham ($2562), hot water cylinder at Awahuri ($1536) and painting maintenance instalments at Mt Biggs ($1135).A further $37,707 has been set aside for the 2008/09 year, with significant works at Himatangi Beach, Kairanga and Newbury planned.Mr Willoughby said the council owned 19 halls throughout the district and assisted with nine others. It also owned and supported the Feilding Civic Centre and the Te Kawau Memorial Recreation Complex. Source: Manawatu District Council. News - feature Sat, 15 Dec 2007 11:00:00 +1200 http://www.ourregion.co.nz/news.php?articleID=818 Feilding's new facility completedFEILDING’S newest facility, the $9 million Manfeild Agri-events Stadium, will be opened on Sunday. After a ceremonial blessing at 11am, guided public tours of the complex begin at 12.30pm to be followed at 2pm by the official ceremony involving Manawatu District Mayor, Ian McKelvie; Palmerston North Mayor, Jono Naylor, and guest speaker, Olympic Games’ equestrian rider, Andrew Scott. The single-span building is the largest facility of its kind in the lower North Island, with the main display area equivalent in size to a full rugby field. Smoke alarm batteriesNEW smoke alarm batteries are about to be installed in the Manawatu District Council’s 208 Housing for the Elderly and Disabled units in Feilding, Sanson and Rongotea. Letters have been sent to all tenants advising them of the installation, which is scheduled to begin on Monday at the Rangimarie, Rawhiti and Elizabeth Flats. The annual changeover is welcomed by residents who find the smoke alarm a necessary fire alarm device. Any detectors that are found to be defective during the changeover will be replaced. Tenants are reminded, however, that it’s their personal responsibility to ensure the batteries remain in the detectors. Commendation for councilMANAWATU District Council received a Commendation Award at the New Zealand Post Management Excellence Awards for 2007 – even though such awards were not routinely awarded. The commendation in the Technology Innovation category was for “Project Automation”, a council initiative that had allowed an easy, cost-effective modification of the previous reporting process system. Chief Executive, Rod Titcombe, said projects were rigorously judged against tough criteria and Commendation Awards were not given without due consideration. Weeding bee at Kitchener ParkA LARGE truck was stacked high with weeds after Friends of Kitchener Park completed a successful working bee recently at Feilding’s biggest “garden”. The volunteers spent four hours working their way down the boundary line near the park entrance on Kawakawa Rd and clearing out weeds that are choking re-growth at the park. Kitchener Park is still recovering from the Manawatu floods of 2004 and stopbank improvements are currently being carried out by Horizons Regional Council. Source: Manawatu District Council. News Sat, 15 Dec 2007 11:00:00 +1200 http://www.ourregion.co.nz/news.php?articleID=819 THE 2007 Local Government Elections came and went and even allowing for the poor turnout at the polls the Manawatu has had significant change to its District Council with five new faces at the council table.Welcome to all those newcomers to council and we look forward to a successful and progressive three years as a new team.The council farewells Del Gibb after nine years’ great service and many more years of work for her beloved Keep Feilding Beautiful, as well as the Feilding and District Arts Club, the Garden Festival and many other organisations in which she is involved.David Stroud spent six years on council and was responsible for some great work with Feilding Promotions, Rotary, the saleyards’ tours, Manfeild Garden Festival, Civic Centre Trust and many other interests.I am sure Del and David will both keep very busy around our community.Mervyn Craw retired after 33 years’ service to the greater district – a wonderful effort - and both Ross Barnett and Kevin Argyle will be missed at council but will remain active in the district.The last three months have seen progress in many areas, particularly the Community Housing Trust which is in its final stages of development. The strategic roading network has also progressed with the signing of a joint initiative between the MDC, Palmerston North City Council and Transit NZ - meaning we are all on the same page.The Joint Industrial Land Use Strategy between the city and district has been released and will lead to increased opportunity for industrial development around Palmerston North and Feilding and we are about to embark on the review of our District Plan to coincide with the city’s review of its plan.One last thing: It is obvious from the poor voter turnout in our elections that council must find new ways of engaging the community so that more people feel they may have some influence on the future of the district.Ian McKelvieDistrict Mayor Source: Manawatu District Council. News Sat, 15 Dec 2007 11:00:00 +1200 http://www.ourregion.co.nz/news.php?articleID=813 