blueskin.co.nz

Time to tidy up!

2012-01-24T21:04:00.001+13:00

By the editors

Got lots of rubbish hanging around? Keep a note of these dates for the
first of the tri-annual Council clean-up days this month:
Blueskin Bay residents, Saturday and Sunday February 11 and 12
Purakunui and Long Bay residents, Saturday February 18.
Two skips will be available, one for ordinary rubbish that is not
discardable through your normal weekly household pick-up, the other
for organic waste.
At Warrington, the green waste skip will be placed on the Domain
behind the playground, by the big pine trees. At Long Bay it will be
located opposite Mihiwaka Road in the Domain, off Beach Street.

BLUESKIN RESILIENT COMMUNITIES TRUST

2012-01-23T21:43:00.001+13:00

by Scott Willis

Happy New Year to you all; 2012 has arrived with some new developments for the Blueskin Resilient Communities Trust (BRCT). In December, BRCT Chair Lynnaire Johnston stood down from the trust after 18 productive months at the helm, and the trust wishes to thank Lynnaire for all her hard work. At the same time, BRCT is very pleased to welcome Kate Parker from Warrington on board as a new trustee, while Ross Johnston (no relation to Lynnaire) has been elected as chair.

The New Year seems a timely moment to reiterate that the BRCT's vision is 'to facilitate a positive, healthy, secure and resilient future for Blueskin Bay and linked communities and promote sustainable resource use'. The Blueskin Energy Project is BRCT's main focus, as this initiative appears to contain the best prospects for not just greater energy security but also greater economic security for Blueskin Bay.

And it is with questions of economic turmoil and resource depletion in mind that BRCT is hosting a public forum on the subject of 'Building Local Resilience'. We are proud to announce that internationally renowned speaker and thinker Nicole Foss will headline this forum on 19 March in Waitati Hall (7:00pm) and we are planning a dynamic event. Make sure that date is in your diary! Remember, BRCT is driven by community ideas and primarily volunteer power, so if you have an idea for an event or project, or you'd like to run under the BRCT umbrella, please let us know.

The Clarke family, Nicky, Nathan, Max, Austin and Forest, who have been such community stalwarts during their time in Blueskin Bay, have recently upped sticks for Nelson. They're already sadly missed (though I expect they'll receive plenty of visitors at their new home). As a parting memento though they have generously donated Nathan's steam-punk spit-roaster to BRCT to use at community events, So in lieu of Nicky catering for us, they've provided the tools for us to do it ourselves – now that's fostering resilience!

In funding news, the Dunedin City Council community fund contributed $2,400 to BRCT late last year, which will assist the trust's efforts to develop a Community Energy Advisory Service, while results from other applications for the same purpose are still pending. The trust enters 2012 with a reliance on a mix of community funding, contract work, donations and volunteer contributions.

As always, BRCT welcomes any feedback on its activities and offers of assistance. One of the best ways to find out about BRCT is to talk with trustees or contact Scott at the trust office. BRCT trustees and officers are Ross Johnston, PJ Clarke, Antony Deaker, Tony Wilson, Gerry Carrington, Chris Skellett and Kate Parker, with Jeanette Fitzsimons as the trust's patron. You can also find out more about the trust at: http://www.blueskinpower.co.nz/ , or by calling 482 2048.

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From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media: voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff, Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point, Purakaunui), Dunedin, New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

BLUESKIN ENERGY PROJECT

2012-01-23T21:32:00.001+13:00

by Scott Willis

As I write, Meridian has announced that it is abandoning its $2 billion 'Project Hayes' proposal (a 176-turbine, 633-megawatt wind farm in Central). That is somewhat of a different scale to our 4-turbine, 2-megawatt Blueskin project, and the project trajectory could hardly be more dissimilar. On one side is one of New Zealand's largest electricity producer/retailers (or 'Gentailer'), on the other is a community initiative seeking greater energy security for the local community. Eric Pyle, head of the NZ Wind Energy Association, argues that this decision demonstrates that the wind industry is 'learning more about the best locations', and I think it also demonstrates that the Business As Usual model of large-scale development is no longer an uncomplicated model in New Zealand.

That impression was reinforced when I caught up with Green Party energy spokesperson Gareth Hughes on his way down to the 'Keep the Coal In the Hole Festival'. Gareth pointed out also that the Meridian project and the Blueskin project are very different – one is a top-down Think Big project, the way electricity has been 'done' in New Zealand since the 1930's, while our Blueskin project is bottom-up, with everyone having a stake and contributing. If we can achieve projects like the Blueskin wind cluster, he argued, then we can 'create a robust grid, with less loss and more popular support'. Gareth was very clear that we need renewable energy if we are to avert climate crisis and wants to see in the future a 'more friendly legislative regime for community projects, and a grid which is designed to encompass decentralised community projects so we can have a network which is resilient in the face of future challenges'.

Meanwhile, our project is moving forward. I had a range of very productive meetings in Wellington just prior to the Christmas holidays and found a wide range of support even from within government agencies (though that's not followed up with much supportive policy at present).

We had also hoped to have our 'Community Engagement' report complete by the end of last year, however due mainly to staffing changes at EECA there has been a delay, and we're only now able to begin finalising the report. Following a meeting at the Electricity Authority I now have some work to do assessing whether we may have a viable project to offer a retail option for Blueskin (coupled with generation), and thus potentially secure more complete control, which of course will be part of further community discussions as we seek further opinion on the project.

Finally, while sad to see the Clarke family and the Robinsons leave us for Nelson I'm delighted to be able to welcome Chris Freear and Linda Van Barneveld to Blueskin. Chris is project manager for Our Wind Limited (remember the agreement signed between OWL and BRCT almost a year ago?) and they have just purchased a property in Waitati.

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From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media: voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff, Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point, Purakaunui), Dunedin, New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

WAITATI OPEN ORCHARDS: A Growing Branch of the Waitati Edible Gardens Group

2012-01-23T21:16:00.001+13:00

by Jason Ross

The fruit trees we planted last winter, mainly in Brown St, are doing
really well despite the dry start to summer. There are a few fruits on
several of the older trees that will give us a taste this year of
what's to come!

Waitati Open Orchards (WOO) was also involved in planting edible
plants around the new skateboard park, in conjunction with the A&P
Society and Blueskin Nurseries. A hedge of Chilean guavas (Myrtus
ugni) was planted on a dry bank, and in other areas a plum and apple,
gooseberries and worcesterberries to be enjoyed by hungry skaters.

Appeal for stall goods. At the upcoming WEGie Harvest Markets WOO will
have a fundraising stall. The first of the three monthly markets is on
Sunday, 19 February. We are fundraising to purchase more trees by
selling donated produce, preserves, cooked food, garden plants and
tools or anything related to gardening and harvesting. Please drop
off items that you are able to donate at the Village Potager, cnr
Foyle St and Doctors Point Rd (look for the sign) before the Sunday,
or bring them along on the day before the market begins at 10:30am.

For you home fruit growers: This month's tip is to try the lost art of
summer pruning of fruit trees. Pruning in January or February is great
for older established trees, very vigorous trees that tend to be shy
at cropping, and for espaliers. Summer pruning slows down the growth
of branches and encourages fruiting, the opposite effect to winter
pruning. Pruning is much the same as winter pruning, cut out crossing
and crowded branches and then shorten unwanted new growth back to an
outward facing bud, leaving them about one centimetre long. Don't
prune the tips of branches that you want to keep getting longer, and
don't prune young trees.

Waitati Open Orchards is a group of keen folk on a mission to plant
fruit trees in public spaces around Waitati for all to enjoy. Email
waitatiopenorchard@gmail.com to join our mailing list, or contact
Jason Ross, 482 2625.

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From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point, Purakaunui), Dunedin,
New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in
the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and
republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

OROKONUI ECOSANCTUARY

2012-01-23T20:33:00.001+13:00

by Sue Hensley

This time of year is always great in the forest with lots of chicks
temporarily boosting populations until they go off to find new
territories for themselves. Bellbird chicks are easy to locate from
their insistent 'feed me' call and it's a treat to watch the parents
come in to feed them.

A tomtit pair built their nest by the side of the busiest track at the
busiest time of year and successfully raised four chicks. It was
amazing to watch these busy parents flying in every five minutes or so
with food for their young. It shows how unaware people can be and how
secretive birds can be that the nest was built and the eggs sat on for
two weeks before anyone noticed!

It has been confirmed – Orokonui has the tallest tree in New Zealand.
In fact it is the only tree in the country taller than 80 metres. A
pair of surveyors from Washington recently spent their time in New
Zealand measuring all the tall trees using survey lasers and the sine
method. Interestingly the tree tagged as the tallest was measured at
74.2m but another tree further down the track was noticed and on
measuring this one it was found to be 80.5m. The tallest tree is a
Eucalyptus regnans and in its Australian home has been recorded at
heights of around 120m. New Zealand native trees tend to grow wide
rather than tall with the tallest, the kahikatea reaching around 60m
in height.

News and events can be found on www.orokonui.org.nz or on our facebook
page. The Visitor Centre and café are open daily 9.30 – 4.30.

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From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point, Purakaunui), Dunedin,
New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in
the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and
republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Blueskin Low Oil Commuting Group (BLOC)

2012-01-23T18:07:00.001+13:00

By Virginia Toy

Happy 2012 BLOC members - both cyclists and non-cyclists. At present,
the weather is fine and the cycling is still easy. I've been passed on
the road to the city by a lot of cyclists in the last few weeks. Many
of them (you?) look to be commuting to work. It is great to see so
many people out there on their bikes! The challenge for all of us will
be to keep cycling as the weather deteriorates.
Potluck meet 'n' greet: In an attempt to build and maintain our
support network for cyclists and other alternative travellers, I'd
like to propose we all gather for a pot luck dinner on Friday 24 Feb,
venue tbc via email. If you wish to attend and meet some of the other
local cyclists, please email bloc@geology.co.nz so I can tell you
where to go. I hope that Lucy and Simon will be back from their cycle
tour over summer and can tell us all about it at this meeting.
Mailing list: My intention for the BLOC email list is that mail to
bloc@geology.co.nz will be automatically forwarded to all members.
Thus, if you need a cycling friend/supporter or a lift to or from town
in a hurry, you can email the list and hope for a rapid reply.
However, I didn't manage to set this up last year. I have finally
found a way to do it via Gmail, and so there is a new BLOC email
address: bloc.dunedin@gmail.com. The old address still works too. If
you're already on our mailing list you should receive an email soon
asking you approve your email as a forwarding address from this
account - please do. If you're not on the list yet... why not? Email
bloc@geology.co.nz to join.
See you all on the road - don't forget to holler 'hello' to me as you pass!

Gallery hosts sacred works for a secular age

2012-01-23T17:42:00.001+13:00

By Charles Barrington, Blueskin Gallery

Gallery on Blueskin will host a show by New Zealand artist Clare
Reilly from Saturday 4 February.
Clare's works express an underlying connection with the natural
environment, in particular an empathy with native birds combined with
a celebration of the joyous aspects of life. Serene and meditative,
her paintings are sacred works for a secular age.
Clare's painting career has spanned the last three decades and she
continues to paint full-time in Christchurch. She says, "There's an
utter, utter joy and pleasure in working with paint that fulfils me
tremendously. I feel like I'm flying."
In recent years Clare has completed many private commissions and her
works have found their way into collections in Argentina, North
America, Israel, Europe, Australia and the Middle East, as well as
throughout New Zealand. She has exhibited extensively over the past
three decades.
For the past three years, Clare has worked closely with the Banks
Peninsula Conservation Trust on the Tui Restoration Project, and was
given the opportunity to be part of the 2010 Tui Capture and Transfer
team that worked on Maud Island, as well as providing resources for
fundraising the project.

BLUESKIN MAINLY MUSIC

2012-01-22T21:43:00.001+13:00

by Jenny O'Neill

We hope you all had a wonderful Christmas with some special family
time. There would have been lots of first Christmases for all those
new little people who were born last year. I know how nice it was
having our newest wee man with us during this special time. We hope
the New Year has got off to a good start for everyone, also. It
certainly has been wonderful having some lovely summer days giving
plenty of opportunity for the kids to get outside and play.

