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Events in our city
Media releases
Last Modified: 30 January 2012
2012
| 26 January 2012 | Annual Community Survey underway next week |
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| Upper Hutt City Council will ask residents their views on a range of services. more >> |
| 25 January 2012 | Orongomai Marae celebrates Waitangi |
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| Powhiri to open Waitangi celebrations at Orongomai Marae in Upper Hutt. more >> |
| 16 January 2012 | Let's ease up on the drink this summer |
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| Upper Hutt City Council is encouraging the community to be safe this summer and drink sensibly. more >> |
| 6 January 2012 | Wayne Guppy re-elected as Wellington Regional Mayoral Forum Chair |
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| Upper Hutt City Council is encouraging the community to be safe this summer and drink sensibly. more >> |
2011
| 20 December 2011 | Sports ground development underway in Upper Hutt |
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| Ground works begin on the installation of two artificial turf grounds at Maidstone Park in Upper Hutt. more >> |
| 16 December 2011 | Protected trees unaffected by RMA changes |
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| Trees protected through a zone-based approach are unaffected by changes to the Resource Management Act. more >> |
| 1 December 2011 | Maymorn Structure Plan decision deferred |
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| Upper Hutt City Council is deferring its decision on the Maymorn Structure Plan while it seeks to clarify issues raised during the recent submissions process and hearings. more >> |
| 29 November 2011 | DIScover resources prove popular at official launch events |
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| The Upper Hutt City Council-produced document ‘DIScover: serving customers with disabilities’ has been officially launched to loud acclaim. more >> |
| 21 November 2011 | Harcourt Park Paddling Pool opens for summer on Tuesday 29 November |
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| A favourite water play area for young families opens in Harcourt Park at the end of this month. more >> |
| 17 November 2011 | DIScover the difference you can make |
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| New disability awareness and training campaign to be launched by Upper Hutt City Council. more >> |
| 12 November 2011 | Upper Hutt celebrates new bridges with bird names |
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| Special Bus Tours through the Akatarawa Valley in Upper Hutt next Saturday 19 November will take visitors to view the three new bridges and the tour will end with an opportunity to enjoy a visit at Staglands Wildlife Reserve who are offering ½ price entry into the reserve fees for everybody as part of the celebrations. more >> |
| 08 November 2011 | Upper Hutt hosts parade for local Rugby World Cup hero, Cory Jane |
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| On Saturday 12th November, at noon, Upper Hutt will host a parade in honour of its local All Black hero, Cory Jane. The William Webb Ellis Trophy will also be on display at the Civic Centre in Upper Hutt. more >> |
| 31 October 2011 | Revera begins construction of new data centre in Upper Hutt |
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| IT infrastructure company, Revera recently gained building consent and began construction of a new data centre on Alexander Road. more >> |
| 26 October 2011 | How to protect Upper Hutt’s vulnerable children |
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| Government ‘Green Paper for Vulnerable Children’ gives Upper Hutt community the opportunity to influence its policy on child wellbeing. more >> |
| 21 October 2011 | Maidstone Park development out for tender |
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| Tenders were invited last week from experienced contractors for the installation of artificial turf and club facilities at Maidstone Park in Upper Hutt. more >> |
| 14 October 2011 | Akatarawa Road open for Labour Weekend |
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| Residents and businesses to celebrate reopening of link between Upper Hutt and Waikanae. more >> |
| 11 October 2011 | Wormery success continues at Upper Hutt City Council |
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| Upper Hutt City Council’s custom built wormery continues to provide interest and education to schools and community groups. more >> |
| 21 September 2011 | More to score for over 60s |
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| Upper Hutt’s seventh Seniors Week kicks off on 3 October. more >> |
| 31 August 2011 | Upper Hutt City Council presents hi-tech kiosk for youth |
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| The Hutt Valley Youth Survey recently launched at Upper Hutt colleges, identified a lack of targeted activities and awareness of career options as key issues for young people. more >> |
| 30 August 2011 | It’s your choice! |
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| Hearing how a victim of a car crash copes with day to day life with an injury is one part of a programme aimed at reducing recidivist young driving offences. The programme is being held in Upper Hutt over two days from 28-29 September. more >> |
| 29 August 2011 | Council announces winners of dog registration campaign |
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| Upper Hutt City Council awards prizes drawn to locals who paid their dog registration fees on time. more >> |
| 12 August 2011 | ‘Upper Hutt Cares’ to support care in Upper Hutt |
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| Upper Hutt City Council announces ‘Upper Hutt Cares’ expo to help those who help others. more >> |
| 9 August 2011 | Listening to the voices of the Hutt Valley |
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| Hutt Valley youth mostly feel cheerful, active, and interested in life according to a youth survey taken last year. more >> |
| 2 August 2011 | Disposing hazardous waste made easy this month |
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| Hutt City and Upper Hutt City Councils announce this year’s hazardous waste removal days. more >> |
| 22 July 2011 | Maymorn Structure Plan submission period extended |
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| Council adds three weeks to end submission period on 2 September. more >> |
| 7 July 2011 | Healthy Homes, Happy Pockets - Wormery workshop |
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| Upper Hutt City Council to lead by example at HHHP composting workshop. more >> |
| 5 July 2011 | Youth road safety artwork to inspire better driver behaviour | |
| A series of nine paintings created by youth and depicting road safety themes are on display to the public this week. more >> |
| 29 June 2011 | Upper Hutt’s tree protection rules supported through Environment Court declaration | |
| Upper Hutt’s tree protection rules supported through Environment Court declaration. more >> |
| 29 June 2011 | Friday Fables a hit for Upper Hutt Central Library |
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| New programme at the Central Library promotes inclusiveness. more >> |
| 29 June 2011 | Council calls out to sole parents with drive and motivation |
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| The DRIVE Project aims to tackle the transition between being at home, full-time and moving into the work force. more >> |
| 22 June 2011 | Maymorn sustainable village community tabled for consideration |
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| Upper Hutt City Council hosts Young Cyclist of the Year competition. more >> |
| 10 June 2011 | Young Cyclist competition tightly contested |
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| Upper Hutt City Council hosts Young Cyclist of the Year competition. more >> |
| 10 June 2011 | Opportunities to plan future direction at Parenting Expo |
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| Upper Hutt’s Parenting Expo will showcase career and study options for parents and teens to discuss. more >> |
| 7 June 2011 | Young drivers supported through the Driveskills programme |
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| Upper Hutt City Council hosts workshop to assist young motorists in the licensing process. more >> |
| 3 June 2011 | Wellington Regional Governance Review |
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| In November 2010, the Wellington Mayoral Forum received an independent report, prepared by PricewaterhouseCoopers, on the review of Wellington regional governance. The report provides analysis of the existing structure of local government in the region and presents the consultants’ view on the issues and opportunities that lie ahead, along with options for addressing them. more >> |
| 3 June 2011 | Motorcycle training day a roaring success |
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| Upper Hutt City Council hosts advanced riding skills workshop for motorcyclists. Fifteen keen motorcyclists wanting to upskill their riding techniques participated in the recent Motorcycle Training day facilitated by council’s Road Safety Coordinator, Joanne Kinnaird. more >> |
| 27 May 2011 | Inspire: Upper Hutt Young Achiever Awards 2011 |
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| Twenty-nine nominees aged between 14 – 21 years were given the recognition they so richly deserve at the 6th annual Inspire: Upper Hutt Young Achiever Awards. more >> |
| 27 May 2011 | City Council aims to boost parent-teen relationships at expo |
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| Upper Hutt’s Parenting Expo will this year focus on parent-teen relationships and feature author and family coach Eva-Maria. more >> |
| 20 May 2011 | Best-selling author to keynote parenting expo |
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| Upper Hutt Parenting Expo features author and family coach Eva-Maria as special guest for two speaking sessions. more >> |
| 19 May 2011 | Upper Hutt City Council moves to protect parks and reserves |
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| Council takes legal action against vehicular misuse to park grounds after a driver caused significant damage. more >> |
| 6 May 2011 | Hear the results from the city vision development process and what will happen next |
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| Upper Hutt City Council today announced a follow-up session to the consultation and the resulting intensive vision development process conducted in April this year. At a public meeting on May 16, Kobus Mentz will be presenting his findings from the discussions and workshops that were held throughout April. more >> |
| 28 April 2011 | Upper Hutt Council encourages action for Earth Hour |
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| Come along to the Library on Sunday 8 May for the first ever Healthy Homes, Happy Pockets Expo – an Earth Hour special event. The expo will provide the opportunity for you to meet the real people and organisations that can help you save money and look after your family’s health and the environment at the same time. more >> |
| 11 April 2011 | Upper Hutt celebrates The Spirit of ANZAC | |
| It is so easy for stories and local history to be lost but a special programme to commemorate ANZAC will ensure they are heard. On Saturday 23 April, The Spirit of ANZAC will be celebrating our local history and people through storytelling. more >> |
| 7 April 2011 | Upper Hutt City Council Community Survey Results |
| Upper Hutt City Council recently conducted its Annual Community Survey seeking feedback from the community regarding the level of satisfaction with council's performance in a range of services and facilities. more >> |
| 1 April 2011 | Wellington Governance Review |
| At its meeting on Friday, 1 April 2011, the Wellington Mayoral Forum discussed the Wellington Governance review and agreed to. more >> |
| 16 March 2011 | Upper Hutt City Council encourages action for Earth Hour |
| On Saturday 26 March at 8.30pm, Upper Hutt City Council is encouraging everyone in Upper Hutt to turn off their lights and appliances for Earth Hour, as part of global action against climate change and to show support for a sustainable future. more >> |
| 16 February 2011 | City fights back against grafitti |
| The increasing amount of graffiti vandalism seen around the streets of Upper Hutt in recent weeks has resulted in a strong reaction from the community, calling for more support and action against taggers. more >> |
| 9 February 2011 | AmeriCARna drives through Upper Hutt |
| The iconic AmeriCARna classic car event will be held in the Hutt Valley for the first time ever on Friday 25 February. more >> |
| 27 January 2011 | Council to soon ask residents their views on a range of services |
| The Upper Hutt City Council will conduct its annual community survey over the next two weeks. The National Research Bureau has been contracted to undertake the telephone survey on behalf of the council. more >> |
2010
| 17 December 2010 | Upper Hutt Library’s ‘Book in Every Backpack’ project scoops another prestigious award |
| Upper Hutt Library’s ‘book in Every Backpack’ project was awarded the 3M Award for innovation in Libraries at the LIANZA Conference 2010 in Dunedin. The award promotes excellence and innovation in Library and Information services and recognises the projects outstanding success at making a positive long lasting impact upon the Upper Hutt community. more >> |
| 25 November 2010 | Upper Hutt's Mayor calls upon residents to make every drop count |
| With summer fast approaching, the Mayor kicks off the Council’s annual summer water conservation campaign by calling upon residents to do the right thing this summer and use water wisely. “If we all work together we can minimise the chance of having additional water restrictions imposed during summer,” said Mayor Wayne Guppy. more >> |
| 24 November 2010 | Review of Wellington region governance issues |
| The Mayoral Forum received an independent report on Wellington Region Governance at its meeting on 23 November 2010. The report, prepared by Price waterhouse Coopers, analyses the existing structure of local government in the region and presents the authors’views on the issues and opportunities that lie ahead, and options for addressing them. more >> |
| 18 November 2010 | Budgeting made easy - just in time for Christmas |
| Gearing up to Christmas and we’re all wishing we had put more pennies aside to pay for all the extras. That’s why the theme of the next free Healthy Homes, Happy Pockets event will be on making a household budget, how to use credit cards wisely, and money-saving tips around the home. more >> |
| 28 October 2010 | Acting Chief Executive appointed at Upper Hutt City Council |
| At the Extraordinary Council meeting held on Thursday 28 October 2010, Mayor Wayne Guppy and Councillors confirmed the appointment of Chris Upton as acting Chief Executive. more >> |
| 26 October 2010 | Upper Hutt Mayor and Councillors officially sworn in at Triennial Meeting of Council |
