Latest news with #ToryWhanau
RNZ News
a day ago
- Politics
- RNZ News
Tory Whanau 'glad' to see new mayoral candidate Alex Baker enter race
Wellington's current mayor Tory Whanau. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone Wellington's current mayor Tory Whanau says she's "glad" to see another mayoral candidate in the race, saying many in the community have been disappointed by some of Andrew Little's public comments. "We have a new progressive mayoral candidate in the race," Whanau posted on social media on Monday morning. "I'm glad to see more people putting themselves forward - it's healthy for democracy and shows that people care about the future of our city." That progressive candidate is former director of sustainability at Kāinga Ora and Chartered Accountant from KPMG Alex Baker. He said what had driven him to join the race was that he didn't feel like his values were represented by the other candidates. Green-backed Whanau had announced she was no longer seeking re-election after Labour-backed Little entered the race, saying she did not want a Green vs Labour battle. "While I cleared the way for Andrew Little, I've been hearing from many in the community who are disappointed by some of his public comments, particularly regarding the Golden Mile. I believe that may be why we've now seen a progressive candidate enter the race," she said in Monday's post. Mayoral candidate Alex Baker. Photo: Supplied Andrew Little said he supported the Golden Mile in principle. "Where I differ is that before pressing go I would want to be confident the businesses in our CBD can survive the disruption and I'd want to run the ruler over the contracts to limit the risk of cost blowouts and delays," he said. "The council needs to rebuild trust. That means doing a better job of listening to the communities affected by decisions and keeping a firmer grip on the costs of major projects so we don't see any more blowouts like the Town Hall," he said. In the post Whanau also said it was also notable that only men had put their names forward for the role so far. "I've spoken openly about how the role has become increasingly untenable, and I know many women have been discouraged by what they've seen me experience firsthand." Others vying for mayor include Former Labour MP Andrew Little, current city councillor Ray Chung along with Karl Tiefenbacher, Kelvin Hastie, Rob Goulden and Graham Bloxham. Nominations are open until 1 August. Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero , a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
Scoop
5 days ago
- Scoop
New Urban Liaison Officers Boost Safety In Wellington CBD
Wellington's central business district has received a significant boost in safety this week as a dedicated team of Urban Liaison Officers (ULOs) start working to reduce harm and provide support on our streets. 'The deployment of our new Urban Liaison Officers reflects our proactive approach to community safety. This team will be an asset to our city, working with hospitality, assisting people experiencing homelessness, and being a friendly face for anyone requiring assistance in our CBD,' says Mayor Tory Whanau. 'A dedicated Safety Hub, which will serve as a central point for collaboration and support, will be operational very soon to further bolster our efforts to make our streets safer and more welcoming,' adds Mayor Whanau. Councillor Teri O'Neill, Chair of Wellington City Council's Kōrau Mātinitini Social, Cultural & Economic Committee, says: 'Whether it's a student heading home after a late shift, a business owner dealing with antisocial behaviour, or someone sleeping rough that needs support – this team is here to help. 'This is about meeting people where they're at, not waiting for things to go wrong. A true boots-on-the-ground response, built with the people of Pōneke.' A fresh initiative from the City Safety and Wellbeing Plan, Urban Liaison Officers will work with businesses, police, social services and other organisations and the wider City Safety team on initiatives to reduce harm where possible. The team will be out and about in our city from today and, starting in July, they will provide support from Thursday to Saturday evenings as well. The Council's City Safety and Wellbeing Senior Responsible Officer, Sehai Orgad, says the team is just one of a raft of initiatives stemming from the City Safety and Wellbeing Plan. 'They'll be trained in first-aid and emergency management procedures, and they'll be proactive and engaged with our community and businesses. 'The team will be out on the streets every day to support the community, keep a close eye on what's happening, and step in when needed. Whether it's assisting the public, working alongside Police at night, or checking in with retailers and hospitality staff, they're here to help keep the city safe and welcoming. They regularly assess risks in real-time with CCTV teams, report hazards or graffiti, and coordinate with social services and other partners to look after the wellbeing of everyone in our city.' The new Safety Hub will be in the Te Pokapū Hapori site at 105 Manners Street, which has been a community centre run by the Y since 2022. Sehai says the Y has done an excellent job running the centre, and the Council is grateful for the mahi they've done. From 1 July work will begin developing it into the Safety Hub, which will provide a space for City Safety teams like Urban Liaison Officers, and other groups like the police beat team, and community patrols. It will also be a space for safety training for initiatives like Safer Venues training, and the Eyes On initiative. The Hub will be open at times that support the City Safety team, and to support different initiatives operating on the ground. The City Safety and Wellbeing Plan outlines collaborative, adaptable actions designed to address the evolving needs of the city, and enhance the experience of everyone who lives, works, and plays in Pōneke. It focuses on targeted interventions that deliver meaningful results and is dynamic and designed to adapt to the changing needs of our city. The plan is built on strong existing partnerships between the Council, Police, local businesses, community organisations, and residents in our inner-city neighbourhood.