We are looking forward to hearing all about everyone's holidays and
seeing how all the little and bigger children have grown. Blueskin
Mainly Music is starting back on 14 February this year. Being
Valentine's Day we will be having songs about love and what we love,
including all the favourites like 'Jack in the box', 'The wheels on
the bus' and 'Twinkle, twinkle little star'.

If anyone would like to join us for a fun time of music, movement and
interaction with your little one/s all are welcome. After the
half-hour music session there is a free cuppa and yummy morning tea
for both the children and caregivers. The children can then have a
play with some of the great toys from the Waitati Toy Library while
the parents get a chance to catch up and chat.

Blueskin Mainly Music runs every Tuesday at 10:00am in the Waitati
Hall, school term time, $2 per child or $3 per family. Any queries
please phone or text Jenny on 027-378 7258 -- but you are welcome just
to turn up.

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From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point, Purakaunui), Dunedin,
New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in
the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and
republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

BLUESKIN LOW OIL COMMUTING GROUP

2012-01-22T21:16:00.001+13:00

by Virginia Toy

Happy 2012 Blueskin Low Oil Commuting (BLOC) Group members -- both the
cyclists and the non-cyclists. At present, the weather is fine and the
cycling is still easy; I've been passed on the road to the city by a
lot of cyclists in the last few weeks. Many of them (you?) look to be
commuting to work. It is great to see so many people out there on
their bikes! The challenge for all of us will be to keep cycling as
the weather deteriorates.

Potluck meet 'n' greet: In an attempt to build and maintain our
support network for cyclists and other alternative travellers, I'd
like to propose we all gather for a pot luck dinner on Friday 24 Feb,
venue tbc via email. If you wish to attend and meet some of the other
local cyclists, please email bloc@geology.co.nz so I can tell you
where to go. I hope that Lucy and Simon will be back from their cycle
tour over summer and can tell us all about it at this meeting.

Mailing list: My intention for the BLOC email list is that mail to
bloc@geology.co.nz will be automatically forwarded to all members.
Thus, if you need a cycling friend/supporter or a lift to or from town
in a hurry, you can email the list and hope for a rapid reply.
However, I didn't manage to set this up last year. I have finally
found a way to do it via gmail, and so there is a new BLOC email
address: bloc.dunedin@gmail.com. The old address still works too. If
you're already on our mailing list you should receive an email soon
asking you to approve your email as a forwarding address from this
account -- please do. If you're not on the list yet... why not? Email
bloc@geology.co.nz to join.

See you all on the road - don't forget to holler 'hello' to me as you pass!

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From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point, Purakaunui), Dunedin,
New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in
the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and
republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

WAIKOUAITI COAST COMMUNITY BOARD

2012-01-22T21:07:00.001+13:00

by Gerard Collings, Chairman

Happy New Year to all, we hope the festive season treated you well.

The Waikouaiti Coast Community Board has set up a new group email
address: wccb.public@dcc.govt.nz Emails sent to this address will be
directed to all board members collectively.

The Dunedin City Council (DCC) is in the process of finalising its new
2012–2022 Long Term Plan (LTP). Public consultation on the LTP is
scheduled to commence in March. We encourage members of the community
to participate in this process.

At the board's request, DCC staff in conjunction with the Department
of Internal Affairs and the Otago Community Trust have organised a
funding seminar for community groups within our area, to be held at
the East Otago Events Centre at 7:00pm on Wednesday 8 February 2012.
It is hoped that the seminar will provide helpful advice to groups
thinking of projects requiring funding assistance.

Copies of DCC documents out for consultation are available from the
council office and through the DCC website
http://www.dunedin.govt.nz/council-online/currently-consulting-on

The Waikouaiti Coast Community Board's next meeting is at 5:30pm on 29
February 2012 at the events centre, Waikouaiti. Members of the public
are welcome to speak in the public forum at the meeting, however those
wishing to do so need to advise Jane Hinkley, our Governance Support
Officer, (tel 474 3374) before 12 noon on the day prior to the
meeting.

Remember you can view the board's meeting agendas, reports and minutes
at either the Waikouaiti or Blueskin libraries or through the DCC's
website at "http://www.dunedin.govt.nz/your-council/council-minutes"

Members of the board are only too happy to hear (by phone or email)
from members of the community about any issues within our area.

Board Contacts Home Work Mobile email
The Board wccb.public@dcc.govt.nz
Gerard Collings (Chairperson), 4657604
4707494 0274848800 gerard.collings@xtra.co.nz
Alasdair Morrison (Deputy), 4822505 4822505 0274354384 info@calmarine.co.nz
Andy Barratt, 021890048 021890048 asbarratt@farmside.co.nz
Andrew Noone 4657157 0274301727 anoone@dcc.govt.nz
Geraldine Tait, 4822517 0212175492 gstait@clear.net.nz
Les Pullar, 4658138 0274358020 lesgwen.pullar@xtra.co.nz
Mark Brown, 4822833

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From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point, Purakaunui), Dunedin,
New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in
the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and
republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Tennis Anyone?

2012-01-21T07:35:00.001+13:00

By Rachel Cameron

There must be folk around who would fancy utilising our local tennis
courts and having a hit around.
Contact Rachel if you are keen for a social game. Depending on numbers
we may try to set up a weekly evening to bring some action to these
courts.
Contact: 482 2266

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From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point, Purakaunui), Dunedin,
New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in
the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and
republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Heritage Bus to Attend Palmerston Waihemo Show

2012-01-20T13:49:00.001+13:00

by Peter Dowden

A Dunedin group of bus enthusiasts from the Otago Heritage Bus Society Inc.
will provide bus travel onboard their classic Leyland Leopard to the
Palmerston Waihemo Show on Saturday, 4 February.

'The show is a major gathering of vintage machinery collectors and restorers,
so our classic Leyland bus, the last of this famous British marque to leave
Dunedin's bus depot, will fit in well there,' the society's Hon. Chairman
Philip J. Riley said.

The bus from Dunedin will depart Waitati at 9:20am returning by 5:00pm and will
travel the scenic route to Palmerston via Warrington and Seacliff. The cost of a
fare is $25 per adult or $50 for the whole family, and includes entry to the
show.

For further details and bookings ph 454 5568

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From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point, Purakaunui), Dunedin,
New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in
the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and
republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

BLUESKIN GARDEN CLUB

2012-01-20T13:42:00.001+13:00

by Lyn Hastie

Our first get-together this year will be held in Waikouaiti. On
Saturday 11 February we will be meeting at the Events Centre, Main
Road, Waikouaiti at 10am. Our speaker is Stuart Brown who will talk
about growing, caring for and showing dahlias. We will then visit
Stuart and Lesley's garden and have a look at their beautiful blooms.
Later on we will travel down the Coast Road where we will have a BYO
lunch in the grounds of the old Seacliff Hospital. Please feel free to
join us.

On 3 March all members will be busy hosting a big group of keen
gardeners from far and wide. We will meet at the Waitati Hall where we
will have a plant stall, food, raffles, speakers and then visit local
places of interest. All members are asked to help us on the day. If
you are not a member but would like to come along and help us and/or
join us please phone Glenys 4822640 or Lyn 4822896.

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From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point, Purakaunui), Dunedin,
New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in
the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and
republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Living legends Orokonui plant site

2012-01-19T10:27:00.001+13:00

By Lucy Hardy

A big thanks to all the volunteers who have been helping to maintain
the Living Legends native plants at the Orokonui Scenic Reserve. We
had phenomenal weed growth in spring last year, so there has been
plenty of work to do.
A group of happy volunteers made a huge difference to some of the
plantings on Sunday 15 January. They weeded and re-matted with coffee
sacks an area along the river edge.
We are planning another working bee on Sunday 26 February starting at
9.30 am, and we plan to be out there for the morning. We are looking
for more volunteers, so if you could spare an hour or so to help it
would be very much appreciated. Of course you can go down there any
time you like and release a few plants as every bit helps.
Contact Lucy Hardy, 474 7094 or Valerie Fay, 482 2806

Lucy Hardy

Ranger - Community Relations Kai Arahi Hapori-hononga

Coastal Otago Area Office

Department of Conservation—Te Papa Atawhai
VPN: 5684 DDI: +64 3 474 7094

Conservation for prosperity Tiakina te taiao, kia puawai

www.doc.govt.nz

________________________________
Attention:
This e-mail (and attachments) is confidential and may be legally privileged.
________________________________

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From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point, Purakaunui), Dunedin,
New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in
the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and
republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Warrington Surf Lifesaving Garage Sale

2012-01-13T10:59:00.001+13:00

Opera House Trust AGM

2012-01-13T10:57:00.001+13:00

By Fiona Smith and Jack Monaghan

"The Opera House" has been around for a few years now and has a rich
stretch of eclectic history. It is run by a charitable trust, The
Opera House Trust, composed of mostly local people interested in the
management of this unique and wonderful resource for a sustainable
community.
Recently, the trust updated its objectives in line with the new
Charities Act 2005 (we should perhaps define "poor" as "the relatively
impoverished 99%", billionaires need not apply): the relief of poverty
and general community benefits. The objectives are:
To relieve poverty by providing the poor a framework for sustainable,
energy-efficient living, by providing fruit and vegetable gardens,
renewable energy, the space for cottage industry and accommodation at
affordable rates.
To benefit the community by nursing plants for and lobbying for native
wetland regeneration on adjacent public lands.
The Trust's 2012 AGM will be held at The Opera House, 52 Doctors Point
Road on Monday March 5 at 6pm. All welcome.

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From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point, Purakaunui), Dunedin,
New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in
the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and
republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

The Spatial Plan: How will Blueskin Bay look in 2050?

2011-11-24T12:15:00.001+13:00

by Geraldine Tait

Many of you will not have heard the term spatial plan. It hasn't got
anything to do with NASA and astronauts; it is a document setting out
directions for Dunedin's growth and development for the next 30+
years. It will also be used as the basis for changes in the new
District Plan. Bored already? That's right it doesn't read much like a
thriller or juicy romance.

However, there is an interesting section outlining key issues for
Dunedin, which seems to show an enlightened attitude to climate change
and peak oil. It also mentions protecting productive farmland,
heritage buildings, landscape values and biodiversity. Our ageing
population, old cold houses, cycling, walking, public transport and
local power generation also feature, but further into the plan the
focus rapidly moves from a sort of eco-greenie theme to one of divide
and rule. Something called distributed development is proposed which
has the majority of development occurring in urban areas with some
expansion of outlying townships in order to increase the
self-sufficiency of these communities.

In the Waikouaiti Coast Community Board area three townships are
proposed for further development; these are Waikouaiti, Hawksbury and
Waitati, while it recommends Karitane, Seacliff and Warrington retain
existing levels of development consistent with character values and
good design. What does this mean for Waitati? A large chunk of Doctors
Point is outlined on a map with the wording 'allow some expansion in
suitable areas'. If you are like me you will be smelling a very large
rat about now! Waitati has probably seen the biggest development of
lifestyle blocks and rural residential sections of any area around
Dunedin. Many of these are still not built on and quite a few are
finished but on the market. So there is no shortage of that type of
property in our area, in fact there is probably a glut. How would
subdividing more land in Waitati make it more self-sufficient or
resilient? The plan says that in order to create strong communities we
need growth in population to help retain local services (shops,
transport and schools) and employment. Our local shop relies as much
or more on passing trade as it does on local support to function. If
anything threatens its future it is the plan to move the highway and
displace the shop.

Waikouaiti has twice the population of Waitati but it shares the same
little bus service that we have, so doubling Waitati's population
won't get us extra buses. The viability of our local schools has not
improved since Don's-Creekisation, in fact I would argue that the
massive increases in property values associated with the subdivision
of farms has made our village a lot less affordable for young
families. The existence of small rural schools is very much in the
hands of the Minister and Ministry of Education, who like to take out
their lazar guns every few months and zap a few more schools into
oblivion.