Individuals willing to share their experiences of living in newly-formed stepfamilies are sought to help inform research being carried out by Victoria University PhD student Rebecca Graham. As part of her research – under supervision from the University’s Roy Mckenzie Centre for the Study of Families - Rebecca is exploring how stepfamilies develop and negotiate relationships in the early stages of stepfamily life. She is particularly interested in talking to three individuals in a stepfamily: the biological parent and his/her partner, and any child between the ages of 7 and 11. This child must be the biological child of one of the adults in the house, but not the other, and must live in the house most of the time. The adults do not have to be married, and can be in a full-time living-together arrangement. The couple must have been together for at least 3 months, but less than 4 years. “My focus is on how the parent’s new partner, or stepparent, is integrated into the family and how members negotiate the various relationships so they are happy with their stepfamily lives,” Rebecca says. “Research such as this is crucial if we are to understand what factors promote more resilient stepfamilies, so that we can provide useful information to families in similar situations,” she says. “Families don’t look the same way they did 20 years ago. Rather than growing up in a nuclear family, headed by two adults who are both the children’s biological (or adoptive) parents, increasing numbers of children are spending their lives, or part of their lives, in stepfamilies. “However, only recently have we begun to understand more about what factors help stepfamilies work well.” Individuals or family members willing to help Rebecca gather data can phone her on (04) 463 6836 or email rebecca.graham@vuw.ac.nz. News - feature Mon, 05 Mar 2007 11:00:00 +1200 http://www.ourregion.co.nz/news.php?articleID=812 Go to www.nzmonopoly.co.nz and vote for Palmerston North now!Monopoly history is in the making, and it’s up to Manuwatu residents to decide whether their local landmark deserves a prized piece of board game real estate. In the lead up to the 2007 release of Monopoly’s Here and Now New Zealand edition, The Square, Palmerston North has been nominated to take a place on this prestigious board game. Marketing Manager Hasbro New Zealand, Phil McIntosh says, “The vote has been put to all Kiwis to determine which iconic landmarks will ‘pass-go’ to feature in New Zealand’s own uniquely-devised version of the game.” Monopoly has called for councils to nominate local landmarks within their region. Over 1000 landmarks were nominated with 56 short listed to take part in the online competition. New Zealanders can go to www.nzmonopoly.co.nz and vote once a day to launch their favourite kiwiana icon or local landmark into Monopoly fame. “In a nation of quirky and interesting landmarks, only 22 will earn a place on the board game so competition between regions is expected to be hot,” says McIntosh. Voting is open from January 8 to February 10 on the Monopoly website. Results will be posted on the website so people can track the progress of their favourite landmark. During the last week of voting, rankings will be kept secret until all is revealed when Monopoly Here and Now New Zealand edition hits stores for the first time in June/July 2007. The release of the Monopoly Here and Now New Zealand edition coincides with the 21st birthday of New Zealand Monopoly and is set to bring this classic kiwi favourite into modern times. As well as traditional roads and streets, Monopoly Here and Now New Zealand edition will see parks, buildings, festivals, bridges and other kiwi landmarks go up for sale. The game will also feature new tokens and updated values, allowing players to buy and sell property with millions of dollars instead of hundreds. Over its 72 year history, an estimated 750 million players have enjoyed Monopoly. Kiwis, a nation of avid board gamers, are no exception. For generations Monopoly has been a mainstay in New Zealand homes and bachs. Recognizing New Zealander’s love of the game, Hasbro New Zealand decided to revamp the classic Monopoly, to produce one designed by Kiwis for Kiwis, to capture New Zealand in the ‘here and now.’ News Mon, 15 Jan 2007 11:00:00 +1200 http://www.ourregion.co.nz/news.php?articleID=811 The public are invited to discuss the process of refugee resettlement, community integration and diversity at a public forum being held at Te Manawa on Wednesday November 29. Organised by the Community Services Council Coordinator Geraldine Holmes and Settlement Support Coordinator Gianni Stichbury, the event is to inform the community about the city’s involvement in resettlement. Mayor Tanguay says the meeting is an important opportunity for the community to be informed on why, as a city, Palmerston North receives refugees. “Many people have asked me and others at council why we do this, where do our new New Zealanders come from and why; do other countries take refugees An information evening like this is important to educate and inform our community.” A number of speakers will talk from their respective points of view about the different issues surrounding successful resettlement. RMS Refugee Resettlement’s National Manager of Client Services Jenni Broom will talk about their role as the lead NGO agency for refugee resettlement throughout New Zealand; Antoinette Tanguay, National Refugee Resettlement Coordinator for the Department of Labour will give an overview of the Refugee Quota Branch process and New Zealand’s quota policies. Also speaking at the event will be Jean Christophe Massimba and Gladys Mambila, guests from the Congolese community, RMS Refugee Resettlement’s Palmerston North Coordinator Shamel Majid, volunteers Jill Spicer and Lorna Johnson and a special performance from the Congolese dancers. The programme starts at 7pm, Wednesday 29 November at Te Manawa, 396 Main Street, Palmerston North. News - feature Mon, 20 Nov 2006 11:00:00 +1200 http://www.ourregion.co.nz/news.php?articleID=810 On Saturday 11 November 2006 (Armistice Day), the New Zealand Army’s operational medical unit will receive the charter for the ‘Freedom of the Town of Feilding’. In a unique ceremony which follows old British tradition and custom, personnel from the 2nd Health Support Battalion (NZ) will march through the streets of Feilding to the District Council building, where they will be met by the Mayor. As they approach the Council Buildings, in accordance with the custom, they will be challenged by the New Zealand Police before being allowed to pass. Once welcomed and inspected by the Mayor, a Charter, which is often referred to as ‘Freedom of the City’ will be read. This Charter provides as a rule, the right for a military unit to march ceremonially through the city/town with colours flying, drums beating, and bayonets fixed, without formal permission from the municipal authorities. This is an important milestone for the Linton based medical unit, as this is the first charter that the unit or its predecessors has received in the nearly 100 years history of the New Zealand Medical Services. Warrant Officer First Class Shaun Thomas, the Battalion’s Regimental Sergeant Major is one of the key people responsible for the Freedom of Feilding being granted to the 2nd Health Support Battalion (NZ). A resident of Feilding himself, WO1 Thomas says that the unit chose Feilding to affiliate itself with as a result of the relationship that was developed following ANZAC Day activities with the Feilding RSA, and the support that the unit gave to the rededication of the Boer War Memorial earlier this year. As part of ongoing privileges associated with being granted the ‘Freedom of the Town of Feilding’, Officers and soldiers from the 2nd Health Support Battalion (NZ) will conduct annual parades to exercise the charter, and support where possible, requests for other ceremonial military assistance from the Feilding RSA and Council. News Mon, 30 Oct 2006 11:00:00 +1200 http://www.ourregion.co.nz/news.php?articleID=804 RECREATIONAL complexes such as the Makino Aquatic Centre play an important role in the wellbeing and profile of any community, says outgoing manager, Pam Doe.Pam, who is leaving her post at the end of the month and moving to Mt Maunganui, said the Makino’s varied facilities drew people of all ages and the centre had become a wonderful asset for Feilding.“We get a lot of comment from out-of-towners praising the complex for its family-orientated environment and one-stop appeal,” she said.Raised in Feilding, Pam has had a close affinity with the Makino, enjoying its attractions over the years and as the mother of two boys – Kieran (now 25), a world ranked ironman competitor, and Jarrad (22).Her first work position was as an aqua aerobic instructor, before handling weekend reception and administration duties and co-ordinating the centre’s bookings. After a nine-month period as acting manager, Pam took over full managerial responsibilities in August 2001.“It has been a challenge, but the thing I will miss the most is contact with the people. I love the recreation industry as the people are friendly and relaxed.”Pam is also appreciative of the support she has received from staff members, who have played a significant role in making the MAC a special place to visit. The centre has a staff roster of 25, though most are part-time or casual. “We are enjoying increased patronage every year thanks to our well managed and presented programmes and lessons and having the equipment on which children can play and have fun.”She said the aqua classes were growing as people became more aware of the need to exercise and there was an increasing interest in teaching children to swim, with many schools now using MAC’s professional instructors. Increased health and safety requirements had also been a noticeable trend in recent years, said Pam. Overseeing the introduction of extra equipment and activities such as the trampoline, shade and BBQ areas, Rings Adventure, water-cannon, swing rope, Flippa Ball court, inflatables and toys for the toddlers’ pool has been successfully completed and Pam’s eye for colour has led to some brighter interior and exterior paint schemes.One of the most telling events during Pam’s association with the Makino, however, was the devastating flood of February 2004.