Our Nelson Issue 187
31 January 2024

Council housing reserve supports five new rental homes in Stoke
In a Nelson City Council meeting on 9 November 2023, elected members agreed a Housing Reserve Grant of $750,000 to Kaikaiāwaro Charitable Trust (Te Rūnanga O Ngāti Kuia) for the development of five semi attached rental homes at 104 Nayland Road. 
Four units are designed to accommodate larger whānau and the fifth unit is an accessible, smaller unit for higher needs whānau. The Trust has recently lodged an application for resource consent. 
The grant of $750,000 equates to 24% of the total project cost (the land is already owned by the Trust). 
Chair of Council’s Community Housing Acceleration Taskforce, Councillor Rachel Sanson, says this is an important step in Council’s partnership with iwi and in tackling the significant issue of housing insecurity. 
“These five new homes will be a welcome addition to our community in Stoke and continue the excellent work which has been done to improve access to healthy, affordable homes in Nelson.”
The Taskforce also recommended, and the Council agreed, that a further $2.25 million be set aside to enable iwi trusts to make an application to the Housing Reserve in accordance with the Housing Reserve criteria.   
This will leave a balance of $3.95 million in the main housing reserve. 
If the funds set aside for iwi trusts haven’t been allocated by 30 June 2025, they will return to the Housing Reserve and become available for all applicants. 
Councillor Sanson says, "Setting aside a significant allocation of funding towards supporting iwi housing development initiatives, signals our commitment to partnership with iwi and supporting whānau access to healthy, secure-tenure affordable homes in our region.  
“I really appreciate the collaborative focus on addressing this need – from our community housing providers, iwi trusts, central government, Council staff and the Taskforce.” 
What is Council’s Housing Reserve? 
The Council’s $12 million Housing Reserve was established in November 2020 following Council's sale of 142 community housing units to Kāinga Ora. The purpose of the Housing Reserve is to support the provision of long-term affordable housing to the community.   
With these two recent decisions, $3.95 million remains available to support and enable community housing providers and iwi trusts with a presence in Nelson to deliver an enduring supply of social and affordable housing in the city. 
Councillor Sanson encouraged organisations to continue to apply.
"The Housing Reserve remains open for applications on a rolling basis, and I really encourage eligible organisations to apply as soon as feasible.” 
For more information on the housing reserve, see: nelson.govt.nz/housing-reserve  

Will new recycling standards mean change for Nelson?
Councils across New Zealand have previously had different rules about what can and cannot be accepted in their kerbside recycling services. 
From 1 February, a new set of standardised guidelines will be rolled out nationwide. However, Nelson will notice nothing new as we have been using these guidelines since July 2020.
Nelson Tasman already meets the national standards by collecting plastic containers 1, 2 and 5, cans, glass containers and paper/cardboard. Lids are problematic and continue to be excluded from kerbside collections. 
“Lids can trap liquids and foods, they’re also usually too small to make it through the sorting process” explains Nelson City Council’s Waste Minimisation Adviser Karen Lee. “They form a tiny percentage of our overall recycling volumes and leaving them out ensures that the bulk of recycling is done well.”
“There’s a blanket rule, no lids. Whether it’s the plastic lid from your 2L ice cream container, the metal lid on your jar of gherkins, or a small lid on a milk bottle, no lids go into the recycling bin.” 
There are a couple of items on the cannot recycle list that may surprise some people. 
“Coffee cups,” says Karen. “The material you can feel is cardboard, so people assume this must mean its recyclable. But it’s made of a composite of plastic and paper, two materials that cannot be separated, so therefore cannot be recycled. It’s also contaminated with coffee and milk residue. Some types of coffee cup are compostable, but the best way to reduce waste is use a reusable cup.”
In December 2023, Council completed an audit of recycling bins to see how Nelson Tasman residents are complying with the recycling standards. Group Manager Infrastructure Alec Louverdis says the results showed Nelson continues to recycle well from home. 
“Bins that were audited had a tag attached: green if it was compliant, yellow if there were one or two incorrect items and red if there were several incorrect items. 75% of the bins audited were allocated a green tag and only 20% received yellow tags. This is a really great result and shows that Nelsonians have a great understanding of recycling do’s and don’ts.”
“There’s two really easy habits you can adopt that will mean your bin is always compliant,” says Karen. 
“Get the plastics right, and make sure items are clean,” says Karen. “Contamination from dirty packaging is the biggest frustration and cause of concern with recycling. Look at the number on your plastic items. Commonly used containers such as milk and soda bottles, shampoo bottles, large yoghurt containers, some meat trays and berry punnets are usually made of plastics 1, 2 and 5 and are good to go. These plastics are the most widely used plastic items in New Zealand and have good processing options. However, some plastic items like packaging made from plastics 3, 4, 6 or 7, plastic cutlery and plastic cups cannot be recycled. Soft plastics like bread bags, chip packs and glad wrap cannot be recycled (they can be taken to soft plastic recycling drop offs at most supermarkets, but otherwise are best in your normal bin).