Scoop
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scoop
Stars Align For Wellington's Matariki Ahi Kā
Press Release – Wellington City Council This years Matariki festivities begin with Mana Moana Pneke, a series of indigenous short films projected onto a water screen in Whairepo Lagoon, running on weekend nights from 7-22 June. Welcome in the Māori New Year in style as the waterfront comes alive with Matariki Ahi Kā – a whānau-friendly celebration of fire,projections, performances, and kai. This year's Matariki festivities begin with Mana Moana Pōneke, a series of indigenous short films projected onto a water screen in Whairepo Lagoon, running on weekend nights from 7-22 June. Matariki Ahi Kā will light up the waterfront every night from 6pm–9pm from 19-22 June, offering a self-guided experience that journeys through Past, Present and Future zones. Each zone will be marked with a tomokanga (entranceway) that embodies its kaupapa (purpose), guiding attendees through fire installations, large-scale projections, live performances, interactive storytelling, traditional Māori games, and kai from food trucks. Local talent will take to the Aroha and Takoha stages with acts including the Ngāti Pōneke Young Māori Club, Tom Knowles (reggae, roots), Rei (bilingual Urban and Electronic), Tui (soul, pop), and Awerangi (old-school jams). In a tribute to those who have passed since last Matariki, names submitted by the public will be projected onto a Memorial Wall on the side of Te Papa near the Solace in the Wind statue. Each evening of Matariki Ahi Kā, a ceremonial walk will start at 7.40pm from the Barnett Street car moving procession follows the journey of the Matariki whetū (stars). Visitors are invited to write down names, memories, wishes, and aspirations, and place these in baskets located at the Memorial Wall and Whairepo Lagoon before 7.30pm. These will be released into a ceremonial flame following the procession, sending them to the stars above. 'Matariki is a time to pause and reflect on the past year, celebrate our present achievements, and look forward to the future with renewed hope and aspirations. Here in Wellington, our Matariki celebrations emphasise the vital role of whānau and community in bringing us all together,' says Mayor Tory Whanau. 'We invite everyone – Wellingtonians and visitors alike – to join us in these special Matariki celebrations.' The celebration of Matariki and Puanga, the Māori New Year, dates back over 700 years. The rising of Puanga (Rigel in Orion) and the Matariki star cluster (Pleiades) marks a time to reflect on the past, reconnect with whānau, share kai, celebrate, and look forward to the year ahead. Other events in the region at this time include Matariki events at Council's Community Centres, Wellington City Libraries and in the Botanic Garden ki Paekākā. The WAITUHI Matariki flags will be on display in Frank Kitts Park from 18 June – 12 July. This year's WAITUHI Matariki public art series for the 8-flag poles is Te Kohinga Whētu: Collecting the Stars, by artist Reuben Paterson (Ngāti Rangitihi, Ngāi Tūhoe, Tūhourangi, Scottish). The Matariki exhibition opening 7 June in the Courtenay Place Light Boxes (77-97 Courtenay Place) is Tiaki by artist Shannon Te Rangihaeata Clamp (Ngāti Toa Rangatira Ngāti Koata, Ngāti Tama). Tiaki is a manaia, a bearer who connects the worldly and spiritual realms. Tiaki acknowledges the space between and overlapping people, atua, this place, its histories, and its presence. Event details: Mana Moana Pōneke 7-8 June, 14-15 June, 19-22 June 6pm–9pm Whairepo Lagoon Free event In the lead-up to Matariki Ahi Kā and during the long weekend, enjoy Mana Moana Pōneke, a series of indigenous short films projected on a water screen. The films this year have been curated by Israel Randell (Rarotonga, Tainui, Ngāti Kahungunu) and are guided by the wise words of Moana Jackson's: 'In time, like te ao marama emerging out of te pō, mourning gives way to dreaming.' Matariki Ahi Kā Thursday 19 June – Sunday 22 June 2025 6pm–9pm Wellington Waterfront Free event Matariki Ahi Kā is an immersive self-led walking journey including fire, performances, projections, a ceremony each night to honour those who have passed away and to express hopes for the future, the Mana Moana Pōneke water screen, and kai. Find out more on Council's website: Matariki Ahi Kā and Mana Moana Pōneke are accessible. Toilets, including an accessible toilet are available. There is an unmanned drop-off point at the Te Papa main entrance. To avoid parking frustration during this busy time, we encourage everyone to walk, bike, scoot, or use public transport. Cyclists and e-scooters, please follow diversions or walk your wheels, and pedestrians take extra care due to the changes.