“When I arrived I could barely stand up because of the rip coming out of the indoor pool. I had to shuffle my way forward. It was heart-breaking and unbelievable to see the mess that was left – the debris and the sludge.”She is still amazed at how the staff, who worked day and night, managed to get the pool open again only four weeks to the day after it was swamped by the surging floodwaters. “It was through wonderful teamwork and tremendous support.”Pam said there had been many rewarding moments during her time at the Makino and she always experienced a buzz when seeing people enjoying themselves.Though she is sad to leave, Pam has no regrets and is looking forward to continuing in the industry in the Bay of Plenty. And her advice to her successor:“Keep the Makino as a family pool – it can’t be something that it’s not. I think we’ve got something unique here. We also enjoy the advantage of having both indoor and outdoor pools - and there are not many 50-metre pools in New Zealand. It’s certainly not like the old days with the Feilding Baths!” Source: Manawatu District Council. News Mon, 23 Oct 2006 11:00:00 +1200 http://www.ourregion.co.nz/news.php?articleID=805 MANAWATU District residents have responded strongly to a free text messaging notification service that provides mobile phone owners with live updates during a civil defence emergency.Emergency Management Officer, Trevor Auld, said more than 130 people had so far registered for the service, licensed to the Manawatu District Council by the New Zealand SMS/Text company, OPTN Ltd."Interest in the service started almost immediately after the announcement,” said Mr Auld, “and a number of people from throughout the district had registered within the first day or two.” The text messaging service, introduced two weeks ago, allows emergency management officials to instantly relay vital, up-to-date information to people in the district. Mr Auld said the messages were free to receive and people could register by texting OPTMANCD to 2678 for a one-off Telco 50c registration fee. It would cost another 50c to deregister.He said if 50c was a deterrent for people registering and deregistering from their mobile they could register free by completing a registration form now available from the council office in Feilding.“I do encourage more people to register as it represents another opportunity of getting important information out to the public.”Mr Auld said the service would not tell people what the emergency was about, as that would be self-evident, but to deliver such necessary details on issues such as registration and evacuees’ proof of identification.Murray Derecourt, Managing Director of OPTN, said Manawatu’s decision to join the service had prompted significant response from other local body authorities in New Zealand“There has been a lot of interest from other Civil Defence areas, with many quoting Manawatu as they seek more information. One interested party, in fact, serves a very large catchment area,” he said. Source: Manawatu District Council. News - feature Mon, 23 Oct 2006 11:00:00 +1200 http://www.ourregion.co.nz/news.php?articleID=806 UNATTENDED rural fires are becoming a concern for the Manawatu District Council as the recommended burn-off season lights up.Emergency Management Officer, Trevor Auld, said there had been too many recent cases in the district of people lighting fires and leaving them unattended.“It’s not good enough,” he said, “because people are committing an offence against the Rural and Forest Fires Act if they don’t stay with the fire and keep watch.”Mr Auld said if a fire became uncontrollable through a person’s negligence - even if they were present or not - they would be held accountable for the cost of fighting the blaze.He cited a recent example in The Catlins in South Otago where a farmer faced costs amounting to thousands of dollars after setting fire to adjoining Conservation Department land.“It’s a salutary lesson to all about the responsibilities associated with lighting a rural fire.”Mr Auld said he was concerned at the size of some firestacks being prepared in the Manawatu District for burn-off and hoped that proper fire safety measures would be employed when they were lit.