“Rinse off bottles, cans and tins to ensure that your recycling is free from food scraps, take off the lids and pop them in your normal rubbish and break down your cardboard boxes. If we all follow these guidelines, we ensure that items that can be recycled are recycled. Thankfully Nelson is already ahead of the curve and doing a great job!”

Draft Regional Land Transport Plan
Now open for consultation
This is your chance to help update one of two key transport plans for the Nelson Tasman region. The Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP) is the primary way we discuss and agree upon a clear set of regional outcomes, priorities and improvement projects in the land transport space.
The focus of the RLTP will be on supporting economic and population growth; improving safety, travel choice and resilience and making an increased investment in maintenance.
The key transport issues in Te Tauihu in the next 10 years are:
•	Vehicle usage growth and its effects on access 
•	Maintenance has been underfunded in the past, and road conditions are getting worse
•	Safety on our roads
•	Our communities are susceptible to losing access in more frequent weather events
•	Vehicle usage is affecting our natural environment

Draft Regional Public Transport Plan
Now open for consultation
The Regional Public Transport Plan sets out what public transport looks like for the region, and what is proposed for ongoing improvement in the wider Nelson Tasman area over the next 10 years.
It focuses on delivering a public transport system that builds on the change created by the recent introduction of the eBus services. This is the most effective way to tell us how you think the service can improve. Stage 1 (2024 – 2027):
•	eBus 12 month review including any necessary network adjustments
•	Review of fare policy and concession categories and the National Ticketing Solution to replace the Bee Card
•	Improvements to bus stops, wayfinding, website and information services
•	Millers Acre Bus Hub
•	Additional weekend bus services on regional routes
Consultation is open till 5pm, Sunday 25 February 2024
shape.nelson.govt.nz/connecting-nelson

Nelson’s multi-cultural pioneer: Marie Lindaya
Marie Lindaya has more than 30 years of service to multicultural communities in the Nelson Tasman region and was recognised in this year’s New Year Honours List, when she was named an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit. 

Nelson’s multi-cultural pioneer: Marie Lindaya
Marie Lindaya has more than 30 years of service to multicultural communities in the Nelson Tasman region and was recognised in this year’s New Year Honours List, when she was named an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit. 
A co-founder of Nelson Ethnic Council, Marie has actively been involved in a range of organisations, including New Zealand Red Cross, Nelson Budget Advice, Nelson Bays Community Law, InterFaith Council Nelson-Tasman, and Volunteer Nelson.
“My drive to serve my community comes from my passion and commitment to social justice and human dignity. I believe everyone deserves to live a life of freedom, equality, and opportunity, and we all have a responsibility to make that happen,” Marie says.
“Whiria te tangata - weave the people together is an important whakataukī for me. It captures the essence of what I do and why I do it,” Marie says. 
"It reminds me of the importance of relationships, collaboration, mutual respect and empowering our marginalised ethnic migrants and former refugees to speak up, let your voice be heard, and that nothing should be a barrier – not language, ethnicity, status or gender.”
Originally from the Philippines, Marie has lived in Nelson since 1991. Nelson’s sunny climate, the beautiful natural landscapes, and the vibrant arts and culture scene was reminiscent of her tropical homeland.
Marie’s community service and advocacy journey began with five years with the International Committee of the Red Cross, training at its Geneva headquarters. This laid the foundation of involvement in international humanitarian causes and her commitment to supporting refugees. 
In the mid-90s, Marie formed a multi-ethnic group in Nelson Tasman. Setting up the first meeting involved scouring the local phone directory and electoral roll for foreign names.
“After that meeting, I set up a steering group along with other passionate and visionary ethnic migrants. We saw a need for a platform to enable migrants, former refugees, and ethnic minorities to share their cultures, stories and perspectives, and to advocate for their rights and wellbeing. We also wanted to promote positive race relations and intercultural understanding among the wider community,” she explains. 
The Nelson Ethnic Council was incorporated as a society in 1995. Now known as Multicultural Nelson Tasman, it is a driving force behind flagship events such as the Multicultural Festival.
“The Multicultural Festival is a favourite event for many, including myself,” Marie says. “The event means a lot to the communities who participate in it. It’s a chance to express and celebrate their cultural identity and heritage. They can share their food, music, dance and art, as well as connect and interact with other communities and cultures. It also contributes to the social and cultural fabric of our region.”