| Mayor Wayne Guppy and the ten Councillors were officially sworn in at a meeting held on Wednesday 20 October. Councillor Peter McCardle was also elected as Deputy Mayor. more >> |
| 20 October 2010 | Valley seeks representation to influence decision making |
| People with experience of living with a disability who would like to influence local government are encouraged to submit an application for the Hutt Valley Disability Advisory Group. more >> |
| 14 October 2010 | Exciting developments at Upper Hutt Library; come in and see for yourself from 27 October! |
| Upper Hutt City’s Central Library has undergone a series of exciting changes and is set to reopen bigger and better than ever on Wednesday 27 October. New furniture, lighting, technology and a rearrangement of collections are just a few of the exciting changes taking place to make the library larger, more user-friendly and comfortable. more >> |
| 29 September 2010 | Upper Hutt City Council's Chief Executive announces his resignation |
| Upper Hutt City Council’s Chief Executive, Max Pedersen, has announced his decision to step down on 26 November 2010 after 17 years at the helm. He will take up the position of Chief Executive with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board. more >> |
| 29 September 2010 | Learn how to grow veggies in your backyard – the cheapest supermarket aisle! |
| Is your back yard a thriving vegetable garden waiting to happen? Do you love eating fresh veggies but you’re frustrated by rising food prices? Learn that growing vegetables is easy by coming along to Upper Hutt City Council’s eighth “Healthy Homes, Happy Pockets” free public information evening on 12 October 2010. more >> |
| 16 September 2010 | Be smart and get yourself checked this Blue September |
| Blue September, a nationwide prostate awareness campaign, launched this month encouraging men to ‘get blue’ and face up to a cancer that affects 2,500 and kills 600 men annually in New Zealand. more >> |
| 16 September 2010 | Central Library will temporarily close to become bigger and better than ever! |
| Upper Hutt City’s Central Library will close for a brief two week period on Monday 11 October to allow contractors to complete the final stages of the library’s redevelopment. Public access needs to be restricted during this period while builders complete their work in key public areas. more >> |
| 31 August 2010 | Main Street goes blue in time for September |
| On 1 September, the Council will flick the switch on new lights installed in Upper Hutt’s Main Street which will see the street go blue in support of Blue September; a nationwide prostate awareness campaign encouraging men to ‘get blue’ and face up to a disease. more >> |
| 25 August 2010 | A new face to Settlement Support in Upper Hutt |
| At a meeting held on Wednesday 23 June 2010, Upper Hutt City Council adopted its Annual Plan for the coming year, signalling a rates increase of 3.1 percent for city residents. more >> |
| 23 July 2010 | Upper Hutt City Council adopts Annual Plan 2011-2012 |
| At a meeting held on Wednesday 23 June 2010, Upper Hutt City Council adopted its Annual Plan for the coming year, signalling a rates increase of 3.1 percent for city residents. more >> |
| 21 July 2010 | Empowering seniors and people with disabilities to feel safe |
| Feeling safe both in the home and out and about may be something that many of us take for granted; but for some in our community, feeling safe is not so easy. more >> |
| 20 July 2010 | You can now recycle even more! |
| Upper Hutt City Council’s recycling sub-contractor has secured an international market this year to recycle your plastics numbered 3 to 6. This now means that from 1 July 2010 you can recycle all plastics numbered 1 to 6 (excluding polystyrene). more >> |
| 7 July 2010 | Long-serving Upper Hutt City Councillor Keith Barnard has died |
| Councillor Barnard passed away on Friday 2 July at home. more >> |
| 2 July 2010 | Free driving information sessions for young Upper Hutt residents |
| All young Upper Hutt residents who haven’t got their licence but are keen to start the process are invited to attend a free information session. The session will be held on 16 July at 2pm at the Upper Hutt Primary School Hall. more >> |
| 15 June 2010 | Youth Ambassadors leading from the front at the best school day ever - LEADERSHIP DAY |
| The Upper Hutt Youth Ambassadors are spearheading a youth leadership development event on Wednesday 23 June from 8.30-3pm at Lane Park in Upper Hutt. more >> |
| 4 June 2010 | Upper Hutt City Annual Community Survey Results |
| The Upper Hutt Youth Ambassadors are spearheading a youth leadership development event on Wednesday 23 June from 8.30-3pm at Lane Park in Upper Hutt. more >> |
| 21 May 2010 | Healthy homes information on demand |
| Healthy Homes, Happy Pockets is back by demand for the fifth free public information evening around saving money and looking after your family’s health and the environment at the same time. more >> |
| 20 May 2010 | 10th Upper Hutt Annual Poetry Competition under way |
| This popular and long-established competition celebrates its tenth birthday this year, and at the same time welcomes a new sponsor for the nationwide events officially now known as New Zealand Post National Poetry Day (Friday 30th July 2010). more >> |
| 18 May 2010 | Graphic road safety display a reminder to all |
| The fatal reality of drink driving will be driven home in Upper Hutt as part of the Last Choice road show. A graphic road safety display, the Last Choice car, is visiting Upper Hutt secondary schools and training centres over the next two weeks, aimed at preventing drinking and driving. more >> |
| 9 April 2010 | Area of Remembrance unveiling ceremony |
| The Mayor and Project Committee wish to announce that after nearly two and a half years, Project R3: Recognise, Remember, Reflect has reached a stage where the renewed Area of Remembrance can be formally handed over to its guardians, the citizens of the Upper Hutt district. more >> |
| 9 April 2010 | More exciting sculptures to land in Upper Hutt City next week |
| Residents are encouraged to look out for two new sculptures being installed next week in Upper Hutt’s CBD. more >> |
| 9 April 2010 | Council adopts Upper Hutt City Council's gambling venues policy |
| Following a council meeting held on Wednesday 7 April 2010, Upper Hutt City Council has adopted its Class 4 Gambling and New Zealand Racing Board (including TAB) Venues policy. more >> |
| 7 April 2010 | Blog on depression supports Upper Hutt's young people |
| The 2008 Upper Hutt Youth Survey revealed that a significant number of Upper Hutt’s young people experience depression. As many as 29 percent of young people surveyed experience the symptoms of depression. more >> |
| 26 March 2010 | Ferguson cycle training day a rolling success |
| Students improved their practical road cycling skills at a special cycle event held at Fergusson Intermediate last week on Wednesday 24 March. more >> |
| 25 March 2010 | Council adopts draft Annual Plan for consultation |
| Upper Hutt City Council has adopted its 2010/11 draft Annual Plan for consultation and proposed amendments to the Rates Remission Policy for Economic Development (in the current LTCCP). more >> |
| 19 March 2010 | Larger-than-life figures 'File' into Russell Street |
| As part of the Main Street Vision to revitalise the CBD, work has begun installing the first of three sculptures. This vision was supported by the community through the Long Term Council Community Plan. more >> |
| 12 March 2010 | Reckless behaviour causes costly damage to Totara Park Road Bridge |
| The council is shocked at the wilful and costly damage an individual (or individuals) have caused to the Totara Park Road Bridge. Sometime during the evening of 6 March 2010, heavy concrete slabs were prised from the bridge’s footpath and dumped onto the river bed below. more >> |
| 12 March 2010 | Safer Valley Youth (SaVY) launches in Upper Hutt |
| The council is shocked at the wilful and costly damage an individual (or individuals) have caused to the Totara Park Road Bridge. Sometime during the evening of 6 March 2010, heavy concrete slabs were prised from the bridge’s footpath and dumped onto the river bed below. more >> |
| 2 March 2010 | Road safety education ideas sought by council |
| Upper Hutt City Council invites people to express their views on what road safety education campaigns they would like to see run in conjunction with the community and other organisations in Upper Hutt. more >> |
| 15 February 2010 | Valley Flyer Service Disruption |
| Some Valley Flyer bus services will be disrupted on Monday, 15 February due to a scheduled meeting of the Central Amalgamated Workers Union. more >> |
| 11 February 2010 | Women Only Swim night Success at H²O Xtream |
| Since H²O Xtream launched the Women Only Swim night last October, more than 1400 women have passed through the doors with an average of 87 women per week enjoying the relaxed and fun atmosphere at the session. more >> |
| 27 January 2010 | Orongomai Marae Open Day |
| The annual Orongomai Marae Open Day is once again being held on Waitangi Day to commemorate the signing of the Treaty. This year’s kaupapa (theme) is kaitiaki (protection or care) of the environment. more >> |
| 26 January 2010 | Design phase underway on Akatarawa Road Bridge |
| Upper Hutt City Council has appointed engineering consultants Beca Carter Hollings and Ferner Ltd (Beca) to design the new Akatarawa Road Bridge (B1/4) where the wooden truss bridge by Wellesley Camp on the Upper Hutt side of Staglands is located. more >> |
| 20 January 2010 | Council to soon ask residents their views on a range of services |
| The Upper Hutt City Council will conduct its annual community survey over the next two weeks. The National Research Bureau has been contracted to undertake the telephone survey on behalf of the council. more >> |
| 20 January 2010 | Volunteer retires after fifty years of library service |
| On behalf of the city, and accompanied by her colleagues, Upper Hutt Mayor Wayne Guppy formally recognised Audrey Harper’s outstanding voluntary service to the community in the mayoral office on Wednesday 18 February. more >> |
| 6 January 2010 | Civic Awards ceremony is a double celebration for the arts |
| On behalf of the city, and accompanied by their families, Upper Hutt Mayor Wayne Guppy hosted Clare Derby and Kevin Adams to a function in the mayoral office on Friday 11 December to formally recognise their outstanding cultural and voluntary service to the community. more >> |
2009
| 16 December 2009 | Cycling festival hits top gear |
| The inaugural Hutt Valley Summer of Cycling is a great way to discover why the Hutt Valley is the region’s off-road cycling capital. With 11 major events, a series of regular rides, and bike maintenance and learn to ride workshops over a three-month period, there’s something for everyone from hard-core mountain bikers to families looking for a fun day out. more >> |
| 27 November 2009 | Wellington Mayoral Forum asks councils to consider review of Wellington governance issues |
| Today the Wellington Mayoral Forum decided it would ask councils in the Wellington Region to consider a proposed Terms of Reference for review of Wellington governance issues. more >> |
| 27 November 2009 | Make it an exciting splish splash summer at the Harcourt Park Paddling Pool |
| Harcourt Park Paddling Pool is spraying imaginative new fun this summer. Exciting new water spray features including a spray tunnel and sensor-timed sprinklers are set to provide a fun, interactive and safe environment for children to cool off this summer. more >> |
| 27 November 2009 | New GP Practice to open in Lower Hutt, supported by Hutt Valley DHB |
| Harcourt Park Paddling Pool is spraying imaginative new fun this summer. Exciting new water spray features including a spray tunnel and sensor-timed sprinklers are set to provide a fun, interactive and safe environment for children to cool off this summer. more >> |
| 20 November 2009 | Get waterwise this summer - water conservation is everyone's responsibility |
| Conserving water is everyone’s responsibility and the council is no exception says Mayor Wayne Guppy. “We all need to conserve water to avoid shortages of supply during peak demand periods. We have garden watering restrictions in place all year round and now as summer approaches we need to be more mindful than ever of these.” more >> |
| 12 November 2009 | Roof water harvesting; keeping your pockets happy and your home healthy long term |
| Healthy Homes, Happy Pockets returns with a free public information evening on roof water harvesting on 30 November from 6-7pm at Upper Hutt Library. more >> |
| 5 November 2009 | Christmas Parade 2009 |
| Participants in this year's Upper Hutt Leader Santa Parade made a "fantastic effort in being Christmassy," says organiser Andrea Hubbard from Upper Hutt City Council. more >> |
| 5 November 2009 | H2O Xtream TeenBoard gains national recognitions and Bike the Trail event is highly commended |
| Upper Hutt City Council’s Recreation Services team received two awards for outstanding contributions to the parks and recreation industry at the annual New Zealand Recreation Association (NZRA) conference on Tuesday 3 November 2009. more >> |
| 22 October 2009 | Seniors abseil down Upper Hutt's tallest building |
| The launch of Activation’s new Pathway to Activity programme was exactly that, as some of the more daring local seniors literally launched themselves off Upper Hutt’s CBD Towers today. With a crowd gathering in the wintry sun, it was perfect conditions for the 25 meter abseil descent under the watchful eye of Brook Powell, of Hang Dog Climbing Adventures and his team. more >> |
| 22 July 2009 | Upper Hutt Excellence in Business Awards |
| The Upper Hutt Excellence in Business awards were held at Expressions Arts & Entertainment Centre on Wednesday 22 October. more >> |
| 15 June 2009 | Seniors abseil down Upper Hutt's tallest building |
| The launch of Activation’s new Pathway to Activity programme was exactly that, as some of the more daring local seniors literally launched themselves off Upper Hutt’s CBD Towers today. more >> |
| 10 June 2009 | "Leaps and Bounds" Outward Bound Scholarship for Young Achiever |
| This year Upper Hutt City Council was given an incredible opportunity to give an Outward Bound scholarship to one of the nominees of the Inspire: Young Achiever Awards. more >> |
| 27 May 2009 | Young Achiever Awards truly inspiring |
| For the fourth year running, the Inspire: Young Achievers Awards were celebrated with 11 outstanding winners and runner ups, as well as 28 other incredible nominees. more >> |
| 25 April 2009 | Sika Manu wins Upper Hutt Sports Awards |
| Melbourne Storm and Kiwi League World Cup player Sika Manu won the 2009 Upper Hutt Sports Awards Winner last night. He also won Sportsman of the Year following a good season in 2008 with the Melbourne Storm and then becoming part of the Kiwi League World Cup winning team. more >> |
| 19 March 2009 | Council giving away personal alarms to make Upper Hutt residents safer |
| Council giving away personal alarms to make Upper Hutt residents safer. Community Services, Upper Hutt City Council will be giving away personal alarms to people who attend their upcoming public forums: “Hear and Be Heard”. more >> |