“The best way is not to have a big fire to start with but to break it down and keep feeding it. In that way you can control what’s going on and it won’t smoulder on for days.”He urged people to check weather forecasts before lighting a fire, have adequate fire fighting apparatus on hand and a bare space of no less than four metres around the fire. And lighting a fire after 10am usually indicated the wind direction. “Now is the time to start burning fires because once we get into a restricted fire season there will be no more than five permits issued per day. I would encourage those people who think they won’t need a permit, to think again.”Restricted and prohibited fire seasons were applied across the Manawatu District throughout February and March this year.Mr Auld said unattended fires reported by passing motorists also led to many unnecessary night-time callouts for volunteer fire brigades. Source: Manawatu District Council. News Mon, 23 Oct 2006 11:00:00 +1200 http://www.ourregion.co.nz/news.php?articleID=807 Palmerston North’s Mayor has been informed by a world authority on renewable energy that New Zealand will need every wind turbine it can erect to help address the onset of global warming. Mayor Heather Tanguay has had a lengthy conversation with Professor Ralph Sims from Massey University, a world authority on global warming and renewable energy, who has recently returned after six months’ scientific work overseas. At the City Council’s Infrastructural Wellbeing Committee meeting tonight, where the committee approved the change of purpose to the Turitea Reserve, Mayor Heather emphasised Professor Sims’ concern that global warming should be “placed at the top of the agenda by all governments and councils.” “We agreed that every man, woman and child have a responsibility to be thinking about the impacts of global warming and how they each can make a contribution, no matter how small it is, to reverse the trend,” she says. “In the case of the Council it is to approve the change of purpose to the Turitea Reserve to enable Mighty River Power to make a resource consent for a windfarm/ecopark development.” Mayor Heather says statements by some submitters that “we have done enough in Palmerston North” are both illogical and irresponsible. “As a Council we need to show true leadership in working to achieve a sustainable future both environmentally and economically for our city. We want Palmerston North to be a city of the future and to continue as an innovative leader in the production of renewable energy.” With reference to the recent consultation process for the change of purpose, she says Councillors have read hundreds of pages of information, listened to hours of submissions, been on field trips and asked many, many questions. Mayor Heather says tonight’s recommendations relating to the change of purpose take into account the issues raised by the public and the concerns expressed by Councillors. As an example the proposed area for wind turbine development has been reduced in size to be further away from the water reserve. Potential wind farms raise extreme concerns. They can be seen by some as industrial installations that offend or graceful and sculptural statements enhancing the environment by others she says. Mayor Heather believes that the change of purpose rather than decrease the protection of the biodiversity in the reserve will enhance and restore it for future generations through the creation of an ecopark. She says because of the proposed windfarm development the ecopark can be a reality. The Council, in consultation with the Department of Conservation, will use the funds produced from energy production to restore biodiversity through an effective pest eradication programme. News - feature Mon, 23 Oct 2006 11:00:00 +1200 http://www.ourregion.co.nz/news.php?articleID=808 UPDATED, Postponed to: Wednesday, December 6 2006 The Manawatu Fireworks Spectacular has again been postponed due to unfavourable weather. If December 6 is unsuitable the event will be postponed until Waitangi Day, February 6 2007. Gates open 6pm - South Street It's that time of the year once again! Expect a fun filled evening with non-stop entertainment that all of the family can enjoy! Free Car Parking in Park Disabled Access via KawaKawa Road (with Mobility Card only) Free Horizons Buses from Palmerston North leaving from Waldegrave St (5.30-7pm) Disabled access via Rata St (with mobility card only) Gate Charges: Adults $5, Children $2 Gates open 6pm - South St and Kawakawa Rd Non Stop Entertainment from 7pm Bonfire Fireworks at dusk All proceeds to community projects No private Fireworks or Alcohol Permitted Organised by Feilding Promotion Manfeild Park Kairanga Lions ClubPhone: 323 3318 News Mon, 23 Oct 2006 11:00:00 +1200 http://www.ourregion.co.nz/news.php?articleID=809 Community Welcome for Evermore Band Tuesday 7 November at 4pm in Manchester Square, Feilding(if wet at the Civic Centre) Feilding Promotion and the Civic Centre Trust are planning a warm welcome home to the Evermore boys, Dann, Jon and Peter! Everyone is invited to join us in Manchester Square, Feilding to welcome the boys’ home, as part of their first NZ concert tour. The Evermore boys had their first taste of career success winning the Rock quest competition, while they were still at school in Feilding The Evermore boys will arrive in Manchester Square on the Feilding