And thanks to our contributors and many well-wishers. 

Apart from the huge rates increase for Waikanae people this year, general opposition to the intended changes to the Main Road has been the dominant local news; but on a positive note, the long awaited beginnings of improvements to the Town Centre have been welcome. 

Although frustration with the council (along with keeping an eye on what property developers do) was the reason we began this and remains the main raison d’etre, we prefer being positive rather than negative and fortunately there are plenty of good things about life in Waikanae to present.

The highlight of 2018 for us was overseas, though: our trip to Hawaii and Alaska during the middle of the year to look at conservation issues and local government.  We completed the Pacific coast theme with a drive from Washington state through Oregon to California. One place we stayed at in California was ravaged by a wildfire about 2 weeks after we left.

Next year sees the 3-yearly local elections in October which hopefully in Kapiti will result in several better new councilors and a new mayor!  There will be plenty of comment from us.

Have enjoyable, relaxing and safe holidays.

— your editors