2008
| 30 June 2008 | Doggie Day Out |
| Celia-boo pictured, leaped at the chance for a dip at the Doggie Day Out at H2O Xtream public pool yesterday. Hundreds of dogs and their owners attended the fundraiser for Upper Hutt Animal Rescue, on the last day before the pool closes for three months. more >> |
| 30 April 2008 | 2008 Sports Award Winners |
| The Campbells are coming! The Upper Hutt Sports Awards were held on Sunday 27th April at the Upper Hutt Cosmopolitan Club. more >> |
| Media release | Thursday 26 January, 2012 Annual Community Survey underway next week |
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| Media release | Wednesday 25 January, 2012 Orongomai Marae celebrates Waitangi |
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| Media release | Monday 16 January, 2012 Let's ease up on the drink this summer |
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| Media release | Friday 6 January, 2012 Wayne Guppy re-elected as Wellington Regional Mayoral Forum Chairr |
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| Media release | Tuesday 20 December, 2011 Sports ground development underway in Upper Hutt |
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| Media release | Friday 16 December, 2011 Protected trees unaffected by RMA changes |
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| Media release | Thursday 1 December, 2011 Maymorn Structure Plan decision deferred |
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| Media release | Monday 29 November, 2011 Sports ground development underway in Upper Hutt |
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| Media release | Monday 21 November, 2011 Harcourt Park Paddling Pool opens for summer on Tuesday 29 November |
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| Media release | Thursday 17 November, 2011 DIScover the difference you can make |
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| Media release | Saturday 12 November, 2011 Upper Hutt celebrates new bridges with bird names |
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| Media release | Tuesday 8 November, 2011 Upper Hutt to host parade for local Rugby World Cup hero, Cory Jane |
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| Media release | Monday 31 October, 2011 Revera begins construction of new data centre in Upper Hutt |
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| Media release | Wednesday 26 October, 2011 How to protect Upper Hutt’s vulnerable children |
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| Media release | Friday 21 October, 2011 Maidstone Park development out for tender |
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| Media release | Friday 14 October, 2011 Akatarawa Road open for Labour Weekend |
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| Media release | Tuesday 11 October, 2011 Wormery success continues at Upper Hutt City Council |
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| Media release | Wednesday 21 September, 2011 More to score for over 60s |
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| Media release | Wednesday 31 August, 2011 Upper Hutt City Council presents hi-tech kiosk for youth |
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| Media release | Tuesday 30 August, 2011 It’s your choice! |
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| Media release | Monday 29 August, 2011 Council announces winners of dog registration campaign |
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| Media release | Friday 12 August, 2011 ‘Upper Hutt Cares’ to support care in Upper Hutt |
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| Media release | Tuesday, 9 August 2011 Listening to the voices of the Hutt Valley |
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| Media release | Tuesday 2 August , 2011 Disposing hazardous waste made easy this month |
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| Media release | Friday 22 July, 2011 Maymorn Structure Plan submission period extended |
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| Media release | Friday 15 July, 2011 Public submissions invited for Maymorn Structure Plan |
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| Media release | Thursday 7 July, 2011 Healthy Homes, Happy Pockets - Wormery workshop |
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| Media release | Tuesday 5 July, 2011 Youth road safety artwork to inspire better driver behaviour |
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| Media release | Wednesday 29 June, 2011 Upper Hutt’s tree protection rules supported through Environment Court declaration |
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| Media release | Wednesday 29 June, 2011 Friday Fables a hit for Upper Hutt Central Library |
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| Media release | Wednesday 29 June, 2011 Council calls out to sole parents with drive and motivation |
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| Media release | Wednesday 22 June, 2011 Maymorn sustainable village community tabled for consideration |
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| Media release | Friday 10 June, 2011 Young Cyclist competition tightly contested |
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| Media release | Friday 10 June, 2011 Opportunities to plan future direction at Parenting Expo |
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| Media release | Tuesday 7 June, 2011 Young drivers supported through the Driveskills Programme |
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| Media release | Friday 3 June, 2011 Wellington Regional Governance Review |
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| Media release | Friday 3 June, 2011 Motorcycle training day a roaring success |
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| Media release | Friday 27 May, 2011 Inspire: Upper Hutt Young Achiever Awards 2011 |
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| Media release | Friday 27 May, 2011 City Council aims to boost parent-teen relationships at expo |
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| Media release | Friday 20 May, 2011 Best -selling author to keynote parenting expo |
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| Media release | Thursday 19 May, 2011 Upper Hutt City Council moves to protect parks and reserves |
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| Media release | Friday 6 May, 2011 Hear the results from the city vision development process and what will happen next |
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| Media release | Thursday 28 April, 2011 Upper Hutt City Council encourages action for Earth Hour |
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| Media release | Monday 11 April, 2011 Upper Hutt celebrates The Spirit of ANZAC |
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| Media release | Thursday 7 April, 2011 Upper Hutt Community Survey Results |
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| Media release | Friday 1 April, 2011 Wellington Governance Review |
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| Media release | Wednesday 16 March, 2011 Upper Hutt City Council encourages action for Earth Hour |
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| Media release | Wednesday 16 February, 2011 City fights back against grafitti |
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| Media release | Wednesday 9 February, 2011 AmeriCARna drives through Upper Hutt |
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| Media release | Thursday 27 January, 2011 Council to soon ask residents their views on a range of services |
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| Media release | Thursday 25 November, 2010 Upper Hutt's Mayor calls upon residents to make every drop count! |
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| Media release | Wednesday 24 November, 2010 Review of Wellington region governance issues |
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| Media release | Thursday 18 November, 2010 Budgeting made easy – just in time for Christmas |
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| Media release | Tuesday 26 October, 2010 Acting Chief Executive appointed at Upper Hutt City Council |
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| Media release | Tuesday 26 October, 2010 Upper Hutt Mayor and Councillors officially sworn in at Triennial Meeting of Council |
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| Media release | Wednesday 20 October, 2010 Valley seeks representation to influence decision making |
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| Media release | Thursday 14 October, 2010 Exciting developments at Upper Hutt Library; come in and see for yourself from 27 October! |
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| Media release | Wednesday 29 September, 2010 Upper Hutt City Council's Chief Executive announces his resignation |
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| Media release | Wednesday 29 September, 2010 Learn how to grow veggies in your backyard – the cheapest supermarket aisle! |
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| Media release | Wednesday 16 September, 2010 Be smart and get yourself checked this Blue September |
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| Media release | Thursday 16 September, 2010 Central Library will temporarily close to become bigger and better than ever! |
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| Media release | Wednesday 31 August, 2010 Main Street goes blue in time for September |
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| Media release | Wednesday 25 August, 2010 A new face to Settlement Support in Upper Hutt |
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| Media release | Friday 23 July, 2010 Upper Hutt City Council adopts Annual Plan 2011/12 |
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| Media release | Wednesday 21 July, 2010 Empowering seniors and people with disabilities to feel safe |
| Feeling safe both in the home and out and about may be something that many of us take for granted; but for some in our community, feeling safe is not so easy. Community Services, Upper Hutt City Council, is coordinating a series of four free self-defence workshops in August specifically designed for seniors, people with disabilities and people with differing mobility needs. These self-defence workshops will be tailored to participants’ individual needs. It is expected participants will leave with improved confidence in home security, safety in the community and how to stay safe in potentially intimidating situations. Anyone with differing mobility needs is welcome to come along and try out a workshop or attend all four. “A number of people at the public forums we held last year for seniors and for people with disabilities identified that there were situations, both at home and in public, that made them feel a bit intimidated,” says Lillian Fougere, Senior Advisor in Community Development at Upper Hutt City Council. “By providing free self-defence workshops for people with different mobility needs, we hope to improve the confidence of those who take part and, essentially, improve the safety of our community.” The workshops will be held on Tuesdays 1-3pm, on the 10, 17, 24 and 31 August in the Hapai Club. Registrations are essential and you can contact Lillian on 527 2798 or community@uhcc.govt.nz for more information. |
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| Media release | Tuesday 20 July, 2010 You can now recycle even more! |
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| Media release | Friday 7 July, 2010 Long-serving Upper Hutt City Councillor Keith Barnard has died |
| Councillor Barnard passed away on Friday 2 July at home. Keith was elected to Council in 1971 and, aside from a six year break between 1989 and 1995, was involved in local politics ever since. He served under three Mayors including Wayne Guppy, Doris Nicholson and Rex Kirton. Over the years Keith has served on and chaired a number of Council Committees including the Traffic Works and Bylaws Committee (Deputy Chair), the Policy and Resources Committee (member), the Contracts Sub Committee (member) and the Works and Services Committee (Chair). He also represented Council on a number of committees including the UH Fire Board, Wellington Region Noxious Weeds Committee, Rimutaka Hill Road Committee, Wellington Regional Council Land Transport Committee, Community Grants and the Hutt River Floodplain Advisory Committee. In a Valley News article written on Keith in 1998 during his eighth term - Keith is quoted as saying: “I’ve always enjoyed being part of the city and part of the decision-making process and I’ve been particularly interested in the works side of Council”. His interest in the infrastructure of the Council continued over the years and is an area that he took particular notice of. He was also very interested in passenger transport In 2002 he was reported to say he was pleased to see a new café culture emerging during the past several years. In 1998 he expressed his hope to see the city develop in this way. In 2002 he said: “we’ve now got outdoor tables down the main street with people getting good quality meals and coffee. It’s great for the city – not just for the residents, but also for visitors”. Keith and his wife, of 46 years, Ruth, had three daughters and ten grandchildren. Councillor Barnard's funeral will be on Friday 9 July at 11am at Lane Park, 16-22 Lane Street, Upper Hutt. |
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| Media release | Friday 2 July, 2010 Free driving information sessions for young Upper Hutt residents |
| All young Upper Hutt residents who haven’t got their licence but are keen to start the process are invited to attend a free information session. The session will be held on 16 July at 2pm at the Upper Hutt Primary School Hall. The Upper Hutt DriveSkills programme is being delivered in partnership by the Upper Hutt City Council and the Upper Hutt Police and sponsored by VTNZ Upper Hutt. It aims to enhance the driving skills of beginner drivers and to encourage them to reach full licence status. The free information session will inform under 21 year olds about the Graduated Driver Licence process and what is required for them to become licenced drivers. To help them on their journey to becoming full licence holders, each attendee, subject to a maximum of 100, will receive a current Road Code courtesy of the Upper Hutt City Council Community Road Safety Programme. Registration is essential and closes on Thursday 15 July. Intending participants must be under 21 and reside in Upper Hutt. To register visit VTNZ or simply download a registration form from www.upperhuttcity.com For more information contact VTNZ on 527 0501 or contact Joanne Kinnaird, Road Safety Coordinator, on 527 2169. |
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| Media release | Tuesday 15 June, 2010 Youth Ambassadors leading from the front at the best school day ever – LEADERSHIP DAY |
