Halswell Connections

Andrei Moore, Councillor for Halswell. 

Our 2024-2034 Long Term Plan budget is currently out for consultation and it would be really good to get your say on it.

I don’t believe we’ve gone as far as we needed to in identifying cost savings for you to have your say on but you are still able to tell us in your submission if/where you would like us to find savings or where we need to invest more. I also don’t believe we’re providing the basic infrastructure needed for growth in our community.

The plan includes some local Halswell issues you might like to have your say on:

Budget for new footpaths

The 2021-2031 Long Term Plan had a $0 budget allocated for new footpaths which has made it quite difficult to get missing footpaths around Halswell filled in. Some of the missing footpath links around our community will be filled in by developers as developments progress however we will still be left with gaps in the network which Council will need to fill in. There are many examples and of particular concern to me is Cashmere Road between Sutherlands Road and Halswell Quarry Reserve. You may wish to identify your missing links of concern in your submission.

Safe access around our schools

In my view our infrastructure simply hasn’t kept up with growth. We’ve failed to provide the safe crossing points needed for families to get to school safely and I think that’s a real shame. Some examples would be Dunbars Road, Halswell Junction Road, Sabys Road & Ensign Street.

What are your views on this? Do you have areas of concern? Please let us know in your submission. Please also note that Halswell Road is a state highway and not a Council road.

I get a lot of questions around the dangerous Larsens/Halswell Road intersection at school time. The latest on this is I’ve requested an onsite meeting with the local MP Vanessa Weenink, NZTA/Waka Kotahi and Council staff. We need a safe solution not a no right turn sign that only sometimes works and some motorists choose to ignore anyway.

Fenced dog park

I get a lot of requests for a fenced dog park.

A fenced dog park in the south-west is in the draft budget to be built between 2028 and 2030. If you support this or would like to see it happen sooner you may wish to write a submission with your views. It would also be good to get your thoughts on a potential location. Carrs Reserve has been identified as a possibility.

Note: each of the three above items can at least be partly funded through development contributions rather than all from your quarterly rates bill. Each new build pays a significant amount in development contributions and with more than 3000 homes to come in Halswell I don’t think there’s any excuse for us not to be delivering the bare basics like footpaths.

Fixing our roads

Some of our roads in Halswell are getting thrashed by increased vehicle movements. Please let us know of any roads you believe need attention.

 

See ccc.govt.nz/longtermplan for submissions – comments on the above items can be added on section 4 (Capital Programme) of the submission and you can include any other issues in your submission too. You’re not required to answer all questions. I’ll be reading every single submission with interest before I vote on this plan. 

Alternatively you can send your submission to cccPlan@ccc.govt.nz

or Freepost 178, LTP Submissions, CCC, PO Box 73016, Christchurch 8154 (no stamp required).

You can also find a copy of the plan + submission forms at any library or Council service centre. I’m also happy to send you a physical copy of a submission form but you’re also able to use any paper for a postal submission as long as it contains your name and address.

Do not hesitate to contact me with further questions or assistance with writing a submission. 

I’m also hosting three public meetings about this plan and managing growth in Halswell. I’d love to see you there.

 

 

Halswell Connections

Andrei Moore, Councillor for Halswell. 

Change in Government

As the new government has not officially been formed yet (at time of writing), there is no clear indication of what this might mean for Christchurch. It does mean that there will be some uncertainty over the coming months as there may be changes made that impact local government policy and planning.
Banks Peninsula will have 3 MPs in parliament and potentially 4 as Tracey is highly likely to be on the Labour list.

Christchurch City Council

CCC has an interim CEO

Long Term Plan.

Christchurch City Council is currently drafting the 10 year budget. Costs have gone up due to COVID - insurance, construction costs etc - so councillors face some hard decisions. Even with the increasing population, the income from rates and development contributions doesn’t necessarily cover all the costs of new infrastructure and development for greenfield sites.

Consultation on the LTP will be in March and it is vital that communities make submissions on the things that are important to them.

March will see a 5 week window for community submissions and Andrei intends to make sure Halswell is well represented in those submissions by communicating and engaging with the community in the lead up and during that time.

Halswell FAQs

When / Is the new Countdown being built?

Yes it is still being built. Woolworths will develop the supermarket but a developer will develop the residential side of things so no timeframe as yet.

When will work start on the intersection of Aidanfield Drive / Halswell Road start?

Expected early 2024 but there have been some delays so may be later. Work will include lights and a signalised pedestrian crossing and shouldn’t be affected by any changes made by the new government.

Bus routes

ECAN are responsible for the bus routes but CCC are responsible for the bus stops. The frequency of the Number 7 bus will be increased to every 10 minutes, however the routes themselves really need to be reviewed as large parts of Halswell are currently no where near a bus route and the development will see another 3150 sections being consented in the next 10 years.

ECAN will consider funding for a route review in their Long Term Plan

When will Halswell get a high school?

It probably won’t. But Andrei will ask the question of the new MP for the area and write to the Ministry of Education.

What is happening with the new primary school?

This is still planned for Halswell North but currently on hold as rolls are not high enough for Ministry of Education to build. The majority of the growth in Halswell is currently further south around Halswell School so a new school in Halswell North will not ease that pressure on Halswell.

What is the plan for the Sutherlands / Milns Road intersection?

Currently looking at closing off Milns Rd with a new road coming out further down which will link Halswell Road with Sparks Road. This will also make Milns Road a quieter road rather than a cut through for traffic.

What is the timescale for the Sabys Rd / Quaifes Road works?

Road is currently closed as developers work on extending the retention basin to reduce the water entering the Creamery Stream and Halswell River. Andrei will follow up on timescale.

Work in this area will also include the roundabout that will link Halswell and Quaifes Roads and Sabys Estate - 225 new homes.

Speed limits

Changes recently approved will see most residential areas drop to 40kph with 30kph around schools. It is unlikely that the change of government will change this.

What about the Sparks / Halswell / Halswell Junction Road Intersection? When will it get a turning arrow?

Transport is complicated due to shared responsibilities between Council and Waka Kotahi.

An intersection upgrade here would be Waka Kotahi led. Will possibly be looked at next year but Andrei will follow up.

Chlorine in the water

Regulations and requirements for drinking water are very strict and hard to meet, requiring high levels of investment so it is unlikely we will see chlorine removed from the water soon but we shouldn’t give up just yet. Obviously this is a key issue that will be raised with the incoming Government.

Fluoride in water

A recent high court decision ruled that the directive to add fluoride to may be inconsistent with the NZ bill of rights. Christchurch does not currently add fluoride to the water, doing so would require significant investment in infrastructure. The Ministry of Health may instruct councils to add the fluorine or face a fine.

You can of course contact me anytime to discuss anything at all: 

Mobile: 027 632 5823 

facebook.com/andreimoorehalswell

Halswell Connections

Tuesday 17th October 2023

James Hadlee - Kāinga Ora

James gave an overview of who Kāinga Ora are and what they do nationally, in Christchurch and in Halswell.

Kāinga Ora provides tenancy services to nearly 200,000 customers across NZ and their whānau and owns and maintains nearly 69,000 public houses while also providing home ownership products and other services. 

The key outcomes they work towards go beyond being a social landlord or urban development agency, with a focus on providing good quality, warm, dry and healthy homes as well as on tenants’ wellbeing.

Kainga Ora partners with with other agencies, including councils, government agencies, local government, Māori and mana whenua, infrastructure providers, private developers, and community housing providers. They aim to complement, rather than compete with, the private market and work closely with the Ministry of Social Development, which is responsible for working with people who need housing, income and employment support and helping people access and sustain long-term accommodation, and help meet the cost of short-term, emergency accommodation.

In Christchurch they work with Ōtautahi Community Housing Trust, Methodist Mission, Emerge, ComCare and others. Some of these providers have other specialities such as mental health.

MSD currently have 24000 people (households) on the social housing register, 1947 of those are in Christchurch with 1800 on the highest priority of need. Most require 1 bedroom homes which is a change from previously when the need was predominantly for 4 bed homes.

People can access Kāinga Ora housing by registering with MSD. There is a phone assessment which may be followed by a face-to-face needs assessment by a housing broker.

MSD - 0800 559 009

Kāinga Ora aim to have 15% of their homes with a universal design to aid accessibility. Homes are built to enable easy modification at a later date.

Urban development

Kāinga Ora is also an urban development agency  that connects homes with jobs, transport, open spaces and the facilities that communities need. This includes accelerating the availability of build-ready land, and building a mix of housing including public housing, affordable housing, homes for first home buyers and market housing of different types, sizes and tenures.

Since 2017 they have built 13000 new homes with a 6* rating which is above code to keep running costs for tenants as low as possible.

In Canterbury they have delivered 725 new homes since 2021 and expect to deliver an additional 850 by June 2024.

In Christchurch there are 6650 State homes with 36 of those in Halswell. Currently 24 are under development in Halswell. The focus on developing existing land sections creates more opportunities for people to remain in their community if they need social housing - eg refugees, older people, disabled people,

Benefits of new homes in existing communities:

• Warmer, drier homes
• Reduce the average age of the housing stock
• More suited to customers needs
• By building and maintaining use of land, more people can enjoy living in prime locations that are close to jobs, education, shopping etc
• KO focus on regions as well as urban centres - eg Ashburton, Blenheim. Waimakiriri
• Most customers have income related rent (more affordable and flexible)
• Social outcomes (apprenticeships, employment)

Housing in Halswell:

Halswell Junction Road - 4 x 2 bedroom homes 

Due first half 2024. Being built by private developer who will sell to KO when complete.

Nottingham Avenue - 3 x 2 bedroom homes

Due August 2024.

Cobra and Ensign St

Cobra - 4 x 1 bedroom homes. Ensign - 4 x 1 bedroom homes. Completed. 

Halswell Junction Rd/Liquidamber St - 17 homes. 

Liquidamber St - 6 x 2 bedroom homes, 5 x 3 bedroom homes, 2 x 4 bedroom homes.

Due first half 2024

Halswell Junction Road - 4 x standalone homes. 2 x 3 bedroom homes. 2 x 4 bedroom homes

Following on from feedback from the community, KO are in discussions with Council on solutions for the issues raised such as rubbish collection, lighting, fencing etc. This will be shared as soon as details are available.

Kāinga Ora Land Programme

The Kāinga Ora Land Programme was established to acquire and develop land to increase housing supply and improve affordability in areas of need. The programme enables Kāinga Ora to borrow up to $2 billion for land purchases and development costs to facilitate the delivery of affordable and marketing housing.

Kāinga Ora acquires land in its raw form and then makes it ‘build ready’ by completing the earthworks, civil works and often parcelling the land into smaller parcels to be sold, or ‘superlots’. Once sold, Kāinga Ora partners with private developers in the delivery of housing and amenity outcomes.

Quaifes Road

First development of its kind in the South Island providing a range of affordable housing options with the focus on supporting people into owning their first home. Still at draft stage and will go out for community engagement when initial planning is ready. CCC condition for 3000sq m of greenspace so KO will be seeking community engagement in developing that space

Home Ownership Products

Kainga Ora has several tools to help people into home ownership: 

• First Home Decision Tool
• First Home grant
• First Home Loan
• First Home Partner (on pause while processing initial high demand)
   

Community Development 

Kāinga Ora ensures people settle into their new community and feel a sense of community in their home. They support customers to live well, feel safe and secure and take pride in their neighbourhoods. Working with community groups to help eg - Welcome bags from the Hub

Website: https://kaingaora.govt.nz/

Answers to questions

Accessibility

• For Kāinga Ora accessibility is about our customers living well in their homes. This means homes that not only meet their current needs, but that can easily be adapted as needs change over time. Homes that allow them to have whānau and friends visit and support them to be part of their wider community without barriers. It also means building properties for a particular customer cohort that may include bespoke features or provide access to support services or that can be managed by a supported housing provider.
• As part of our Accessibility Policy, we set a target of having 15 percent of the homes built through our redevelopment programme fully universally designed.
  In the 2022/23 financial year, we exceeded that target. For the full year, we delivered 314 full universal design standard homes. That equates to 19 percent of the 1624 eligible public homes built through our redevelopment programme.
• Kāinga Ora also carries out modifications of its properties, working closely with tenants and their families to understand their accessibility needs. In the 12 months to March 2023 Kāinga Ora carried out 16,507 individual modifications at 7975 properties to meet the needs of individual customers. This could be anything from handrails or modified door latches to ramps, wet areas, lifts, and widened doorways, to vibrating and visual smoke alarms.  
• Universal design delivers housing that is more liveable for the entire population, including young and growing families, people of all ages who experience temporary injury or illness, those with mobility, visual or cognitive impairments, and the growing aging population. Therefore, universal design features have been incorporated into our standard dwellings for the past ten years, and is just one way we’re meeting our customers’ changing needs. Common examples of these features are raised power points to 500mm from the floor, widened doorways, and low-lip shower cubicles, level-entry on at least one exterior door where possible, wider than normal pathway width, space for a wide turning circle in the kitchen, all door handles are lever type.  
   

Quaifes Road

• Name - The name of the project will likely shift over time, Quaifes Road is simply the legal address in the interim.  Kāinga Ora will likely work with Mana Whenua and future development partners to develop a name, we are still defining this process.   
• Control of design – We are considering this aspect and this is our intent. The sale of land to developers will include conditions, which may include restrictive covenants, similar to what happens on other subdivisions specifying developers' build quality. 
• Greenspace – We look forward to engaging with the community next year, to ascertain feedback on options we intend to work through by Mana Whenua and Council.

