The excitement and challenge of change is upon us after October’s local body elections.
David MacLeod, Chairman
We’ve welcomed some new faces to the Council table and bid farewell to others, including long-serving stalwarts. I think we’ve got a good mix of experience and fresh perspectives as we look to tackle the issues ahead of us and we wish our departing colleagues all the best for the future as we get down to business as a newly constituted Council.
First, though, I’m humbled and grateful that my Council colleagues have seen fit to again entrust me with the Chairmanship, and it’s reassuring that once again I have the able and experienced David Lean as my Deputy.
Our focus remains on our goal of a thriving and prosperous Taranaki. The past few years have brought their challenges but I’ve been impressed by the resilience and energy of our regional community. To be of service as Chair of the Regional Council is truly an honour and a pleasure, as well as a great responsibility.
It was certainly a pleasure to meet this year’s Environmental Award winners at the presentation ceremony in November. So much good work is being done right around the region!
As I write this, our thoughts are with the people of Kaikōura, North Canterbury, Marlborough and Wellington as they cope with the aftermath of the M7.8 earthquake that struck on 14 November, followed by cruel spring storms. As one commentator has observed, New Zealand is at the messy boundary of two tectonic plates and is still under active construction.
None of us should need reminding that we need to be prepared for large-scale disaster. Check out www.happens.nz(external link) or www.getthru.govt.nz(external link) for sound advice.
Hopefully, though, we will all have a chance to unwind and relax in the coming holiday season. I hope you have a happy and safe Christmas and New Year. Check out Tūpare, Hollard Gardens and Pukeiti if you get a chance. You’ll be impressed!
— David MacLeod
RECOUNT — Taranaki Regional Council's quarterly newsletter
Issue 103, December 2016