stagecoach at 4pm on Tuesday 7 November. To entertain them and the public will be the Feilding High School Rock Band ‘Superhuman’ who also competed in this year’s Rock quest. Mayor Ian McKelvie will then officially welcome the boys back home on behalf of the manawatu District community and they will be presented with a memento of Feilding. Following the welcome the Evermore band boys will be available for signing autographs on their tour posters. Let’s give our boys a warm welcome home! News Mon, 23 Oct 2006 11:00:00 +1200 http://www.ourregion.co.nz/news.php?articleID=800 MANAWATU District Council’s decision to allocate nine reserves as “park over” properties for self contained vehicles has been greatly appreciated by the New Zealand Motor Caravan Association.National president, Dick Waters, of Mt Maunganui, said the council’s move was indicative of a change of attitude by local body authorities towards the fastest growing leisure pursuit activity in New Zealand.“Five years ago some councils looked at us sideways as gypsies on the move,” said Mr Waters, “but that has now changed.”He said the association was now approached by councils offering to assist caravanners planning to visit their area for brief stopovers or scheduled rallies.“The rallies are proving extremely beneficial for the region involved,” said Mr Waters, “because collectively, and our audited accounts show this, we are pouring $84 million into local economies throughout New Zealand each year.”Mr Waters said Manawatu was deemed to be a “supportive” district and the association, in turn, would try to assist it in any way it could.He said the association membership had been increasing by 14 percent annually for the past five years and was expected to reach 30,000 by the end of 2006. “And if current trends continue, we should have about 60,000 family members by 2012.”Mr Waters said hundreds of “park over” properties were now available to self contained vehicles, whose owners were responsible for leaving the area clean and tidy after use.“We have a firm policy to protect the environment and are very keen that this message gets out,” he said.Parks and Reserves Manager, Albert James, said there was strong corroboration between the council and association regarding the identification of certain reserves as possible “park over” areas.“We give them an idea and they will check out its suitability as a nightly stopover or as a site for a rally,” he said.Mr James said the Rangiwahia Recreation Reserve, Bartletts Ford Reserve, Londons Ford Reserve, Apiti Reserve, Almadale Scenic Reserve, Timona Park and Sanson Recreation Ground were among the council’s designated “park over” properties. “We want to make it as easy as possible for people with self contained vehicles to camp in the Manawatu and will continue to look for other sites that are nice, quiet places for caravanners to stay,” he said. Source: Manawatu District Council. News Sun, 24 Sep 2006 12:00:00 +1200 http://www.ourregion.co.nz/news.php?articleID=801 FOURTEEN submissions to the Draft Manawatu Active Transport Strategy (MATS) were largely in support of the initiatives developed by the Manawatu District and Palmerston North City Councils.MATS, a joint strategy developed by the two councils, looks to encourage more cycling and walking in the Manawatu. Feilding resident Raewyn Knight, who often cycles to work in Palmerston North, said the strategy contained “great initiatives” that looked at ways to improve the quality and safety of facilities and to increase the number of people walking and biking.“I believe we need to ‘sell’ cycling to the community,” she said. “If we help people to enjoy cycling recreationally and provide safe cycle routes around the region and city/towns we should have a flow-on effect in an increase of cycles used for transportation.”Marcia Amadio, also of Feilding, said the region was ideal for cycling with the relatively safe terrain and traffic between Palmerston North and Feilding/Ashhurst could be reduced significantly with safe cycleways.“Likewise the tourist potential for the region could be more fully realised with cycleways. It is a most exhilarating experience to cycle the countryside with no fear of cars.”A third Feilding submitter, Dennis Eden, said he would love to cycle to work in Palmerston North, but the narrow, busy roads were hazardous.He asked if the councils could look at the possibilities for a cycle/walking path between the two centres.Among the organisations that made submissions were Sport Manawatu, Palmerston North City Environmental Trust, Horizons Regional Council, Cycle Aware Palmerston North and the Kelvin Grove Residents’ Association.MDC Community Development Officer, Tracey Hunt, said the submissions were encouraging and she thanked residents for taking the time to participate in the development of the strategy.