Halswell Connections

Meeting held Tuesday 15th August 2023

Halswell Community Hub, 381 Halswell Rd. 12.30-1.30pm

Halswell Community Project

After two years of operating informally, Halswell Community Project was incorporated in 2013 and became a registered charity in 2022. Over the last ten years the organisation has grown and now operates out of the Halswell Community Hub providing activities and events in Halswell focused on connecting, empowering and strengthening the local community.

As an organisation, we are made up of a dedicated volunteer committee, a small team of contractors and a number of volunteers who are involved in different aspects of the project such as facebook, helping out at the hub, delivering newsletters and helping to run events and activities.

Our vision is to create a connected, resilient community which fosters engagement, inclusion, participation, a sense of belonging and pride and bring about better outcomes through those improved connections and information sharing.

Everything we do, aims to:

• Build Resilience through Community Connections.
• Encourage participation through the sharing of community information.
• Provide social connection for isolated and vulnerable people in our community.
• Encourage people to connect and work together to bring about positive change
• Foster a sense of community, celebrate and share different cultures and traditions.
• Ensure newcomers to our community are connected with what they need to integrate well.
• Create opportunities for people to develop skills and connections 

Our projects cover a wide range of activities including:

• running the Halswell Community Hub as a welcoming community facility, open to all -  A place to drop in, connect and find information
• a monthly community Newsletter, welcome bags, Halswell Community website and a number of large facebook pages.  Our organisation facebook page is the Halswell Community Project Page. The biggest page is the Halswell Community Group which currently has over 20000 members and is administered by a volunteer team in the background. We also have a business page dedicated to local businesses and a Pay it forward page for the community to share and pass on resources.
• Developing, planning and delivering events within the Hub and out in the community. Over the years we have run several community events like skate jams, markets, kids school holiday activities, celebrate halswell and we attempted to run a children's day event before the weather and covid interfered - several years in a row.  Whilst this year's event didn't go ahead we did produce activity packs which were well received by many families and we continuously look for new ways to get people out and about.
• The Halswell Community Market was probably the best known of our events and ran successfully for many years - starting out at St Lukes before moving to the grounds of St John of God. Being in the grounds of a working hospital proved too much for the COVID years and we decided it was time to pass the baton on to others in the community who are interested in running a market.
• monthly network meetings and workshops for the local community covering a range of issues and topics of interest. As well as these regular connections meetings we have had workshops from ASB on identifying and avoiding online scams and St Johns who provided free first aid courses to upskill in CPR and the use of a defibrillator. 
• weekly activities such as coffee morning, Mahjong and coffee and games to bring people together
• Reducing waste by collecting and recycling or repurposing it to help others. Our sharing shack and book shacks are always popular and aim to share resources and reduce waste from local gardens and houses.  What would normally rot on the ground can be shared with the wider community.

We also collect 

• Plastic milk bottle tops which Neith turns into skateboards & planter boxes 
• Wine bottle tops for Kidney kids through Halswell Lions
• Old coins and foreign currency for Heads up for kids - again through Halswell Lions
• Bras and swimwear for Project Uplift who fix them up and distribute them to the Islands and around NZ schools. The last shipment from the Hub sent 19 banana boxes
• of bras and swimwear to the Islands so we are pretty proud of this partnership
• Socks, Blankets and sleeping bags for those in need through the Blanket Bank and City Mission Outreach
• Toiletries and sanitary items for people on the streets
• Paper bags for Bellyful trust who fill them with lunches for children in schools who need them

 

• Our Christmas Giving Tree where we collect gifts and items to help groups and individuals who may find that time of year particularly difficult. Over the years we have supported Project Esther, Odyssey House, Open Home Foundation, City Mission,
• Supporting and promoting local groups/organisations/activities
• Getting information into the right hands - our team have an extensive knowledge of the community and what we don’t know - we can find out
• Sharing information through various media such as notice boards, our website, welcome bags, monthly newsletter and social media to support local residents
• Networking with other local organisations
• Contributing to various networks across the city such as the Christchurch South Network
• Working closely with the local community board, Residents association Council and others to identify and solve local issues 
• Providing an affordable community space for local activities, groups and organisations. We currently have 12 local organisations using the Hub for activities ranging from Integrated Dance and Music Therapy to craft, boxfit and chinese art classes 
• Providing space for local services to reach the community - eg Counsellor, Budgeting advice,
• Investigating youth engagement across Halswell through a pilot project aimed at connecting with the young people in our community in order to identify their needs and to build the networks and relationships needed to lay the foundations for future youth work in the area.
• Supporting local businesses
• Keeping up to date with developments in our local community
• Participating in local meetings and decision making 
• Identifying gaps and opportunities to meet needs in the community - eg projects to increase sustainability

Earlier this year Keri started a new support group for people adopted during the closed adoption era (mostly) and this has been well received as the first of its kind in NZ. This has led to new groups starting in Wellington and Auckland which is very exciting.

Most recently we have created the new Halswell Information Book which includes heaps of information about Halswell and the groups and activities that are available to residents. This book aims to get key information into the hands of people new to the community to help them find their way around and to provide that same information to people who do not have easy access to the internet.

We are coming to the end of our youth pilot and are currently sending out surveys to local children and rangatahi to find out what they think is good about living in Halswell and what would make it better. It is safe to say that some of their responses so far have been entertaining. As we come to the end of the year we will collate all the information we have gathered and put together a report with recommendations for the next steps in this area in Halswell.

As time has passed and word has spread about the Hub in particular, our roles have changed significantly and so both of us are doing some professional development to help upskill and embrace these changes and support the people we work with on a daily basis. As a result of the increasing number of people through the hub we are doing lots of extra volunteer hours and admin work outside of office hours so thanks Philippa for your help to release us to do this. For those of you who don't know, Philippa covers the Hub desk for us on a Tuesday afternoon and over the next 9 months will be covering for us on occasion as we attend a series of workshops as part of a leadership course that we were nominated for by the Community BVoard staff.

Probably our biggest project to date has been taking on the ownership of the building here at the Hub. This has been a big challenge and has taken up a lot of our time and capacity as we learn to manage the facility and all that that entails. So far this is going really well with the hire and use of the building covering the costs of running the building and the day to day maintenance. However we have some big projects coming up - things like replacing part of the roof, resurfacing the car park and repairing / painting the exterior cladding of the building. We are conscious that other areas need a bit of tlc too but are focussing on the key structural elements initially and will be seeking funding from Lotteries and the local community to help cover these costly projects.  As all community groups are aware, funding is getting harder to come by and so after a big year, we are now looking at consolidating everything we have done and learned in order to do what we already do well before we look at taking on any more new projects.

That said, one of our key focusses going forward will be connecting with people who are struggling with social isolation. Whether that be due to age, mobility, language or culture - we want to see everybody in our community connected and feeling like they belong. That is a big challenge and how we achieve that, we are not entirely sure but we know it will involve working with others and will not happen overnight.

Halswell Connections

Meeting held Tuesday 18th July 2023

Halswell Community Hub, 381 Halswell Rd. 12.30-1.30pm

 

Speakers

• Lynley and Anne from Halswell Lions

• Helen about the South West Sport and Recreation Hub (Collective).

Halswell Lions.

Lions are ordinary people from all walks of life who enjoy getting together and doing good things. They work on projects to improve communities and protect the environment.  It is often said that where there is a need there is a lion.

Lions Clubs New Zealand is part of a global organisation with 1.4 million members in 208 countries and geographic regions. 

Halswell Lions is part of the Upper South Island and West Coast District covering the upper part of the South Island. They meet once a month at the Halswell Bowling Club for a regular business meeting and several times a year for a social dinner meeting.  Members help out with a variety of projects and fundraisers in and around Halswell. Some funds raised are used to support individuals or groups with their projects.

Examples include:

• Halswell New World BBQs to raise funds for projects
• Assist Halswell New World with their Club Days
• Fundraising through Bunnings BBQ for nominated projects
• Parking at Nga Puna Wai along with two other Lions Clubs as sporting events have become so large. (International Hockey, Frisbee Sevens, Rugby Sevens, Athletics)
• Parking at Motukarara races
• Fundraising by selling Kindling, Christmas Cakes, bulbs Lions Mints and pea straw.
• Assisting Hillmorton High School with their Outdoor Education programme by purchasing mountain bikes, kayaks, paddle boards and GPS units for tramping
• Delivering lunches to Hillmorton High School students on camps at Orton Bradley Park
• Assisting Halswell Scouts with purchase of GPS trackers and the upgrade of the BBQ Kitchen
• Assisting with maintenance at Halswell Community Hall - new concrete path and fence repairs
• Assisting elderly with gardening
• GJ Gardiner clean up projects in Halswell area
• Provided AED for the Halswell Community Hub
• Assisting Halswell Community Project with Celebrate Halswell Christmas event
• Providing funding to Santas workshop and delivering toys to those in need
• Providing funding to Halswell Kindergarton for their Trikathon and new carpet in the play area
• Running the Carols at the Quarry christmas event which has grown significantly
• Assisting with local collections for various organisations at Halswell New World
• Collecting aluminium wine bottle tops and can tear tabs for Kidney Kids who help families of children with kidney issues.
• Collecting old spectacles
• Providing funding special needs children to attend the Great Kiwi Circus
• Assisting with funding for the cancer trust raising funds for a mobile skin cancer detection bus
• Providing financial assistance and support to the Halswell Community for special events or needs where we can

Lynley and Anne explained why they joined Halswell Lions. Like many others these reasons included giving back to the community, meeting new people and making a difference.

To join the Lions is easy. Just talk to a member or go along to a meeting to see what is involved.  Everyone is welcome and there is no minimum age. Members dont necessarily have to go to all meetings - you can just be involved in events and activities if that is what you want. You can be involved as much or as little as you can / want.

Next meeting of the Lions is Wednesday 2nd August at the Halswell Bowling Club .

If anyone knows of anyone needing help or support - contact the lions and pass on the information / contact info.

South West Sport and Recreation Hub (collective)

Sport and Recreation Hubs (Collectives) are about bringing together sports and recreation clubs.

These Hubs aim to collaborate and provide various sports and recreation services in a unified manner. They also play a vital role in making local decisions concerning parks, infrastructure, programs, and community services. For more information about Sport and Recreation Hubs, visit the link: https://sportnz.org.nz/resources/hubs-and-sportvilles-introduction-and-contacts/

The South West Sport and Recreation Hub (Collective) is a new organisation, which is a collective of sporting and recreation organisations serving the Hoonhay, Hillmorton, Halswell, Wigram, Knights Stream, and East Hornby areas in Christchurch. Their vision is to create a connected and thriving Southwest community with quality sports and recreation spaces accessible to all.

The South West Sport and Recreation Hub (Collective) will focus on supporting, advocating for the development of infrastructure across parks in the Southwest of Christchurch and partner strategically with recreation organisations, schools, sports clubs, Christchurch City Council, and Sport Canterbury to develop multi-purpose spaces that reflect the communities' interests and complement existing sporting organisations.

To achieve its goals, the South West Hub (Collective) seeks passionate individuals from the community with expertise related to community-based sport, recreation, and education to become Board members of the Hub. The organisation seeks people who can think strategically, collaborate effectively, and have complementary skills. A commitment to the cause for a reasonable term is essential. Most importantly, they encourage an inclusive culture that increases everyone's access to sports and recreation.

If you're interested in contributing to this worthy community endeavour, the Hub (Collective) encourages you to step forward and apply to join the board helping the Hub (Collective) positively impact sport and recreation in the Southwest of Christchurch.

The Collective now have a facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/southwestsportshub 

There is a Special AGM on Wednesday 20th September where elected members will be voted onto the board and member clubs/organisations accepted.

News from around Halswell

Halswell Community Project

AGM Monday 24th July, 7pm at the Hub. Tessa Zant from CCC will be speaking after the business meeting about how to engage with the Long Term PlanCollections going well - small paper supermarket bags for Bellyful Charitable Trust, Socks for the homeless, blankets for the blanket bank, wine bottle tops,can tabs and old coins for the Halswell Lions. 19 banana boxes of bras were sent to the islands last month from the Hub.

Te Hāpua

July holidays were very busy with school holiday and Matariki activities, now recovering as move into regular programmes and activities

Wednesday there is an adult creative tech session from 10 - 11.30am

CCC

Bailey outlined the What Matters Most tool from the council and asked people to complete it to tell the council which core services matter most to the community. This can be completed either online (where the tool adds up the points for you) or on paper - copies are available at the Hub.

Andrei encouraged members to use the engagement tools. He has put forward a motion at the recent community board meeting for improvements and safe crossing points particularly on Dunbars Road and Sabyst Rd as well as Halswell Junction Road for access to Knights Stream School

Andrei stated that all primary schools are full and Knights Stream is expected to also reach 700 students in the next few years. Land is at a premium in Halswell and this is the last opportunity to advocate for a High School before all land is built on so he has written to the Ministry of Education asking about the future of the local schools and system to allow for future growth in the area.

The first part of the Halswell Road upgrade will begin with the traffic lights at the Aidanfield Drive Intersection.

Christchurch Beautifying Association

Spring Garden competition is coming up

Friendship Club 

Meets at the library once a month

Next outing is to the Chateau for a mid winter Christmas

Next Meeting - Tuesday 15th August - Halswell Community project

Halswell Connections

Meeting held Tuesday 20th June 2023

Halswell Community Hub, 381 Halswell Rd. 12.30-1.30pm

Speaker - Kevin from Step Ahead Trust

Step Ahead Trust is a community-based not-for-profit providing a relaxing space for those with mental illness to  make friends, learn new skills, try new things, have fun, and learn how to better manage life’s everyday challenges.