Would an increase in population create more local jobs? This is a very
complex question. Many of us in this area work in town, there is a
small growth in self-employment and people working from home. Local
employers such as the nursery, and Orokonui Eco-sanctuary mainly rely
on customers from outside our area; Waitati's population has little
effect on them. There are a lot more local jobs in Waikouaiti, these
arise mainly from businesses which support the farming community.
Others succeed because the distance to travel to obtain goods and
services in Dunedin is much greater for people living in Waikouaiti
than it is for Waitati locals.

There are many things we could do and are being done by a number of
local groups and individuals to make Waitati a more resilient and
self-sufficient township. The Blueskin News features some of these
every month. We do welcome new people to our community especially when
they send their kids to the school and playcentre, shop locally and
join some of our many groups which help to make this a great place to
live. BUT we don't need any more major subdivisions or loosening of
rules about lot sizes in the rural zones. If you agree with me, get a
copy of the Spatial Plan and make a submission to council before it's
too late!

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From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point, Purakaunui), Dunedin,
New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in
the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and
republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Thank you, Waitati

2011-11-24T12:01:00.001+13:00

by Katherine Petters

My partner, Josh and I were involved in a head on collision about 2km
south of Waitati on 13 November at the Donalds Hill Rd intersection
and our dog got such a fright that he ran off down the highway and
into the bush.

We could not find him that night but the next day we hit Waitati with
some flyers for our missing dog and what we discovered was an
extremely kind and compassionate community. Everyone we spoke to was
so concerned. Mandy Mayhem made calls to those she knew and Jan from
Waitati Valley Rd had copied some of our flyers and was handing them
out in people's mailboxes and we hadn't even talked to her yet! The
ladies at the general store were all lovely. We even had a suggestion
to print loads of flyers and give them to the mailman to hand out on
his mail run the next day. Bev, the mailman's wife was very obliging.
We ended up finding our dog at the end of that day and went home
feeling so moved by people's kindness.

The people I have mentioned are the ones whose names we caught but
there were so many others whose properties we visited who said they'd
look for him and even in the week after the accident I received calls
and texts asking if we'd found him. I have only been in New Zealand
for a year and this experience has made me feel very welcome and happy
to be in such a great place where people take time to really help you.
Josh, Scruffy and I say a BIG thank you to everyone who helped us so
kindly on that day.

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From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point, Purakaunui), Dunedin,
New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in
the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and
republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Orokonui Ecosanctuary

2011-11-23T15:06:00.000+13:00

By Sue Hensley

December is the time of year when we look back on just what's been
achieved. For the sanctuary this was done at a restoration meeting
held in November where academics, DOC staff, Orokonui staff and
trustees got together to discuss all aspects of past and future
species translocations.

Snipe (a small bird with an eerie nocturnal call followed by the sound
of vibrating tail feathers) was one such proposal. An Otago Uni
zoology student did the preliminary investigation and found that
Orokonui had only small areas of habitat similar to where it is found
today and not enough invertebrate life at the depth of normal feeding
for snipe. An interesting finding was that snipe have been pushed
into limited habitats because of predation and so not enough is really
known about the range of habitats they can survive in. Their
translocation to Whenua Hou/ Codfish Island may help to provide some
answers.

Meanwhile at Orokonui this is the season for orchids flowering and the
appearance of young birds. Patience and careful looking and listening
are often rewarded by the sight of a parent feeding its chicks.

It is crazy how quickly the end of the year comes around and the New
Year approaches. If you are still Christmas shopping go online (or
come up to the Visitor's Centre) and check out the gift vouchers for
tours, memberships and shop items. There is a great selection of jade/
pounamu and other works from local artists, too.

A very big thank you to all the wonderful locals who have helped out
in numerous ways during 2011 and best wishes for a happy Christmas and
New Year to everyone.

News and events can be found on www.orokonui.org.nz or on our Facebook page.
The Visitor Centre is open daily (closed December 24, 25) 9.30 – 4.30
(cafe 10 – 4).

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From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point, Purakaunui), Dunedin,
New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in
the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and
republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Warrington School

2011-11-23T15:01:00.001+13:00

Students Out and About
Waianakarua has been the senior class camp destination for the last
six years. This year we also included a pre-camp trip to Orokonui
Ecosancturary. These are the students' expereiences.

Ko Moponui te Mauka, by Ruby Harris
Recently, Warrington senior students trekked up Mount Moponui.
Climbing banks, sliding through mud and using trees to hoist
themselves up, 20-plus kids and adults gratefully sat down at the top,
admiring the scenery and learning about Moponui's water catchment
feeding Blueskin Bay. Luckily we had Tahu and Sophie from the Orokonui
Ecosanctuary with us who shared their great knowledge. The view
towards Warrington was magnificent and we could see the bush and
vegetation covering the Orokonui Valley leading to the Waitati
Estuary. Everyone loved the day. Thank you so much Tahu, Sophie and
Orokonui Ecosanctuary - it was an awesome day!

Ancient Artifact Washed Up From the Ocean, by Rammy El Dessouky and Mary Locker
During our class camp beachcombing, finding pretty stones, driftwood
and the occasional piece of rubbish, our teacher Mr P stopped and
picked up a Maori toki (adze). Straightaway Mr P had a strong urge to
throw the toki back into the sea. He also wondered who owned it and
what is the correct thing to do with such a special artifact. A parent
phoned the Moeraki Marae to ask what should be done with it. The toki
was blessed over the phone, someone from the marae would collect it
later in the week and we were given instructions on how to care for it
in the meantime.
The toki was shaped for carving and very smooth. It turned a different
colour after people touched it. The toki was probably very old.
As promised, Moeraki Marae representative Patrick came to collect it.
We took the toki back to the beach where it had been found. We
couldn't reach the spot because the tide was in; we had found the toki
when it was out.
We pointed out into the waves where it was found and Patrick put that
into his GPS. He also took some photos of the area. Patrick said a
karakia to take the tapu off the toki and we replied with our school
waiata.
The toki was to be registered with the Crown and Patrick hopes that it
will be taken back to the Moeraki Marae. No one knows what will happen
to it now but it sure was cool finding it.

Water Monitoring on Camp, by Naomi Ashby-Ryan and Ashlie Carbines
While at camp Waianakarua, near the river, two OCR water scientists,
Rachel and Dylan, came and taught us about water monitoring. We tested
the temperature, clarity, habitat and PH. All the results were in the
excellent category, good news for us as the day before we had all been
swimming and playing in the river.
We also searched for invertebrates, using a chart to identify the
various creatures we found. Bugs can indicate if the stream is good or
not. We found a big cockabilly fish and lots of mayflies in their
stone houses. We also found a stenoperla (stone-fly) and other
interesting bugs. These bugs and fish only live in high quality
rivers.
The camp river has a cobbled bed, a 7.5 PH reading and the clarity was
completely clear - the whole metre wide. There was a thin layer of
native algae, which is good for the invertebrates (but not for dogs).
This indicated a great habitat for invertebrates and other creatures.
The stream had excellent results. Yay!!!

Fun in the Great Outdoors, by Elsa Neuman, Indy Darling-Perry and Shea Abbott
At camp Waianakarua there was a camper van parked on the other side of
the playing field. This van is home to Professor Panic who is visiting
from the UK where he owns a circus. The Professor has lots of puppets
and circus gear that he uses to impress crowds and which he shared
with we senior students.
The professor also has a story coat. Inside it has 100 pockets, 50 on
the left and 50 on the right. In each pocket there is a tiny treasure.
With each treasure there is a big story.
At night we got to choose a pocket and the professor told us the story
that went with it. The one I remembered best was about the man that
tricked death twice and lived for 210 years.
One evening Professor Panic made a game where half the class were
fielders and half held the edge of a smallish parachute. A soft toy
frog was placed in the middle of the parachute and the team holding
the parachute laid it down on the grass. The parachute team then said
"ahhhhhhhh" starting from a deep sound and getting higher. At the end
of the "ahhhhhhhh" the parachute would be flicked up, making a sound
like a whip. The frog flew up in the air about 10 metres and the
fielders tried to catch it. If the fielders caught the frog three
times the teams swapped over.
Professor Panic also has a huge parachute and we played games with
that. It didn't flick the frog like the other one but we played a
swapping game where we would change places while it was inflated.
Professor Panic was incredible!

Splash, Dive, Whoosh! by Lichen Sorrel
Flipping and flying off the diving board at the Oamaru indoor swimming
pool! It is a really cool place. It has a hot pool area and a one
metre diving board that goes into a 3.5m deep pool. There is also a
pool about one metre deep. And then there are three little pools that
are 30 centimetres deep. Oh, and I can't forget the lane swimming
pool; it has about 15 lanes! We had such a great time!

Little Protected Creatures from the Ocean, by Lindsay Dowden-Mackay
At Oamaru there were probably 600 little blue penguins that came to
shore and into their little wooden huts. From 8.30 tp 10pm groups of
blue penguins waddled up the rocks to rest after a busy day of
fishing. We had to stand behind the fence. There were fences in the
shape of triangles that the penguins had to walk through. When there
were fewer people around the penguins came up closer because they
weren't quite so scared!

From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point, Purakaunui), Dunedin,
New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in
the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and
republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Blueskin Resilient Communities Trust

2011-11-23T14:42:00.001+13:00

By Scott Willis

The DCC decision on the BRCT funding application to pilot a Community Energy Advisory service is still pending, as I write. The BRCT office needs a good (though late) spring-cleaning, after all the recent activity in the energy area, particularly. This is always a hectic time of the year though, and BRCT will meet in December to set strategic direction again for the 2012–2015 period.

One thing on the table for 2012 is a workshop for sustainability/transition groups in Blueskin, to try to see if there are any challenges and solutions within the great variety of dynamic initiatives underway. Time is short for solving the problems we all face collectively and yet it's worth pausing a moment to celebrate the community energy to 'get things done' – the days are long gone when it's a small group of 'all the same people'. Much has happened since the early days – we've all grown and systems have evolved, we've developed experience, ways of working, encountered problems and experienced the joys of success.

Coming up also in December I will be attending a meeting of Climate Change hubs in Wellington and I'll take that opportunity to have a range of meetings to further Blueskin Energy Project ambitions and shore up national networks to enhance BRCT actions.

Meanwhile, if you're aiming for some high AND low carbon, engaged summer action away from Blueskin Bay, why not head along to the 'Keep the Coal in the Hole Summer Festival' in Mataura, 20 -23 January? (see: http://nocoalsummerfest.org.nz/).

Now, some more detail on the Draft Spatial Plan. Copies of the plan and the summary document are available at our local library, the DCC and online at www.dunedin.govt.nz/consultation/spatialplan. I also have some copies of the summary in the BRCT office (please come after 3pm – best day Friday).

Strong elements? The challenges of climate change, peak oil and natural hazards have been clearly identified. The preferred option for future planning is "Distributed Development" which essentially recognises the different character and values of distinct communities to enable more holistic planning. That could mean local provisioning of energy (BEP action), low carbon transport systems (Blueskin Low Oil Commuting, W3, walking and cycling groups, Get-The-Train), local food production (Weggies, Waitati Open Orchards, local growers) and other things. It will mean we plan to evacuate low-lying areas over time and certainly stop building in flood zones. It will mean we build up the local economy (rezoning, allowing more appropriate scale business activity) and ensure we have the infrastructure to ensure quality of life for people in our communities. A sobering article in the Guardian really underlines why we must plan for a low carbon future (http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/nov/09/fossil-fuel-infrastructure-climate-change).

In it, the International Energy Agency, a very conservative body, argues that if we don't change our energy infrastructure within the next five years, we'll lose 'for ever' the opportunity to stop runaway climate change. In relation to the spatial plan, the long-term plan and the city's economic development, it means we must stop courting oil exploration companies (old fossil fuel industry) and redirect city funding and resources towards clean technology. Only by ending subsidies to fossil fuel can we hope to build a positive future for our children.

The BRCT's office number is 482 2048 and BRCT trustees and officers are Lynnaire Johnston, PJ Clarke, Antony Deaker, Ross Johnston, Tony Wilson, Gerry Carrington and Chris Skellett, with Jeanette Fitzsimons as the trust's patron. You can find out more about the trust at: http://www.blueskinpower.co.nz/

Blueskin Energy Project

2011-11-23T14:35:00.001+13:00

By Scott Willis

A four turbine wind-cluster located at Porteous Hill above Warrington is closer to being confirmed as viable, with wind measurements and modelling demonstrating sufficient wind. Financial viability, however, rests not just on wind quality, but also on community support and on ensuring a power purchase agreement.