Other highlights include personal involvement in projects like the Nelson Whakatu Muslim Kotahitanga forum, the Myanmar protest and fundraising and the peace vigil for Sri Lanka. Helping migrant and refugee families set up businesses and providing pastoral support to overseas students at NMIT have also been satisfying.
Marie also worked for Nelson City Council for 15 years as the Mayor’s personal assistant. Her tenure spanned three different Mayors.
“I gained insight into the role the council plays in building and creating a positive community. I learned that leadership is not about position or power, but about influence and impact, and that leadership is a collective and collaborative endeavour, not a solo or competitive one.”
Looking ahead, Ms. Lindaya envisions multicultural communities in Nelson feeling valued, respected, and included. Her blue-sky planning includes initiatives such as a diversity and inclusion multicultural strategy, a multicultural youth council, and a multi-purpose multicultural hub. She remains committed to encouraging migrant and vulnerable communities to seek help and navigate avenues for assistance.
Marie offers advice for making newcomers feel connected: 
"Greet them with a smile and a friendly word. Offer help and support if they need it. Invite them to join social and community activities and events. Show interest and curiosity in their culture and background. Respect and appreciate their differences and similarities. Learn and use some words and phrases in their language. Be authentic." 
She has helped many people feel at home in Nelson, and it is somewhere she loves to call home too.
"I love the whakawhanaungatanga (strong relationships) I have built with people from all walks of life and backgrounds, who have enriched my life with their knowledge, wisdom, and friendship. Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini – my success is not mine alone, but it is the strength of many.
“I thank God for each blessing and equipping me through the challenges."
Commemorating Te Rā o Waitangi/Waitangi Day in Whakatū
On Te Rā o Waitangi / Waitangi Day, come to Whakatū Marae and Founders Heritage Park to learn more about our shared history and experience Te Ao Māori / Māori culture.
Delivered in partnership with Ngāti Koata and other iwi representatives, the day will be full of fun, whānau-friendly activities with traditional Māori art workshops, entertainment including local kapa haka and Pasifika groups, kai, and stalls featuring traditional art and crafts.  
In previous years, Waitangi Day was recognised at Founders with the International Kai Festival. This year will have more delicious food options than ever before with 70 stalls spread across the two sites, including a hāngī--traditional Māori food cooked beneath the ground—at Whakatū Marae. 
Ngāti Koata Pou Whakahaere (General Manager) Turi Hippolite says “Ngāti Koata is thrilled to host this year's Waitangi Day celebrations in collaboration with the Nelson City Council at Whakatū Marae.  
Waitangi Day holds significant historical and cultural value for Māori, and it serves as a nationwide occasion for all New Zealanders to contemplate the nation's history, present, and future, emphasising unity, collaboration, and mutual respect.  
We extend a warm invitation to everyone to join us at the marae for a delightful experience featuring cultural performances, meaningful discussions, and delicious kai. Nau mai, haere mai – all are welcome.” 
All koha received from the marae will go towards Natureland. 
“I am so pleased that Ngāti Koata has volunteered to host the commemoration of Waitangi Day at Whakatū Marae,” says Nelson Mayor Nick Smith.  
“It had fallen into abeyance for a few years following the disruptions from Covid. It is an important event to help Nelsonians, new residents and visitors understand our unique Treaty history and to experience marae protocol.  
“Treaty issues are becoming increasingly polarised nationally, and we need to work hard at building good relationships locally. We have the advantage, as a smaller community where we know each other well, of just getting on doing the practical stuff together that benefits all.” Commemorations will begin at 9:00am with a pōwhiri at Whakatū Marae. Members of the public are invited to attend this rare opportunity to experience a traditional Māori welcome ceremony. Te Matahiapo Safari Hynes (Ngāti Kuia) will be presenting on Te Tiriti o Waitangi.  
From 10:00am, the movie What Really Happened: Waitangi will play repeat in the Energy Centre at Founders. The film tells the story of an imaginary reporter who travels back in time to cover the days leading up to the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi.  
Also on the schedule is special guest performer Jordyn with a Why (Ngāti Koata, Tainui Āwhiro ki Whaingaroa) whose R&B/neo-soul inspired bilingual music tells the stories of language reclamation, identity and cultural heritage.  
Entry to the event is with a gold coin koha (donation) which will be collected upon entry to the marae and Founders. 
When: Te Rā o Waitangi / Waitangi Day Tuesday 6 February  
Where: Whakatū Marae and Founders Heritage Park, 9am-3pm 
Cost: Koha (gold coin)
Hundreds of Nelsonians have had their say on speed in our region
Consultation on reducing local speed limits across Nelson Tasman continues as the community considers four different options across both urban and rural areas. 
So far more than 700 people have shared their thoughts on the four options, with a focus on rural areas and in relation to speed limit changes around schools and town centers.  