Core Values are:

• Hope -  A belief that being involved with Step Ahead will make a positive difference to members’ lives.
• Choice -   Attendance at any activity is voluntary and members choose their own level of participation.
• Respect -   Consideration and empathy for others.
• Responsibility -  Members make their own decisions and accept responsibility for the outcome.
• Openness -   Decision-making processes will be fair and transparent.

There are four centres. Two in Christchurch, one in Rangiora and one in Ashburton.

Stanmore Road is the main office and there is a branch in Upper Riccarton (Puriri St) which are staffed five days a week. Rangiora and Ashburton are staffed two days a week.

Step Ahead is free to join and provides a variety of activities at each branch which are diverse, affordable (often free), and designed to help those with mental illness to socialise, learn, and grow. Some examples of activities include cooking, craft, carving, sports etc
The branches are not drop in centres however members can attend activities as little or as often as they want to.

Criteria:

Anyone who meets the following criteria is welcome to go along to Step Ahead Trust

• over 18 years old 
• have a mental illness
• and can attend independently (does not need a support person) 

There is no official referral form  although GPs and health workers can refer people. Anyone can give Step Ahead a call, including family members and friends of those with mental illness.

News from around Halswell

Halswell Lions:

had a very successful bbq at Bunnings and held a dinner for the new committee.

Halswell Garden Club and Friendship Club

Regular meetings, outings and coffee group are ongoing

Citizens Advice Bureau - Hornby

Back to fully staffed and face to face meetings and drop ins and open 9am - 5pm

Need more volunteers so will be looking for people soon

Clinics held at CAB include - legal, immigration, ACC etc

Beautifying Christchurch

Spring garden competition is coming up in October (first week)

Andrei Moore (Councillor)

Andrei is always keen to hear from residents

Halswell Residents Association

Candidates night for upcoming election is on 25th September at Knights Stream School

Meeting with ECAN following on from the HRA survey on local bus services

Halswell Community Project

New Halswell Information Book is printed and available from the Hub and Te Hapua

Free first aid course on Tuesday 11th July

School holiday craft activity on Thursday 13th July

AGM on 24th July

As well as blankets etc we are also accepting socks for the City Mission

Next Meeting: July 18th Halswell Lions

Halswell Connections

Meeting held Tuesday 16th May 2023

Halswell Community Hub, 381 Halswell Rd. 12.30-1.30pm

Yellow Brick Road

Formerly known as Supporting Families NZ, Yellow Brick Road are a national organisation that provides support for whānau who have a loved one experiencing mental health challenges. The organisation makes a positive difference and saves lives by walking alongside families with heart and compassion.

After 40 years of experience working with people around New Zealand, they know that if the family of a loved one experiencing mental distress are correctly supported and empowered, the path they walk leads to increased wellbeing for the whole whānau.  

Yellow Brick Road provide support, information, education and advocacy services including:

• 1-on-1 and group support sessions
• Innovative mental health and wellbeing programmes for adults, tamariki and rangatahi
• Women-specific support
• Advocacy, for when whānau find it difficult to access the services they need
• Family peer support groups
• Suicidal distress & postvention support

Individuals or their family can self refer or go through a health professional to access the services offered.  The support offered by Yellow Brick Road is all free and a typical wait time is only a week - if it is needed staff can and will refer on to other services or professionals they feel will be able to help. 

The Yellow Brick Road website contains lots of useful information on mental health including wellbeing guides in a variety of languages.

Yellow Brick Road Advice and Information

For mental health support, please see the following options for help

• For urgent assistance if you or someone in your family has a mental health crisis, please immediately call 111.
• Or you can call or text 1737 – a free 24×7 service for New Zealanders needing to talk about mental health.
• Call Yellow Brick Road South Island on  0800 876 682

 

Meeting held Tuesday 21st March 2023

Halswell Community Hub, 381 Halswell Rd. 12.30-1.30pm

Community Law Canterbury

Jane is a community educator with Community Law. They offer free legal help to people on low incomes, those who can’t afford a lawyer or don’t qualify for legal aid.

With 200 lawyers who offer their time and services to the community they provide accessible, quality legal help to people in Canterbury and the West Coast, who face barriers in accessing justice. Community Law Canterbury offers a general legal advice service, information services, specialist advice, and education services.

CLC can give advice on a variety of issues including tenancy issues, family violence, criminal charges, consumer and civil disputes. 

In general, CLC CAN ….

• Give information by phone and email on most areas of law.
• Provide limited ongoing work for people who met our eligibility criteria
• Offer specialist advice in the areas of family, ACC, tenancy and employment.
• Provide education seminars.
• Supply information, leaflets, and resources.
• Assist with most statutory declarations, certified copies and affidavits.

In general, CLC CAN’T….

• Give a second opinion where a lawyer is already acting for you.
• Advise landlords.
• Advise employers.
• Advise businesses.
• Advise on relationship property or prenup agreements.
• Do conveyancing work.
• Advise on company/commercial law.
• Prepare and execute wills or trusts.

If they can’t help they will direct you to those who can.  If more representation is required Community Law can take that on or refer to other lawyers/services

The law centre operates a telephone legal information service Monday to Friday between 10:00am and 4:00pm. The information line is staffed by CLC employees with additional support from senior law students and graduates.

The Infoline team can answer most questions about the law, including whether you have a legal issue. The law centre is prohibited from giving legal advice over the phone, so you may be asked to make an appointment to meet with someone for advice or if necessary, referrals to private practice lawyers or another agency may also be offered. 0508 226 529 (0508 CANLAW) / 03 3666 870 ext 1

Jane discussed Wills and Enduring Powers of Attorney in more detail.

Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPOA)

There are two types of EPOA in NZ - for Property and for Personal Care and Welfare.

Property EPOA includes instructions on when it can take effect. This can either be immediately (you do not need to be incapacitated) or at a point in time you are deemed incapable. You can appoint more than one property attorney and choose whether they act jointly or individually. Alternatively you can have the flexibility to act jointly and individually.

Personal Care and Welfare EPOA only gets activated if or when you are deemed mentally incapable of making decisions about your care and welfare, by a qualified medical practitioner. Your personal care attorney is then responsible for making important decisions regarding your treatment, health and welfare and living situation. This may include which rest home and level of care you receive.

Forms can be found on the Office for Senior Citizens website - https://officeforseniors.govt.nz/ 

Wills.

A will is a document that says what you want to happen to your property after you die. It does not take legal effect until you die. It is not a requirement to have a will but it is recommended.

You can make a will if you are over 18 years old and are of sound mind. The aim is to express your wishes of what happens to your body, estate and your dependents after you die.

For both EPOAs and Wills, CLC recommend engaging a lawyer or Public Trust to avoid any future challenges.

Information.

CLC have information available on their website:

Wills - https://communitylaw.org.nz/community-law-manual/chapter-11-wills/wills/

EPOA - https://communitylaw.org.nz/community-law-manual/chapter-10-decision-making-and-powers-of-attorney/enduring-powers-of-attorney-planning-ahead-by-choosing-someone-to-make-decisions-for-you/ 

The website also has a list of useful links:

https://www.canlaw.org.nz/legal-information 

 

Halswell Connections

Meeting held Tuesday 21st February 2023

Halswell Community Hub, 381 Halswell Rd. 12.30-1.30pm

Andrei Moore, Councillor for Halswell, spoke at our February Connections meeting and shared his thoughts on the “Hot Topics” affecting Halswell.

Halswell Issues.

1. Milns Road.

This stretch of road has changed a lot over time with a very dangerous narrow stretch of road.

The issues will be alleviated in coming years by the Traffic lights and realignment of Dunbars Road which will join with Collier Drive to take the traffic straight through to Sparks Road.

The intersection of William Britten and Milns has recently changed to a give way which is causing issues as people are not stopping or giving way

Once the new Countdown and retail centre is built the area will get busier - especially around the intersection of William Britten and Kearns Drive

2.  Schools.

Ministry of Education still own the land on Milns Road. This is earmarked for a primary school but there is no land for a high school. 

One focus is safe access to and around schools.  Consultation has been done around Knights Stream School and some improvements made. Others are planned / being looked into such as speed cushions down Whincops road. He acknowledged that crossing Halswell Junction Road is not safe for children trying to access Knigthts Stream school, playing fields or the community. This is also true for children from country palms crossing Halswell Road to access Halswell School.  Around Oaklands Ensign Street and Dunbars Road are the big issues. Overall it is clear that Halswell needs more safe crossing points for all residents but especially the schools.

The Government directive is for a 30km speed limit around schools and some discussion around whether this should be extended to wider areas as has been done in Wigram and Longhurst

Andrei will be inviting the MoE and local MPs / candidates to have a discussion about the future of and safety around schooling in Halswell as all the local schools are very large.

3.  Halswell Road Upgrades

There has been some discussion around whether the new bus lanes will actually cause more congestion but this is not the case as it will add an extra lane. The key will be getting people onto the buses and out of the car lanes - particularly as Halswell Road gets busier and there is only one road into the city.

The upgrades are scheduled to take place 2024 - 2026 with the council doing their work over the next year, prior to the major NZTA work. However, council have suggested deferring the work which would mean more problems for traffic travelling in and out of Halswell,

Developers need to install the traffic lights at the end of Aidanfield Drive prior to any work starting.

4.  Dogs.

The dog exercise area at the quarry is the closest amenity but there are lots of issues around this. The area is not fenced or separated so clashes between dogs, walkers and bikes happen all the time. Some owners allow dogs off leash around the quarry not just in the dog area. There have been lots of issues with dogs lately.

Andrei suggested a new fenced dog park in the Carrs Road area but this needs to be included in the Long Term Plan so will require local people to make submissions to the council on this matter.  With the number of homes being built in the area, some of their development contribution should be going toward new local amenities such as a fenced dog park.

Council dog by-laws are up for review next year and this is an area that needs lots of public submissions are the confusion around “effective control” causes many of the problems with dogs.

5.  Community Safety.

Every community is concerned about safety. What can we do about it?

Biggest thing we as a community can do is support he local community patrol.  There is a car that patrols Halswell but they are short of volunteers so it is not active as much as it could be.

Currently the local Community Patrol needs around 20 volunteers to get the car on the road more.  Once that is at capacity then there may be a case for a second vehicle. Volunteers only need to do around 4 hours of patrolling a month.

The other big thing we can do is get to know our neighbours and look out for each other.

Andrei is organising a meeting with Community Patrol and Police.

6.  Drop in Clinics.

Andrei will be holding these regularly around the community at:

Te Hāpua
Wigram Skies
Longhurst and
Steviez cafe

7.  Community Board

Community board has been setting their three year plan / priorities which will feed into the councils Long term plan.  These are:

• Infrastructure - completing footpaths, crossings etc around the community
• Fenced Dog Park
• Youth - spaces for youth to connect and hang out.

There will be consultation on these and it is essential that residents make submissions as part of the Long Term Plan process next year.

Andrei will also be looking into how to help people make submissions for maximum impact.

 
Christchurch wide issues.

Intensification.

CCC is currently breaking the law by not complying with the government legislation on housing intensification.  The council are currently working on qualifying matters such as recession planes, red zone development etc which are specific to Christchurch.

They then have the decision to either notify those plan changes which will go to a hearing and public consultation or to continue to vote against the plan. This may mean a minister being assigned by the government to enforce the plan without those Christchurch specific changes being implemented. Andrei is unsure of the benefit of the latter and more inclined to think that notifying the changes to the plan is the right way to go.

Intensification probably wont affect Halswell too much apart from the new Countdown development which could go up to 4 storeys without consent.

CCC will release information soon about the qualifying matters.  Developers will not be able to build under the new plan until those qualifying matters have been settled

Excess Water Usage

The new water charges are for excess water use - not necessary everyday use.  

Each year the growth of christchurch and increase in usage due to that growth cost millions of dollars in infrastructure and upgrades. The peak usage costs more each year so reducing usage benefits everybody.  Andrei stressed that there is not a shortage of water, it just costs more each year to get it to the taps. People can apply for exemptions for medical reasons etc. Usage has dropped since last summer as people use less and check for / fix leaks. The scheme is being reviewed and there is still uncertainty around the three waters plan and how that will affect water supply.

Concerns over shared water meters not paying - meters are being rolled out to these properties but out of all of them only a minority would be using excess water anyway so no real issue.

Andrei stressed that there is no water bottling form the source of our drinking water - it is from a different source so doesnt affect our water supply at all.

Rates bills

Council have worked hard to reduce the increase in rates but the next few years are going to be challenging

Halswell Connections

Meeting held Tuesday 15th November 2022

Halswell Community Hub, 381 Halswell Rd. 12.3

Special Friends Sports Trust

Currently 254,000 or 27% of all kiwi kids are living in poverty.

For so many families the cost of team subs or sports gear is simply out of reach so many children are missing out on being able to play a sport.

We know that sport can teach essential life skills such as resilience, goal setting, self responsibility, teamwork, self belief and leadership.

Physical activity dramatically increases a childs sense of well being, encourages more effective learning and breaks down social barriers.

Recent research (2019) conducted by Sport New Zealand involving 60,000 children found there were a number of barriers that are preventing children from being able to participate in sport.

