Message from the Mayor

Published on March 17, 2023

Kia ora Horowhenua 

We have been very fortunate to have missed the effects of Cyclone Gabrielle, but many districts around the North Island did not and are now in the position of having to recover and rebuild. We are helping where we can with resources and support and will continue to do so in the coming months as they try to get back to some sort of normality.

To further support the Hawkes Bay and Tararua Districts we are having ‘The Black Out’. On Friday 31 March we are encouraging all Horowhenua businesses, schools and residents to show their support for our fellow countrymen, wear black and donate to the Mayoral Relief Fund. 

To support that kaupapa, an evening auction will be held on Saturday 1 April at Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō, showcasing the district’s producers and businesses. A huge thank you to all those who are contributing to this effort, it is greatly appreciated by all those who will receive that help.

The best way to support our adopted community is to donate to their Mayoral Relief Fund. 
The account details for the Mayoral Flood relief are: 
Tararua District Council
03-0614-0088406-01
Reference code: 560 OR Flood Relief

Showing heart is one of the things Horowhenua does best. Since the last Community Connection there have been several events which have showcased how special this community is – Children’s Day, International Women’s Day and Pasifika Celebration Day have all been fantastic events and I want to acknowledge and thank all those that have played a part in making them happen. The ‘ava (kava) ceremony that I participated in at the Pasifika Celebration Day was certainly a highlight and an honour to be part of.

Tomorrow, Saturday 18 March is Neighbours Day and I would encourage you to visit the celebrations at Levin’s Village Green and Gladys Taylor Park.

Last weekend the NZ Rural Games was held in Palmerston North and Horowhenua proudly showed off the many good things that we produce here and highlighted the many attractions, reserves and beaches that continue to draw visitors and new residents alike.

One of the special occasions that we hold at Council is Citizenship Ceremonies. This week we were able to acknowledge and celebrate with 30 new New Zealand citizens. It was wonderful to see the cultural diversity and vibrancy of those taking the oath or affirmation to now make New Zealand their home.

The focus for Council in the coming months will be our Long Term Plan Amendment. We are seeking your views and opinions on some key topics – a rates review, the future of the Levin Landfill and upgrades and investment to our water infrastructure. It is vital that we understand what the community views are before we make those critical decisions. Expect to hear from us as we head into the formal consultation period. Have a look out for further information through Council’s website, social media channels, radio and newspaper. 

Bernie Wanden