We encourage people to provide feedback on our options and on areas that concern them the most. It is fantastic to have local input so we can tailor the speed management plan to reflect what the community wants.  
The current Speed Management consultation is set to close on February 29 with the Joint Regional Transport Committee making its recommendation to Tasman District and Nelson City Councils in the following months. 
Let us know what you think at shape.nelson.govt.nz/creating-speed-management-plan.

Mayor's Message
Challenges for 2024
My first year as Mayor was dominated by the recovery work from the August 2022 storm. We had to get our critical roading and water infrastructure fixed and find a pragmatic solution for the homes damaged or at risk from landslides. We got a reversal of the Government’s initial refusal to provide additional financial support. To fund the remaining cost to Council of nearly $60 million, we’ve proposed a $330 annual levy. Other jobs done include fixing Elma Turner Library and launching the new eBuses.
The biggest challenges for Nelson this year are going to be economic issues. The highest inflation and interest rates in more than 30 years have been tough on households and businesses, reflected by a slowdown in house building despite an acute housing shortage. These problems are compounded for Councils and the Government by sharply rising costs and large deficits.
One of the Government’s big economic problems – where the Nelson region has a competitive advantage – is in the export and tourism sectors. The issue is that New Zealand has a $31 billion Balance of Payments deficit, meaning we are importing more than we export and spending more on services abroad than we are earning. It is the worst ever and equates to 7.6% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) or $16,200 per household.
We have to grow Nelson’s key export industries such as horticulture, forestry, fishing and aquaculture. We need to rebuild service industries such as tourism and international education and develop new sectors such as technology to help us pay our way in the world.
Council has a small but important role to play in economic development. We need to ensure we get a fair share of the Government’s new $1.2 billion Regional Infrastructure Fund.
We have an important conversation to lead in revitalising our city centre. The key is making Nelson an attractive place for private-sector investment in retail, hospitality, professional services and inner-city living. We also have work to do ensuring major infrastructure projects such as the Nelson Hospital redevelopment and the Hope Bypass are progressed.
Challenges we face this year include the delivery of our Long Term Plan, hosting a successful city revitalisation summit in March, finding a balanced solution to the intensification debate around Plan Change 29 and solving the contaminated wood waste problem at Tāhunanui Beach. We are well positioned as a city and Council for the challenges of 2024.
Mayor Nick Smith

10,630 not out! Saxton Oval blasts waste for six 
Co-operation between event organisers, food/drink vendors, ticket holders and volunteers during the Black Caps vs Bangladesh One Day International at Saxton Oval has resulted in the diversion of 10,630L of waste away from landfill, 88% of the waste created on the day.
Ahead of the match in December 2023, Nelson City Council, Sports Tasman and Nelson Cricket agreed to a Waste Minimisation Plan. The plan outlined the approach to reduce the amount of materials they send to landfill.   
Martin Croft, Acting Group Manager Community Services says the plan involved a united effort. 
“The amount of waste generated by a group of people at an event can vary significantly depending on the event itself and the number of attendees. Bringing over 3,000 people together, in one place, for several hours was bound to create a substantial volume of waste. For us to reduce waste we needed our vendors, event team and attendees to all work towards the same goal. I’m really proud of what we achieved.”  
A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was sent to all vendors requesting that they only serve food in specific compostable packaging. All vendors agreed to this ahead of the match. An email to all ticket holders was sent prior to the event asking them to follow a pack in/pack out policy. 
“A lot of attendees to these kinds of events bring picnics for the day. They were encouraged to bring non-packaged foods, or to take their waste home with them” says Martin. 
Food stalls were 95% compliant with the agreement. A couple of vendors did have compostable packaging, but they were from brands that did not meet the standards set by our local processor.  
“There is only one industrial processor of compostables in Nelson and they are only able to accept specific products, so it’s really important that we get it right,” explains Karen Lee, Waste Minimisation Adviser.  
If vendors use compostable products that are not the approved brands, we run the risk of them ending up in landfill. All Council-run events request that either specific compostable products are used, or the Wash Against Waste trailer to minimise waste.” 
To ensure waste and recycling were put in the right bins, there were eight stations across the venue. The stations were staffed by Waste No More and volunteers and could receive cans, landfill, compostable containers, food waste, paper, cardboard and plastics 1, 2 and 5. Food vendors/kitchens were provided with buckets to collect food waste, bars had bins for glass and piles of cardboard were collected.  
In total, 1,450L of waste was sent to landfill with 10,630L being recycled or composted.  
Elma Turner Library welcomes community in full reopening
Nelson City Council is delighted to welcome our community back into Elma Turner Library as it reopens in full after 19 months of disruption during strengthening work and repairs.
The library was closed for nine days while staff prepared the space for reopening on Wednesday 17 January, which included moving 70,000 books and 1,500 shelves. The last section of the library to reopen is the space adjacent to Halifax Street.  