The key barriers were:

• COST “My family cant afford it”
• TRANSPORT “Its too hard to get to trainings, games and competitions”
• EQUIPMENT 1 in 8 kids feel excluded from sports because they don’t have the gear.
• CONFIDENCE “I’m not good enough”

Special Friends aims to remove the barriers that prevents these children from playing sport. 

The Special Friends Sports Trust works with Sport Canterbury , Oranga Tamariki and other social organisations who identify children aged 8 - 12 years who need additional support to enable them to engage in sporting activities. 

Each child is matched with a mentor for a year

The mentor is introduced to the child and their caregivers. They will then support the child in the following ways depending on what each individual child needs to be able to play sport.

• Liase with the appropriate sports club and coaches to enrol the child in the sport.
• Organise payment of sports fees for the term or season with the club.
• Organise appropriate equipment required for the child to play that sport.
• Communicate to the child and caregivers when practices and games will be.
• Transport the child to their sports practice and games if required
• Help the child feel welcome to the club and introduce them to other children and their families.
• Keep in touch regularly with the child and their coach to ensure everything is going well.
• Watch and support the child during games and competitions 
• Help the child feel that they belong and are a valued member of their team.
• Encourage the child to participate fully and be a good sports person.

Special Friends aim to continue providing support as needed so that each child can continue playing a sport they enjoy for up to 5 years. 

There are three ways to support the trust: 

• Make a regular donation
• Become a volunteer mentor
• Be a corporate sponsor

https://www.specialfriends.co.nz/

Halswell Connections

Meeting held Tuesday 16th August 2022

Halswell Community Hub, 381 Halswell Rd. 12.30-1.30pm

Speaker; Megan Woods MP

Megan works closely with Tracey on Halswell issues as the Halswell electorateis split between Banks Peninsula and Wigram.

Local issues / questions:

• Priority is getting through winter with COVID, winter illnesses and the rising cost of living.
• Connection - as a retired person it is hard to stay connected
• Cost of healthcare - some GP practices elected not to opt into the funding subsidy
• Internet - essential to stay connected but costs
• Transport
• Many things are causing older people to get less connected and at risk of isolation.
• Free internet at Te Hapua
• Being a small country means that often expectations outweigh reality - eg the health system
• Many are doing it tough with COVID - financially and emotionally and there are a large spectrum of responses - grief, stress, anger, worry etc. Part of the recovery is developing shared responsibility. COVID has been a totally different experience for everybody

Margaret explained how children have been particularly affected by the accumulation of events - earthquakes, shootings and now COVID. Schools are seeing anxiety and a lack of social cohesion. 

Murray raised the idea of people volunteering in local schools to share experiences and skills, eg wood working. The schools would love to have more older members of the community involved in their programmes.

Halswell Residents Association are working on reducing the speed and consistency of speed along the pedestrian and cycle access on the Aidanfield side of the road and the need for a crossing by Anthony Wilding.

Post earthquake the growth rate has been faster than expected and this has led to iissues as 

Infrastructure has not kept pace with the growth.

Changes to Sutherlands Road are in the long term plan for 2027/28. Some changes include the opening of Collier Drive which will take the pressure off.

Events coming up:

• Meet the candidates night will be on September 20th at Knights Stream School. Questions pre populated and the candidates will move around the different groups to get greater interaction
• ASB Banking workshop
• Oaklands School Gala - 25th November
• Celebrate Halswell - 3rd December

Halswell Connections

Meeting held Tuesday 21st June 2022

Halswell Community Hub, 381 Halswell Rd. 12.30-1.30pm

Volunteering Canterbury - Glenda Martin

Glenda Martin is the Outreach Manager for Volunteering Canterbury. She is often out and about presenting and advocating for volunteering, with her encyclopaedic knowledge of local for-purpose organisations and the wider volunteering environment. She is the key contact person for our member organisations and also coordinates our Group Volunteering projects linking all sorts of groups, businesses, schools and service groups, with local community organisations. She also manages our unique Tautoko Network support group, as well as coordinating Student Volunteer Expos, and other community events. Glenda is in the office Monday to Friday.
Volunteerig Canterbury was established in 1988 and has 300 non profit organisation members

Volunteering Canterbury offers the following services:

• Recruiting and supporting volunteers to assist organisations and people in need
• Free registration for people looking for volunteer roles on our website
• Community organisations can publish roles on our website
• Regular workshops and network meetings relevant to volunteer management
• Unique not-for-profit support and advocacy group, Tautoko
• Consultancy and mentorship for not-for-profit community organisations
• Group volunteering opportunities for businesses, schools and other groups
• 1:1 Volunteer Programme reviews
• Promoting the value of voluntary work via presentations, awards, displays celebrating key events and social and print media
• Advocating for volunteers and voluntary organisations

 

Benefits of Volunteering:

• Make a difference in your community
• Connect with people
• Gain experience and skills
• Support the causes you care about
• Keep your brain & body active
• Be part of a team
• Improve your health and reduce stress
• Boost your C.V. and find employment
• Have fun!
• Builds resilience in the community.

Volunteering contributes $11.9Million, 598.4k volunteer hours impacting 300,000 people.

National Volunteer week theme this year is “Time to reflect, dream and shine.”

There have been lots of nominations for awards this year which is a reflection of peoples desire to reach out. One Mother to Another is this years Charity of the Year.

Focus forward messages around wellbeing - avoiding burnout after the last few years with COVID. Lots of older volunteers struggles during the lockdown period as they couldnt connect in the normal way. Many have not returned to volunteer roles following COVID. Many older volunteers are engaged in other activities in retirement villages or looking after grandchildren. Younger volunteers tend not to be keen to commit long term and are after more project based volunteering where they can see an impact. Volunteer programs and roles need to take this into account and organisations need to sell the story of the impact that the program or project will have.

Current Volunteer opportunities in and around Halswell.

Roles need to be specific, stating location.

Te Hapua:  Not many volunteer roles at the Library.

Halswell Lions: Have lots of volunteers doing events, sausage sizzles, community clean ups, fundraising etc

Halswell Community Project: Leaflet deliveries, writing articles, helping with the Hub, events, activities like coffee morning

Halswell Hall: Fundraising co-ordinator, Website, working bees

Community Patrol: Drivers on patrol commit to 4 hours per month. Training and development is provided and they work closely with the police.

 

News from around Halswell:

Halswell Hall

Looking for volunteers,fully booked most weekends through to October. Some good events coming up.

Citizens Advice Bureau

West branch, volunteers are back on site. Need to ring to make an appointment but all clinics are back on including a new ACC service.

Halswell Community Project

Craft group have been knitting and crocheting for the tree outside the Hub to brighten it up.
Working on a new Halswell Directory
Collection point now for Bras and swimwear for Project Uplift.

Halswell Connections

Meeting held Tuesday 17th May 2022

Halswell Community Hub, 381 Halswell Rd. 12.30-1.30pm

Speaker - Caroline Johnson - Red Cross

Caroline and Jaqui introduced themselves.

Jaqui is a community fundraiser with national / local events to support Red Cross and Caroline has been with the Red Cross for 27 years

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement started in 1863 and was inspired by Swiss businessman Henry Dunant.

The suffering of thousands of men on both sides of the Battle of Solferino in 1859 upset Dunant. Many were left to die due to lack of care.

He proposed creating national relief societies, made up of volunteers, trained in peacetime to provide neutral and impartial help to relieve suffering in times of war.

In response to these ideas, a committee (which later became the International Committee of the Red Cross) was established in Geneva. The founding charter of the Red Cross was drawn up in 1863.

Dunant also proposed that countries adopt an international agreement, which would recognise the status of medical services and of the wounded on the battlefield. This agreement – the original Geneva Convention – was adopted in 1864.

The International Red Cross Movement (the Movement) consists of the International Committee of the Red Cross, the International Federation of Red Cross, and Red Crescent Societies and the 192 National Societies worldwide.

Each has its own legal identity, but they are all united by the 7 Fundamental Principles of:

• humanity
• impartiality
• neutrality
• independence
• voluntary service
• unity
• universality.

The New Zealand Red Cross has been providing humanitarian assistance in Aotearoa New Zealand and around the world since 1915. When the First World War broke out in 1914 and our service personnel joined the war effort, many in New Zealand called for the Red Cross to be formally set up in New Zealand. Governor-General Lord Liverpool called a meeting, and in 1915 the New Zealand Branch of the British Red Cross was born. The first tasks were to collect funds, food parcels and medical supplies to send to troops overseas.

Red Cross groups worked closely with the Order of St John throughout the war. When it was over, the two organisations implemented First Aid programmes and set up vocational training for returned servicemen. They also provided relief during the 1918 influenza pandemic and the 1931 Hawke's Bay earthquake. Late in 1931, New Zealand Red Cross became a national society in its own right. It was officially recognised by the Government in 1932.

New Zealand Red Cross has a network of more than 10,000 members, volunteers and staff working to support people from the Far North to the deep south. Their work is focused on preparing for and responding to disasters and emergencies, supporting refugees as they rebuild their lives, and providing community services such as delivering Meals on Wheels. 

Some of the things they do include

• 20 Disaster Welfare and Support Teams (DWST) around the country, made up of around 300 trained volunteers.  During a disaster, teams may be called up to support the response in partnership with other agencies. Red Cross’ role is usually to provide practical and emotional support to affected people - assess what’s needed, help provide shelter and other basic needs, and assist in a Civil Defence Centre. They also help communities prepare for disaster through the Good and Ready programme and Hazard App.
• help former refugees settle into their new lives in New Zealand
• help connect people who have lost touch with family overseas due to conflict or disaster
• First Aid Training - including Psychological First Aid
• Meals on Wheels
• Community programmes like the Curtain Bank
• Red Cross Shops

Halswell Connections

Meeting held Tuesday 12th April 2022

Halswell Community Hub, 381 Halswell Rd. 12.30-1.30pm

Speaker - Jackie Foulkes - St John Engagement officer / Alice - Area exec Manager for Christchurch and 1st responder

St John is a charity not a government agency, it is one of three emergency providers alongside police and fire.

St John is at the frontline of medical response providing Ambulance Services throughout New Zealand. St John is also part of the broader landscape of health and social care, through the provision of first aid training, event medical services, medical alarms, youth programmes and a wide range of community programmes.

Those who work for St John are driven by the desire to help their local communities by providing essential health-related services. Values are - Whakaaro nui (We have open minds), Mahi tika (Do the right thing), Tū tahi (We stand side by side), Mahi pono (We are straight up) and Whakapai ake (We make it better) 

History:

The Order of St John dates back nearly a thousand years to about 1070  when a hospice – a place of care – was established in Jerusalem by monks to care for the growing number of Christians making the long and dangerous pilgrimage to the holy city.

The St John logo incorporates the Amalfi Cross, a symbol with four arms and eight points. Every part of the cross has a meaning linked to four cardinal virtues and the eight qualities of an effective first aider.

The St John of Jerusalem Eye Hospital Group provides expert eye care to people in the West Bank, Gaza and East Jerusalem.

St John has existed in New Zealand since 1885 and is a key part of all communities throughout the country. St John is well known right around the world for providing first aid, health and wellbeing service. 

Christchurch:

There are 3 stations in Christchurch - Lyttleton, Akaroa and South City Mall with 9 spokes around the city. The closest hub to Halswell is at Hendersons Rd.

All emergency ambulances start in the centre and then are distributed around the city depending on where calls come in from.

Christchurch has 15 vehicles, 120 paid staff, 160 volunteers,4 different crews working 2 hour shifts. 40% of paid staff also hold a volunteer role.

The staff also run 7 event ambulances for events.

St John is contracted by the DHB to operate patient transfers between hospitals

78% of funding comes from Ministry of Health and ACC to cover the emergency services, the rest is from donations and a part charge for the service.

Other Services:

St John is busy throughout the community. The programmes they provide help people in many ways. In some cases they’re practical, like transport to health appointments; at other times they’re about emotional health, like providing regular contact with a caring friend. These services are run primarily by volunteers and are often free of charge.

Health Shuttles

The Health Shuttle is a free community service that transports people to essential appointments.

Caring Caller

St John’s free Caring Caller service connects people who need a friend with people who have time to listen and chat.

Friends of the Emergency Department/Hospital Friends

Our Friends of the Emergency Department (FED) and Hospital Friends volunteers provide comfort and support to hospital patients.

ASB St John in Schools

The ASB St John in Schools programme gives children an understanding of emergencies, as well as how and when to call an ambulance.

Therapy Pets

This popular community programme is sponsored by Summerset Retirement Villages and brings furry companions to bedsides and classrooms around the country to help bring reassurance.

Partnered programmes

St John partner with other organisations to deliver Healthline, Outreach Therapy Pets and PRIME.

Ngā Tohu Whakaora e Toru | 3 Steps for Life

Free training to help save lives in the community. 

Youth Programmes

​​St John Youth programmes help young New Zealanders to develop first aid, health care, leadership and life skills. Penguins are aged 6 to 8, Cadets are aged 8 to 18.

St John Youth divisions and activities are run by volunteers and the Halswell group is often full so extra help is always needed

Medical Alarms

A medical alarm is a device that meets the standards for either a standard/home medical alarm or a mobile medical alarm. St John has a range of alarms and medical alarms that connect directly to St John and 111 operators.

First Aid.

In addition to the ambulance services, St John provide training courses, kits and supplies, AEDs and smartphone applications. Training ranges from Babysitting first aid through to advanced resuscitation at hospitals. The most common is the Level 1 First Aid course.