“We are looking forward to further progressing the strategy with the Palmerston North City Council and our other partners,” she said. Source: Manawatu District Council. News Sun, 24 Sep 2006 12:00:00 +1200 http://www.ourregion.co.nz/news.php?articleID=802 NEW signage, the development of animal and plant pest control management plans and the upgrading of tracks are part of an initial works programme to prepare Totara Reserve as Manawatu’s first regional park.Manawatu District Council Parks and Reserves Manager, Albert James, said the regional park concept had been developed with Horizons Regional Council, with both councils deciding to undertake shared management of the site.It is hoped to officially launch Totara Reserve as a regional park at the start of the visitor season in early December.Mr James said the value and importance of Totara Reserve as a popular recreational destination for visitors would be raised to a higher level as a result of the joint management.A decision to develop the reserve as a regional park followed a visit to the site by both councils last year and after issues such as flood protection, biodiversity management and infrastructural investment were addressed.Mr James said the works programme, encompassing road and walkway/camping ground signage, the painting of existing buildings and improved and new car park areas, ensured that people using the park this summer would notice a number of differences.“It will certainly uplift the park after all the flood damage it has suffered in recent years,” he said.He said the benefits of shared management allowed greater expertise to be employed at the park, with Horizons taking over flood protection, erosion control, animal and plant pest control management and bio-diversity enhancement.“It’s a win-win situation for everyone,” he said.Horizons’ Biodiversity and Water Quality Manager, Alistair Beveridge, said a key benefit stemming from joint management was the ability to secure a greater amount of funds for the park.“Those funds can then be put into maintaining the value of the site, which is the reason people go there – they like to see the bush, the trees, the birds and a river flowing by.”Mr Beveridge described the Totara Reserve project as a “test case” with the possibility of establishing further regional parks elsewhere in the region.“If the concept proves successful, the partnerships work and there is community buy-in, then we are well armed to look at further sites. It is an exciting time and we are pleased to have the opportunity to get in there and do something,” he said.Mr Beveridge felt the works programme was the first step in a joint project to get Totara Reserve “back to where everyone wants it to be”. Source: Manawatu District Council. News - feature Sun, 24 Sep 2006 12:00:00 +1200 http://www.ourregion.co.nz/news.php?articleID=803 A FREE text messaging notification service has been licensed to the Manawatu District Council by the New Zealand SMS/Text company, OPTN Ltd, to provide mobile phone owners with live updates during a civil defence emergency.The text messaging service, to be introduced immediately by the council, will provide registered users with vital information during an emergency.Emergency Management Officer, Trevor Auld, said the service allowed officials to instantly inform people throughout the district of up-to-date and verified details. Mr Auld said the messages were free to receive and people could register by texting OPTNMANCD to 2678 for a one-off Telco 50c registration fee. It would cost another 50c to deregister.He said if 50c was a deterrent for people registering and deregistering from their mobile they could register free by completing a registration form which was now available from the council office in Feilding.Murray Derecourt, Managing Director of OPTN, a subsidiary of ROCOM Wireless, said the service was based on an existing mobile marketing service from OPTN Ltd which involved companies sending regular text updates to existing customers.He said it was the same service that the Tauranga Western Bay Emergency Office had successfully installed last month for tsunami and other emergency alerts. Thousands of people from within and outside the area had registered for the alerts.“Tauranga was the first to introduce the service in New Zealand, then Manawatu, and it’s hoped that others will join to allow consistency of service and registration across the whole country,” said Mr Derecourt.Mr Auld said the service would give people the opportunity to find out what was going on and where to get current information and be part of the wider emergency warning system in the Manawatu District.Emergency Management Committee members and council representatives would be among those on the service and Mr Auld urged residents throughout the district to also register.“The benefits are significant as it allows rapid transmission of important information to the public and keeps them well informed on a 'need to know' basis. It is a further step in ensuring that the community is fully prepared in times of a civil emergency,” he said. Source: Manawatu District Council. News - feature Sun, 24 Sep 2006 12:00:00 +1200