| The Upper Hutt Youth Ambassadors are spearheading a youth leadership development event on Wednesday 23 June from 8.30-3pm at Lane Park in Upper Hutt. The event is aimed at preparing their peers for leadership roles in Upper Hutt. Young people aged between 12 and 18 from all local high schools have been invited to participate. The best school day ever “LEADERSHIP DAY” is a youth-led event funded by the Ministry of Youth Development. Tom Hern, who played Baxter Cormack on Shortland Street and was the producer of the film 'I'm Not Harry Jenson', is a confirmed keynote speaker along with Paula Teseriero (Paralympics’ Gold Medallist) and Tui Te Hau (former Trade Commissioner). These engaging speakers will share their leadership story and several creative development activities will be facilitated by the Youth Ambassadors themselves. The event is being organised in response to feedback received from Upper Hutt’s young people in the 2008 Youth Survey. Young people indicated that they felt there was a lack of local young leaders/role models to look up to in Upper Hutt. The Upper Hutt Youth Ambassadors Programme began in September 2009. 12 Upper Hutt young people were selected to be Youth Ambassadors. The goal of the programme is to enable local young people to gain quality leadership development which in turn will enable them to lead in all aspects of their life; from school to their family and wider community. The Ministry of Youth Development requested that Upper Hutt City Council apply for additional funding specifically for extending the Youth Ambassadors Programme. Youth Ambassadors decided that was the way they would like to see the additional funding utilised to empower their peers for leadership roles. Upper Hutt City Council works in partnership with the Ministry of Youth Development to deliver the Youth Ambassadors programme. For more information please contact Jesse Boyce, Community Projects Manager, on 527 2793 or youth@uhcc.govt.nz |
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| Media release | Friday 4 June, 2010 Upper Hutt City Annual Community Survey Results |
| Upper Hutt City Council conducted its Annual Community Survey in February 2010 to seek feedback from the community about the level of satisfaction with Council's performance in a range of services and facilities. The survey was conducted by the National Research Bureau and included a random telephone survey of 400 residents throughout the city. The findings from the survey assist the Council to better assess resident satisfaction, stay connected to its customers, provide direction for the future of Upper Hutt City and plan for services to meet present and future needs. The findings also form an integral part of the council’s measures of accountability to the community. Specifically, the survey measures council performance against 29 of the 108 non-financial council targets. The relevant year end results from this survey have been recorded in the Third Quarter Management Report and shows that Council achieved 20 out of the 29 non-financial targets. A report on the non-financial performance target results (as at 31 March 2010, end of third quarter 2009/10) which incorporate the findings of the survey was presented to the Audit Committee on 11 May 2010 and is now available on the Council’s website. In summary, performance results as at 31 March 2010 shows that council either achieved or is on track to achieving 85 (78.7%) out of its 108 non-financial targets for the year. For more information please contact Kate Glanville, Acting Policy and Reporting Manager, on 527 2169. |
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| Media release | Friday 21 May, 2010 Healthy homes information on demand |
| Healthy Homes, Happy Pockets is back by demand for the fifth free public information evening around saving money and looking after your family’s health and the environment at the same time. Healthy Homes, Happy Pockets is back by demand for the fifth free public information evening around saving money and looking after your family’s health and the environment at the same time. “The community has shown that there is huge demand for Healthy Homes, Happy Pockets events. Thanks to the support of the community, these events will now be a regular feature in Upper Hutt” says Lillian Fougere, Senior Advisor in Community Development at Upper Hutt City Council. On the first day of winter, this Healthy Homes, Happy Pockets event will focus on cheap and easy ways to keep your home warm and dry, as well as renewable energy options for heating your home such as solar water heating and pellet burners. Topics were chosen by demand from attendees at previous events. The first presentation will be from the Home Energy Advice Centre, who offer free impartial information to anyone in the Wellington Region regarding their home’s energy use. For more information on the Home Energy Advice Centre, phone 0800 388 588 or visit their website www.energyadvice.org.nz. The second part of the evening will be presented by representatives from the Energy Efficiency Conservation Authority, who have also supported this event. “Keeping warm over winter doesn’t need to be expensive – there are multitude of simple ways to keep your home warm and dry, leading to improved health and saving you money on your power bill. Using renewable energy to heat your home is also more eco-friendly” says Ms Fougere. Future Healthy Homes, Happy Pockets events are in the pipeline, such as neighbourhood trading systems, basic vegetable gardening, composting and possible repeats of budgeting advice and roofwater harvesting. Healthy Homes, Happy Pockets is a free event, held at 6-8pm Tuesday 1 June in the Hapai Club, 879-881 Fergusson Drive. Registrations are essential and places are booking fast. Contact Meghan on 527 2794 or community@uhcc.govt.nz to register or for more information. If you are unable to attend this event but would like to be notified when future events occur, please contact Community Services on 527 2169. For more information please contact Kate Glanville, Acting Policy and Reporting Manager, on 527 2169. |
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| Media release | Thursday 20 May, 2010 10th Upper Hutt Annual Poetry Competition under way |
| This popular and long-established competition celebrates its tenth birthday this year, and at the same time welcomes a new sponsor for the nationwide events officially now known as New Zealand Post National Poetry Day (Friday 30th July 2010). Tony Chad , the Whiteman’s Valley poet and musician who is organising the competition again this year says “This is a free-to-enter competition open to all. The early launch and the closing date of Friday 16th July are designed to be part of the annual NZ Post National Poetry Day events. (NZ Post has taken up the baton from Montana, who supported Poetry Day from its inception). Winners will be announced on Friday 30th July at an evening performance completing a day of celebration of poetry in Upper Hutt’s contribution to National Poetry Day. Thanks to NZ Post and to Creative Communities Upper Hutt for making this event possible.” He goes on to say “This year, in keeping with the overall theme of National Poetry Day which is “Poetry in the Community”, we are looking for your poems about your community. We welcome the widest interpretation of community — not just the neighbourhood or city you live in but any community you can think of that is important to you — a sporting community perhaps, or an academic community or even a virtual community… Give it your best shot!! We invite you to write poems celebrating your favourite Community and enter them in this year’s Upper Hutt Poetry Competition.” First three place-getters will receive book tokens and a year’s subscription to Valley Micropress, a locally produced monthly poetry magazine now in its 13th year. Local finalists will also be invited to read their entries at the evening performance. Subsequently, a selection of poems will be published in the form of a commemorative booklet. Entries come from the length and breadth of the country, from Auckland to Dunedin, and even Tasmania! Tony adds “The national newspapers and news media are quick to sensationalise events and focus on negative activity. Here is a chance for ordinary people to focus instead on the positives of communities that are important to them – I look forward to seeing what they come up with!” Contact Tony Chad (04) 528 8968 or Tennille Maxey at Upper Hutt City Library (04) 527 2132 if you have any queries. Entry forms are available at the Library or Upper Hutt i-Site Visitor Information Centre and on both main websites - the Library www.upperhuttlibrary.co.nz and Council www.upperhuttcity.com |
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| Media release | Tuesday 18 May, 2010 Graphic road safety display a reminder to all |
| The fatal reality of drink driving will be driven home in Upper Hutt as part of the Last Choice road show. A graphic road safety display, the Last Choice car, is visiting Upper Hutt secondary schools and training centres over the next two weeks, aimed at preventing drinking and driving. The “Last Choice” Subaru Legacy RSB4 Turbo is the type of car all young drivers and their mates aspire to own and ride in. It has a glossy blue paint job, turbo engine, Momo steering wheel and big bore exhaust and now, as a result of a high speed impact with a gum tree, an ugly gaping hole of twisted metal the length of the driver’s side. The Last Choice car, preserved for use as a graphic road safety display, is a dramatic reminder to youth to make positive road safety choices such as not drinking and driving and/or driving at excessive speed when they are socialising. The driver was killed instantly in the crash on the Paekakariki Hill Road last July. His two passengers were severely injured. His family are supporting the campaign in a bid to reduce the number of crashes involving alcohol and to prevent other families suffering a similar loss'. The display, which is part of a joint project from the NZ Police, The Greater Wellington Regional Council and the Upper Hutt City Council, is currently on tour in the Wellington Region. Upper Hutt has the first opportunity to display the car to its youth. As road crashes are the single greatest killer of 15 to 24 year olds and the leading cause of permanent injury, it was important to road show organisers to create a road safety display that young people can relate to and that would cause discussion. Organisers acknowledge that the car is graphic, but a very necessary tool in the fight to save lives and prevent injuries in young people. Council’s road safety co-ordinator Joanne Kinnaird says the car is a shocking display of the waste of a young man’s life. “The crash was totally preventable. The driver had been drinking and drove, killing himself and severely injuring his passengers. He could have made better choices that would have resulted in him living. Instead he chose to drink, drive and speed, resulting in a dramatic crash that claimed is life.” Joanne says his parents made the courageous decision to let the car be cleaned, blessed and put on display to deter other young people from making the same choices their son made. The Last Choice car is on display at St Patrick’s College, Heretaunga College, Hutt International Boys School and Upper Hutt College. It will also be on display to students at the Orongomai Marae training centre and Titiro Whakamau Looking Forward Group as well as a focal point to a road safety display at the Trentham Army camp over the weekend (29 May). For more information visit www.gw.govt.nz/lastchoice or contact Joanne Kinnaird, Road Safety Co-ordinator, on 527 2169 xtn 754 or joanne.kinnaird@uhcc.govt.nz |
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| Media release | Friday 9 April, 2010 Area of Remembrance unveiling ceremony |
| The Mayor and Project Committee wish to announce that after nearly two and a half years, Project R3: Recognise, Remember, Reflect has reached a stage where the renewed Area of Remembrance can be formally handed over to its guardians, the citizens of the Upper Hutt district. The formal unveiling and dedication of the Area of Remembrance will take place at a civic ceremony to be held on the afternoon of Wednesday the 14 April from 5pm. The Minister of Defence, the Honourable Wayne Mapp, together with officials from the NZ Defence Force will be in attendance. Two new Walls of Remembrance will be unveiled before the unveiling of the new memorial monument and statue of “Now Grand-dad”. Local ministers and kaumatua will then bless and dedicate the area. Local businesses, service organisations, veterans, schools, citizens and visitors are all cordially invited to attend and witness this unique community occasion. After the ceremony, citizens and visitors alike will be invited forward to place a poppy into a chain mail poppy veil that will adorn the base of the new memorial monument. This unique activity will in future form part of the Upper Hutt ANZAC Day Dawn Service program. Unfortunately, due to a shortage in project funding the new stairway between the Walls of Remembrance, the lighting for the Area of Remembrance and the new memorial for Trentham Memorial Park have been deferred to a later date when funding has been obtained. For more information please contact Mayor Wayne Guppy on 5272110 or 027 277 1550  |
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| Media release | Friday 9 April, 2010 More exciting sculptures to land in Upper Hutt City next week |
| Residents are encouraged to look out for two new sculptures being installed next week in Upper Hutt’s CBD. Designed by world-renowned NZ sculptor Paul Dibble, the sculptures entitled ‘Piwakawaka (fantail)’ and ‘Kereru (wood pigeon)’ celebrate Upper Hutt’s natural heritage. The sculptures are built of bronze and measure up to 3.9m in height. Mayor of Upper Hutt, Wayne Guppy, said “it’s exciting to bring such world-class sculptures to our city which will be enjoyed by residents and visitors for many years to come”. Each larger-than-life bird will be installed in the centre of a CBD roundabout. The Kereru sculpture will be installed in the roundabout at King and Main Street and the Piwakawaka sculpture will be installed in the roundabout at Pine and Main Street. The public are invited to attend a Maori blessing of all three new sculptures installed (including the ‘File’ installed at the corner of Main Street and Russell Street) at 6am on 17 April starting at the main roundabout on the corner of King Street and Main Street. Paul Dibble’s stunning work can be seen on public display as far away as London’s Hyde Park. He is best known for his major installation, Southern Stand, the New Zealand War Memorial in Hyde Park Corner, London. Dibble has been at the forefront of New Zealand sculpture for the past thirty years, and there is no shortage of his work on display locally. Major public commissions in the capital include Frank Kitt’s Park, Moore Wilson’s new piazza and the entrance to Wellington International Airport. 'I am often known as a sculptor who uses NZ subject matter but it is probably more accurate to say that I work from things that I know and have real experience of and most of this comes from growing up and living in New Zealand' said Paul Dibble. For more information please contact Mayor Wayne Guppy on 5272110 or 027 277 1550   |