Annual Supporter Scheme

In a medical emergency, a possible lifesaving trip in a St John ambulance will normally cost $98. An annual Ambulance Membership from St John covers the  whole household for an entire year. This means if that in a medical emergency, the cost of a callout is free. Annual Ambulance Membership includes free medical emergency attendance if required, emergency ambulance transport to hospital or an emergency medical clinic if required and free attendance and/or transport for accident-related injuries more than 24 hours old if required.

Halswell Connections

Meeting held Tuesday 15th February 2022

Halswell Community Hub, 381 Halswell Rd. 12.30-1.30pm

Speaker; Anne Galloway - Councillor for Halswell

Anne expressed thanks and appreciation to the Library and librarians for their work and efforts through COVID to make the Library as accessible to people as possible.  As with many things, the challenge is to work out how to connect with those not online.  Anne is working with Kate and Keri on social infrastructure and outreach to tackle isolation around the community. She expressed the need to look out for each other and look for the positives - especially in the current climate with COVID

Anne has been reflecting on what she does and looking at what she wants to achieve in the next year. The theme is facing challenges together rather than pulling away.

Big focus on youth
Civics education
Huritini Student council - a collaboration of students from the different schools in Halswell identifying issues important to them and their community.  For young people climate is a huge issue.
Collaborative action around waterways planting days with Halswell leading the way for the city. CCC does have a Climate Resilience Strategy:
https://ccc.govt.nz/the-council/plans-strategies-policies-and-bylaws/strategies/climate-change-strategy

Traffic congestion - some schools are piloting car pooling schemes to reduce the use of cars. Rangi Ruru Young Enterprise group are looking at a project including Halswell
Strengthening Community Networks 
Multicultural opportunities - building connections between neighbours
Safer environments - lower speeds, safe corridors to the schools and up Halswell Road etc
Activating Nga Puna Wai. So many people don’t know its even there let alone that it is a community facility. Lots of opportunities
Pool Activation Fund - reducing barriers to accessibility

Anne will be at Te Hapua regularly for people to talk to her about any issues they want to discuss.

Questions/Issues raised:

There were no questions or issues raised. People were encouraged to talk to Anne or contact her with any questions at any time.

News from around the Community:

Friendship Club / Garden Club:

Still meeting at Te Hapua and going well

Halswell Community Hub:

Really busy with new residents dropping in for information, welcome bags and attending groups.
New opportunities coming up - eg scrabble group on a Thursday morning from March
Collections still going - wine bottle tops, plastic milk bottle lids, plastic bread tags and sports gear
Website - developing a free business directory for Halswell based businesses

Te Hapua.

Renee and Donella introduced themselves as the new Community Librarians and outlined some of the things happening at the Library.
Vaccine Passes have impacted some aspects of the Library activities - for example no preschool programmes as distancing is too complicated with little ones.
Most activities / groups ARE still running. Eg - Scrabble, Knit and Yarn etc
Library staff have developed “Grab, Scan and Go” - bundles of books for people who don’t want to linger in the library public space
Lots of activities are now being offered online - Minecraft Club for example.
A high Resolution Scanner is available for the community to book - digitise old slides
Discovery Wall - touch screen with links to Canterbury stories, photos and websites. People can share photos or information through the website / discovery wall or take them into the library and staff will scan them for you.
Not at Te Hapua but there are Laser Cutter for Fibre Craft classes at Turanga - beginner level classes to design and create items like buttons etc. There is a Laser Cutter at South Library and will hopefully be one at the new Hornby Library.
Ready Reads - if people can’t get into the Library, they can now use ready reads. A bit like Click and Collect. The Librarian picks the items for you and you collect from outside the library.
Book a librarian is on hold in the Library under red but can be accessed by phone

Community Board - Andrei

Andrei identified the Halswell Road / Sparks Road intersection as an issue and suggested it needed an upgrade to make it safer
Number 7 bus is being reviewed this year and Andrei encouraged people to make a submission on this.
The planned bus lanes for Halswell Road / Lincoln Road are planned for 2024/25 
Andrei would like to see a footpath down past Aidanfield
Community Board meetings are now available to watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQN_yNuZzfRhDJ2scAEjCvA 

Volunteering Canterbury

Glenda outlined some of the things Volunteering Canterbury is doing / has coming up:

Volunteer growth being seen in the 18 - 25 year old age bracket. Lots of enquiries from schools for volunteer opportunities fro groups of students
Volunteering as a pre entry for employment for migrants - May
Age friendly steering committee
Projects getting those in retirement villages out into the community volunteering - on hold due to COVID
New Governance Bites series starts in March covering topics like keeping meetings relevant, role of the chair, getting people off the board, boards as employers etc. Each session starts at 5pm with pizza and then runs from 5.15 - 7pm

Health Improvement Practitioner

Marieke introduced herself as the new HIP for Halswell Health as part of Pegasus Health.

HIPs are part of a general practice team. They work with patients to achieve goals by providing support and follow-up for issues related to mental health. 

Halswell Connections

Meeting held Tuesday 2 19th October 2021

Halswell Community Hub, 381 Halswell Rd. 12.30-1.30pm

CCC Animal Control

Speakers Lionel Bridger and Bill Kohi, 

After brief Introductions Bill and Lionel gave an overview of animal management with respect to Dogs in Christchurch and then answered questions.There are 42,000 known dogs in Christchurch City and the animal management team consists of 11 field officers who between them work 24/7.

They deal with approximately 6000 wonders per year.

The biggest challenge is education and getting the message on compliance across - education is important but it needs to be followed up by compliance to drive the message home.Most common social issues are dogs fouling, being off leash in wet;and areas and social interactions between dogs, dogs and owners and the general public. As soon as a dog is off leash, there is risk - not necessarily from the dog itself but risk that other people/dogs might react/interact, risk to local bird and wildlife etc.

This is one of the reasons that dogs are prohibited during the summer period from 1 November in places like beaches.One of the priorities of the team are getting lost dogs home rather than in the pound. This both gets the dog off the street where it may cause a risk to others, get a fright and take off etc but also enables discussion, contact and education with the owners. Because of this approach, CCC has the lowest rate of impounding and euthanising dogs.

This is helped by the free microchipping initiatives which increase compliance.The most common complaints received are fouling and barking. Especially around Christmas time when people go away and leave their dogs either at home or with other people looking after them as the dogs are not accustomed to being alone for such long periods of time.

It is an offence to NOT pick up your dogs poo and an infringement can be issued.

Generally it is about getting evidence of an offence so a photo of a dog in a prohibited area etc can be sent in.

A photo of a loose dog on the Christchurch dogs facebook page is often very effective at identifying a loose dog which then allows animal control to find the owner - people dont need to follow offenders home to get an address.

Key places around Halswell to note:

Halswell Quarry Park 

The quarry has an open dog exercise area but dogs are expected to be leashed in other areas of the quarry - the exception is the wetland area which is prohibited.  This does make it difficult for dog owners to transition from one area to another. If a dog runs out of the exercise area it is immediately a risk

Restriction: Leashed.

Details: High recreational use and Sister City Gardens. Dogs are prohibited in the wetland area and must be on a leash in the rest of the park. Dogs may be exercised 'under effective control' in the off-leash area..

Policy status: Effective.

Nga Puna Wai and Canterbury Agricultural Park

Restriction: Prohibited/Leashed.

Details: Nga Puna Wai and Canterbury Agricultural Park (Wigram East Retention Basin), Hillmorton. The prohibited area covers the pond (which is unsuitable for recreational contact) and ecologically sensitive marginal plantings of wetland vegetation. Dogs must be on a leash on the walkway / boardwal through this area. Dogs may be under effective control in the remainder of the retention basin..

Policy status: Effective.

Sparks Rd Wetlands - were developed after the last bylaws were introduced so is not covered by those bylaws. This makes it difficult to enforce. This will be considered in the next consideration of the bylaws in 2024 so its important that the local community get involved in the submission process.

 

Questions/Issues raised:

What does legislation say re dogs?

There are 2 levels of legislation - National legislation and local bylaws.

The national legislation - Dog Control Act - is set by parliament and covers things like the requirement to always carry a leash and pick up dog mess.  Local bylaws sit under those laws and covers local issues - which areas are prohibited, on leash or under effective control.

Breaches of the bylaw are enforced under the Dog Control Act  and can carry an infringement of $300 - $750

Details of the different areas for dogs and the bylaws can be found on the CCC Website 

​​https://ccc.govt.nz/the-council/plans-strategies-policies-and-bylaws/bylaws/dog-control-policy-and-bylaw-2016

If people arent sure the easiest way to find information is on the council website - https://ccc.govt.nz/services/dogs-and-animals or google “ccc dogs”

The obligation is with the dog owner to know the rules before they exercise their dogs - different councils have different rules but the underlying legislation is the same

The council bylaws are reviewed every 10 years - the next review is due in 2024 so it is important the local residents, community board submit and are involved.

Ross noted that with Halswell growing at such a rapid rate it was vital to protect areas such as the creamery ponds and the Quaifes road wetlands from encroaching dog ownership

Dogs off leash at Nga Puna Wai?

At Nga Puna Wai / Canterbury Park, dogs should be either on lead or under effective control depending on the area.  There is a mix of environments in the area from green areas to the wetlands. Murray raised the issue that he has seen dead birds and noticed the birdlife reducing and questioned the lack of signage,

There is signage but it is not large and people generally dont take notice of signs.

Murray shared the example of Geraldine where signage has been attributed to a 50% drop in fouling

All green spaces are “under effective control” The wetland area is on leash.

It was noted that only protected wildlife is protected by the law. Even though its not acceptable for a dog to attack any bird/wildlife, if its not classified as protected animal control cant do much beyond education. It is illegal for a dog to kill protected wildlife as per the Wildlife Act 1953 but this does mean they are dealing with dated legislation.

Important to remember that just because a dog is on a leash doesnt mean they are under effective control.

Lack of a contained Dog Exercise area.

Andrei noted that the concept of a fenced dog park in Halswell was in the Long Term Plan but has been pushed out to 2030. It remains a priority of the Community Board and local Councillor.

Jan suggested the easiest way would be to fence the existing area at the Quarry.

Lynley agreed that an area was needed especially for bigger dogs that need to run / exercise more.

Suggestions also included a pole at the entrance to a dog area with poo bags for people who may have forgotten to bring them.

Unfortunately animal control dont have any say over dog parks - this is controlled by the Green Spaces/Parks people

What should the public do?

If you can get a car rego or address that is great

If not a photo of a dog in the wrong place is helpful

Send to CCC dog control

If you see a loose dog, leave it. It will generally find its way home or to its owner

• Dont break up a fight
• Dont walk past an aggressive dog - back away, dont look it in the eye. If necessary yell and try to get something between you and the dog.

What can Animal Management do?

The team have had lots of success re fouling in Little River.  They did a substantive letter box drop in the area affected providing advice and education which led to a big drop in the fouling problem.

If needed they can identify all dog owners in a suburb or area and do the same.

It was suggested that it could be helpful to get this information translated into other languages as Halswell is becoming more diverse and it is always easier to understand things in your first language.

If called - animal control can take a dog depending on the issue. This is a risk if the dog or owner becomes aggressive.

It was agreed that there was a need to educate both dog owners on the laws as well as non-dog owners who can sometimes interpret the law incorrectly and accuse dog owners of offending when they havent. 

Animal Management do this through open days, school and work place visits and distributing key information

How effective are fines?

People generally pay otherwise they end up in court. Animal Control issue around 1500 infringements a year.

If an owner receives 2 or more in 24 months for 2 incidents they are issued a warning letter and if they reoffend they may be disqualified from owning a dog or placed on probation for a period.

It can cost to follow an infringement through the courts so where possible the idea is to reeducate

Are the Park Rangers involved?

Animal Management team looked into getting rangers involved and warranted/trained but this poses a risk as they are generally not trained to handle dogs.

The rangers were keen but further up the chain said no.

 

Next Meeting: 

Tuesday 16th November

Speaker - Citizens Advice Bureau

Halswell Connections

Meeting held Tuesday 20th Setember 2021

Halswell Community Hub, 381 Halswell Rd. 12.30-1.30pm

Speaker; Mike Bourke Senior Technician Water & Waste Planning, CCC.

Mike introduced himself and asked for questions on Water in Halswell.

What does the 3 waters reform mean for Halswell?

The 3 waters reform is a government initiative to ensure safe water to all New Zealanders and came into being after the Havelock North e coli incident. It amalgamates all water providers into 4 distinct entities which takes control out of the hands of elected members and effectively puts it in the hands of a company.

One issue not yet clear is who then owns the assets. Current and future citizens of a city will be paying for the assets but how will that be recognised?

What happens if the government does take this over?

This is one of the key things to work out going forward. Mike outlined that the current system was unfair as it stands as water rates are based on CV of the house not the amount of water used. The new entities and the assets will be regulated but the costs in doing this are as yet unknown. It is however unlikely to save any money.

The council have started charging for excessive water use ovr 700l a day. Its a start to make people value water but currently a single person can be paying the same for their water as a large family if the house value is the same.

How do the council charge for wastewater?

This is based on the proportion of the water used by the house.

Is Christchurch short of water?

Not currently. Christchurch draws its water from huge underground resources which have an estimated capacity of 75 million m3 . Currently we draw around 55 million m3 which is well within capacity but with continued growth we could get there.

Mike agrees with the idea that we should be paying for water in some shape or form simply so that people value it more as a resource - like they do internet, phone etc.  There are different options in this. For example households could pay for every cubic metre used or households could opt in to pay for every m3 if they think they use less than the average designated by the council in the rates. Perth has this as an option for residents.

