November 20, 2009

Media Release (For Immediate Release)

Mayor Welomes Announcement

Today’s announcement of proposed boundaries for the new Super City has retained the unique communities of interest that make up the west, says Mayor Bob Harvey.

Under the plan, a new ward has been created called “Whau”. It includes New Lynn, Green Bay, and parts of Kelston, as well as Avondale, New Windsor and Blockhouse Bay which are currently within Auckland City.

The proposed Waitakere ward includes the rest of the existing Waitakere City and takes in a small part of Rodney, near Taupaki. That ward comprises four “subdivisions” (Waitakere, Henderson, Massey and Titirangi/Glen Eden) whose members would up the Local Board.

“Much of this was the basis of our original submission to the Royal Commission,” Mayor Harvey says.

He is also pleased that the northern boundary of the new Waitakere Ward has been extended.

“It’s a big area but there is a good mix of urban and rural character.”

Mayor Harvey is more cautious in his views on Local Boards.

“Unless they are given meaningful powers you are just going back in time to when there were feuding little boroughs.”

“I hope the boards will be filled with a cross-section of people that reflect our communities including young people and ethnic groups of the area.”

“The boards could be a very real reflection of our diverse communities or a meaningless talkfest.

“Getting that level right is critical.”

Mayor Harvey stresses that these are his personal views and says his Council will now collectively review the proposals before making a submission to the Local Government Commission.

He also urges members of the public to have their say.

“These proposals are setting Auckland up for the next 50 years at least so if people aren’t happy they won’t get the chance to change things for a very long time.”

The Local Government Commission is now seeking feedback on its proposals, which can be viewed at www.lgc.govt.nz

Submissions must be received by 5pm on December 11.

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