Nelson Mayor Nick Smith congratulated Council’s project management team and contractors on the successful completion of the strengthening work and thanked library staff and users for their tolerance during the disruption. He also thanked Councillors Kahu Paki Paki, Tim Skinner and Aaron Stallard for their support on the Elma Turner Library Reopening Taskforce, which has overseen the project. 
“This reopening is a significant milestone in that we are back in business with a fully functioning library service at Elma Turner. 
“There were critics, some of whom questioned whether the library could be successfully strengthened and others who thought the building posed little risk.” 
Refurbishment projects involving earthquake strengthening of older buildings are high risk and unpredictable, Mayor Nick says 
“The discovery last April of cracked and under-strength trusses was a nasty surprise but it confirmed the need for strengthening work. I am proud of the final outcome, with the project being completed under budget and a month ahead of schedule. 
“It is good economics to have extended the life of the current library by another 5-10 years for $2.5 million. This defers the need to spend $46 million on a new building at a difficult time financially of high interest rates and Council facing nearly $60 million in costs from the August 2022 storm. Council now has time to reset the process on finding the right long-term solution for Nelson’s central city library.”  
The library was blessed by Council Kaumātua Luke Katu on Wednesday morning before the doors were opened to the public, who were welcomed with a variety of events, including a full-day sci-fi and fantasy fiesta, the chance to win prizes, and an opportunity to put their wits to the test in a comic book-themed escape room.  
Elma Turner Library was closed in June 2022 after it was discovered heavy ceiling tiles throughout the building posed an earthquake risk. The library began reopening in stages, from July 2022, but as work on the ceiling tiles progressed, further damage was found to some of the ceiling trusses in mid-2023, delaying the library’s full reopening.  
The total cost of the Elma Turner Library earthquake strengthening project and additional truss and roof repairs is $2.5 million. The library now meets 67% NBS (New Building Standard) for the ceilings, and 34% NBS for the structure, which is expected to give the building a further five to 10 years of life while longer-term solutions that meet the needs of the community are considered.
Thirteen new shelters to improve eBus experience
Nelson City Council has confirmed the location of 13 new bus shelters.
The locations were chosen because of the high number of users in areas including Nelson Hospital, Main Road Stoke and Nayland Road.  
The addition of 13 shelters brings the total number of shelters across the Nelson region to 47. The new bus shelters will be similar to some pre-existing shelters - a metal structure with glass panels and a bench. Each shelter will also have space for a wheelchair next to the seat. 
Nelson Mayor Nick Smith says it’s a great next step for the popular new bus service.  
“Nelsonians have embraced the eBus and we continue to see growth in patronage. These 13 new bus shelters are another step in improving the service by providing seating and cover from rain and wind. The glass panels ensure drivers can see when people need to be picked up and are better for public safety. We are committed to continuing to improve and refine the new eBus service.” 
Council applied to the New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) for the funding as part of the Transport Choices package. Council was awarded $495,000 to install bus shelters. Funding from Transport Choices also funded e-Readers at some of the interchange stations around the region. 
Contractors will begin installing the new shelters on 22 January 2024. When contractors install a shelter, the bus stop will be temporarily relocated for a few days. The temporary stop will be as close to the permanent stop as safety permits.  
Locations:
Atawhai Drive near St Peters Church
Nelson Hospital Interchange Northbound
Waimea Road at Hales Corner
Waimea Road near Quarantine Road
Princes Drive near roundabout
Muritai Street near Green Street 
Parkers Road opposite Amber Court Motor Lodge
Main Road Stoke at Maitland Ave
Main Road Stoke at Marsden Road
Main Road Stoke at Kensington Court
Main Road Stoke at Stoke Dental 
Nayland Road at Broadgreen House
Songer Street at Railway Reserve
SH6 Closure
Maintenance work on State Highway 6 Whakatu Drive in Nelson, between Annesbrook Roundabout and Link Road Roundabout will be carried out next month.
Between 8:30pm and 5:30am from Sunday 11 February until Friday 23 February, excluding Friday 16 and Saturday 17 February, SH6 Whakatu Drive will be closed in both directions, between Annesbrook Roundabout and Link Road Roundabout.
During this time roadworkers will repair the central median barriers and carry out road surface repairs, vegetation and weed control, street light repairs, and other general maintenance.
Due to the location of these works on Whakatu Drive, the recommended detour route for all traffic (including heavy vehicles) is via Main Road Stoke.
If you’re travelling from Nelson to the airport, you won’t be able to turn right at the roundabout to access Quarantine Road. Instead, you will need to detour via Parkers Road and Pascoe Street. The same applies if you’re travelling to businesses on Quarantine Road.