By now many Blueskin residents have attended an Open Day, completed the survey or accessed information about the project from the website, or just followed it in the media. Don't worry if that despite all this, the project is still new to you. There is no intention to move into full development until a few more questions have been answered. These are:

1. Are Blueskin residents still strongly supportive?

2. What level of local investment is available?

3. Are we able to secure a good power purchase agreement?

Now, of course, everyone is looking forward to Christmas and the holidays, however it is also a good moment to get more details. If you want someone to come and explain the proposal and you live in the Purakaunui, Long Beach, Osbourne area, phone Ross Johnston on 482 1029 or email him at jpl@callsouth.net.nz and leave your contact details.

If you live in the Waitati – Warrington area phone me on 482 2048 or email scott@blueskinpower.co.nz and leave contact details.

By mid 2012 BRCT will be in a position to assess community support and will then be able to make a decision on preparing a Resource Consent application. There will be public meetings about all this before then.

An important DCC document that will affect you and our community is out now. Called the 'Draft Spatial Plan' it is a geographical perspective on how our communities can meet the needs of current and future generations. In my opinion, and having had input from an early stage of the plan's development, this is a very good document. You can be assured that plenty of people with an interest in our landscape will be submitting on the spatial plan – but the DCC will value hearing from residents and not just property developers.

BEP perspectives will be incorporated into the BRCT submission, which will be submitted by the new deadline of 13 January 2012. As a guide to how the DCC is incorporating broad perspectives in the spatial plan, you will see reference to the 'Waitati Energy Project' (now of course we're 'BlueskinEP'). In this peak oil period it is crucial that our local authority does plan for the whole city's energy needs – and the plan offers a start. Among other things, the plan will help shape the District Plan (covers land-use/planning issues), the transport strategy and the economic development strategy, and will have an effect on community initiatives. It is quite likely that this plan will give greater leverage to community initiatives that are delivering results for local communities, particularly if residents submit their support.

For more information look in the BRCT column and contact me (482 2048) if you have any burning concern/positive comment and I'll see if it can be incorporated. Have a lovely big fat summer break and a low carbon holiday!

Waitati Toy Library

2011-11-23T14:23:00.001+13:00

Waitati Toy Library
Open fortnightly
Saturday 10:30-11:30am
&
Monday 6:30-7:30pm
at Waitati Hall, Harvey Street
December dates: 10 and 12
Closed for January
February dates: 11,13,25,27
For more info
Contact Frances at 482 1991

Blueskin Garden Club

2011-11-22T17:23:00.001+13:00

By Lyn Hastie

Blueskin Garden Club activities are coming to an end for the year. Members and their spouses/partners will celebrate Christmas with a Progressive Dinner in the Michies Crossing, Doctors Point Road area on Saturday December 10 at 6.30pm. This year instead of exchanging gifts we will be bringing along items to be donated to the S.P.C.A.
This month members paid a visit to the Hawksbury Lagoon and and iris garden in Waikouaiti.
Our next meeting on February 11 will see another trip to Waikouaiti where we will have a talk on growing dahlias. If you would like to join our club details of our activities are always in "Blueskin News" and in Friday's ODT. Alternatively you can phone Lyn 4822896 or Glenys 4822640.
Wishing you all a safe and merry Christmas and happy days in the garden. Special thanks to all those involved in providing this great little monthly newsletter.

Christmas Brunch on the River Bank

2011-11-22T16:18:00.001+13:00

By Rosemary Penwarden and Derek Onley

Last year's Christmas brunch on the Orokonui Road river bank beside
the WOO fruit trees was a great success, so we're doing it again this
year, weather permitting.

The fruit trees and a cleared path beside the river from the bridge to
the picnic area are looking great. If a low-key start to Christmas day
sounds good to you, come and join us. Bring a bit of food and/or drink
to share. Everyone welcome. 11am start.

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From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point, Purakaunui), Dunedin,
New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in
the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and
republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

WAIKOUAITI COAST COMMUNITY BOARD

2011-11-21T19:14:00.001+13:00

by Gerard Collings, Chairman

Where has the year gone -- Christmas is here already. On behalf of
the Waikouaiti Coast Community Board I wish to thank all those
volunteers throughout the community who have given their time and
effort to the various projects and events within our area this year.
Please take the time over the holiday period to relax and enjoy the
special places within our area. We wish everyone a merry Christmas
and a happy and safe New Year.

At our November meeting the board were pleased to confirm financial
assistance from our discretionary fund to the Karitane Special
Projects Group towards their medal presentation ceremony.

The Dunedin City Council has released Dunedin's draft Spatial Plan for
public consultation. The Spatial Plan is an overall strategic document
that will provide the council's vision for the next 30-40 years. It
will feed into, guide decision making, and provide overall strategic
direction in areas such as water, waste, roading/transport,
recreation, parks and reserves, and the city's District Plan. As such
it is important that our community make themselves familiar with the
draft Spatial Plan and participate in the consultation process. Copies
of the draft plan will be available at our local libraries, from the
council and through the council's website:
http://www.dunedin.govt.nz/council-online/currently-consulting-on
Submissions are scheduled to close on 13 January 2012.

The Waikouaiti Coast Community Board's next meeting is at 5:30pm on
25 January 2012 in Waitati Hall. Members of the public wishing to
speak at the public forum need to advise Jane Hinkley our Governance
Support Officer (Phone 474 3374) before 12 noon on the day prior to
the meeting.

Remember, you can view the board's meeting agendas, reports and
minutes at either the Waikouaiti or Blueskin libraries or through the
DCC's website at
http://www.dunedin.govt.nz/your-council/council-minutes

Members of the board are only too happy to hear (by phone or email)
from members of the community about any issues within our area.

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From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point, Purakaunui), Dunedin,
New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in
the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and
republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

BLUESKIN LIBRARY

2011-11-21T17:42:00.001+13:00

by Louise Booth

Carolyn McCurdie started work at the Blueskin Bay Library in March 1999. On Friday 9 December 2011 she is retiring from her position at the library to concentrate on her writing career. She has worked under three librarians and has witnessed the library being open from three to six days a week. Carolyn has made a huge contribution to the library and we have enjoyed celebrating the publishing of her first children's novel The Unquiet.

On 9 December Friday afternoon we will have a party at the library so that you can farewell Carolyn. So please come and wish farewell to Carolyn any time from 2-6pm Friday 9 December.

If this message is not intended for you please delete it and notify us immediately; you are warned that any further use, dissemination, distribution or reproduction of this material by you is prohibited.

WAITATI SCHOOL: Book reviews

2011-11-17T16:50:00.001+13:00

Charlie Bone and the Red Knight, by Jenny Nimmo. Reviewed by James Burchell.

Charlie Bone and the Red Knight is a book about the final battle of the endowed children of the Red King. Woe! the swordsman Ashkelan Kapaldi and the enchanter, Count Harken, Shadow of Badlock are out of their paintings. Dagbert the downer is a good guy because he's stopped drowning people and regrets ever drowning anyone. The main idea of it is to kill all evil. They achieve this by fighting it out between good and evil.

Predator's Gold, by Philip Reeve. Reviewed by Finn Kelly.

Tom and Hester have had a peaceful two years since the downfall of Traction City, London, roaming the skies in an airship called the Jenny Haivener. But now evil is back and a rising agency called Green Storm is destroying all their enemies, as well as Traction City's next stop…Tom and Hester.

Get ready for the roller coaster ride of the Mortal Engines. Prepare for the treacherous journey to the dead continent America while being chased by a large threatening city 'Arkangle'. Be warned: you may encounter stealthy thieves, hilarious dwarfs and a famous writer who has lied about everything in his books. If he doesn't speak up soon Anchorage (Traction City) will be driving to its doom.

The Little House series, by Laura Ingalls Wilder. Reviewed by Tat Carr.

The Little House series of books is set in the 18th century. The first book is set in America in the woods of Wisconsin. In book two, Laura and her family move to the prairie where there are Indians, and wolves and many other animals.

Smiling Jack, by Ken Catran. Reviewed by Lucan Willis.

I think Smiling Jack is a very gory book and has lots of murders. It's about a guy called Robert who gets caught up in a murder mystery starting with his dad getting killed in a car accident. The great thing about Smiling Jack is that the excitement is evenly spaced out throughout the book. The other great thing about Smiling Jack is that it's also very realistic and seems like it's based on a true story. It also has very detailed descriptions of the settings. You can really picture them in your head. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves blood and guts mysteries.

Land of Snow, by Skye Waters.

This book is about a girl called Ella and she is walking home with her best friend Isabella then Ella hears a faint husky howl and her friend Isabella could not hear it. They went closer and Isabella could still not hear it. Then when they found it Isabella could hear it so then Ella took the husky home and called it Blue. Blue is no ordinary dog he is a magic dog.... Read this book and you will find out the magic and how it begins.

Rhiannon of the Spring, by Allan Frewin Jones. Reviewed by Ahi

The story of a wild princess with extreme skills with a slingshot, the book drew me in almost immediately and hasn't let go. With a heart full of bravery and a mind of steel this princess will have a hard time fitting in with another royal family! I give Rhiannon of the Spring a 9 out of 10; it was truly amazing but it just didn't go on long enough! I would recommend this book to people 9 and over though it would be a good read for a mature 8yr old.

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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media: voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff, Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Living Legends: Thank you and 2012 date

2011-11-16T14:45:00.001+13:00

by Liz Sherwood, Community Relations Ranger, Coastal Otago Area Office, Department of Conservation.

Job well done, thanks to you!

The Department of Conservation and Living Legends wish to thank all the residents of Blueskin Bay who helped with the planting day at Orokonui Scenic Reserve in September. We are grateful for your support in preparation for, and on, the day. We were delighted with the turnout of around 220 people, and the result – all 4600 native plants in the ground.

Ongoing maintenance of plantings is required, and this will be provided by contractors and volunteers. If you are interested in helping, and have a little time to spare, weeding around plants over summer as the grass grows would be highly beneficial.

A follow-up Living Legends planting day is scheduled for Sunday 2 September 2012. We will be planting a further 2500 natives around the estuary margin. Any plants that don't survive this summer will be replaced then.

DOC and Living Legends look forward to your involvement again next year. If you have any questions or comments, please contact the Coastal Otago Area Office Ph 477 0677 or email rhiscock@doc.govt.nz

Thank you and happy holidays!

Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media: voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff, Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

POLICE COMMUNITY REPORT: Blueskin area

2011-11-14T10:04:00.001+13:00

by Constable Jon-Paul Tremain

Tënä koutou katoa,

On 1 October a vehicle was stolen while parked at the Warrington Domain. It was taken in the middle of the day while the owner was out walking her dog. The car was recovered the next day down a bank along State Highway 1 not far from Warrington.

On 19 October a wallet, iPod, and cell phone were taken from a vehicle while it was parked at an address along Coast Road, Warrington. The owner left the vehicle unlocked and was away from it for only a short time; it would appear that an opportunistic thief took advantage of this. Inquiries are continuing in relation to this offence.

On 23 October police were called out to deal with several cattle beasts roaming along State Highway 1, Kilmog. A member of the public reported the cattle late that night after clipping one of them and breaking the wing mirror on her vehicle. This is the fourth reported incident involving cattle roaming onto State Highway 1 around the Pryde Road, Porteous Road area. If the unfortunate were to happen and a person was injured or worse as a result of a crash involving a cattle beast then the owner of that animal may be held to account.

That's all for this month, take care.

If you require information regarding road conditions telephone Transit New Zealand on 0800 44 44 49.

If you see anything suspicious or if you wish to speak to the police regarding any other matter you can contact us on 03 465 9127, or alternatively anonymous information can be passed on by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. In emergencies dial 111. Until next month, take care.

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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media: voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff, Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Blueskin Mainly Music

2011-10-25T09:40:00.001+13:00

By Jenny O'Neill

Wow, we are now into the fourth and final term of the year and spring
is well and truly upon us with all the beautiful blossoms and bulbs
blooming, as well as new life aplenty with all the spring lambs. Our
group also has three new babies born in the last month or so and there
are another two due anytime now. It is awesome seeing the older babies
becoming more interested and interactive during our music sessions and
really neat to see the older ones learn the words and actions to some
of the songs.