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| Media release | Monday 9 April, 2010 Council adopts Upper Hutt City Council's gambling policy |
| Following a council meeting held on Wednesday 7 April 2010, Upper Hutt City Council has adopted its Class 4 Gambling and New Zealand Racing Board (including TAB) Venues policy. Following a council meeting held on Wednesday 7 April 2010, Upper Hutt City Council has adopted its Class 4 Gambling and New Zealand Racing Board (including TAB) Venues policy. Most significantly, council agreed to a reduction the total number of electronic gambling machines allowed in Upper Hutt City, from 183 to 174. Council also incorporated an additional clause to the policy, relating to the transfer of existing Class 4 Gambling Venue conditions. The clause states: “where an existing Class 4 Gambling Venue is ceasing to operate, the council, may at its own discretion, allow the transfer of existing venue conditions to another location that meets the criteria of the existing policy”. The policy lists conditions to be met for the transfer to be considered. The policy now specifies where a new or relocating venue can be located, with reference to existing gambling venues. All gambling venue advertising signs must now comply with the council's Control of Advertising Signs Bylaw 2005. An applicant must now provide satisfactory evidence that the venue complies in all respects with the requirements imposed under the Building Act 2004 and the Resource Management Act 1991. They must also provide documentation outlining the policies and programmes in place for the distribution of funds. Under the Gambling Act 2003, pubs and clubs are covered by Class 4 licensing provisions. An operator wanting to establish a new venue or to increase the number of machines at an existing venue must gain consent from the council. The objective of the gambling venue policy is to: 1) ensure the council and the community have influence over the location of new Class 4 Gambling Venues within the city; 2) allow the community to have access to gambling venues for entertainment purposes and to benefit from the proceeds; 3) recognise the issue of problem gambling and take appropriate steps to reduce it, particularly through the facilitation of responsible gambling; 4) manage the growth of gaming machines within the district; and 5) encourage clarity regarding the past distribution of gambling funds. The draft gambling venue policy went out for public consultation on 18 January 2009 and eight written submissions were received by the closing date of consultation. Members of the public were able to attend an open forum discussing the proposed policy in early February. Following this initial consultation, six submitters took the opportunity to speak to council at an extraordinary council meeting in March. Council then considered the amended draft policy before it became adopted at the full council meeting on 7 April. For more information please contact Kate Glanville, Acting Policy and Reporting Manager, on 527 2169. |
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| Media release | Wednesday 7 April, 2010 Blogg on depression supports Upper Hutt's young people |
| The 2008 Upper Hutt Youth Survey revealed that a significant number of Upper Hutt’s young people experience depression. As many as 29 percent of young people surveyed experience the symptoms of depression. “This figure is too large to ignore. It’s important that our local young people are aware of how to identify depression, and how they can access help and support.” says Andrea Curtis, Director of Community Services. “We need to connect our young people to the agencies and resources that are there to assist with depression. This is a national issue, with a national awareness raising campaign” says Andrea. Jane Yee, a well known TV and radio presenter, recently posted a blog on the news website www.stuff.co.nz, in which she talks about her personal experiences with clinical depression. Jane is perhaps best known as a bubbly and confident presenter on the popular C4 television channel. Jane’s blog is written with sincerity and honesty and shows that, like many young New Zealanders, she has had her own battle with depression. She talks in her blog about her struggle, but also highlights how she overcame this difficult time in her life. Jane was invited to be one of the famous “youth faces” of depression by the Ministry of Health in their ‘Lowdown’ campaign. An initiative intended to help young people who might be suffering from depression, the Lowdown team is fronted by a selection of NZ personalities well known to young people. The campaign website is a great resource for young people seeking information on what depression is, how to identify the symptoms, where to get help and features stories about others who have gone through similar experiences. The young people of Upper Hutt, through the 2008 Youth Survey, told us what the important issues are for them. For many surveyed, depression is a significant cause of concern. Upper Hutt City Council has responded to this by reproducing (with permission) Jane Yee’s informative and supportive blog on the Upper Hutt youth website www.uhyouth.com. A link to the Lowdown Campaign is also available. For more information please contact Ashooja Chandra, Community Development Advisor, Upper Hutt City Council on 527 2795. |
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| Media release | Friday 26 March, 2010 Fergusson cycle training day a rolling success |
| The inaugural Hutt Valley Summer of Cycling is a great way to discover why the Hutt Valley is the region’s off-road cycling capital. With 11 major events, a series of regular rides, and bike maintenance and learn to ride workshops over a three-month period, there’s something for everyone from hard-core mountain bikers to families looking for a fun day out. Hutt City Mayor David Ogden says the Summer of Cycling is a great way to discover the wealth of cycling tracks and trails the Hutt Valley offers. “I’m challenging everyone who has a bicycle languishing in the shed or garage, to dig it out, dust off the cobwebs, and re-acquaint yourself with one of the most fun ways of getting about. “There are plenty of events suitable for families and new cyclists, including a ride along the Hutt River Trail or to the Pencarrow Lighthouse, and you can top it all with the 100km RaboPlus Big Coast ride in March. “Experienced riders can challenge themselves with events like the epic Merida Karapoti Classic, the Skyline Screamer and the Screaming-O. “ Highlights of the inaugural Summer of Cycling include the:
For more information, visit www.summerscene.co.nz/cycling or pick up a brochure from your local bike shop or Council facility. Summer of Cycling is organised by Hutt City Council as part of Summer Scene, and is supported by BikeNZ, Greater Wellington Regional Council, Upper Hutt City Council, New Zealand Community Trust, RaboPlus, Avanti Plus Lower Hutt and the Radio Network. For further information please contact Duncan Chisholm, Recreation & Events Manager, (04) 560-0302 or duncan.chisholm@huttcity.govt.nz |
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| Media release | Thursday 25 March, 2010 Council adopts draft Annual Plan for consultation |
| Upper Hutt City Council has adopted its 2010/11 draft Annual Plan for consultation and proposed amendments to the Rates Remission Policy for Economic Development (in the current LTCCP). Public consultation opens on 6 April 2010. Consultation will run for one month, with the submission period closing on 7 May 2010. Public hearings will be held in May, before the council considers feedback and adopts a final plan at the end of June for the coming financial year. The draft Annual Plan 2010/11 sets out Year 2 of the Long Term Council Community Plan (LTCCP) 2009-2019 and outlines the council’s work programme for the coming financial year and explains any differences from the long-term plan – proposed new projects and changes to existing projects. “It reflects the decisions made during the LTCCP process in 2009, with some adjustments to accommodate changing circumstances over the past year” says Mayor Wayne Guppy. Upper Hutt City Council is proposing the average ratepayer will see their rates increase by just 3.1 percent in the coming financial year. Mayor Wayne Guppy says: “it’s pleasing that the council is able to keep rates increases below 4%, while still delivering key city projects. We are still delivering a plan that provides the services and projects the city needs while keeping rates affordable for our residents and businesses”. The total council expenditure proposed for 2010/11 is $42.171 million. A number of funding sources contribute to the payment of the forecast expenditure, including rates, which accounts for 64.1 percent ($27.04 million) of the total funding required for 2010/11. This follows a meeting yesterday of Mayor Wayne Guppy and councillors to approve the draft Annual Plan for 2010/11. “Maintaining and improving services, facilities and infrastructure remains an important focus for us. I believe the new projects we will deliver this year will benefit the city for years to come. We are working towards the development of netball and tennis courts and of Wi Tako Ngatata Scenic Reserve. Enhanced library services, including a new mobile library bus and an interactive website will be delivered” said Mayor Wayne Guppy. The draft Annual Plan 2010/11 proposes the launch and continuation of a number of key city projects. Due to the current economic climate a number of projects included in the LTCCP are now considered by council as unaffordable and it is proposed that these projects be deferred from this year’s plan. Proposed deferred projects include an accommodation development study, a major city promotional campaign, a habitat improvement study of significant natural areas within Upper Hutt, a planting project along Gibbons Street and a strategic review of parking supply and demand in the CBD. Mayor Wayne Guppy is encouraging city residents, organisations and groups to consider the draft plan and tell the council what they think about the projects and services proposed. Public consultation on the draft plan and proposed amendments to the Rates Remission Policy for Economic Development (in the current LTCCP) will begin on Tuesday 6 April 2010. Residents and ratepayers will be able to find out more about the proposals and comment on the plan in a few weeks’ time. They will have a month (6 April to 7 May) to make submissions. A summary, which provides a brief overview on the content and financial statements in the draft Annual Plan, will be distributed to all ratepayers in Upper Hutt in early April. Full copies of the draft plan, the summary and submission forms are also available from all council offices, libraries and www.upperhuttcity.com from 6 April. A public meeting to explain and discuss the draft Annual Plan and proposed amendments will be held on Tuesday 20 April 2010 at 7pm in the Civil Defence Room, Upper Hutt City Council building, 838-842 Fergusson Drive, Upper Hutt. People wishing to present their submissions in person to the Mayor and councillors can do so at one of two special meetings held on Tuesday 25 and Thursday 27 May 2010. |
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| Media release | Friday 19 March, 2010 Larger-than-life figures 'File' into Russell Street |
| As part of the Main Street Vision to revitalise the CBD, work has begun installing the first of three sculptures. This vision was supported by the community through the Long Term Council Community Plan. By mid-April all three sculptures will be installed within the heart of the city. The public are invited to attend a Maori blessing at 6am on 17 April at the main roundabout on the corner of King and Main Streets. Designed by award-winning artist Richard Wedekind, the sculpture entitled ‘File’ depicts nine individual figures in motion each with a story to tell based on their attitude, sense of purpose and personal space. It’s a light-hearted view at the figure in the urban environment. Built of strong durable steel, the largest figure measures 2.3m in height and the sculpture will extend 8.5m in length along the popular footpath. Mayor Wayne Guppy, said: “it’s exciting that such high-quality street art will be on public display in Upper Hutt City. Like all art it will be open for interpretation and I expect it will mean something different for everyone.” The larger-than-life figures will be installed on the pavement at the corner of Russell and Main Streets in the centre of the CBD. The area is a people-friendly environment with wide footpaths, public seating and specimen trees, an ideal location for a large sculptural work. For more information on the artist Richard Wedekind visit www.wedekind.co.nz For more information please contact Chris Upton, Director of Business and Leisure Services, on 527 2169. Photo: Hayley Meehan |
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| Media release | Monday 12 March, 2010 Reckless behaviour causes costly damage to Totara Park Road Bridge |
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| The council is shocked at the wilful and costly damage an individual (or individuals) have caused to the Totara Park Road Bridge. Sometime during the evening of 6 March 2010, heavy concrete slabs were prised from the bridge’s footpath and dumped onto the river bed below. Within the last year, such reckless behaviour has damaged the bridge three times. Each time the slabs are damaged beyond repair leaving the ratepayers to face a bill for the purchase of new slabs to repair the bridge. The bridge design requires slabs to be installed along the footpath to protect and provide access to essential services beneath them that are ducted along the bridge to supply the residents of Totara Park. One of the main power feeds supplying power to Totara Park residents’ passes through this duct. Besides the obvious risk of throwing slabs over the handrail and hurting themselves or people unbeknownst beneath on the river bed, the potential damage and interruption to services within the ducting would cause considerable inconvenience to residents of Totara Park and serious harm to themselves. As the damage is occurring at night and the bridge is both a pedestrian and cycling bridge, there is also a serious risk to the safety of pedestrians and cyclists passing over the bridge from falling into the hole. Director of Infrastructure Services, Lachlan Wallach, said: “No one wants to see irresponsible people causing such reckless damage with little regard to public safety and purse. Not only does it damage the bridge costing ratepayers to repair and risk leaving Totara Park residents without services for an inconvenient period, but someone could get badly injured or worse.” Members of the public, and especially residents of Totara Park, are being encouraged to be vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour on the bridge to the police immediately on 527 2300 and the councils’ after hours service on 527 2169 to ensure the area is made safe as soon as possible if damage has occurred.
