Mayor's Memo

Kia ora

2020 has been a year like no other for us all. Looking in the rear view mirror to see how far we’ve come, here are some highlights from the Council year:

· Summer drought starting a year ago stretched everyone’s water supplies thinly, and as a result new investments are “in the pipeline” now to ease future water issues.

· The Kaipara Kai Hub was opened at Ruawai in the middle of the District, and future land use options and water storage for irrigation are underway for growing the kai in Kaipara.

· Council voted unanimously to oppose the Dome Valley dump, in a landmark decision that will echo down the years and stands for me as the moment of which I am most proud in a year of courageous Council decisions.

· A long-running and high-profile rates protest ended with a Supreme Court judgement in favour of KDC, after which KDC received payment of outstanding rates and penalties. The sad saga is now considered closed.

· Council consulted with iwi partners and, based on their advice, considerations and evidence provided, decided to introduce a Maori Ward in Kaipara District for the 2022 local body elections. No-one voted against this, in another courageous decision by this Council. The signing of the Mana Enhancing Agreement between KDC and Te Roroa was also a key achievement in 2020 with our iwi partners.

· Towards a brighter future, Council has developed a 30 year Infrastructure Strategy, and also has adopted a full Kaipara District Spatial Plan for every town and rural part of Kaipara District out to 2050 – Nga Wawata 2050 – Our Aspirations. This full spatial plan will help keep the place – already the fastest-growing District in the North Island – from growing like topsy.

· Finally, in a year when councils across New Zealand have had troubles, our Kaipara District Council has continued to work together well, and also with other councils in the north, to keep representation of our Kaipara people strong and clear. We’re all in this together.

On behalf of all Kaipara District Council I wish all Kaipara people, friends and family a safe and happy Christmas and a bright and prosperous New Year. Make the most of the summer holidays ahead, and I look forward to working with you in 2021 for a better Kaipara. It promises to be a ripper!

Nga mihi nui me Meri Kirihimete

Mayor Jake

Kaipara Mayor Dr Jason Smith