The problem will always be the societal extremes. Some people who can’t afford it could end up with big bills.

One suggestion would be including water consumption on the rates bill so people could see how much water they actually used.

Do all the new subdivisions have water metres?

Yes. All properties have a metre. Even the older ones.

Will Christchurch water continue to be chlorinated?

Mike said he would like to think not. The problem is the national system compares apples and oranges.  Christchurch is compared to other areas who draw their water from underground, however our water comes from a very different source than Havelock North where the e. coli outbreak was down to extreme conditions and poor infrastructure.  By comparison, Christchurch water comes from deep aquifers and CCC have invested in upgrading the infrastructure to prevent this occurring. For example, bringing the well heads above ground to prevent backflow.

Some wells cant get very deep so are UV disinfected. CCC has never confirmed e. coli from the wells
Having a non return valve on every property prevents backflow into the system.
The concrete roofs on reservoirs need sealing and fixing as the concrete is porous and allows runoff into the water stored inside.
Once these upgrades are finished CCC will put forward their case to the government for no chlorine in Christchurch water. 

What about nitrates? How is CCC working with the regional council on that?

Nitrate levels are a point of discussion. Christchurch levels are currently well within guideline levels but there is research suggesting those levels are still too high. The groundwater that feeds the aquifers comes from water flowing from Halkett/West Melton and North Canterbury flowing under the Waimakiriri river

ECAN are currently looking into rising NItrate levels that could be coming from North of the Waimakiriri as high levels have been detected north of the Waimak and that water flows under the river into the Christchurch groundwater

The underground water is filtered by both abiotic and biotic systems. Natural filtration removes most suspended matter from groundwater as the water passes through porous layers of soil and rock into the aquifers. Biotic factors are affected by high levels of nitrates which is why it is so important to monitor and reduce these levels.

Snow melt does end up in the Waimakiriri but not much recharges the aquifer as once it passes Halkett the water surfaces and runs off to the sea.

Water monitoring / dating.

Mike explained that water can be dated! In order to draw from the underground water, monitoring has to show that the water in the wells is at least 2 years old. Thi sis done through carbon and tritium dating and modelling can tell where the water entered the system and when. Some of the water in the wells is 175 years old.

Water Reform Costs? The government say the reforms will save us billions. Where do the savings come from?

How will the government do the same thing as the councils and do it cheaper?

The reforms will improve water for smaller, rural centres, not for the bigger centres like cities. The reforms aim to reduce the huge gap in NZ betweenthe top and bottom of water quality and access.

The savings would presumably come from the reduced levels of management. Whether this is a good or bad thing is up for discussion.

There is so much work to do in some regions and communities that it cant possibly save money.

Ross raised concerns that Christchurch water assets are worth $6.9 Billion with $1.1 Billion in debt meaning a net worth of $5.8 billion yet the government are offering Christchurch $122 million. There is a clear inequity in the argument when other communities who have not invested in their infrastructure are being offered similar amounts of money for assets worth far far less.

Ross also questioned whether the costs paid by developers would remain in the local area as if water is no longer controlled by the local council these fees would end up elsewhere in the country. Whilst he was certain most people would not have an issue subsidising the infrastructure upgrades in rural areas for example, he though people would have an issue with selling $6.9 billion of assets for $122 million!

Another issue raised was that of stormwater. Especially in Christchurch where swales and retention basins are an integral part of the landscape, parks and green spaces. How will they be managed if the council no longer control them.

Mike agreed that there were a number of issues the government had yet to address:

Stormwater
Ownership of assets

What's going on with Stormwater in the area?

New developments are responsible for managing the stormwater that development will generate. The idea is that they develop systems to mitigate the runoff so that it would be no more that that generated by the site in its undeveloped state.

The big storm in May 2021 suggests that the mitigation works. Flooding was far less than in previous events before the retention basins and wetlands had been developed.

When developing a site the developer needs to tak into account the wider basin and the impact any building may have on that, particularly since the earthquakes raised the groundwater levels in the area..
This is why long term land use plans are so important and cant just be changed as any change of use can impact another area.

Mike suggested that every household should have a stormwater system to collect the rain off the roof and reuse it.

Any truth to the rumour that the Sutherlands retention basins are over allocated?

Mike wasn't sure about this but probably not.

 

Can you use Pressure sewage tanks to collect and pump out storm water?

No. Definitely not. This is a myth. People see the tanks and think they are for stormwater but they are only for wastewater

In TC1 areas sewers have been replaced by pressure sewage tanks which are more robust and can be pumped out if needed

Halswell Connections

Meeting held Tuesday 17th August 2021

Halswell Community Hub, 381 Halswell Rd. 12.30-1.30pm

Speaker; Megan Woods MP

Megan outlined a few issues she is working on locally but asked for feedback as she was more interested in answering peoples questions and hearing from the local community what was important to them.

Megan is currently working with NZTA on the access for pedestrians along Lincoln road past Aidanfield where there is currently no footpath along what is a very busy and dangerous road.  This is being included in the emerging options as part of the Lincoln Road upgrade. The question is how we reduce congestion along that stretch of road as some days 8 lanes wouldn't be enough to alleviate the congestion.

Megan also encouraged people to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

Questions:

If you are single and living alone, why can't you self isolate at home?

MIQ came into force because people wouldn't follow the rules. If people had followed the rules initially this may have been an option. There is a small trial in October for isolating at home following travel to see if we can make that work. It's based on trust.

What is the timeframe for the Lincoln Road upgrade?

Megan is meeting with Waka Kotahi next week on this

Why is Lincoln Road NZTA not CCC?

Essentially because it is such a busy main arterial road. Councils don't want the responsibility or financial burden of maintaining these roads on their relatively small budgets. Councils do have a close relationship with Waka Kotahi to help raise the profile of local priorities for maintenance

Why is the speed limit 80kph past Aidanfield?

This is historic from when this stretch of road ran through a green belt. It will change in the future as the area is now built up and residential 

What is the update on the Hillmorton High School upgrade?

Ministry of Ed are in discussions with the school around the sports centre and this is looking positive. Currently the school is receiving 5 new classrooms and 5 outdoor courts.

The school is master planned for 2000 students. 

Currently the mInistry have no plans to change the year 7 / 8 zoning which put Halswell students “out of zone”

Megan identified a need to make the roads safer for students to access Hillmorton safely.

Is the new Netsall centre still going ahead at Nga Puna Wai?

Yes- probably need to speak to community board members and councillor around details and plans for this.

When will the new Metro centre open?

Early next year

Is the new hospital car park going ahead?

Yes. The site on the corner of St Asaph and Hagley that is currently a bare land car park will be developed in partnership with Ngai Tahu. The current CDHB building will also be extended. The current hold up is through issues with the consent process.

Will you be standing at the next election? And what will you be standing on?

Yes.  Parties usually release the manifestos and policies a few months out at around the same time so its a fair process.  Megan outlined that she prefers to think of it as a 3 year conversation so that people know what she stands for when she stands rather than a sudden release just before an election.

Are there any other portfolios you would like or are interested in?

No. Housing, Energy, Research and Innovation and finance are more than enough.

Are there any COVID vaccination events planned for the South Island?

Yes we are working on getting the vaccination centres close to where people are. Eg school halls, local pharmacies. 

Halswell Pharmacy are now doing vaccinations.

What is the difference between local government and council?

Local government covers the region and is made up of regional council, council and ECAN whereas the Council is responsible for a smaller, specific area -Christchurch.

Issues raised:

Dangerous crossing outside Halswell School - can’t put in a pedestrian crossing as it’s a State Highway

NZTA are looking at a discussion paper on reducing the speed limit outside all schools to 30kph

Traffic all through the community is an issue

Public Transport

Due to the growth there are major issues with public transport. Pre earthquake the bus routes and timetables served Halswell far better. Obviously the bus lanes and upgrade of Lincoln Rd will help but what is the timeline for improving public transport?

Megan said the government had been pushing councils to be ambitious with public transport plans and present business cases to support them. Some councils had done this - CCC had not. The timeline sounds like there will be public consultation early 2022 which will then go to the government for funding.

ECAN are responsible for the bus routes - we will look at getting a representative to a future meeting to discuss this issue

News from other organisations:

Community Board

Summer with your neighbours funding applications are open

A speed review will take place on Aidanfield drive

Looking at the portable speed signs and whether it would be viable to get one for the area. Keen to see results on effectiveness

Smart bins in parks having a few teething problems due to location and lack of numbers. Andrei is keen to hear any feedback around whether the amount of rubbish has increased or decreased with the changes. Halswell football club has already raised this and he feels more signage is needed around rubbish and dog waste. Waiting to hear if ore bins are on the way

CCC

Sam shared that there is a regular Principals meeting and they are looking at improving the safety access to schools through “play on the way” 

The new Hornby Centre consultation  is open for engagement on activities and programmes. This closes on Sept 1st - link

Workshop coming up for anyone interested in organising events - Get Set Go programme is a 1 day workshop including all resources for $35. Contact Sam if you are interested.

Halswell Hall

Holding a summer BBQ on 28th Jan 2022

Bookings are almost full but need volunteers to spread the load

Knights Stream School

KSS is growing well with over 300 students. ⅔ of these are year 3 and below (under 8) The BoT has been proactive in approaching the ministry regarding the next phase of the building process to accommodate the growth. The next block planned will increase capacity by around 250

Playground areas are being developed and Mike, Anna and a group of students are visiting school to gather ideas.

Halswell Lions

Next meeting is September 1st - speakers are Kate and Keri from HCP

Halswell Community Project

Lynne encouraged people to check out the new look newsletter and to send in information and articles for the September Newsletter - deadline 24th August.

Next Market is the Christmas market on 28th November - fully booked already!

As well as the bread tags, wine bottle tops and sports gear, Halswell Hub is now a collection point for the Hoon Hay Food Bank (non perishable items and sanitary products) and Milk Bottle lids- #2 plastics for Over the Top Recycling. Neith is collecting the lids, melting them down and turning them into skate boards to sell to fundraise for his rowing dream.

HCP has secured funding from Rata and the Community Board to extend the opening hours of the Hub and to employ a Community Youth Worker. 

The Hub is in the process of having the new heating system installed.

Halswell Garden Club | Halswell Friendship club

Monthly meetings continue, Christine is now the contact person for the Garden club

Halswell Connections

Meeting held Tuesday 20th July 2021

Halswell Community Hub, 381 Halswell Rd. 12.30-1.30pm

Speaker; Tracey McLellan MP

Tracey shared a little bit about her background and how she came into politics.

Growing up in Southland she moved to Canterbury in 2002 and completed her PhD at Canterbury University. She spent 10 years at UC mainly in the fields of psychology and neuroscience then paediatric brain injury in mainly adults.  Following the earthquakes this no longer seemed enough and she decided she wanted to spend less time on funding applications and reports and more time doing practical things to help people. Working with Ruth Dysona nd Megan Woods after the quakes she discovered she was more effective doing rather than her previous roles and enjoyed being on the ground working at the grassroots level. As a result she has been able to for example, work on a new members bill on concussion in sport which is a simple legislative change but could make a huge difference especially to young people

A single parent of two grown up boys, Tracey said they are a relatively political family and getting involved and joining the Labour Party gave her a sense of belonging and family.  She believes change comes from the inside and has been in her role as an MP for 8months now, the first 3 months were an eye opener.

The job is essentially split into 2 roles - her work in parliament in Wellington and the other working in and with the local communities she represents.  Teh days in Wellington are extremely long with lots of information, meetings and decisions to make but she enjoys the variety and excitement of it. On the other hand the issues she deals with representing the local communities in Christchurch, Banks Peninsula are extremely varied as each community is very different. Which she also enjoys.

Questions:

What Select committees are you on?

Health (deputy chair). The health select committee covers a huge range of issues including water reform to ensure that every New Zealander has access to clean drinking water.  The health committee gets the most petitions, all of which take time to read, dgest and research.

Are the water reforms driven by the health committee?

They certainly started under health. The intention is that every New Zealander has access to safe, clean drinking water.  Tracey acknowledged that the Water services bill is very complicated and includes the infrastructure changes as wella s things like fluoridation in the future. Christchurch in particular is very keen to keep the water chlorine free and most councils are not keen on the shift in the infrastructure proposed but again, the focus is to make sure water is available everywhere in NZ so some decisions may not be popular. Ross suggested that the general public were overwhelmed/swamped by the proposed changes and it may have been better to tackle one aspect at a time. Tracey acknowledged that it is a lot to take in.

Who owns the water?

Discussion points suggested that water should not be owned by one group or another as it belongs to every New Zealander and it should stay that way.  Tracey said that is a question that is always going to need to be considered but it is not even on the table. This is about infrastructure and getting water to every person in NZ. They are still very much at the beginning of the process and are hoping to future proof it so water can’t be privatised in the future.

Do you have any other areas of interest?

Yes. Tracey was put into health because of her background and experience in the area but would love to be more involved in Science and Innovation as she is excited by the future in this area and how it covers/supports all sectors.

Are there plans to make dentistry free?

Labour advocates for dentistry under the health umbrella and believe it should be free and accessible and part of the health system so definitely a goal. Tracey outlined that oral health is one of the leading contributors to cardiovascular health issues and the state of children's teeth was a very good indicator for the need for fluoride in the water

What local issues do you deal with?