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| Media release | Friday 12 March, 2010 Safer Valley Youth (SaVy) launches in Upper Hutt |
| The council, in partnership with the Police and Regional Public Health, launches Safer Valley Youth (SaVY), an exciting new initiative in Upper Hutt. The initiative aims to better inform our young residents of the range of local agencies that can support them with youth-related issues. Project co-ordinator, Utulei Antipas, will lead four local youth peer support workers over the next six months including Ashley Johnston, Sage Lerm, Debbie Pearce and Sam Twomey. The team will engage young residents on the streets of our CBD, informing and connecting them to local agencies that can provide them youth-based support. By better informing our young people of the opportunities, we hope to work towards cultivating a safer CBD environment for both young people and the wider Upper Hutt community. The team will identify areas of need where prevention-based safety methods will be employed to facilitate an environment of positive youth development through their engagement and relationships with young people and the wider Upper Hutt community. “In the Upper Hutt Youth Survey, young people told us they needed advice about where to go when they need help” says Jesse Boyce, SaVY project manager from Upper Hutt City Council. “It’s fantastic that through this project we’ll be able to link young people to agencies that can support them”. Community Max funding has been secured for this initiative. Community Max funding supports the completion of projects that benefit the community or the environment. It provides a wage subsidy for six months for young people helping complete community-based projects and provides an opportunity for young people to build skills and work experience while contributing to the community. For more information please contact Jesse Boyce, Community Project Manager, on 527 2169.   |
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| Media release | Tuesday 2 March, 2010 Road safety education ideas sought by council |
| Upper Hutt City Council invites people to express their views on what road safety education campaigns they would like to see run in conjunction with the community and other organisations in Upper Hutt. In developing the Upper Hutt Road Safety Plan each year, the council consults with the community to determine where to target its road safety education and awareness activities. This work is undertaken through the Community Road Safety Programme (CRSP) grant that is part funded by the New Zealand Transport Agency. The council’s Road Safety Co-ordinator, Joanne Kinnaird, says this consultation forms part of the overall education programme that is delivered from July 2010 through to June 2011. In Upper Hutt City, the council, Police, ACC, schools, training organisations and community groups work together to provide the community with general road safety advice and deliver a wide range of important programmes and activities on cycle safety, child restraints, youth road safety awareness, driver licence theory courses and pedestrian issues. “We listen to what the community want and marry that up with the trends from crash reports and formulate a plan to address education areas of concern within Upper Hutt. A grant from the New Zealand Transport Agency and supplemented from council funding allows us to go into our ‘at risk’ communities and work to raise the profile of road safety and injury prevention,” says Joanne Kinnaird. People can provide their views in several ways; by email to joanne.kinnaird@uhcc.govt.nz ; by phone 547 2169 ext 754; or in writing to Upper Hutt City Council, Private Bag 907, Upper Hutt (please mark your letter as ‘Road Safety Consultation’). A consultation form to provide your feedback is available at www.upperhuttcity.com “It’s important to remember that we are seeking views about education issues only and not views on engineering or enforcement issues. This is your chance to voice your ideas about how we can work together with groups, schools and the community to improve road safety education and awareness. This community consultation opportunity is not a forum for residents wanting to promote engineering actions in their street, as this needs to be addressed through the council’s Annual Plan process”. All suggestions are put forward for consideration as part of the Upper Hutt Road Safety Plan and are not necessary ‘doable’. “We have received a wide range of suggestions in the past and many have resulted in some really positive road safety education programmes being initiated within the city that have made a real positive impact in our community,” says Joanne Kinnaird. The closing date for submissions on the council’s Road Safety Plan is Friday 19 March. For more information please contact Jesse Boyce, Community Project Manager, on 527 2169. |
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| Media release | Monday 15 February, 2010 Valley Flyer Service Disruption |
| Some Valley Flyer bus services will be disrupted on Monday, 15 February due to a scheduled meeting of the Central Amalgamated Workers Union. The following services will be affected between 9.30m and 12.30pm:
Airport Flyer and school bus services will not be affected. We apologise for any inconvenience that may be caused to our customers during this time. GO Wellington, Runcimans, Mana and Newlands Coach Services are NOT affected. For more information, please contact Metlink on 0800 801 700. |
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| Media release | Monday 11 February, 2010 Women Only Swim night success at H2O Xtream |
| Since H²O Xtream launched the Women Only Swim night last October, more than 1400 women have passed through the doors with an average of 87 women per week enjoying the relaxed and fun atmosphere at the session. Research by Upper Hutt's Community and Recreation Services teams clearly proved a requirement for this type of programme in the community and as a result women of all ages, abilities and cultures are taking the opportunity to exercise and for some of them try something new. In fact currently 53% of attendees come from a different ethnic background other than New Zealander and for many this has been their first time inside an aquatic facility! As well as the opportunity to swim, activities have included Hydrorobics sessions, have a go at snorkeling and kayaking, inflatables, waves and slides plus adult learn to swim classes. Recreation Services Manager, Alison Law said: It’s fantastic to see so many women from different backgrounds enjoying the facility in so many different ways. The adult learn to swim programme is also showing fantastic results and we will continue to regularly run classes.’ H²O Xtream is one of New Zealand's leading aquatic facilities and its programmes as well as the facility itself has landed numerous national awards. In particular, the New Zealand Recreation Association has recognized the contribution Upper Hutt’s Recreation Services team makes in providing innovative programmes and running activities and events for all sections of the community. One woman’s response to a question in a recent survey when asked what she enjoyed most about the session said: ‘Hearing women laughing together; the peace without lots of teens/children. It’s just a girl’s night out!’ The Women Only Swim Night runs every Sunday at H²O Xtream from 7pm (pool closes at 6.30pm and reopens for women at 7pm) and is supported by the Lion Foundation, Settlement Support and Upper Hutt City Council. Pick up a brochure or visit www.h2oxtream.com for more details. |
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| Media release | Wednesday 27 January, 2010 Orongomai Marae Open Day |
| The annual Orongomai Marae Open Day is once again being held on Waitangi Day to commemorate the signing of the Treaty. This year’s kaupapa (theme) is kaitiaki (protection or care) of the environment. There will be a number of displays, including Biodiversity NZ, as well as stalls from services available to the community. “Our annual open day is a wonderful opportunity for people to see what the marae offers everyone in our community” says Hine Poa, Acting Chairperson of Orongomai Marae. “The kaupapa has been chosen because our environment is essential to our being – physically and spiritually – and it is also a topic people are increasingly thinking about” The open day will also include access to Kahukura, the wharenui (meeting house) of Orongomai Marae. People will have the opportunity to see the intricate carvings on the walls and gain an insight into the rich history of the marae and Upper Hutt. This is a free event and everyone is welcome to come along. It is also a special opportunity to be welcomed onto the marae with a powhiri (traditional Maori welcome). Visitors can learn about facilities and services offered by the marae, many of which are free to residents of Upper Hutt. There will be a number of fantastic multi-cultural performances throughout the day. You can also expect some great food and craft stalls. Visitors can sample the best hangi around - but it is recommended to buy tickets in advance as they quickly sell out. Phone 528 9639 or 5278944, or email shelly.andrews@yahoo.co.nz to book your hangi. The Orongomai Marae Open Day on Saturday 6 February, 9 am – 2 pm, is a free event and open to everybody. Members of the public are invited to attend the powhiri starting at 9 am. For more information phone 5289639 or email uppervalleymarae@xtra.co.nz |
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| Media release | Tuesday 26 January, 2010 Design phase underway on Akatarawa Road Bridge |
| Upper Hutt City Council has appointed engineering consultants Beca Carter Hollings and Ferner Ltd (Beca) to design the new Akatarawa Road Bridge (B1/4) where the wooden truss bridge by Wellesley Camp on the Upper Hutt side of Staglands is located. The design will consider, if possible, options to retain the existing bridge and to keep the road open during the construction phase. It is intended that provisions will be made for cyclists and pedestrians either via the new design or the existing bridge. Local firm Griffiths Drilling will undertake core sample drilling this week to determine the ground condition for the foundations. The construction phase is expected to commence in mid to late April 2010. “It is hoped that the road will remain open throughout the construction period although delays are likely and as the existing bridge is located in the middle of the road corridor it may be necessary to close the road for short periods of time” says Director of Infrastructure Services, Lachlan Wallach. Every endeavour will be made to keep delays and potential closures to a minimum. The other two wooden bridges on the Waikanae side of Staglands will be replaced in subsequent years and will be confirmed through the Long Term Council Community Plan (LTCCP) processes. For more information, please contact the councils’ Technical Support Unit on 527 2152. |
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| Media release | Wednesday 20 January, 2010 Council to soon ask residents their views on a range of services |
| The Upper Hutt City Council will conduct its annual community survey over the next two weeks. The National Research Bureau has been contracted to undertake the telephone survey on behalf of the council. “400 people over the age of eighteen will be interviewed” says Corporate Communications Officer Hayley Meehan. “People contacted will be randomly selected from the telephone listings for Upper Hutt City. They will have the opportunity to share their views on a range of services that council delivers and to comment on where improvements could be made.” “This information helps the council to identify ways to better meet the needs of the Upper Hutt community. It also forms an important part of the council’s measures of accountability to the community.” “The National Research Bureau will be ringing people between Friday 5 February and Wednesday 17 February 2010. If you receive a call, please take the time to answer their questions.” The report on the annual community survey will be available in about two month’s time. It will be presented to Council’s Audit Committee, and copies will be available for the public to view. For more information, please contact Hayley Meehan - Corporate Communications Officer on 04 527 2169. |
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| Media release | Wednesday 20 January, 2010 Volunteer retires after fifty years of library service |
| On behalf of the city, and accompanied by her colleagues, Upper Hutt Mayor Wayne Guppy formally recognised Audrey Harper’s outstanding voluntary service to the community in the mayoral office on Wednesday 18 February. Audrey was presented with flowers and a certificate during a morning tea in her honour. Audrey reminisced “I cannot remember how it was I became a volunteer at the library fifty years ago but it started a period of friendship and interest in a community activity that has continued unabated”. During her service she has seen the Central Library move three times from the small cramped original building in Main Street next to the power board offices, to the ground floor of the present Civic Administration Building and then to its current location on Fergusson Drive. Back then all the work was done manually and she worked the desk for two hours once a week filling in cards, checking returns and date-stamping books. After retiring as a the Senior Mistress of Upper Hutt College in 1981 she con tinued to work for the library service as a volunteer, working during the daytime, doing much the same work as before until computers entered the system. Particularly memorable projects for Audrey were to catalogue the photographic archive collection and to review old Upper Hutt Leader issues for interesting information to extract and record. “It was very interesting, and all sorts of fascinating information came to light” says Audrey. “My mathematical mind lets me enjoy putting things in order – it's never boring.” “Over the fifty years at the library I have seen many changes – but I think the most important is that the library and its staff have become “user-friendly”. No long is silence the norm – no one speaks in whispers – a tremendous variety of books and other material is available and everyone is encouraged to read, explore and learn.” |
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| Media release | Thursday 6 January, 2010 Civic Awards ceremony is a double celebration for the arts |
| On behalf of the city, and accompanied by their families, Upper Hutt Mayor Wayne Guppy hosted Clare Derby and Kevin Adams to a function in the mayoral office on Friday 11 December to formally recognise their outstanding cultural and voluntary service to the community. Their lifetime of service to the city was officially recognised with the presentation of Civic Awards. Clare Derby received her award for cultural service to our community. “Clare has been a true champion for musical excellence in our city. She has dedicated countless voluntary hours to developing young musicians, growing musical audiences, attaining a world class musical venue (Expressions) and actively fundraising for Expressions’ Steinway concert grand piano,” Mr Guppy said. The scope of her life long passion for all facets of musical excellence, particularly in the classical genre, is formidable – incorporating solo performance, accompaniment, teaching, planning, advising, campaigning, advocacy, concert management, fundraising and audience development. “There are few who can claim such a significant impact on the musical vibrancy of our city as Clare. She is treasured and admired by us all and we are delighted to see this formally recognised by the city”, Director of Expressions Arts and Entertainment Centre, Stephanie Cottrill said. Performance is her passion. She has played the piano since the age of nine. She is known not only as a soloist but also for her extensive accompanist performance. Her musical career began as a solo pianist for broadcasting and after winning joint first prize for the Auckland Star Piano Concerto Prize she went on to became accompanist for the Auckland Town Hall Choral Festival and official accompanist for the New Zealand Brass Band Competitions. An Upper Hutt resident for over 40 years, Clare has invested a lot of time into supporting and promoting young musicians, providing concerts at which they can perform. A registered music teacher for 30 years, she is a sought after piano teacher for senior students. For many years she was the Chairperson and Promoter of the Upper Hutt Youth Orchestra based at CIT Heretaunga. In her capacity as Chairperson of the Upper Hutt Music Society, she continues to assist with providing musical concerts through a partnership with the annual Classical Expressions series. From 1995 she was a trustee of the Upper Hutt Community Arts Centre Trust, advising on the musical needs of the then proposed Expressions complex. Following the first significant purchase of her very own Steinway Grand Piano, she went on to be a major driving force as part of Expressions successful $250,000 fundraising campaign for a Steinway, Model D Concert Piano. Through her service as a trustee of the Upper Hutt Concert Grand Piano Trust she now acts as a guardian to the new Steinway. Clare is also an advisory trustee on the Expressions Arts and Entertainment Trust. Kevin Adams received his award for outstanding voluntary service to Upper Hutt’s performing arts community over a more than 45 year period. “Kevin plays a big part in the lively and dynamic performing arts community with his lengthy, substantial voluntary roles across the three key performing arts organisations in the city. He is probably best known for his expertise in theatre lighting design and operation,” Mr Guppy said. Kevin joined the Heretaunga Players as a young man and has been a continuous and active member of the society’s managing committee since the 1970s, including holding the position of Treasurer for several years. He is the only founding member of the Upper Hutt Musical Theatre who is still actively involved in its operations. Kevin’s pivotal role in the Upper Hutt Musical Theatre and Heretaunga Players led to his input throughout the concept and design phases of Expressions. Since its opening he has been their foremost technical volunteer, providing countless hours of technical know-how and operation of the Genesis Energy Theatre. In addition to the generosity with his time, Kevin celebrated his retirement as an electrician with a large donation to Expressions. His name appears on a theatre seat and is recorded as a Bronze Donor for the Steinway Piano Campaign. He also donated costly hardware equipment and installation time to the theatre. “We are privileged to have someone with such a depth of history and commitment to our performing arts community as part of our team. It would be difficult to find a more deserving recipient of a cultural service award than he,” said Stephanie Cottrill. |