Scoop
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scoop
Stars Align For Wellington's Matariki Ahi Kā
Welcome in the Māori New Year in style as the waterfront comes alive with Matariki Ahi Kā – a whānau-friendly celebration of fire,projections, performances, and kai. This year's Matariki festivities begin with Mana Moana Pōneke, a series of indigenous short films projected onto a water screen in Whairepo Lagoon, running on weekend nights from 7-22 June. Matariki Ahi Kā will light up the waterfront every night from 6pm–9pm from 19-22 June, offering a self-guided experience that journeys through Past, Present and Future zones. Each zone will be marked with a tomokanga (entranceway) that embodies its kaupapa (purpose), guiding attendees through fire installations, large-scale projections, live performances, interactive storytelling, traditional Māori games, and kai from food trucks. Local talent will take to the Aroha and Takoha stages with acts including the Ngāti Pōneke Young Māori Club, Tom Knowles (reggae, roots), Rei (bilingual Urban and Electronic), Tui (soul, pop), and Awerangi (old-school jams). In a tribute to those who have passed since last Matariki, names submitted by the public will be projected onto a Memorial Wall on the side of Te Papa near the Solace in the Wind statue. Each evening of Matariki Ahi Kā, a ceremonial walk will start at 7.40pm from the Barnett Street car moving procession follows the journey of the Matariki whetū (stars). Visitors are invited to write down names, memories, wishes, and aspirations, and place these in baskets located at the Memorial Wall and Whairepo Lagoon before 7.30pm. These will be released into a ceremonial flame following the procession, sending them to the stars above. Advertisement - scroll to continue reading 'Matariki is a time to pause and reflect on the past year, celebrate our present achievements, and look forward to the future with renewed hope and aspirations. Here in Wellington, our Matariki celebrations emphasise the vital role of whānau and community in bringing us all together,' says Mayor Tory Whanau. 'We invite everyone – Wellingtonians and visitors alike – to join us in these special Matariki celebrations.' The celebration of Matariki and Puanga, the Māori New Year, dates back over 700 years. The rising of Puanga (Rigel in Orion) and the Matariki star cluster (Pleiades) marks a time to reflect on the past, reconnect with whānau, share kai, celebrate, and look forward to the year ahead. Other events in the region at this time include Matariki events at Council's Community Centres, Wellington City Libraries and in the Botanic Garden ki Paekākā. The WAITUHI Matariki flags will be on display in Frank Kitts Park from 18 June – 12 July. This year's WAITUHI Matariki public art series for the 8-flag poles is Te Kohinga Whētu: Collecting the Stars, by artist Reuben Paterson (Ngāti Rangitihi, Ngāi Tūhoe, Tūhourangi, Scottish). The Matariki exhibition opening 7 June in the Courtenay Place Light Boxes (77-97 Courtenay Place) is Tiaki by artist Shannon Te Rangihaeata Clamp (Ngāti Toa Rangatira Ngāti Koata, Ngāti Tama). Tiaki is a manaia, a bearer who connects the worldly and spiritual realms. Tiaki acknowledges the space between and overlapping people, atua, this place, its histories, and its presence. Event details: Mana Moana Pōneke 7-8 June, 14-15 June, 19-22 June 6pm–9pm Whairepo Lagoon Free event In the lead-up to Matariki Ahi Kā and during the long weekend, enjoy Mana Moana Pōneke, a series of indigenous short films projected on a water screen. The films this year have been curated by Israel Randell (Rarotonga, Tainui, Ngāti Kahungunu) and are guided by the wise words of Moana Jackson's: 'In time, like te ao marama emerging out of te pō, mourning gives way to dreaming.' Matariki Ahi Kā Thursday 19 June - Sunday 22 June 2025 6pm–9pm Wellington Waterfront Free event Matariki Ahi Kā is an immersive self-led walking journey including fire, performances, projections, a ceremony each night to honour those who have passed away and to express hopes for the future, the Mana Moana Pōneke water screen, and kai. Find out more on Council's website: Matariki Ahi Kā and Mana Moana Pōneke are accessible. Toilets, including an accessible toilet are available. There is an unmanned drop-off point at the Te Papa main entrance. To avoid parking frustration during this busy time, we encourage everyone to walk, bike, scoot, or use public transport. Cyclists and e-scooters, please follow diversions or walk your wheels, and pedestrians take extra care due to the changes.