We are looking forward to seeing all the littlies when we start back
for a somewhat shorter term on 1 November. If you would like to join
us for a special time of interaction with your child/children using
music, rhyme and action with your little ones, followed by morning
tea, play and friendship please come along Tuesdays at 10am at Waitati
Hall. $2 per child or $3 per family.

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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Waitati Toy Library advert

2011-10-25T09:37:00.001+13:00

Waitati Toy Library
Open Fortnightly
Saturday 10:30-11:30am
& Monday 6:30-7:30pm
@ Waitati Hall, Harvey Street
November 12, 14, 26, 28
for more info contact Frances at 482 1991
Our December dates are 10 and 12.

Water a Basic Human Right or a Saleable Commodity?

2011-10-22T23:36:00.001+13:00

by Geraldine Tait

The words Council Controlled Company do not usually create fear and
trepidation but when applied to our water and waste systems they make
me decidedly nervous.
A recent report in the Otago Daily Times said that millions of dollars
could be saved by moving water and waste to a CCC. We are already
paying a pretty big fee in our rates for these services and we are
well aware that there is a lot of pressure on the existing CCCs to pay
a sizable dividend to council each year. Water users in Auckland no
longer just pay the cost of supplying that water but their council has
added a surcharge which it uses to help pay for other expenses such as
roads. Personally I don't wish to contribute to a profit margin for a
CCC to help pay off the stadium debt. I am more than happy for City
Forests and other CCCs to be run as profit-making businesses but not
water and waste.
There are tax advantages in moving services to a CCC structure but
there are huge losses for our community. As citizens we would have no
direct input as to how they are run and councillors could not make
decisions about management of the services. Imagine if the libraries
became a CCC. The council could have a contract with the Library CCC
saying that they were to make library books available to the citizens
of Dunedin. How the Library CCC goes about doing this would be totally
out of the control of the councillors. If the CCC decided to reduce
the number of libraries, or the opening hours of libraries, or the
number of books available or the cost of borrowing a book, this would
be just too bad and complaining to the councillors or voting them out
at the next election would have no effect on the management of our
libraries.
You may have faith that a Water and Waste CCC would deliver the same
service as the council department has been doing but there are some
very detrimental changes that may result.
The council has looked at water metering in the past and with a CCC
this is pretty likely to be introduced. At the moment households use
however much water they need and generally there is enough to go
around except during very dry spells when some restrictions on outdoor
water use are instigated. Water metering means the more you use the
more you pay, that sounds fair but it disadvantages families and could
impact on people who have a garden. If you grow your own vegetables
you will know that it can take quite a lot of water over the summer to
keep plants happy.
It is also not a very big step from a CCC to total privatization, the
Dunedin City Council just sold Citybus, they did not have to consult
the community or give any explanation other than that it was losing
money.
Another likely outcome of a CCC is that every household will get a
separate water and waste bill just like a power bill. So people who
are presently renting will get a water and waste bill each month from
the CCC on top of their usual rent. I'd be really surprised if
landlords gave a rent discount to tenants because the landlords didn't
have to pay water charges as part of their rates any more.
It is also likely that staff would be fired to reduce costs. I would
not like to see our water guys made redundant because I think this
will to lead to a poorer service especially after hours or when there
is an emergency.
So when you read about a Water and Waste CCC and what a great thing it
will be, think again, we have a lot to lose. After all we have paid a
huge amount through our rates to get the major upgrades done. We need
to keep control and ownership of these essential assets.

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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

BLUESKIN RESILIENT COMMUNITIES TRUST

2011-10-22T23:19:00.001+13:00

by PJ Clarke

New Zealand has had a pretty good party over the last couple of
months. Now parties of a different nature are demanding our attention.
Politicians of various hues assure us that the way ahead for New
Zealand is a return to growth, unbridled consumption and continuing
reliance on old, dirty technologies. Such 'business as usual'
assurances are at best questionable and are arguably misleading and
dishonest, however seductive they may seem.

For an alternative, positive view of New Zealand's future, check out
Dr Janet Stephenson's article in issue 30 of the University of Otago
Magazine, available online at www.otago.ac.nz/news/otagomagazine/.

Janet, a Blueskin Resilient Communities Trust (BRCT) supporter, argues
that New Zealand has 'a huge opportunity to build on our natural
advantages'. One such advantage is our relatively high availability of
renewable energy. Initiatives like the Blueskin Energy Project (BEP)
give communities means to provide for their future energy needs by
pursuing energy efficiency and renewable generation under local rather
than corporate control. Other projects in the Blueskin area are
developing food and transport security.

A long-term BRCT goal is to facilitate autonomous local ventures
through the development of social enterprises. A social enterprise
delivers social and environmental outcomes but is organised and
managed as a business. This may be an appropriate model for the
Blueskin Energy Project.

The recent BEP Open Days demonstrated strong local interest in
sustainability and community resilience. Trustees involved in the
events were impressed by the turnout, the enthusiasm, and particularly
the quality of the questions, ideas, critiques and discussion
contributed by those attending.

The BRCT/BEP office at Waitati School receives regular enquiries about
energy issues. BRCT has submitted a funding request to the Dunedin
City Council to allow us to trial a Community Energy Advisory Service.
A DCC committee will consider the application in November. If the
application is successful, another staff member will join the BRCT
team.

BRCT supports the very successful Waitati Open Orchards group and
recently transferred funds applied for under the BRCT mandate into
WOO's control.

The Waikouaiti Coast Community Board contributed $862.50 to the
Blueskin Energy Project's recent community engagement. Trustees
appreciate WCCB members' interest in BRCT projects and their support
in the current difficult funding environment.

BRCT trustees have had much to celebrate this past month. Chris
Skellett launched a new book 'When Happiness is Not Enough' to great
acclaim and nationwide interest. Antony Deaker and Mikaela Wilson
celebrated the arrival of a healthy new addition to the Deaker-Wilson
household on 19 October. Well done to all!

As always, BRCT welcomes any feedback on its activities and offers of
assistance. One of the best ways to find out more about BRCT is to
talk with trustees, or contact Scott at the BRCT office. BRCT trustees
and officers are Lynnaire Johnston, PJ Clarke, Antony Deaker, Ross
Johnston, Tony Wilson, Gerry Carrington and Chris Skellett. Jeanette
Fitzsimons is the trust's patron. You can find out more about the
trust, including contact details, at: http://www.blueskinpower.co.nz/

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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Not Much in Life is Straightforward: My thoughts on our library

2011-10-22T22:53:00.001+13:00

by Jackie Fanning

Libraries are great community places and should provide space for
passive recreation (e.g. reading books/magazines, checking internet,
listening to music, etc.). However, doesn't our Blueskin Bay Library
already (or could) do this?

Yes, our library is small but so is our community -- so why can't we
make do with what we have? I think we are a humble community -- so why
do we need a 'first class' facility? Yes, toilet provision needs
improving – but to say we badly need a new community meeting room –
really? I've attended/run meetings in the Waitati Hall Committee Room
and it is cosy, warm and perfectly situated next to the kitchen – it
just isn't new and flash.

I realise there has been community consultation on this project -- but
a lot has happened to world and local economies since that time and I
think people are more aware of the effects of living beyond our means
and bad management of money. There is only so much money – and those
who get it mean there are those who don't.

I think in recent years more people recognise that there are a number
of costs associated with project development (an obvious local example
here). I'm not going on about environmental costs (although of course
this is applicable) but there is a social (opportunity) cost. What is
spent in Waitati on a 'first class' improvement to an almost-adequate
facility is money not spent elsewhere on projects that can really make
a positive difference to communities whose needs are more urgent than
ours.

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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Opportunists of the Avian World

2011-10-22T22:43:00.000+13:00

by Rosemary Penwarden

Seagulls, you would think, live and eat at sea, or at least beside it.
But a comment to my resident ornithologist about the small bunches of
black-backed gulls that have been flying inland over our house
recently, led to an explanation of what they were up to.

They were heading over to the rocky outcrops above Volco and the
reservoir above Sawyers Bay. Black-backed gulls nest in
October/November and so for the month or so before that they check out
the local prime real estate. The Volco outcrops are favourite; some
years Rabbit Island is popular, and 50 or so gulls often nest at
Evansdale. Black-backed gulls nest either in colonies or on their own.
Just like people, some prefer the urban throngs, others, solitude.
There is a big colony of a couple of hundred pairs at Merton at the
mouth of the Waikouaiti River. This year a couple of pairs have been
interested in the cliffs at Doctors' Point just past the caves. Inland
in Central Otago they nest on the braided rivers, up mountains, and
feed on the paddocks. There is a colony on top of Slopedown, the high
hill that overlooks the Southland plain to the west and the Catlins to
the east (the site of a soon-to-be-built wind farm owned by Meridian
Energy).

Pre nesting time, they also hang out with prospective mates, testing
for flakiness and finding out what they might get up to when their
backs are turned (in ornithological language it's called
re-establishing the pair bond).

Some black-backed gulls feed at sea on shoals of fish and squid,
others in marshes at low tide. There are those who roam the beaches
and pick up and drop clams, and others who feed in paddocks on worms
and dead lambs or whatever else is going. The real urban dwellers go
for the rubbish tips. Similar to human nutritional studies, it has
been shown that the chicks of these rubbish tip fast foodies are
thinner and more poorly feathered than their rural cousins. We have a
resident that flies ten metres above the Waitati stream each morning
looking for tasty little ducklings or eels. Unlike albatrosses, which
eat entirely at sea on squid, black-backed gulls can adapt to
anything. They are generalists, not too fussy about quality, as we saw
when they quickly discovered the oily burger patties spread along Mt
Maunganui beach a couple of weeks ago. They eat the eggs of terns and
smaller red-billed gulls. They attack oyster-catcher chicks. Round the
back of the Gardens New World once I watched in horror as one gulped
down a live sparrow chick that had been feeding on discarded
supermarket fare.

Once nesting has begun, chicks stay for a while in the nest – all
fluff and legs – but those in colonies move out, after a week or so,
into crèches. Black-backed gull chicks are awkward, sooty-brown and
smelly. They don't mind who feeds them and will have a go begging from
whoever comes near. Adults have to go and find their own chicks, and
there's the odd bit of playground bullying in the midst of it all. The
chicks fledge by about January. Young black-backed gulls look a bit
like spotty brown chooks. In their second year they start to look like
scruffy versions of adult gulls with teenage spots and a black end to
their tail. By the third year they are just like an adult, sleek white
with a black back, yellow beak and evil eye.

Our black-backed gulls are very similar to large seagulls worldwide.
This particular species occurs in Australia, South Africa, and South
America (circum Antarctica) as well as quite a few islands in between
like the Falklands. Elsewhere they are called kelp gulls.

They may be opportunists and their behaviour doesn't always endear
them to us, but black-backed gulls are a fascinating success story in
a world in which survival is becoming harder and harder.

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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

WARRINGTON SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB

2011-10-22T22:18:00.001+13:00

by Dawn Hope

The Warrington Surf Life Saving Club welcomes all visitors to our
beach, with life guards in 'residence' every weekend from 12 noon –
5pm commencing 5 November until 18 March 2012. We have got a busy and
exciting time ahead of us and we look forward to seeing you all on the
beach over the coming weeks.

Nippers
We held our open day on Sunday 30 October and now we are ready to
start the season. Nippers' practise (under 16s, under 14s, under 10s
and under 8s) starts Sunday 6 November at the earlier time of 10am.
We look forward to seeing all existing members on the beach as well as
welcoming new members. If you missed the open day come along any
Sunday from 10am; alternatively contact Mark Familton on 482-2712 or
Dawn Hope on 482-2787.

Beach fireworks and BBQ night: Saturday 5 November, 6.30pm 'til late!
Come along to our community beach fireworks and BBQ fundraiser. You
are welcome to bring your own fireworks and let them off in a
controlled environment (we will have first aid in attendance). There
will be a sausage sizzle, hot drinks and supper items for sale.
Everyone is welcome.