It varies widely from suburb to suburb. In Halswell its generally issues associated with the rapid growth and maintaining the sense of belonging and community. As an Mp it is not Traceys role but she can support people when they raise issues or difficulties. For example, around the need for a local dog park or if they need help navigating the system to get the help and support they need.

News from other organisations:

Halswell Hall

Judith outlined the work the hall has had done. This includes pruning of the trees and laying down bark chip mulch. The Pie fundraiser was successful and the Hall now has an AED installed.

Halswell Lions

Lynley shared that after the AGM, the Lions has now had a change of officers and a new president.  They have some events coming up, the first being a quiz night in August

Halswell Community Project

Kate shared that HCP has been working with council on the handover of the building and this will occur shortly once all paper work is finalised. 

A request for items for the newsletter and a reminder that the Hub is a collection point for Blankets, Wine Bottle Tops, Bread Tags and sports gear for the give gear get great programme.

Halswell Residents Association.

Ross outlined the issues the residents association are currently working on. This includes an application by the Bottle O on Ensign Street to extend its hours and put out footpath advertising. This sets a precedent for the other liquor outlets who currently restrict their opening hours to 9pm so if approved this potentially creates 3 outlets selling alcohol late in the evening which is less than ideal for the local community. HRA will be attending the hearing.

The NZTA speed limit review closes on 27th July and HRA have their AGm on MOnday 26th July, 7pm at ST Marys Church

CCC

Sam shared that the Huritini student council have approached the community board and presented on their ideas around Westlake park including signage and possibly a mural. They are working with the council around budgets and funding their projects.

Anne said that she and the council have been working on partnerships to get the best outcomes for local communities.

Other issues raised:

Murray shared his frustration around dog control in the area.  He said it is pretty bad and confusing with areas where dogs are off lead when they shouldn't be and mess left all over the ground.  The group decided that this was something that we should look at in a future meeting.

Halswell Connections

Meeting held Tuesday 15th June 2021

Halswell Community Hub, 381 Halswell Rd. 12.30-1.30pm

Supporting Refugees through Community Sponsorship.

Nick Regnault (SWBC)

Nick has been involved with South West Baptist Church and the pilot scheme welcoming refugees to New Zealand.

NZ has an existing refugee programme run by the government in partnership with organisations such as the Red Cross and using volunteers. This Quota programme is government funded and has 1500 places per year.

Worldwide, the number of refugees has increase whilst the number of government funded places has decreased

On top of this, are community sponsored places. Such a programme has been running successfully in Canada for 40 years.  Under Community Sponsorship, communities may come together to sponsor a family and help them to settle into an area. The aim is to welcome a family to the community and encourage them to settle there by providing practical and social support.

New Zealand ran a pilot programme under the community sponsorship scheme which involved 4 groups across NZ and 25 refugees.  South West Baptist was part of a campaign to make the programme bigger and permanent.  As a result the government have agreed to expand the pilot to more refugees but needs communities to get behind it to make it a success. So far 50 groups have depressed interest in the programme.

“Community Sponsorship complements the quota programme but it is communities that offer the help.”

Nick showed a video from the www.kiwiswelcomerefugees.com website which demonstrated the experiences of both refugees and communities involved in the programme.

From a community perspective getting involved means providing practical support at a grassroots level:

• Making the family feel welcome
• Helping to find a house and making sure it is furnished/equipped with everything a family will need.
• Helping families to learn English,
• Help with getting their driver's licence
• Friendships
• Spending time together
• Introducing them to others in the community
• Helping them find groups and activities to take part in
• Helping the children feel welcome at school

SWBC welcomed 3 Middle Eastern families, all with children. All had a fundamental grasp of English which is different to the Quota system. The sponsorship programme is more geared to families who have a high chance of integration.

In order to welcome the families, SWBC set up 3 groups of 7 / 8  volunteers and organised to think about how they could use existing networks, available time etc to create a sense of belonging. They then mapped where the volunteers lived and found houses for the refugee families in that area so that there would be a crossover in the places visited and facilities used. Frequenting the same schools, shops etc created accidental as well as intentional interactions. One example Nick gave was the children being at the same School. A simple “Hi” in the playground or at the gate made the children of the family feel like they belonged.

The networks of the volunteers and community around them enabled them to leverage opportunities for work/employment etc and helped bridge cultural divides/misunderstandings (such as “Bring a plate”). Volunteers invested time that may have been setting aside a time for a coffee or more.

The families sponsored by SWBC felt safe. Even after the terror attack which affected many of them very badly, these families don’t blame NZ and are still grateful they came to NZ.  The programme creates friendships and connections that help people when they go through hard situations.

Going forwards, the government has agreed to fund an additional 150 families over 3 years NZ wide. This is contingent on Kiwis stepping up. Nick and his organisation are inviting communities to form a group and welcome a family.  The first families arrive in NZ in July 2022. This time groups are not on their own, the government is investing in training and will match new groups with those who have done it before to provide support. In addition, in this second round, families get a choice whether they want to engage in the programme or not and there will be an attempt to match families with sponsorship groups and locations

“The only thing that can make a difference to a society is a group of committed citizens” (Margaret Mead)

In order to succeed more people need to engage in conversations.

Questions:

How does a group go about finding a house?

Families don't initially qualify for housing NZ so look at private market, use networks to find available property

What challenges are posed by refugees coming from detention centres?

At this stage this is unknown but presumably will be similar to families coming from a refugee camps. Those families are more likely to have more complex issues and be assigned to the government Quota system.

How can we help change public perception of refugees?

Be a bridge ot help. We start by being the change, modelling it, talking about it. Our action creates the change.

What are refugee expectations of us when they arrive?

The first pilot operated in a vacuum of knowledge. This created some difficulties, eg, refugees not being able to transfer qualifications or skills to the NZ labour market.  The learning that came from this will be applied to the new pilot. Eg asking “here is an opportunity, would you like to take it” and an understanding that ties to family and home may be stronger than the desire to relocate and “lose” that sense of belonging. Refugees will be interviewed as part of the process to ensure that expectations are realistic and all parties understand the process and what they are going to.

News from other organisations:

Halswell Hall

Judith outlined the work the hall has had done. This includes major drainworks and installation of a water filter.  They are also fundraising and seeking sponsorship for an outdoor AED.  The Spring bulb fundraiser raised $600 and the latest fundraiser is Pies. Judith left some flyers and details for interested people.

Kiwi Church

Beer and BBQ Church is happening at the Hub each Sunday. 

Halswell Community Project

Chrys requested items for the newsletter and Judith passed on congratulations for a successful AGM.

Keri shared that the May market was a huge success with a beautiful day and over 1200 people visiting.

Kate shared that the council had voted unanimously to gift the Hub to HCP and that HCP are now working with staff to organise this.

A reminder that the Hub is a collection point for Blankets, Wine Bottle Tops, Bread Tags and sports gear for the give gear get great programme.

Friendship Club / Garden Club

Meeting regularly as usual

CDEM

Sonali introduced herself as the new Community Resilience Coordinator to work with communities on response etc. She shared a series of leaflets/flyers and information that are useful for communities including radio frequencies and information on tsunami zones.

Halswell Residents Association.

John outlined the work the HRA has been doing including submissions to the council and concerns over the ward systema nd boundaries.

HRA are currently opposing and extension of hours and footpath advertising by the Bottle-O on Ensign Street. They have also been discussing speed restrictions and the Matai Stumps on Quaifes road.

Halswell Residents Association meet on the last Monday of each month, 7pm at St Marys Church.

CCC

Emma shared that the representation review was due to close (Thursday 17th June)

Sam shared about an upcoming engagement on parks in Halswell that she would like to hear from the community about. More information to follow.

Get Set Go workshop is coming up for those who might be interested. This is a 1 day workshop for anyone involved in organising community events. For more information contact Sam.

Community Board

Debbie and Andrei outlined what the community board have been working on. This includes the representation review and ward boundaries. Kennedys bush was originally positioned in the Cashmere ward but has now been reassigned to Halswell. This unfortunately created another issue which saw Knights Stream pushed out to Hornby. Following more discussion with Council Knights Stream is now back in Halswell Ward but at the expense of Copper Ridge, which remains in Hornby. This seems like a strange decision as parts of Wigram are in Halswell but parts of Halswell are not.  Andrei is asking for clarification and plans to appeal this.

Debbie agreed that the motorway was a more logical boundary and shared her personal opinion that maybe we shouldnt have boundaries within the community board ward (Halswell-Hornby-Riccarton) as the board makes collective decisions for the whole area. However discussion also outlined why having smaller boundaries was useful - people feel that they have a direct route to those making the decisions.

Andrei also shared that it was Mens Health Awareness week and they are collecting NEW underwear and socks for men in need. These can be dropped into the Hub during the week (14th - 21st June)

 

Halswell Connections

Meeting held Tuesday 18th May 2021

Hillmorton High School, Tankerville Road, Hoon Hay 12.30-1.30pm

 

Hillmorton High School.

Hillmorton is a diverse, medium-sized Years 7-13 school with a dedicated Middle and Senior School. The size and scope of the school means they are able to provide students with a caring and supportive environment, where they are known as an individual from Year 7 through to Year 13.

Ann Brokenshire (principal) and Duane Major (Board Chair) showed the group around the new building - Aonga Ake. This building is located at the front of the school site nearer the road to give the school a greater more welcoming presence particularly for new students and parents who are a welcome part of the school community.

Ann described how the building was designed to bring the middle school, years 7 - 10, together and give them a sense of belonging and inclusion.  The design and architecture aims to reflect all the different cultures represented in the school and students had input into the design and features. The spaces are designed to be flexible with single cell classrooms that can open up into the bigger spaces to be used as teachers/ classes wish.

Part of the new building brings Ko Taku Reo (Van Asch school) into the main school and these students have classrooms within Aonga Ako which again helps with their sense of belonging to Hillmorton.

The masterplan for Hillmorton is for 2000 students with a current roll of just over 1000. The school has seen a period of growth with the current year 9 being the largest the school has seen at 237 students. It is expected that this growth will continue and roll up.

Hillmorton has a great board who are all heavily invested in the school, most of their own children attend.

Ann shared several stories of students' successes and acknowledged that the school would like to do more of this within the wider community.  Many parents share that their children's school experience at Hillmorton prepares them for the real world because it is enriched by the diversity within the school

We discussed the free school lunches trial which Hillmorton is a part of. The team at UCSA have been doing regular student and parent surveys to improve the service and food provided and the school is seeing an increase in uptake by students. Students eat in their Whanau groups which is working well as eating and relating go hand in hand and helps to build relationships and that sense of belonging. All packaging is recyclable and any lunches not eaten are passed onto other organisations or back to the University who use them in their food bank for students who may be struggling. This means that even if not eaten at school, the lunches are not going to waste.  Long term the school would love to have a full cafeteria providing choice and hot food but this is a long way off.

Keri asked how the no cell phones policy was going.  The overwhelming results are successful. As well as students being more engaged in other activities, staff have seen a huge drop in the number of phones being confiscated each day - 10 per day being the max currently. In a school of over 1000 this is a great result. Instead students are spending time in the library or engaged in sports, card games and talking to each other.

One spin off of the policy was the need to put clocks in each classroom so students could keep track of time - and therefore the need to teach lots of students how to read an analogue clock.

Sally asked how the school deals with the sometimes negative perception the public may have.  Ann said it was simple really - by focussing on the positive and championing the students they have. The school is very family oriented and works closely with individuals to solve problems. They have a great pastoral wrap around culture which means they have one of the lowest stand down rates in Christchurch.

During questions, Ann outlined how the biggest challenge Hillmorton faces is how to develop a culture that retains the pastoral wrap around that is key to Hillmortons success. This involves setting structures at deputy and associate principal level, year levels,pastoral leadership and increasing teams within the staffing so that decisions are made as close to the point of impact as possible.  The board currently funds some staff to enable the class sizes to be kept smaller

Setting the culture - high expectations - then allows the strategy to be put in place to develop that culture.

Duane suggested the tension between size and growth could be managed by growing slowly and growing well. Planning and culture are key to this with the school being whanau orientated and committed to their visions of working with their communities,  nurture well-rounded and accomplished young people, prepared and ready for life

Finally Duane described the urgent need for the new gym.The 6 tennis courts that gave way for Aonga Ake have been replaced but the gym is needed urgently.  The school is hoping for a decision on this from the Ministry of Education in the next few weeks.   

 

 

News from around Halswell

From the Library Team at Te Hapua:

New bilingual (English and Chinese) family literacy group started up. This is on Thursdays from 4-5pm.
Have a go in Virtual Reality, adults drop-in and have a go, no experience required – 2-3.30pm Friday 28 May and 25 June. Sessions for small groups can also be arranged.
The Zone for Teens Wednesday 3.30-4.30pm, different activities for teens weekly during term time, VR, 3D Printing, DJ gear and more. Free, drop-in.
Afterschool clubs for kids are running, check on my.christchurchcitylibraries.com before the start of the school term.
Special interactive 45 minute performance from the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra wind quintet.  This is for 2-6 year olds and their family, at 10.30am on Wed 9 June.
Holiday programmes in the planner for July are:

• Making woolly monsters
• Crafting Sheep on a stick
• Making snowflake string art
• Building phone compatible speakers (for teens)
• All morning programme for 9-12 year olds to be a librarian for the morning
• Minecraft
• Specialised drop in activities (music, VR etc) for teens
• Alice in Wonderland celebration week and themed storytime

Halswell Connections

Meeting held Tuesday 13th April 2021

Halswell Community Hub - 381 Halswell Road, 12.30-1.30pm

Emma Pavey (CCC Community Development Advisor) and Sam Holland (CCC Community Recreation Advisor)

Emma and Sam gave some background on who they were, how they arrived in their roles and some of the projects they worked on. Sam and Emma work closely together and their roles do overlap.

