Turning west by car into Te Moana from Park Avenue has always been a bit daunting so hopefully the improvements will make this safer, too.

Obviously taken near dusk. Every time there is a deluge, plenty of driftwood appears on the beach, although you wonder where that long ponga fern trunk came from.  (Grant McLean pic)

This track requires a fair level of fitness and at this time of year is muddy and slippery in places — but the view (when there is a gap in the trees) makes it worthwhile. (Sue Lusk pic)

These are scheduled to be approved by a council meeting this Wednesday.  They are specific charges for specific user-generated needs and most would say (as do we) that this is fair enough, provided the fees are reasonable.  Those who don’t use these services shouldn’t be subsidizing those who do.

The full pdf is here

At 189 Huia Street: and if it appeals, it’s for sale — details and more pics.

the Ngaio Road entrance — with an inevitable sign announcing the presence of Brodifacoum poison

This is a small reserve at the west end of Ngaio Road and a relatively narrow part of it connects through to Ngarara Road. You can both walk and cycle through it.

Seen in Ngaio Road.  It’s good to see people doing their bit to beautify their neighbourhood, even in only a little way.

This house has a small bug ornament on the outside, we weren’t sure exactly what. Most bugs serve a useful role, although there are a few that are definitely not wanted.

These are simply raw totals with no breakdown and don’t reveal what has been spent on consultants, fancy ‘spin’, fixing up blunders, etc.

The 2017-2018 Annual plan statement (see earlier) merely says:

“Mahara Gallery and the Waikanae Library form a gateway to Mahara Place. Neither the gallery nor the library buildings were designed for the purposes for which they are now used, and substantial upgrading of both facilities is planned to start in 2018/19 with design work scheduled for 2017/18. The Mahara Gallery Trust is fundraising for its share (two thirds) of the cost of the gallery upgrade and has a target of 30 June 2018 to complete this.”

What if the Mahara Gallery Trust doesn’t manage to raise two thirds?  Will this proceed?

What else is going to happen other than this?  The same document states:

“Local communities have told us what they want and we are translating these concepts into vibrant centres for both communities. We are taking full advantage of the opportunities provided by recent developments, such as the construction of the Expressway and the change of SH1 to a local road, to maximise the benefits for each town. Construction of the first building block projects in Paraparaumu will begin before the end of 2017.”

Are you any the wiser?  We thought not.