Venue available for hire
Our club rooms are available to hire for functions. Please contact
Simone Omipi on 482-1136 for more details and to check availability.

Wanted items – Can you help?
We are looking for a new oven for our clubrooms also a small caravan.
If you have either of these items surplus to requirements we would
love to hear from you. Please contact Pru Casey on 021-203 6263.

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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

WAIKOUAITI COAST COMMUNITY BOARD

2011-10-22T22:05:00.001+13:00

by Gerard Collings, Chairperson

A special thank you to those who provided comment through the
playground improvements consultation. It is pleasing to see that it
appears there will be additional equipment provided throughout our
area.
At our September meeting the Waikouaiti Coast Community Board (WCCB)
were pleased to confirm financial assistance from our discretionary
fund to Waikouaiti District Museum, POWA and Blueskin Resilient
Communities Trust.
The board also agreed to facilitate a fundraising workshop in order to
assist community groups with obtaining funding for community projects.
It is intended to hold a workshop early in the new year; community
groups and organisations interested in attending should contact one of
your board members.
By the time you read this the Dunedin City Council (DCC) should have
released Dunedin's draft Spatial Plan for public consultation. The
Spatial Plan is an overall strategic document that will provide the
council's vision for the next 30-40 years. It will feed into, guide
decision making, and provide overall strategic direction in areas such
as water, waste, roading/transport, recreation, parks and reserves,
and the DCC's District Plan. As such it is important that our
community make themselves familiar with the draft Spatial Plan and
participate in the consultation process.
DCC staff are to provide a public briefing session at 6.30pm on
Thursday 17 November in the 'John Brown' meeting room , East Otago
Events Centre, Waikouaiti. This meeting will allow staff to give an
overview of the draft plan and more importantly provide comment on
those aspects of the plan that relate to and affect our area. If you
wish to attend the meeting but are unable to do so as a result of
transportation issues, please feel free to contact any WCCB member and
we will endeavour to assist you with arranging transport.
It is expected that submissions on the draft Spatial Plan will close
in December; the actual date will be advertised once this is confirmed
by the DCC. Copies of the draft plan will be available at our local
libraries, from the DCC and through the council's website
http://www.dunedin.govt.nz/council-online/currently-consulting-on
The November WCCB meeting is at 5.30pm on 9 November 2011 at Karitane
Hall. Members of the public wishing to speak at the public forum need
to advise Jane Hinkley our Governance Support Officer (phone 474 3374)
before 12 noon on the day prior to the meeting.
Remember you can view the board's meeting agendas, reports and minutes
at either the Waikouaiti or Blueskin libraries or through the DCC's
website http://www.dunedin.govt.nz/your-council/council-minutes
Members of the board are only too happy to hear (by phone or email)
from members of the community about any issues within our area.

Board Contacts Home Work Mobile email
Gerard Collings (Chairperson), 4657604
4707494 0274848800 gerard.collings@xtra.co.nz
Alasdair Morrison (Deputy), 4822505 4822505 0274354384 info@calmarine.co.nz
Andy Barratt, 021890048 021890048 asbarratt@farmside.co.nz
Andrew Noone 4657157 0274301727 anoone@dcc.govt.nz
Geraldine Tait, 4822517 0212175492 gstait@clear.net.nz
Les Pullar, 4658138 0274358020 lesgwen.pullar@xtra.co.nz
Mark Brown, 4822833

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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Eastern Districts Athletics Club

2011-10-21T20:29:00.001+13:00

By Ruth Porteous

An athletics club has recently been established in our area. It is
based at East Otago High School which has given permission to use
appropriate school equipment.
Work is being done on relocating gear from a previous eastern
districts athletics club to provide a greater range of equipment. The
club will affiliate to the Otago Athletics Association and will accept
both competitive and non-competitive members.
Junior members (14 and under) meet on Thursday afternoon from 3.30 -
4.40pm and senior members from 4.30 until 6pm.
Should you wish to know more, contact me in the evenings on 482 2849
or email cla@eohs.school.nz

Warrington Hall

2011-10-21T20:19:00.001+13:00

By Ruth Porteous

Did you know that after World War II plans were made to build a
memorial hall in Warrington to honour the local men who gave their
lives? To help meet the cost of construction, a member of the
community, went door to door, once a week, collecting 2/6d
(approximately 25c) from each family. When the hall was completed and
opened in 1957, it was debt free.
Since the hall's completion, there have been some small changes to the
original structure. What was once a projection room and then a store
room is now the men's toilet and the ladies' toilet is where the
doctor's waiting room/hall cloak room was. These used to be "long
drops" toilets, which were outside, at the back of the hall.
The present doctor's room has been added in recent years, replacing
the consulting area which was in the meeting room at the back of the
hall. This was a separate room beside the kitchen, which has been only
marginally upgraded in recent years.
With the loss of the projection room, suitable storage area has also
been lost, so the committee has discussed extending the hall to
provide an easily accessible storage area. Kitchen facilities could
also be upgraded.
If you have an interest in being involved in this project or have
skills you are willing to share, come along to our AGM in the
Warrington Hall on Thursday 17 November at 7.30pm.
There is a piano in the hall that is looking for a good home. The only
cost associated with this will be for its freight!

Blueskin Garden Club

2011-10-20T13:44:00.001+13:00

By Lyn Hastie
Blueskin Garden Club met recently and enjoyed a walk around "Opeke" on
Doctors Point Road. What a wonderful, peaceful spot and right in our
backyard. Thanks to those who are responsible for turning a large
amount of gorse into such a piece of beauty.
After our walk we enjoyed looking at Daphne's piece of paradise.
Gorgeous rhododendrons, azaleas, spring flowers and blossom were a
sight to behold as were the tuis who have such a safe haven and
plentiful supply of goodies to enjoy eating. After a shared lunch we
held a short meeting to discuss the business.
Our next get together will be held in Waikouaiti. On 12 November we
will do a walk around the Hawkesbury Lagoon followed by a visit to an
iris garden. More details to follow by club email and the gardening
page in Friday's ODT. All welcome. Any queries to Lyne 482 2822 or Lyn
482 2896.

Random Acts of Beautiful Madness

2011-10-20T13:40:00.001+13:00

It's cabaret time again and Ad Hoc Productions is putting on a big night of
Random Acts and Beautiful Madness at the Waitati Community Hall!
Ad Hoc Productions is the performing arts initiative and brainchild of Port
Chalmers local, Karin Reid, who collaborates with many diverse performers on
a project-by-project basis.
Ad Hoc Cabaret: Blackboard Sessions is a community-development project
that takes cabaret shows out to different Dunedin communities. The
first one was held in Port Chalmers
in September and was a great success.
The Waitati cabaret will be the second event and will feature the
Dunedin Jazz Workshop music ensemble, comedy skits and other random
acts throughout the night. There will be a few Waitati locals
performing alongside Ad Hoc Productions' collaborators and
other performers. Expect the unexpected throughout the night with a
smorgasbord of mystery offerings on Saturday 5 November, 8pm. Tickets
$15 adult / $10 unwaged (cash only). BYO food and drink.
Karin Reid, artistic director, Ad Hoc Productions, 027 392 8528

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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Warrington Surf Lifesaving Open Day

2011-10-20T13:32:00.001+13:00

Sunday 30 October @ 12 noon
Come along and see what Warrington SLSC is all about
Take the opportunity to join our club and meet new friends
$1 sausage sizzle available
Everyone welcome!
Please contact Mark Familton on 482-2712 if you have any queries

Waitati School: Silver Enviroschool

2011-10-16T17:17:00.001+13:00

By the students of Room One 2011 Waitati School and Sue Roberts-Blyth (teacher)

You've seen it on our logo: Waitati School Enviroschool, but what does
it mean? To be an Enviroschool means that we care about the
well-being of the whole school, community and eco-system. It's all
about learning to support our environment so that it can also support
us.
We want to make our planet a better place.
The Enviroschools philosophy empowers us, the students, to make good
decisions about relationships with others and with our environment.
It is supported by the Dunedin City Council who administer the awards
system.
There are 5 main parts to being an Enviroschool and these are called
Guiding Principles. They are:
Empowered Students – we can make great changes in our school and our world
Learning for Sustainability – we teach and learn in a way that
involves everyone and has on-going results.
Māori Perspectives – we honour the tangata whenua in this land and
embrace tikanga Maori.
Diversity of People and Cultures – we welcome and cherish people and
ideas from around the world.
Sustainable Communities – we participate in our community and help to
make it the wicked, wonderful place it is.
In 2009 Waitati School achieved a bronze award as an Enviroschool.
Late in Term 3, 2011, we welcomed Jenny Neilson from the Dunedin City
Council to our school.
We talked with her about all the things we do, and together we
discussed what it takes to be a Silver Enviroschool. We wrote down on
paper 'leaves' all the things we do that relate to the five Guiding
Principles. Then we glued them onto a tree entitled 'Silver
Reflection'.
At the end of the morning we looked at all the things we are involved
in and agreed together that Waitati School is definitely a Silver
Enviroschool.
One of the things we do is our enviro-Friday rotation in which the
whole school splits into whanau groups. One group works in the garden
and harvests food, another group cooks the food and serves it for
lunch and the third group acts as roving reporters.
We are also involved in recycling programmes, whanau hui, hangi
planting, Matariki celebrations, stream monitoring, and community
events such as the Fireworks Night.
Recently some of our 'empowered students' have undertaken projects
such as reinstating the chicken coop, restoring memorial gardens and
designing new structures for the space where the old office block was.
Look out for our colourful teapots on the fenceposts around the
school. We each painted a teapot with artwork showing our past,
present and future as members of the Waitati community.
We also enjoy strong links with our school parents, our local
librarians, Blueskin Nursery, Ribbonwood Nursery, Orokonui
Ecosanctuary, Play Centre, BRCT, Te Whare o te Whanau Arohanui, DCC
Enviroschool Sector, University of Otago (see link
http://review.mai.ac.nz/index.php/MR/article/viewFile/212/227) and
gardening groups such as WOO.
We celebrated our Silver status at our end of term assembly. We are
so pleased to be recognized as a place that supports the Five Guiding
Principles and also as a welcoming and future-conscious school. A
huge thank you to all the wonderful people involved with us in the
project and especially the students of Waitati School.

--
--
Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

The Chicks Project: Youth music tour comes to Waitati

2011-10-16T17:01:00.001+13:00

by Michelle Anderton

A successful youth music project has been extended for a further 12
weeks and is now being produced by the Dunedin Fringe Arts Trust.
The Chicks Project, initiated in 2010 by Volunteer Otago, aims to
provide young musicians with the opportunity to perform at alcohol-
free events and to learn from music industry mentors. Funded by the
Alcohol Advisory Council (Alac) the programme involves 10 local high
school bands.
Director of the Dunedin Fringe Arts Trust, Paul Smith, said it is
important that the Chicks Project is kept alive: 'The feedback from
the bands was that they got a lot out of the project and were really
keen for it to continue. But it needed a new champion so the Fringe
Trust stepped in as we see this fitting our mandate to support
emerging artists.'
Initially based at Chicks Hotel in Port Chalmers, the Chicks Project
is now branching out to include other venues in Dunedin and East
Otago. Project Co-ordinator Michelle Anderton says that the bands were
ready for another challenge, and a tour to multiple venues in and
around Dunedin will take the project to a new level. 'The project is
very hands-on for the young people involved. They have to do a lot of
the organising and promotion themselves as that's
the best way to learn.'
The new Chicks Project is based around a three-day tour held at
Re:Fuel in Dunedin, The Firestation Theatre in Mosgiel, and the
Waitati hall. As well as the performing component there is a series of
workshops that include songwriting, performance, event management and
recording.