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2009
| Media release | 16 December 2009 Cycling festival hits top gear |
| The inaugural Hutt Valley Summer of Cycling is a great way to discover why the Hutt Valley is the region’s off-road cycling capital. With 11 major events, a series of regular rides, and bike maintenance and learn to ride workshops over a three-month period, there’s something for everyone from hard-core mountain bikers to families looking for a fun day out. Hutt City Mayor David Ogden says the Summer of Cycling is a great way to discover the wealth of cycling tracks and trails the Hutt Valley offers. “I’m challenging everyone who has a bicycle languishing in the shed or garage, to dig it out, dust off the cobwebs, and re-acquaint yourself with one of the most fun ways of getting about. “There are plenty of events suitable for families and new cyclists, including a ride along the Hutt River Trail or to the Pencarrow Lighthouse, and you can top it all with the 100km RaboPlus Big Coast ride in March. “Experienced riders can challenge themselves with events like the epic Merida Karapoti Classic, the Skyline Screamer and the Screaming-O. “ Highlights of the inaugural Summer of Cycling include the:
For more information, visit www.summerscene.co.nz/cycling or pick up a brochure from your local bike shop or Council facility. Summer of Cycling is organised by Hutt City Council as part of Summer Scene, and is supported by BikeNZ, Greater Wellington Regional Council, Upper Hutt City Council, New Zealand Community Trust, RaboPlus, Avanti Plus Lower Hutt and the Radio Network. For further information please contact Duncan Chisholm, Recreation & Events Manager, (04) 560-0302 or duncan.chisholm@huttcity.govt.nz |
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| Media Release | Friday 27 November, 2009 Wellington Mayoral Forum asks councils to consider review of Wellington |
| Today the Wellington Mayoral Forum decided it would ask councils in the Wellington Region to consider a proposed Terms of Reference for review of Wellington governance issues. Mayoral Forum Chair Wayne Guppy said that the proposed Terms of Reference were solely to provide a stock-take of governance within the region. "They ask a series of questions to help determine whether there are any issues that need addressing", said Mayor Guppy. The background to this decision today is the establishment of a single Auckland Council as a unitary authority with 19 local boards. The Mayors agreed to refer the Terms of Reference to their councils for consideration. The result of that will be reported back to the first Mayoral Forum in the New Year. |
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| Media Release | Friday 27 November, 2009 Make it an exciting splish splash summer at the Harcourt Park Paddling Pool |
| Harcourt Park Paddling Pool is spraying imaginative new fun this summer. Exciting new water spray features including a spray tunnel and sensor-timed sprinklers are set to provide a fun, interactive and safe environment for children to cool off this summer. Come down and see the exciting new water features for yourself from Thursday 3 December. The pool provides gallons of free fun for the whole family but especially for toddlers under five says Brett Latimer, Parks and Recreation Manager. “We have also kept an area free of water spray features for those mothers and tots who want to play spray free.” The pool, adjacent to the popular playgrounds, is open for sixteen weeks of the year (weather dependant) with water spray features in operation from 10am-7pm. Parental supervision is required at all times as the pool is unsupervised. All existing play features including the water slide remain in use. Why not pack a picnic and make use of the nearby free electric BBQ and picnic tables. Parking is also available at the park. For more information contact Upper Hutt City Council on 527 2169. |
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| Media Release | Friday 27 November, 2009 New GP Practice to Open in Lower Hutt, Supported by Hutt Valley DHB |
| A new General Practice is to open in Lower Hutt early next year, following an initiative by the Hutt Valley District Health Board to increase the number of general practitioners serving the Hutt community. GPs’ closed books have been a significant issue in the Hutt Valley for several years and, as a result, thousands of Hutt Valley people have been unable to enroll at a local practice. The DHB’s register of people unable to find a GP currently stands at approximately 1,900. The new practice, known as Hutt City Health Centre, will open in High Street, Lower Hutt, no later than 1 April 2010. It is taking pre-enrolments immediately (Ph: 04 576 2044). “Should we get a high number of enrolments, we may consider opening earlier,” said Philip Harrison, the new practice’s local family doctor. The DHB’s acting chief executive, Michael Hundleby, said the opening of the first new general practice in the Valley for many years was a major breakthrough in solving the access issue. “Giving people greater access to primary care has been our highest priority, along with the expansion of Hutt Hospital,” he said. “We have supported Dr Harrison into the practice on the basis that Hutt City Health Centre will take all people who wish to join.” GP liaison, Dr Liz Fitzmaurice said that the DHB had been working with primary care organisations on a number of solutions to the issue, the most recent of which was to create a fund to encourage more general practitioners into the Hutt Valley. “All primary care organisations were able to submit proposals on how this could be achieved and following this process we are very pleased to be in a position to announce the establishment of the new practice in central Lower Hutt, which will be part of Valley PHO,” Dr Fitzmaurice said. The DHB is assisting with the establishment costs for this new practice. “It is important that people have a general practice to help look after their primary care health needs,’ she said. “We have written to those people who appear on our records as unenrolled, to enable them to pre-enroll in the new practice. This will provide some certainty to these patients.” The new practice will initially have one GP and has a strategic objective to recruit more GPs as it grows in accordance with patient demand and staff availability. Dr Harrison said: “We do feel rather privileged to have been successful in gaining this support from our DHB. The new health centre has been planned for some years with some longer-term ambitions, and yet it is largely because of this additional funding that the venture has been possible at all. This achieved, next comes the hard part, providing the best possible care to all our patients, regardless of their means and according to their so far unmet needs. Many, I hope, will be involved in its journey”. |
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| Media Release | Friday 20 November, 2009 Get waterwise this sumer - water conservation is everyone's responsibility |
| Conserving water is everyone’s responsibility and the council is no exception says Mayor Wayne Guppy. “We all need to conserve water to avoid shortages of supply during peak demand periods. We have garden watering restrictions in place all year round and now as summer approaches we need to be more mindful than ever of these.” Water restrictions in place allow:
“We undertake a leak detection programme, water our own grounds and gardens responsibly, run watering patrols and undertake a public education campaign that provides information on water conservation and changing levels of water restrictions. “We are also using bore water at Trentham to irrigate our sports fields which alleviates demand on the treated supply.” Mayor Wayne Guppy says the council’s leak detection programme has proved very successful at keeping leakage low, particularly in the last three years. “We spend $89,000 annually on our leak detection programme which enables us to survey our network three times each year. Using the International Leakage Index (ILI) as a benchmark suggests that we are at an optimal level of leak detection. “We’re committed to maintaining our leak detection programme along with all our other water conservation measures. If we all aim to conserve water, especially over the summer months, we would hope to minimise the risk of having to introduce further restrictions such as sprinkler bans.” To minimise the city’s water costs you contribute to as a ratepayer, please report any leaks you notice to the council’s Technical Support Unit on 527 2170 as soon as possible. |
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| Media Release | Thursday 12 November, 2009 Roof water harvesting; keeping your pockets happy and your home healthy long term |
| Healthy Homes, Happy Pockets returns with a free public information evening on roof water harvesting on 30 November from 6-7pm at Upper Hutt Library. “Healthy Homes, Happy Pockets events are about giving people the opportunity to learn about ways to save money while at the same time looking after the environment and their health. These choices are hugely beneficial and so often overlap” says Lillian Fougere, Advisor in Community Development, Upper Hutt City Council. Stan Abbott, Senior Lecturer of Microbiology & Communicable Diseases and Director of the Roof Water Research Centre, Institute of Food Nutrition & Human Health, Massey University Wellington, will be talking about roof water harvesting in urban environments – something that could be particularly useful for people in urban Upper Hutt who enjoy gardening or are concerned about their water usage. With talk of water meters becoming the norm in the Wellington region in the future, roof water harvesting may be a great way to cut down on expense in the long term. It conserves water that otherwise goes down the drain – and saves it for those times over summer when water is in high demand. “Rainwater tanks are a visible and high profile method of conserving water and can be used to reinforce and promote water conservation policies and practices” says Mr Abbott. At the September event, the Home Energy Advice Centre gave away a free home assessment to one lucky attendee. During the home assessment, they were on the look out for any energy related issues including heating, insulation and ventilation. Joy Elliot of central Upper Hutt, winner of the home assessment, says “I was quite surprised how sensible, simple and inexpensive some of the ideas were. I’ve learnt practical things I can make changes on.” Sarah Free, Energy Advisor for the Home Energy Advice Centre, says “There’s usually something people can do that will improve their comfort levels and decrease their power bills. Prioritising is really important – it doesn’t matter what amount of money you have to spend on a place, it is good to know what will make the biggest differences for the dollars spent” The Home Energy Advice Centre is a not-for-profit, impartial advice service which you can contact for free advice on any issue to do with energy use in your home. The freephone number for the service is 0800 388 588. Advisors can also respond to emails (email Wellington@energyadvice.org.nz) and can send you additional information if required. Registrations for the seminar are essential. Get in quick to avoid disappointment. For more information or to register contact Lillian Fougere on 527 2798 or community@uhcc.govt.nz Photo caption: Sarah Free, Energy Advisor for the Home Energy Advice Centre, hands to homeowner Joy Elliot, recommendations from the home assessment along with some foam pipe lagging. This is a very low-cost solution for insulating hot water pipes and cutting down on heat loss and power bills. |
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| Media release | Thursday 5 November, 2009 Christmas Parade 2009 |
| Participants in this year's Upper Hutt Leader Santa Parade made a "fantastic effort in being Christmassy," says organiser Andrea Hubbard from Upper Hutt City Council. "Heaps more music" included the Paraparaumu Pipe Band which led the parade and is a regular at Upper Hutt's annual Highland Gathering. In the business category, the winner was Anything Goes Costume Hire, with Urban Nightmare in second and in third, the combined Professionals Gillies and Mark and neighbour Cadburys entry. Riverstones Church and Timberlea Residents' Association were first equal in the community section with Expressions second and Upper Hutt Rollerskating Club third. Stokes Valley Rotary and the Stokes Valley Fire Brigade built a Santa sleigh for their parade held earlier in the day. Santa also used it for his arrival in Upper Hutt. The Upper Hutt parade also attracted a number of visitors from Lower Hutt where its traditional city centre parade had been canned in favour of a community event at Fraser Park on Saturday evening. |
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| Media Release | Thursday 5 November, 2009 H2O Xtream TeenBoard Gains National Recognition and Bike the Trail Event is Highly Commended |
| Upper Hutt City Council’s Recreation Services team received two awards for outstanding contributions to the parks and recreation industry at the annual New Zealand Recreation Association (NZRA) conference on Tuesday 3 November 2009. H2O Xtream’s TeenBoard was nominated in the Outstanding Project category. It was recognised that since its creation, the TeenBoard has continuously evolved and is a highly valued and sustainable community project. Although the project missed out on the top award, the TeenBoard did receive the only highly commended in its category. NZRA chief executive, Brendon Ward, said: “the standard of this year’s nominations was extremely high and not only did they meet our criteria - but they showed innovation, commitment and passion for their work.” A joint collaboration between Upper Hutt, Hutt City and Greater Wellington Region Council’s took out a highly commended award in the Outstanding Event of the Year category, for February’s annual Bike the Trail event. The event has grown since its inception and proves successful collaborations between city councils are possible and can deliver award-winning successes. “It’s that kind of attitude that leads to great results, not just for those in the industry – although all our winners are inspirational – but for the New Zealand public who experience and benefit from their work.” Mr Ward added. Recreation Services Manager, Alison Law said: “Upper Hutt City certainly punches above its weight at a national level and I am particularly proud that the team here has been recognized for the work they do.” |
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| Media Release | Thursday 22 October, 2009 Seniors abseil down Upper Hutt's tallest building |
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The launch of Activation’s new Pathway to Activity programme was exactly that, as some of the more daring local seniors literally launched themselves off Upper Hutt’s CBD Towers today. More than 10 people including 7 local seniors and Upper Hutt CEO Max Pederson took up the challenge with Mr Pederson completing the challenge, not once but twice saying: ‘That was actually quite fun and a fantastic way to launch our new programme!’