Emma started as a funding advisor before moving on to become a Community Recreation Advisor followed by a governance manager. All these roles linked strongly into and gave a valuable background to the role of Community Development Advisor.

Initially Emma worked in the Hoon Hay area where she initiated projects like the Hoon Hay Fiesta as a tool to bring people together and increase capacity. Emma also worked with a group of teenagers around the need for lights on the park for basketball. 

This process involved working with the local people/ group, upskilling them and helping them to navigate the channels at council for the desired outcome. Civic participation helps empower people and give them a voice to make a difference for their community.

Emma explained that community led development (rather than council led) leads to a more connected community.

Sam is originally from Christchurch and studies at Lincoln Uni. She has had lots of roles including a summer assistant supporting events across the city such as Hello Hornby.

As the recreational advisor she supports local groups with events and activities such as the Celebrate Halswell Event, Childrens Day and possible future events.  She is also involved in the Huritini Student Council encouraging local children to take part in activities they are passionate about. For example the group have been looking at signage around Westlake Park  to protect the birds and wildlife. She is also involved in the Give Gear Get Great program.

Some of the things Emma and Sam are working on at present include:

Halswell Heritage Trail - maps around the community with information about the history and heritage of the area that brings stories together. The plan is to develop an app to go with this.
Long Term Plan Submissions close on the 18th April - there are drop in information sessions associated with this.
Community Service Awards
Walking Festival

Representation review which closes on the 16th May. Halswell is currently the largest ward so may see boundary changes. For example - Westmorland and Wigram are likely to be separated off and placed in adjacent wards rather than Halswell.

Development contributions. Developers currently pay a contribution towards development and infrastructure and this process is open for submissions, for example $1000 per section could be going towards local development and infrastructure

Climate change strategy - submissions close on 25th April

Mike raised the issue of the Nottingham stream levels. It would appear that the stream, like the Westlake Lakes is groundwater fed and therefore affected by the low rain levels over a long period rather than the development around the area.

Christchurch City Council has started a project to develop a Three Waters Strategy to ensure long-term sustainability of the natural resources communities rely on for their daily needs. We may be able to get them to a future Connections meeting to discuss this in more detail.

News from around Halswell.

Te Hāpua: Halswell Centre.

Pam and Lisa shared what is happening at the Library currently. 

A new What’s On booklet has been released and is available from the library

Digital Futures courses for 65 plus are going well

Tuesday afternoons are Tech drop in help sessions and residents can book a librarian for 1 on 1 help 

Groups use the library facilities for informal meetings such as:

Knitting Group -Thursday and Saturday afternoon 1 - 3pm
Scrabble group - Wednesday 1 - 3pm

HIPPY

HIPPY (Home Interaction Programme for Parents and Youngsters) is currently reaching out to find families with children aged 3 - 5 for their program which encourages parents to be first teachers and aid the transition to school. The program improves skills and relationships and feedback shows that children from the program are often ahead of their peers when they start school.

Halswell Community Project

Lynne asked that any notices or articles for the next newsletter be emailed through to her at halswell.newsletter@gmail.com.

Kate and Keri have been busy at the Hub. The Community Board recommended that the Council gift the building to HCP to run and the final decision will be made by council in May.

A new batch of welcome bags has been put together and are ready to be distributed. Kate will drop some off at the Library to give out.

Next Market is 23rd May

School Holidays at the Hub - Sock Puppet craft mornings 10 - 12 on Wednesday 21st and Thursday 22nd April

In addition to the sharing shack, book shack and collecting wine bottle tops, the Hub is now a collection point for good quality blankets and bedding which will be sent over to the New Brighton blanket bank. They have also started collecting bread tags which can be recycled to fund wheelchairs in South Africa.

Halswell Hall

Judith noted that she had taken delivery of the spring bulbs from the fundraiser. They had a good response and raised $421 which will go towards installing an AED on the front porch of the hall.

The Hall is looking for several people to help with the running of the facility - funding coordinator, fundraiser, communications officer, IT person, Social media.

Lots of little jobs need doing around the place and lots of fundraising happening

The new stage will be installed at the end of July and Judith is looking into getting the Elms trimmed due to Health and Safety concerns.

Halswell Residents Association

Ross outlined the proposed changes to SH 75, Halswell Road between Dunbars road and Curletts road. More information can be found here: https://www.nzta.govt.nz/projects/sh75-halswell-road-improvements/

An open Night to be held on Thursday 15th April at Rowley School. 3.30 - 6pm

It was discussed that Halswell NEEDS better bus services into town. Currently it is far faster to travel by car than take the bus due to the congestion. Hopefully this proposal will ease that congestion and make safer access to Hillmorton High School with traffic lights at the end of Tankerville Road.

Halswell Lions

Peter said the Lions have had a busy month. They supported Hillmorton High school during their camp by taking the school lunches out to the students and staff on camp over the 2 week period. He noted that the lions are heavily involved with HHS.

The Lions district have lots of youth activities and the Halswell Lions are hoping to increase the number they get involved in. For example they have been working with an Oaklands School student on the Peace poster competition and would like to see more young people getting involved in these opportunities.

The last Lions meeting had the Justice of the Peace as speakers which was very well attended and received. 

 

Next Meeting - speaker is CEO of Age Concern

Halswell Lions currently has 19 members and has club elections at the end of April.

Peter discussed the new facebook page and said Lions were pleased with how it was going. Engagement is already up which is encouraging.

Halswell Connections

Meeting held Tuesday 16th March 2021

Halswell Community Hub - 381 Halswell Road, 12.30-1.30pm

Halswell Residents Association

Speakers Ross McFarlane and John Bennet. The Halswell Residents Association has been around for 26 years. In which time they have had just 2 chairmen and 3 secretaries. Originally formed over discussions regarding the swimming pool and land from the domain. 

For 15 years HRA fought the council and developers to keep the land on the domain, eventually winning through the environment court to retain 13 of the 15 hectares for the community.  Full credit to Ron and halswell residents. 

Other projects over the history of the HRA have included:

• Discovering and uncovering a sunken forest on Quaifes road that has been there for 900 - 1200 years.
• Keeping the No 7 bus route past the hospital. Buses changed to Green and to the No 7
• Protecting the historical farm buildings at Aidanfield and erecting the monument on the corner of Aidanfield Drive and McMahon Drive.
• Erecting a memorial stone in Wigram to the 7 Airmen that lost their lives in 1953 in an accident when their wings clipped. Funding was achieved and a statue erected
• Fighting the increase in the number of liquor stores in the area and their opening hours. HRA took legal action against the liquor store proposed for the shops on Ensign Street and lodges an appeal when it was approved. The liquor stores licence application has been in for 12 months and there have been no incidents.
• Ross and John acknowledged the support they received during this battle.

Ross and John also discussed some of the issues currently facing Halswell as a community that HRA are working on.  These  include the ongoing growth, with 6750 sections left to be developed, traffic and speed issues,, bus routes and the CCC and ECAN long term plans as well as the local representation review and the schooling in the area. 

HRA also run the ANZAC parade which will be held on 25th April 2021

Halswell Residents Association meet on the last Monday of each month at St Marys Church - their next meeting is at 7pm on 28th March and all residents are welcome.

Margaret - local resident-  Raised concerns regarding land being raised behind Kennedys bush road.  Ross McFarlane is going to look into it.

Halswell Hall

The Hall’s AGM was a success with Anton Matthew’s as guest speaker, very inspirational.

Judith noted she has received several enquiries for space on a Sunday for Church groups.  No space available.

More work and volunteers needed on landscaping at the Hall.

The Halls received approximately $30,000 per year from Hirers and relies on Funding and fundraising for the rest.  Currently needing $7000 to trim the trees posing a risk to the car park and public as too large.  The hall received $20,000 from Rata for a foldable stage.

Drama group began their first rehearsal last night for the upcoming performance of Little shop of Horror later in the year.

$416 was raised from the bulb fundraiser.

Declined Harcourts funding.

Friendship Club/Garden Club

Robyn noted both clubs ticking along as usual. 

Halswell Lions

Peter discussed the Lions connection with Hillmorton High School and the Scouts.  

300-400 bales of pea straw available for sale.  They have been updating their presence on facebook and social media.  With a strong focus of memberships.

 

Halswell Community Project

The Halswell Hub has been busy with many new residents dropping in to see what’s happening in the area.  Clubs and activities they can involve themselves in.  

The Market sadly was cancelled at the very last moment due to moving into level 2 at 6am that day.  Market will run quarterly for 2021 and hopefully returning to monthly in 2022. 

Children’s day at the Quarry another victim of COVID but we are looking to run it at some stage in Spring.  

Planning is under way for the April school holidays for some free activities at the hub.

Anne Galloway

Discussed the need for feedback on the long term plan.  This is available online and in paper form.

Hillmorton High School needs help with getting their gym.  Any organisation that might be able to help/fundraise.

Kate - Te Hapua

The better digital for seniors course is now in its 3rd week and running well. Free course for over 65’s. 

Halswell Connections 

Meeting held Tuesday 16th February 2021

Halswell Community Hub - 381 Halswell Rd; 12.30 - 1.30pm

Discussion:

Unfortunately Emma (CCC Community Development Advisor) was sick so the discussion was a general update and networking meeting hearing from each group represented.

Halswell Hall

Judith outlined that the Hall now has a 5 year strategic plan in place covering long term plans, maintenance schedules etc.

The Hall is currently running a Spring Bulb fundraiser - details can be found on the facebook page or by emailing Judith for orders. Judith is hoping to be at the Halswell Market on 28th Feb to promote this and take orders.

Halswell Menzshed

Adrienne said the MenzShed is going very well and has been running for approx ⅚ years now.

Roger Spicer is managing the Shed and doing a very good job of getting out and networking with local groups and maintaining and growing the groups community focus. They are working on lots of projects both at the Shed and around the community and are always open for groups who need some help with building projects to make contact.

Friendship Club/Garden Club

Robyn said that the friendship club has just celebrated their 12th Birthday.

They have monthly meetings at the Library and in between have monthly coffee meetings and outings.

The Garden Club also meets monthly and is going well.

Halswell Lions

Peter outlined that the Halswell Lions are an established local group and are looking at networking with as many local groups as possible. They hold their own events - Carols in the Quarry for example as well as supporting other local events like the Celebrate Halswell event and others.

The Lions are keen to grow and develop their membership and would like to hear from community groups wanting/needing support with events and activities that they can help/get involved in

Halswell Community Project

HCP exists to promote activities and events across the community and connect people regardless of who they are or where they come from.  Kate and Keri outlined some of the activities that HCP run - the local market, events, school holiday activities, monthly newsletters, website, weekly coffee morning and mahjong groups and the Halswell Hub

Upcoming events to note - Halswell Market - 28th Feb; Children’s Day - 7th March.

Halswell Residents Association

Ross outlined some of the work of the Residents association. Currently they are advocating for an increased share of facilities in the Halswell area to cope with the continuing growth. He pointed out that Halswell still has 6570 sections to be developed before it is considered completed. This is a huge number of sections and will need an investment in the infrastructure for the area.

Local Residents.

Ashley, Philippa and Mike described issues with traffic and lack of facilities/infrastructure as well as speed limits and the way Halswell Junction Road divides the community. They also pointed out that commercial hubs were either non-existent in some parts of the community or consisted of very similar shops. For example - Longhurst is almost entirely food outlets. 

Tracey McLelland - MP.

Andrei said that Traceys office had been really busy with a wide variety of issues. Tracey will be holding another drop in clinic in Halswell on 13th March from 9.30 - 11.30am at the Library.

Community Board

Andrei outlined several issues that the community board are looking into at present.

Speeding - particularly around the new Richmond Avenue intersection as local residents report not feeling safe

Consultation on the Long Term Plan - Halswell needs more input into this in terms of submissions in order to get fairer access to funding for infrastructure for the future growth of the community.  He felt that we needed to be getting into the hundreds of submissions to be heard and in order to help guide this we need to first gather information from the community on what is needed so that Halswell remains a desirable place to live and doesn’t become over congested due to the lack of facilities and infrastructure.

Community Facilities Network Plan - despite the map showing a huge gap in facilities in the Halswell area, the document stated that there were no geographical gaps. This has now been amended.

Land at Quaifes Road - the land has not been sold and the community board are encouraging the council to retain at least some of the land for future community facilities. They have gone back to Ngai Tahu for consultation as this was not done previously to determine any significance of the land to them. The group felt that as a community the discovery of the ancient totara stumps on this site meant that the land had a significance to the whole community. Halswell Residents Association are working with the council to get a land survey of the site to determine if there are any sizable sections of wood left that could be used as an example for significant carvings

Water - the council are in full agreement over the removal of chlorine from the drinking water and are awaiting the exemption from central government to do this.

 

Oaklands School

Margaret outlined the progress with the rebuild. The School is almost finished with just the last part being the hall and final landscaping. With the exception of 2 pre existing classrooms all students are now in new facilities and the new courtyard and sports court are complete.  The rebuild has been 3 years in the making, the school is looking really good and it has been a positive start to the year.

There will be an official opening coming up and next steps are looking at the schools branding to incorporate the gifted name Te Kura o Ōwaka.

Oaklands currently has a roll of around 575 with 120 year 7 and 8s