--
Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Police Community Report: September 2011

2011-10-14T14:11:00.001+13:00

by Constable Jon-Paul TREMAIN

Tënä koutou katoa.
I thought it would be a timley reminder to property owners or anyone
thinking of renting out their address to remember that criminals or
others who wish to evade the attention of police will target
semi-rural and rural locations as a place to live; the isolation and a
smaller police presence are the main reasons for this.
One tactic police have noticed is that a landlord will be approached
by a female looking to rent an address. She presents well and may or
may not have children. There is no mention of a partner or associates
and almost always he is never present at a face-to-face meeting
between the parties. However, within a short time of the address
becoming tenanted a male figure appears on the scene; invariably his
associates begin to make appearances and the situation deteriorates
with issues arising such as on-going parties, noise complaints,
intimidation of neighbours, loud arguments, domestic violence, and
issues with destruction of property at the address.
My advice is that under no circumstances should a landlord rent an
address without a face-to-face meeting with the prospective renter.
Treat the process as you would a job interview, so have a series of
questions prepared. Insist on references and contact all referees
including the previous landlord. Establish clear boundaries such as no
sub-leasing of rooms at the address, and ensure that issues
surrounding animals are clearly understood. Insist on meeting all
parties intending to move to the address, including partners.
Information on referees and credit checks can be found through the
Department of Building and Housing by visiting
www.dbh.govt.nz/pub-pre-tenancy-index, and a criminal conviction check
through www.justice.govt.nz/privacy/#application. It is important to
note that the tenant has to authorise the release of his or her
criminal convictions history to the landlord by the Department of
Justice. Non-compliance with a request for any of these checks may be
an indicator that the tenant has something to hide.
A rental property is an investment, and I am sure most landlords want
a tenant who respects their property, the neighbours and the wider
community. Waikouaiti Police are happy to take any query in relation
to this subject and can be contacted on the number below.
If you require information regarding road conditions telephone Transit
New Zealand on 0800 44 44 49. If you see anything suspicious or if
you wish to speak to the Police regarding any other matter you can
contact us on 03 465 9127, or alternatively anonymous information can
be passed on by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. In emergencies
dial 111. Until next month, take care.

RE: Your Email Won

2011-10-14T06:21:00.000+13:00

Greetings,

Non-Ticket / Online E-mail Address Winning

On behalf of the Australia Lottery Commission, we wish to notify on your Winning; also to congratulate you, that you're Email address was selected as one of the six lucky winners in this 2011 edition of Australia Lottery. Your Email Address won the Prize-Money in category "B" which is the sum of Seven hundred thousand British pound sterling [900,000.00BPS].

For verification and release of your [900,000.00BPS], winning cash prize, Please contact the Lottery Online Agent: Mr. Robert Hughes , on this Email: (hughes.services@y7mail.com), With the following information: 1. Full Name, 2. Telephone number, 3. Home Address (P.O Box Not Acceptable), 4. Age, 5. Occupation and Country. Once again Congratulations !

Mrs Rita Tua

Publicity Secretary; Australia Lottery.

Blueskin Flower Show

2011-09-25T20:58:00.001+13:00

by Lyn Hastie

Blueskin Garden Club hosted another successful Spring Flower Show last
month. A big thank you to everyone from Blueskin Bay and surrounds
who supported the show. If it wasn't for you all cutting your prize
blooms, not to mention the amazing rhododendrons, we would not have a
show.
There were 791 entries, which was a bit down on last year, but still
the Waitati Hall was a blaze of colour. Special thanks to the
teachers, staff and parents from the Warrington Playcentre and School
who as always encourage and support the children into taking part. The
painted stones drew many favourable comments. How clever our young
folk are. Thank you also to Peter Appleby and Graeme Fyfe for giving
our show a good plug on Radio Dunedin.
Thank you also to the judges who give freely of their time. Thank you
to the Blueskin Nursery for the plant which was raffled. Raffle prize
winners were Ruth Stevens, Daphne Henderson, Sarah Smith, Pete Addis,
Lisa Clifford and Jan Boswell. Children's raffle winners were Maddox
Duff, Steven Rainbow, Phoebe Ozanne, Michael Rainbow, Leah Macdonnell,
Myah Omipi, Cathryn Stewart, Susan Powell, Maddy Ozanne, Rosa Cameron
and Grace Cunningham.
Trophy winners were Most Points in the Juniors section Maddy Ozanne,
2nd= Roland Ozanne and Jasmine Johnson, 3rd Ashlie Carbines and 4th
Phoebe Ozanne.
Family with most points: the Ozanne Family. Floral Art, Best Exhibit,
Prize Bloom, Most Individual Points: Lyne Carlyle. Most Points in
Flowering Shrubs: Daphne Henderson.
Congratulations to all the winners. Thank you to everyone for taking
part and we look forward to your continuing support next year.

PURAKAUNUI ENVIRONMENT GROUP INC.

2011-09-24T08:47:00.001+12:00

by Jim Glass, Chairperson, PEG

The Purakaunui Environment Group (PEG) Incorporated held its 2011 AGM
on 22 September.

Due to unfortunate ill-health the outgoing chairperson was unable to
deliver a report, however the following is a transcript of a
'catch-up' recently delivered to households in the Purakaunui area
reporting our activities.

This last year has seen the culmination of our efforts over six years
to oppose what we consider to be inappropriate development on Potato
Point. There has been some success.

Six years ago there was to be a subdivision that involved three houses
of considerable size along with their related buildings and tanks .
That proposal morphed later into a two house version. Neither found
favour with the Dunedin City Council (DCC). The developer appealed the
DCC decision. We joined the DCC in defending their decision in court.
The developer lost his appeal in both the Environment Court and the
High Court.

End of story? No -- but then we didn't expect it to be. First there
was good news. Local crib owner John Williamson purchased the southern
flank of Potato Point and expressed a desire to redevelop some
vegetation on it -- something we're keen to help with.

Then it was back into the fray when the developer, and owner of the
northern slopes of the headland, applied to build a barn and stock
yards. This application was not notified by the DCC so no submissions
could be made. The DCC approved the barn and the stock yards but with
conditions -- one of them being that the barn could not be turned into
a dwelling.

The developer objected and the DCC compromised to some extend by
allowing for the possibility that the barn could be enlarged and the
stock yard extended -- but the barn still couldn't be turned into a
dwelling without it going back through 'due process' at the DCC and
probably being notified.

The developer then applied for permission to build a house. This was
notified by the DCC, and PEG made submissions expressing our concerns
regarding the house, its siting and impact on the landscape. In fact,
the house that was proposed in this application was better in almost
every respect than the previous designs -- lower, built into the hill
and using materials that would make it less visually intrusive.

Despite our reservations the DCC approved the house and its site (in
the patch of bush almost exactly on the summit of Potato Point). There
were conditions attached to the consent: a covenant protecting the
bush apart from the 450 sq m immediately surrounding the house; no
'ancillary structures' more than 25 sq m to be erected on the site;
and no more than two structures of less than that area to be erected.

We still weren't keen on the idea of any houses on the site. We felt
-- and still feel -- that building on headlands, particularly on this
piece of the coast, is both unnecessary and visually intrusive, so PEG
appealed that DCC decision to the Environment Court.

While we waited for the court process to begin the northern flank of
Potato Point was sold to new owners, Jon and Lynley Fergus.

Part of the process leading up to an Environment Court hearing
involves court ordered and organised mediation between the parties to
see if agreement can be reached and a court hearing avoided. Also,
with a new owner, it was an opportunity to see if there might be any
common ground between them and us.

We were constrained by two major factors. First, the District Plan
gives the council discretion to allow a second building close to an
existing one in a rural zone (subject to some conditions) and we were
unsure whether the consent conditions would prevent this. Second,
taking the case to the Environment Court is an expensive business
involving lawyers and expert witnesses and tens of thousands of
dollars. Our previous experience at court had alerted us to this
reality. Our best option was to lay our concerns on the table at
mediation.

If we could not reverse the council's decision to allow one house, we
wanted to limit the possibility of there being more than that. This
has been successful; the DCC and the new owner agreed that the wording
of the conditions of consent relating to ancillary structures be
altered by removing the word 'ancillary', as it was not their
intention to build another house on the property.

We were also anxious to confirm right of access around the base of the
headland, already theoretically conferred by a paper road, the problem
being that nobody knew quite where the paper road was, or even if all
of it still existed. The owners agreed to walking access and the three
parties agreed to split equally the costs of surveying and marking the
walkway. As expected, it was found that parts of the paper road had
crumbled away and in some places had completely disappeared into the
sea. The paper road has now, in effect, been reinstated by creating a
20 m wide right-of-way easement for walking access around the
perimeter of the Fergus's property, and there are marker poles in
place.

There are conditions attached to the right of access which mean that
people won't, for example, be able to walk on the property during
lambing, between 1 September and 15 November. Also, how to get to the
'beginning' of the easement, part way around the point, still has to
be resolved.

So after six years nobody has got exactly what they wanted -- and
perhaps that is the way it should be. We're happy that there aren't
three massive houses on the point along with their garages, sheds and
tanks, and we're happy that we have successfully 'raised the bar' in
terms of what sort of housing is acceptable on headlands of this sort.

We are also very pleased to have forged an understanding with the DCC.
Until now the issue of a consent was often the first that locals knew
of a development on a prominent site in the area. That has changed,
and PEG will be in a good position to have a say in future proposals
where we believe we can contribute to a better outcome.

We'd like to thank all of you who have been supportive over the last
few years. Your assistance and support has been really valued.

About Blueskin Bay Watch

2011-09-23T18:00:00.001+12:00

by Rosemary Penwarden

During a recent AGM we realised that some of us in Waitati have new
neighbours who may not have heard of Blueskin Bay Watch (BBW), so here
is a brief rundown of how we began and what we do.

BBW formed in 2005 in response to the purchase of Opeke, the peninsula
that sits in the centre of our Blueskin Bay village and overlooks the
estuary. Opeke used to be a wild and wonderful place, full of very old
trees, planted when Waitati was first settled by Pakeha, and lots of
overgrown gorse that was slowly reverting to native bush. It was one
of those places that young Waitatians loved to explore -- usually
without mum or dad's permission. It is now owned by developer Allan
Dippie and is surrounded by a white picket fence, criss-crossed with
roads that look remarkably like the beginning of a quite large
subdivision, and lined with poplars (the poplars are a topic for a
future Blueskin News…watch this space).

In the usual scheme of things communities don't get a say when areas
of land in and around them get bought up by developers. Often
development plans are non-notified so there is no chance for the
public to submit, as was the case with Don's Creek. As well, the
Resource Management Act is stacked against communities – and just in
case there was any doubt about this, the National Government has
tweaked the act to confirm whose side they are on – any guesses?

Some of us decided it was worth keeping a close eye on Opeke, so
Blueskin Bay Watch was formed. While this single issue got us started,
our objects are wider: to advocate for sustainable development that
would retain the intrinsic character of the community, to help protect
the local flora and fauna, to be a conduit for communicating with
local bodies and governing authorities and to act as a legal entity to
represent community perspectives to places like the Environment Court.

We want to have a say about the direction our community will go.
Blueskin Bay's ecosystem would not sustain a large number of new
dwellings, such as Mr Dippie originally proposed for Opeke. We haven't
got the infrastructure to cope, and many of us are not interested in
biggering and bettering at the cost of a community lifestyle that has
chosen not to put money before all else (the rest of the world, maybe
even developers, will catch up with us eventually).

Some of the things we have been involved in since forming BBW in 2005
are writing submissions to the Dunedin City Council (DCC) re the
District Plan and Dunedin Futures, and supporting the DCC in trying to
limit the number of houses built along Wright's Road, a subdivision on
the ridge line above Evansdale. The DCC has on occasion contacted us
if a relevant local issue arises that they think we might be
interested in, like the SH1 realignment. We are currently drafting a
letter seeking confirmation of the consultation process on the
realignment which has been shelved until 2013/14.

We are a completely voluntary incorporated society. If you have a
community issue that you think we could help with, let us know. If our
aims appeal, contact us, we'd love to welcome new members. Our next
meeting is planned for February 2012 – there was mention of a cricket
match. (For more information contact Lee Paterson, secretary, 482
2889.)

PURAKANUI SCHOOL [with photo in .doc]

2011-09-23T17:44:00.001+12:00

by Bridget Davidson

On 13 September we accompanied Jup Brown on his run from Dunedin to
Palmerston, running with him on his descent from Mount Cargill. Jup is
running the equivalent of 60 marathons to raise funds for the Stroke
Foundation, and will finish his run in Auckland on 8 November. Jup
gave a talk to the children about the run and stroke education before
he carried on. We are spreading the word to text "Stroke" to 5339 to
make a $3 donation and support Jup on his run for this worthy cause.
See http://running-nz.info/

We had a marvellous visit to Puketeraki Marae at Karitane to watch the
Kahurangi Dance Theatre perform. The troupe were great and Sam
Yeardley enjoyed practising his taiaha skills with them.