If you’re travelling from the airport to Nelson you will be able to use Quarantine Road but temporary speed restrictions and traffic management will be in place.
Following the completion of the night closures, contractors will continue side barrier improvement work on each side of the Nayland Road and Songer Street overbridges. Further information on the impact of this work will be provided closer to the time.
There are other works planned on our state highways across the top of the South during February so please plan ahead when travelling. For more information visit: journeys.nzta.govt.nz/journey-planner
Adam Chamber Music Festival 
Experience some of the world’s best classical musicians at Adam Chamber Music Festival, right here in Nelson. 
Be part of a glorious 10-day celebration with 17 concerts, 9 free events and a Gala Dinner, where performers and audience share their passion for fine music, artist talks and masterclasses. Hear internationally acclaimed Takács Quartet (Hungary/USA), pianists Dénes Várjon and Izabella Simon (Hungary), and violinist/violist Sergey Malov (Russia/Hungary), joined by New Zealand String Quartet and a slew of this country’s leading musicians. All concerts and events are at Nelson Centre of Musical Arts, as well as an evening of Bach at Nelson Cathedral.
Adam Chamber Music Festival
1 – 10 February 2024
Tickets on sale now music.org.nz
Community at the heart of Emergency Management
Nelson Tasman Emergency Management says it’s important that communities know how to respond to emergencies, such as wildfire or flood. 
Communities have unique considerations and needs that often only their own customised plan can address.  
Group Welfare Manager, Kathy King says people often don’t think about being prepared for an emergency until one happens, and then it’s too late. 
“We can all see the drying conditions out there. While we’re working closely with Fire and Emergency NZ to be prepared for wildfires, people need to be empowered to work together. The idea is that when a community has a plan, they can take appropriate actions for any emergency, including fires.” 
She says if your community hasn’t already got a plan, get onto it now. 
As residents found out after the Lake Ohau fires in 2020, their plan saved lives.
“Those fires were sudden and devastating but because the community had a plan, no lives were lost.” 
Working collaboratively with Fire and Emergency New Zealand to support communities, Nelson Tasman Emergency Management has a Community Emergency Preparedness Plan template and accompanying guide to help your community get prepared. Communities in valleys, or rural pockets are ideally suited to working together to create a plan. However, the plan can be adapted for other community groups e.g. church communities, and cultural communities.
For further information contact Kathy King, Group Welfare Manager, Nelson Tasman Emergency Management em.admin@ncc.govt.nz or Fire and Emergency New Zealand fireadvicenm@fireandemergency.nz
Hockey Reserve toilet to be removed
The temporary toilet at Hockey Reserve will be removed next month.
While investigating the temporary toilet’s replacement with a permanent toilet, Nelson City Council officers found work was unable to proceed as the location was within the boundary of a transmission line easement.   
As a result, any new toilet would have to be situated close to residential properties adjoining the reserve. After consultation with residents about this change, Council has decided not to proceed with a permanent toilet facility.  
Acting Goup Manager Community Services Martin Croft says Council will continue to review demand for a toilet facility in the area, and in the meantime, alternative public toilets were available at the nearby Codgers Recreation Hub, located in Andrews Farm Reserve, just over a kilometre north.  
The toilet will be removed by the end of February.  
Coastal ecosystem restoration updates
Within its Nelson Nature programme, Nelson City Council’s Coastal Habitats programme seeks to restore, enhance and protect coastal ecosystems. 
Coastal ecosystems are some of the most heavily-impacted ecosystems throughout Aotearoa New Zealand as they often occur where there is extensive urban development, recreational and land use and climate change pressure. They are also critically important for indigenous plants, insects, birds and reptiles dependent on these systems.  
Airport Peninsula restoration 
As part of a multi-year Ecological Restoration Plan for Airport Peninsula, Nelson City Council has commenced work to restore this rare and important coastal dune system. The initial actions that have been taken to restore the dunes have included the control of exotic marram grass and other introduced species within a small area of the dune system to allow for planting. After the marram grass had been controlled 2450 plants were planted by contractor Kūmānu. Re-establishment of an intact foredune system with sand binding plants such as spinifex and pingao is an important part of this project as these foredune communities have been heavily impacted throughout New Zealand. Behind these foredune plantings coastal forest species have been planted with kanuka, tōtara and matai. 
Corder Park wetland planting  
After the extreme weather events in August 2022 and resulting impacts on Corder Park from those events, the decision was made to develop an Ecological Restoration Plan for the park to provide guidance on addressing some of the ecological damage sustained in the events.  
As a part of replacing lost vegetation, 2000 saltmarsh rushes were planted last winter to replace some of the saltmarsh vegetation that has been lost. As some of the intertidal mudflat is now higher than previously due to additional sediment being deposited, the full extent of tidal inundation has changed substantially. This may influence the future extent and composition of saltmarsh, so this planting is an effort to kickstart natural saltmarsh regeneration processes that may otherwise been much slower. Further planting will occur this winter to replace terrestrial coastal forest species that had been destroyed by the flooding.

