News in Brief

Hurry, KDC looking for representation feedback 
Kaipara District Council will be reviewing its representation arrangements later this year and is calling for community feedback now before formulating any specific proposals.  

“We’re keen to hear if you think we provide fair and effective representation for you and your community,” says Engagement and Transformation General Manager Jason Marris.  

“Our district is currently represented by the mayor and eight councillors who are elected from four Wards. Dargaville Ward, Kaiwaka-Mangawhai Ward, West Coast-Central Ward, and Otamatea Ward all elect two councillors each, the mayor is elected at large across the district.” 

The representation review aims to identify the district’s ‘communities of interest’, consider how best to represent these communities and ensure all parts of the district are fairly represented, and what options and ideas people would like to see moving forward, says Marris.  

Council is seeking feedback on current ward boundaries, the number of elected members, and community boards. The informal engagement process will help to formulate a final representation proposal in July, which will be taken back to the community in August for final consultation. 

But hurry, tell council what you think by April 30. Find more information on the review at kaipara.govt.nz/repreview or pick up a copy of the brochure from Council offices or libraries.  
 

Garden Ramble wants your slice of paradise 
Planning for the annual Mangawhai Garden Ramble, November 13-14, is advancing after a Covid-influenced but successful event in 2020. 

Wyatts Landscape Supplies have taken up naming sponsorship for an initial three year contract. Organisers thank Palmers Planet, then Palmers, for their many successful years in the principal role. 

“We have just started to secure gardens for the event, some from previous years, and a couple of new ones from gardens we have ‘popped in to’ while driving and walking around the streets,” says garden coordinator John Dickie.  

“We would love to hear from you if you are interested in having your garden in the event, be it large or small, well established or very new. Our experience shows that ramblers appreciate a wide variety of gardens and are always interested in seeing what first-time-shown gardens have to offer.”  

Interested in having your garden available for the Garden Ramble? Contact John Dickie 431 4873 (preferably early evenings) or email johndickie05@gmail.com.