Ian Sherwin bravely stepped up to be first down the building, keenly followed by Tarl Cashmore, Margaret Pearson, Carol Jackson, Bill Tito and Beverley Blackburn. Mrs Pearson, representing ‘Grandparents Raising Grandchildren’ said she ‘wanted to prove that grandparents can still do anything’.
The Pathway to Activity programme is a 3 step initiative to enable and encourage the over 50’s in Upper Hutt to participate in fun social activities, whilst getting physically active.
Starting with free workshops and established classes, participants can progress at their own pace and get involved with the successful Growing Old Living Dangerously (GOLD) programme. GOLD is a series of monthly events which enables seniors to partake in activities they’ve never tried or perhaps even contemplated before such as abseiling, rock climbing, archery, go karting, snorkelling and canoeing.
Active Communities Co-ordinator, Cherry Downing said: ‘Pathway to Activity' is a great way for anyone over 50 to try something new and it was fantastic to see so many local people have a go at the abseiling. It was much higher than it looked!’ Thanks to the Hang Dog team, UHCC and for more details about the programme or to book your place please contact the Activation team on 04 527 2169 or visit www.activation.org.nz. Pictures
Ends: 311 words 1. CEO Max Pederson halfway down his descent 2. LR-Tarl Cashmore, Max Pederson, Carol Jackson 3. Participants at top of CBD towers.
For more information please contact the Active Communities Co-ordinator on 04 527 2169. |
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| Media Release | Thursday 22 July, 2009 Upper Hutt Excellence in Business Awards |
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| The Upper Hutt Excellence in Business awards were held at Expressions Arts & Entertainment Centre on Wednesday 22 October. We would like to thank the Major Sponsor - The Upper Hutt Leader The Event was organized by:
Upper Hutt City Council was a sponsor of the Best Employer Award.
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| Media Release | Wednesday 10 June, 2009 "Leaps and Bounds" Outward Bound Scholarship for Young Achiever |
| This year Upper Hutt City Council was given an incredible opportunity to give an Outward Bound scholarship to one of the nominees of the Inspire: Young Achiever Awards. Keanu McCorkindale was chosen as the recipient, with the award being presented to him at the official ceremony on Sunday 24 May. Keanu’s achievements include involvement in a number of Kapa Haka groups, performing and competing in a variety of settings. Recently, Keanu came first equal in a Taiaha competition in Makoia, Rotorua. Outward Bound has offered Keanu a place on the “Leaps and Bounds” parent/teen course. Keanu and his father Mack will be participating the 8 day course in April 2010. Outward Bound New Zealand's mission is inspiring personal and social development through value based experiential learning in an outdoor environment. Lillian Fougere, Community Development Advisor at Council and coordinator of the Inspire: Young Achiever Awards, says “The Leaps and Bounds parent/teen course provides Keanu and his dad the opportunity to share this exciting experience, and will also develop leadership skills such as effective communication and taking responsibility. Anjuli Burrell, Marketing Executive at Outward Bound said “we are offering this scholarship to a young achiever in Upper Hutt because we recognise the efforts this community is making to develop their young people’s leadership potential. We hope to see many more Upper Hutt people of all ages using Outward Bound as an opportunity for personal challenge and development” The panel of judges who awarded the Outward Bound scholarship to Keanu hope that he will value it as a life-changing experience and be able to bring those experiences back to the Upper Hutt community. The Inspire: Young Achiever Awards is an annual event celebrating local young people who have had achievements in the areas of Culture, Service, Leadership, Environment and Recreation/Events. This year there were 10 outstanding winners and runner ups, as well as the Outward Bound Scholarship in 2009. |
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| Media Release | Thursday 27 May, 2009 Young Achiever Awards Truly Inspiring |
| For the fourth year running, the Inspire: Young Achievers Awards were celebrated with 11 outstanding winners and runner ups, as well as 28 other incredible nominees. The awards ceremony was held on Sunday 24 May at Expressions Arts and Entertainment Centre, with approximately 150 people attending to celebrate the achievements of our local young people over the last year. It was an amazing opportunity for those who attended to meet some of the young everyday heroes of our community. The ceremony was opened by Murdoch Pahi, the Chairperson of Orongomai Marae, giving a blessing. This was followed by a welcome address by His Worship the Mayor Wayne Guppy, emphasising the importance of recognising youth achievement in our community. There were some hard decisions for the judges due to the high calibre of the nominees, but the winners were as follows:
Taiohi Morehu, a local youth development project aimed at reducing violence in the home, performed a number of waiata and haka throughout the ceremony, honouring those that had been chosen as winners. Local youth band “Take Time” and individual performer Teina Hitaua also performed. Lillian Fougere, Community Development Advisor for Upper Hutt City Council and coordinator of the event, said “it was fantastic to see so many people joining in to celebrate the achievements of Upper Hutt young people. My congratulations go out to the winners, runner ups and nominees for being so active in our community – their achievements are all really something to aspire to.” Gratitude is also given to the large number of youth workers, parents, teachers and community group leaders who took the time to put forward nominations. The Upper Hutt Leader and Expressions Arts and Entertainment Centre were again generous sponsors of the event as in previous years. Outward Bound has offered a scholarship for an extraordinary nominee this year. A special announcement will be made about this next week. |
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| Media Release| Saturday 25 April, 2009 Sika Manu Wins Upper Hutt Sports Awards |
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| Melbourne Storm and Kiwi League World Cup player Sika Manu won the 2009 Upper Hutt Sports Awards Winner last night. He also won Sportsman of the Year following a good season in 2008 with the Melbourne Storm and then becoming part of the Kiwi League World Cup winning team. 90 nominations were received from 30 sports. The awards are sponsored by Upper Hutt Cosmopolitan Club and coordinated by Rimutaka Lions Club. Other supporters include the Upper Hutt Leader,Upper Hutt City Council - Activation and Upper Hutt i-SITE Visitor Centre and NewstalkZB /Radiosport. The full list of winners is as follows:
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| Media Release | Thursday 19 March, 2009 Council Giving Away Personal Alarms to Make Upper Hutt Residents Safer |
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| Community Services, Upper Hutt City Council will be giving away personal alarms to people who attend their upcoming public forums: “Hear and Be Heard”. The forums for senior citizens, people with disabilities and people new to New Zealand, are free to attend and “goody bags” will be given to attendees to thank them for their participation. While there will be a number of exciting things in the goody bags, the personal alarms are a significant component. “Personal alarms are carried on the person and let off a loud, piercing alarm when activated. Not only do they act as a personal safety device, they can also make you feel more confident in moving around the city by knowing that you have the means to alert others if necessary”, Stuart Forsyth, Upper Hutt Neighbourhood Support says. Neighbourhood Support encourages people to go to the forums to find out how they can feel safer in their community. Safety will be a key topic at the upcoming forums. Upper Hutt Police are one of many guest speakers who will be presenting at the forums. The forums are an opportunity to find out about issues that are important to you, as well as a chance to tell council about the key concerns for the Upper Hutt community. “We want all Upper Hutt residents to feel safe and healthy which is why we are holding these forums and giving away the personal alarms. Safety is a topical issue for Upper Hutt at the moment and one that we know many Upper Hutt residents would be keen to talk about”, Virginia Barker, Upper Hutt City Council says. Everyone who has an interest in the needs of Upper Hutt senior citizens, disabled people, and people who are new to NZ are encouraged to attend the forums at the Hapai Club, running 31 March to 2 April. Refreshments are provided at the forums. Information about topics discussed at the forums and other details can be found in the advertisement in this edition of the Leader or by phoning 527-2794 or emailing community@uhcc.govt.nz Ms Barker says, “Registration to the forums is essential so please let us know that you’re coming. We’re excited to be offering such great giveaways to attendees and we look forward to seeing you all there”.
All forums held at the Hapai Club, 879 – 887 Fergusson Drive |
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| Media Release | Monday 30 June, 2008 Doggie Day Out |
| Celia-boo pictured, leaped at the chance for a dip at the Doggie Day Out at H2O Xtream public pool yesterday. Hundreds of dogs and their owners attended the fundraiser for Upper Hutt Animal Rescue, on the last day before the pool closes for three months. Events included swimming races, bombing competitions and fancy dress parades. The crowd was wowed by demonstrations by the Upper Hutt Dog Training School and A Grade Animals Action Ltd. Celia-boos owner, nine-year-old Russell Johnson of Upper Hutt, said the Jack Russell terrier taught herself to swim in the Hutt River "because she didn't want to be left behind"  Great Leap: Celia-boo leaps at the chance for a dip at the Doggie Day Out at H2O Xtream public pool yesterday.
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| Media release | 30 April 2008 2008 Sports Award Winners |
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| The Campbells are coming! The Upper Hutt Sports Awards were held on Sunday 27th April at the Upper Hutt Cosmopolitan Club.
The sporting household of Erika and Adam Campbell in Upper Hutt is certainly celebrating success this weekend. Both were nominated in the Coach of the Year section of the Upper Hutt Sports Awards - Erika won for her netball coaching of Convent premier team plus Wellington under 19's.
She went on to claim the overall Sportsperson of the year prize. Her husband Adam Campbell as Coach of Hutt Old Boys Marist premier rugby team was celebrating an 85-nil victory over Avalon on Saturday. Final resultsCongratulations to all of the following winners:
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