Deputy Mayor's Comment
Nelson’s City Centre Summit - The future of our city centre is ours to shape
For well over a decade, across elections, national and international change, with different mayors and councillors, the future of Nelson’s city centre has been a core focus of discussion, debate, and investment. Our city centre plays a key role across Te Tauihu, serving as the heart of our commercial, cultural and hospitality sectors, and there’s no doubt we’ve got plenty to be proud of – but a city that fails to move forward is one that will inevitably move backwards.
 Since 2009’s Heart of the City Strategy, Council has continued to work to capture the aspirations of Nelsonians, with recent strategies like He Tātai Whetū – Whakatū Nelson Arts and Creativity Strategy and Te Ara ō Whakatū – Nelson City Centre Spatial Plan, and projects like our upgraded City to Sea pathway along the Maitai River/Mahitahi Awa and the pedestrianisation of Upper Trafalgar Street. A core focus this term of council is continuing to take our foundation of strategic vision and build concrete action upon it, transforming our city centre into a thriving, accessible, people-focused hub.
As Chair of our City Centre Business Forum and our He Tātai Whetū Arts and Creativity Taskforce, as well as a central city resident, the future of our city’s heart is a topic that’s always front of mind. We’re in a strong place, with the significant body of strategic thinking in place, tens of millions of dollars of investment already committed, key pieces of civic infrastructure needing renewal, and burgeoning conversations present throughout our community. But we need to ensure our energy and focus results in practical outcomes, and that our aspirations are backed up by delivery.
That’s why on March 26th, we’ll be hosting a central city summit to bring together the full range of interested people and parties with a stake in our city, to spark discussions on the future of civic and private investment, to share ideas and potential projects, to identify challenges and find solutions, and spark partnerships that can deliver real change. It’s a day that’s sure to inspire and challenge, and one council is committed to making the most of. Further details will be released in the coming weeks, but for now mark your calendars and we look forward to coming together in common purpose.
We won’t have every answer ready to go, but we can’t continue to wait for silver bullets – together we can build a thriving city centre we’re all proud to enjoy.
Meetings
A full list of meetings for 2024 are available on the Council’s website:
nelson.govt.nz/council/council-structure/council-meetings

Conewatch: Ongoing
Project name	Likely end date	Location	Benefit	
Maitai Hub Bridge Replacement 	October 2023 – February 2024 	336 Maitai Valley Rd 	Recovery Project providing access across the Maitai River 	
Tahunanui Hills Stormwater Upgrade – Catchment 3 	January to 
April 2024 	Grenville Terrace, Days Track and Moncrief Ave 	Stormwater upgrade and geotechnical risk mitigation   	
NRSBU Rising Main Duplication Section 5-7 	February 2024 	Railway Reserve Cycle way-Elms Street-Kotua Place 	Improve network capacity and resilience 	
Saxton Creek Upgrade Stage 4 	June 2024 	Main Rd, Stoke 	Flood mitigation 	

IT's on... at a Council venue near you
Saxton Field
U13/U15/U18 Hockey Development Program 1 – Friday 16 February – Friday 22 March, 4pm – 8:30pm
Term 1 – Year 7+8 Youth Hockey Social League – Monday 19 February – Monday 25 March
Term 1 – Year 9+10 Youth Hockey Full Field Program – Monday 19 February – Monday 25 March, 4pm – 5pm
Term 1 – Summer Social Hockey – Wednesday 21 February – Wednesday 27 March, 6pm – 8pm
Nelson Hockey Junior Program 1 – Thursday 22 February – Thursday 28 March, 3:45pm – 6:30pm
Trafalgar Centre
Adam Chamber Music Festival - Gala Dinner – Thursday 1 February, 6pm – 9:30pm
The Michael Jackson HIStory Show – Tuesday 13 February, 8pm
1903 Square
Summer Sing Fest – Saturday 24 February, 10am – 3pm
Trafalgar Park
The Annual FC Nelson Community Challenge Day – Saturday 17 February, 1pm – 6:30pm
Founders Heritage Park
Hours: 10am – 4:30pm Daily
Food Truck Fridays – Friday 12 January – Friday 23 February, 4pm – 8pm
Jazz on the Village Green – Sunday 14 January – Sunday 31 March, 1pm – 3pm