Scoop
6 days ago
- General
- Scoop
Public Invited To Dive In And Share Views On 10-year Coastal Plan
Wellington City Council and mana whenua are calling on residents to help shape the future of the Pōneke coastline – a taonga of the city. Public consultation on Tātou ki Uta – the draft Coastal Reserves Management Plan – is now open until midday Tuesday 5 August 2025. Covering coastal areas from Oriental Bay to Red Rocks, Tātou ki Uta sets out a 10-year plan for how the city and its people will care for, protect, and continue to enjoy our coastal reserves, beaches, public parks, and amenities like tracks, boat ramps, and public toilets. 'Our coastal reserves are a taonga, a treasure, and their future management must reflect the aspirations of Wellingtonians,' says Mayor Tory Whanau. 'We've worked closely with our community and Takai Here partners to create a draft plan that is integrated and forward-looking. This public consultation is an invitation for every Wellingtonian to help shape the future of our coastal spaces,' adds Mayor Whanau. Councillor Teri O'Neill, Chair of the Social, Cultural, and Economic Committee, says it's important to have your say. 'Our coastline is where so many of us feel most grounded; a place to meet friends and whānau, swim with the dog, or take in the wildlife around us. We've heard how much people care about the dunes, kororā (penguin) habitats, and cultural stories of these places. Now we want your voice in how we care for these taonga for the next decade.' The draft plan includes over 80 proposed actions, ranging from practical upgrades like improved toilets and tracks, to long-term efforts towards erosion control, protection of wildlife, restoring Māori names to reserves, and planning for climate adaptation in high-risk areas. Council has worked closely with mana whenua partners Ngāti Toa and Taranaki Whānui to develop the draft plan. The name Tātou ki Uta, gifted by mana whenua, means 'all of us on the land' and speaks to the shared responsibility of both iwi and the wider community in caring for the coast. Rawiri Faulkner, Pou Toa Matarau, of Ngāti Toa Rangatira, says the coastal environment is incredibly important to Ngāti Toa. 'We welcome the opportunity to strengthen our connection to the places we consider significant and to ensure our obligations to protect our taonga as kaitiaki is enhanced. 'We invite the community to participate in this process and join the council in ensuring our coastal environment is able to be enjoyed by current and future generations.' Tiamana | Chairperson Taranaki Whānui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika Te Whatanui Winiata says Taranaki Whānui is pleased to be a part of a kaupapa that once again highlights the importance of kotahitanga. 'Kotahitanga is working in partnership to maintain the cultural significance of our coastal areas. Kotahitanga is having a shared view on protecting our coastal areas. Kotahitanga is sharing in the development of the plan for our coastal areas. 'Taranaki Whānui is delighted with the expressions of kotahitanga with the Council and we look forward to more opportunities to collaborate.' Public consultation is open from Thursday 5 June to midday Tuesday 5 August 2025. You can have your say by: Completing the online survey at Filling out a paper submission form available online and at all Council libraries. Emailing coastalplan@ The full draft plan is available to read on Let's Talk or you can find a copy in Te Awe Library. Whether you're a surfer, swimmer, diver, dog walker, jogger, environmentalist, community volunteer, or a proud Wellingtonian, this plan is for everyone – and we want to know if we've got it right.