Jazz on the Village Green: Paradise Band – Sunday 4 February, 1pm – 3pm
Waitangi Day – Tuesday 6 February, 9am – 3pm
Summer Movies al Fresco - What Really Happened: Waitangi – Tuesday 6 February
Jazz on the Village Green: Isabelle Wolff and Craig Denham – Sunday 11 February, 1pm – 3pm

Jazz on the Village Green: Organ Bandits – Sunday 18 February, 1pm – 3pm
Jazz on the Village Green: Bossa Via – Sunday 25 February, 1pm – 3pm
Melrose House
Hours: Monday: 9am – 3pm, Tuesday to Sunday: 9am – 4pm, closed public holidays
Isel House and Park
Hours: Tuesday to Friday: 10am – 3pm, Saturday 12pm – 4m, Sunday and Monday - closed, closed public holidays
Isel Twilight Market – every Thursday, 4.30pm until dark
Pūtangitangi Greenmeadows Community Centre
Lunch & Learn February – Tuesday 13 February, 12pm – 1pm
Demystifying Film Festival Strategy – Saturday 17 February, 5pm – 6.30pm
BizBreak February – Wednesday 28 February, 10am – 11am
Nelson Public Libraries:
Elma Turner Library – Now Fully Open
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 9:30am – 6pm
Wednesday: 10am – 6pm
Saturday: 10am – 4pm
Sunday: 1pm – 4pm
Summer Selfies – Friday 1 December – Wednesday 31 January
Adam Chamber Music Festival Troubadour Quartet – Friday 2 February, 2pm
Kōrero te reo Māori – Saturday 10 & 24 February, 10am – 11am
Live Music Series: Miles Jackson classical guitar – Sunday 25 February, 2pm
Nightingale Library Memorial
Hours: Monday – Friday: 12pm – 4pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: 1pm – 4pm
Nellie Knitters – 31 January & 5, 14, 19 & 28 February, 1pm – 4pm
Stoke Library
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 9:30am – 5:30pm
Wednesday: 10:00am – 5:30pm
Saturday: 10am – 1pm
Sunday: Closed
Museums and Galleries:
Broadgreen House and Samuels Rose Gardens
Summer hours: 10:30am – 4:30pm Daily
Bags of Fun – Every day to Wednesday 31 January, during opening hours
Langbein Time – Every day to Wednesday 31 January, during opening hours
Workshop: Embroidered Art – Transfer – Stitch – Saturday 10 February, 10am – 4pm
Workshop: Twill Felt Flower – Sunday 25 February, 10am – 4pm
The Suter Art Gallery & Theatre
Hours: 9:30am – 4:30pm Daily
Exhibition: Disruptive Order: Abstraction from The Suter’s Collection IV – Saturday 4 November – Sunday 24 March, during opening hours
Nelson Suter Art Society Summer Exhibition – Monday 11 December – Sunday 4 February, during opening hours
Exhibition: Home: Give Me Shelter – Saturday 25 November – Sunday 3 March, during opening hours
Exhibition: Fire & Earth: Contemporary Ceramics from the Top of the South – Saturday 18 November – Sunday 10 March, during opening hours
Refinery ArtSpace
Hours: Monday – Friday from 10am – 5pm, Saturday from 10am – 2pm
Exhibition: A Calamity of Fortunate Events - Monday 15 January - Saturday 10 February, during opening hours
Exhibition: To Tell a Story – Stephanie Postles - Monday 15 January - Saturday 10 February, during opening hours
Workshop: Second Chance – Saturday 3 February, 10am – 1pm
Exhibition: Project Roadkill – Monday 15 January - Friday 9 February, during opening hours
Exhibition: Fractured: A closer look into the human identity and its reverberations across the land | Jazz Danis – Monday 12 February – Saturday 9 March, during opening hours
Nelson Provincial Museum
Hours: Weekdays from 10am – 5pm, Weekends & Public Holidays from 
10am – 4:30pm
Animal Antics: The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards – Friday 15 December – Sunday 5 May, during opening hours
Te Hītori Aotūroa: Learning from Nature – Friday 15 December – Sunday 5 May, during opening hours
Head along to more great Nelson events
Summer Movies Al Fresco: Coco Reo Māori – Friday 2 February at Victory Square
Summer Movies al Fresco - Frozen Reo Māori – Saturday 3 February at Stoke 
Skate Park
Tahunanui Beach Market – Tuesday 6 February at Tahunanui Sportsfield
MTBNZ National Cross Country – Round Three – Saturday 10 – Sunday 11 February
Summer Movies al Fresco - Youth Selected Movie TBC – Friday 16 February at Stoke Youth Skatepark
Catch 22 Cafe & Bar Aquathon – Friday 16 February at Tahunanui Beach
Summer Movies al Fresco – Shrek – Saturday 17 February at Fairfield Park
Tonga Marine Reserve Community Guided Snorkel – Sunday 18 February
Urban Wine Walk – Saturday 24 February in Nelson CBD
For these events and more, visit itson.co.nz