We have also been very busy with our sports theme and Sam and John
Yeardley competed in the Otago Cross-country Champs, as well as the
seniors participating in the Edgar Centre Sports Day, with 12
different sporting activities to try. The children in the senior room
are currently inventing rules for new sports such as tree-climbing,
scootering, porridge-wrestling and even eating!

Four keen ukelele strummers practised hard for the Ukelele Jam which
took place at Balmacewen Intermediate. This follows up our very
exciting performance at Stars on Stage.

Our very successful Quiz Night took place on Friday 23 September, and
thanks to Steve Walker and all the particpating teams for generously
supporting our school. This year we are putting the proceeds towards
new sports uniforms.

BLUESKIN ENERGY PROJECT: Open days and community

2011-09-23T17:34:00.001+12:00

by Scott Willis

What a wonderful experience, in all our small halls and local
settlements over two weekends in September. Residents and visitors
attended the open days held at Long Beach, Warrington and Waitati to
learn more about the Blueskin Energy Project and contribute thoughts,
ideas and passion. Thank you to everyone for your obvious and keen
interest.

An impressive amount of information has been collected from these
recent open days – people placed stickers on maps indicating their
household location (where they came from), made comments and left
their details, proffered remarks on the banners hanging on the walls,
participated in a straw poll, and all have been invited to fill out
the online survey (at http://www.blueskinpower.co.nz/). The project of
a local wind cluster requires first a robust process enabling
community input. This is what the open days were intended to do – not
sell a project, but increase participation, share information and
enable input.

We are now in the process of analysing and ordering the information
collected, assisted by planners Ros Day and Andrew Henderson.
Information gathered at the open days (and in the online survey) has
several purposes. It will:
1. Help gauge the level and quality of support for the wind cluster proposal;
2. Provide guidance for the next stages of work on the project;
3. Demonstrate gaps in information and further work required; and,
4. Enable evaluation of our efforts to ensure broad participation.

The information will be used in the first instance to enable the
Blueskin Resilient Communities Trust to complete a report on community
engagement for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority. That
report, like the 2010 Blueskin Power Feasibility Study, will become a
public document. The engagement report is however only the most
immediate outcome. Information collected will also enable the
development of the next stage in the wind cluster proposal.

While data collection is ongoing, the work in parallel is now to
develop further the best business model to enable the project and
reflect community values. This is by no means a simple task, but it is
one that will be much easier now that we have input from a larger
section of the Blueskin community. Pulling together all the elements
from the open days and survey, while moving further along with the
proposal will take some months.

Early in the New Year we'll hold follow-up public meetings to report
back on how the summary is looking. This stage of the proposal is a
really important stage. Even if you didn't make it to the open days
please take five minutes to fill in the survey that you will find
online at: www.blueskinpower.co.nz/ -- though I'd suggest you take a
look at the displays (also available online) first. If you are not
connected to the internet, phone me on 03 482 2048 during working
hours and I will send you a hard copy of the survey to complete and
mail back.

Blueskin Resilient Communities Trust

2011-09-23T16:47:00.001+12:00

By Scott Willis

Thanks to generous financial support from the Otago Community Trust and
others, and a sustained effort from volunteer helpers, the Blueskin Energy
Project was able to hold open days at Long Beach, Warrington and Waitati.
BRCT trustees from Purakanui (Ross Johnston), Warrington (Chris Skellet) and
Waitati (Lynnaire Johnston) were on hand to answer questions and discuss BEP
proposals.
A big thank you to everyone who attended over the three days. The quality of
discussion was excellent. It demonstrated the deep thought people are giving
to the future energy needs of their households and communities. The many
suggestions contributed by those attending will be considered by the BRCT
trustees and will influence the future direction of the Blueskin Energy
Project.
A particular thank you to Laurence Hay whose invaluable assistance made the
open days run like clockwork. Thanks as well to Barbara Johnston, Gerry
Thompson, Therese Hailes, Seth Gorrie, Jenna Packer, John Kaiser, Charles
Abraham, Nathan Clarke, Steven Jenkins, Luke Johnston, Hank Rebmann and
Leone Rousselot. Thank you, Kelvin, for your timely distribution of flyers.
If I have missed anyone, please forgive me!
BRCT continues to work on applications for funding to support our projects
and the necessary community engagement. We also have a new website,
http://www.blueskinpower.co.nz/who.php. Information about the Trust and
trustees is available there.
Throughout New Zealand and the world, communities are looking for practical
ways to develop renewable energy, local food supply and sustainable
transportation. It's certainly not too early to be putting some serious work
into these issues. The current state of the world economy and financial
markets is a reminder that we need to do all we can to increase the
viability and resilience of our local community. We can't assume that
decisions made hundreds or thousands of miles away will be the best for our
families, households and communities. As far as we are able, we need to take
charge of our futures.
Next month we will report on the follow-up to the BEP open days.
Contact 482 2048

Opinion

2011-09-23T10:11:00.000+12:00

QUITE STRAIGHTFORWARD REALLY

By Stuart Strachan, Chair, Blueskin Bay Library Redevelopment Trust

Rosemary Penwarden’s opinion piece ‘A Complex Issue’ in last month’s issue of Blueskin News requires a response.

Rosemary seems to object to the renaming of the library redevelopment as the Blueskin Bay Community Complex. Admittedly, this is cumbersome, but it does make the important point that the project is not a straight library rebuild. It also extends and complements the existing Waitati Hall facility with an additional, badly needed meeting room and more accessible toilets (including wheelchair access), and the enlarged library, now so inadequate, will be far more suited for community use. This is not mere box ticking, but is what the community needs and wants, as established through the statutory planning process, including lengthy public consultation, over five years. And it is what funding agencies require.

It is unfair and misleading to characterise funding agencies, including charities and trusts, as ‘the man’ who gives out ‘the dosh’. Funding decisions are almost always made by committees that are widely representative of the communities they serve, and invariably include women in their membership. For instance, women account for half the 12 members of the Otago Community Trust. In my experience, trusts consider applications rigorously, and there is no way they can be deceived by specious wording; it would be stupid to try. After all, they have had the discernment to contribute handsomely to the Orokonui Ecosanctuary and the Blueskin skate board park.

Concerning Rosemary’s contention that such projects represent a transfer of wealth from the poor to the rich, I would make the following points. The lion’s share ($575k) of the project’s cost is already budgeted for from rates, which we all pay, rich as well as poor. Secondly, it is planned that the balance to be raised (now with community contributions already in hand $331,000) will almost entirely, if not all, come from sources that are not dependent on pokie machines. Certainly, we have not made any applications to such trusts. Finally, it should be remembered that the Blueskin Bay area has its own less well off, whom this project will benefit, just as South Dunedin has some rich people too.

Finally, Rosemary also appears to imply that South Dunedin is more deserving of good library facilities than Blueskin Bay. Of course, South Dunedin needs and should have its own library, but Blueskin Bay’s is now patently inadequate too. The two projects are not mutually exclusive, and it would be absurd to suggest that by shelving our own local redevelopment the Council saving would somehow enable the South Dunedin library to go ahead. The costs are of quite a different order – $10,000,000 or thereabouts, all from rates, for South Dunedin compared to $575,000 from rates for Blueskin Bay. In the Council’s present straitened circumstances, it makes much better sense at this time to stick with the Blueskin Bay project.

Blueskin A&P Society AGM

2011-09-23T09:14:00.001+12:00

Blueskin A & P Society
Annual General Meeting
7.30 pm – Wednesday
2 November, Waitati Hall

Blueskin Garden Club

2011-09-22T20:56:00.001+12:00

By Lyn Hastie

We met early last month and our speakers showed us how to define
different types of daffodils. This helped us to enter them all
correctly in our recent show. We all then took part in creating a
table setting using beautiful spring flowers which we had brought
along to share. The Warrington Hall looked like a mini show when we
had all finished.
Our October get together is Saturday 15 October. Please meet at
Michies Crossing at 11am. We will walk the Opeke Track and then go on
to Daphne's for a garden tour and shared lunch.
Contact: Lyn 482 2896 or Glenys 482 2640.

Warrington Playcentre

2011-09-22T20:49:00.001+12:00

By Lisa Hall

Happy spring to all! Our centre is certainly looking lovely as the
daffodils launch into bloom and the blossoms delight us – especially
when the breeze blows the tiny petals around like snowflakes. We are
beginning to feel a lot like bananas as we peel off all our winter
layers and enjoy the warming weather.
We created amazing sand saucers and painted stones for Blueskin Garden
Club's Spring Flower Show, recently. We are also getting our
vegetables and sunflowers ready for planting out around our garden and
have been excitedly planting grasses behind the centre. There are
green thumbs, fingers and sometimes whole bodies everywhere!
We have been excitedly welcoming lots of new friends to Playcentre and
are enjoying getting to know them and their parents. We are looking
into being open on Mondays too (dates to be advised) as our numbers
increase. If you are able to join us on Mondays please give the
Playcentre a ring so we can book you in.
We continue to update and improve our environment and have just had a
new fence installed at the back of our Wild Things patch, and new
gates on the Station Road entrance – thanks Mark Horsefield – they
look very smart and keep us where we're supposed to be beautifully!
We are also going to be taking orders for the deliciously yummy kiwi
classic, and 'oh-so-useful-to-have-in-the-freezer' cheese roll
shortly, as a fundraising venture. So if you love them and know they
are a great stand-by for rumbling tummies get in touch with us at the
numbers below and we will get rolling!
Three cheers for Flynn and Jamie who have just turned into terrific
three year olds! Double the trouble but triple in years; have a
fantastic year full of fun, learning and growing.
If you are interested in joining in the fun with us, we are open
Wednesdays and Fridays 9:15am to 12:15pm, or phone the Playcentre 027
227 7329 for more information. We'd love to meet you! Ka kite ano!

Music Market at Warrington School

2011-09-22T20:20:00.001+12:00

by Peter Dowden

The Music Market is an idea to get a bunch of mates and strangers
together for a bit of improv/jam/busk at the monthly market formerly
known as Coast Road Market.
There will be some room for us in the Blueskin Bay FM studio. Just
bring an instrument or an active voice and join in the fun. Or you
could just dance in front of the studio's
huge mirror wall. No need to register or audition, just turn up on the
first Sunday of the month (Sunday 2 October this month), 11am-2pm.
Peter Dowden, 482 2441 (am best) 021 137 2129

Orokonui Ecosanctuary

2011-09-22T17:41:00.001+12:00

By Sue Hensley

Sirocco the kakapo's visit is drawing to a close at the time of
writing. Initially it took him a couple of days to settle in and
become confident in his new pens. Soon however he was skraaking in the
night, destroying astelias (eating the leaf bases) and enjoying a
nightly munch on the crown ferns (Blechnum discolor).

A morepork was attracted to the lights of his display pen, sitting on
a branch above waiting for moths to come in. On a couple of nights
kiwi were heard calling and some very lucky groups saw a kiwi out on
the track. Kaka too were heard, adding to the magical sounds of native
New Zealand at night.

Val Fay, maestro of all things planted and volunteer leader par
excellence, was suitably recognised at the recent conservation
volunteer night. She was the winner of the Coastal Otago Conservation
Award.

Volunteers are an incredibly important part of life and work at
Orokonui. It was underlined again with the Sirocco tours when a
committed band of volunteers (many locals included) aided the guides
and made the Sirocco experience an incredibly satisfying one. The
feedback indicated how much that extra help was appreciated even
though sometimes nothing was said at the time.

A special mention must go to Karin Ludwig who took up the contract as
kakapo minder. She has experience on several of the "kakapo islands",
been involved in kakapo research and minded Sirocco when he visited
Ulva Island. She harvested food for Sirocco, cleaned up after him,
talked to up to five groups a night and got very little sleep for the
whole month he was at Orokonui. Sirocco was the star but the
interaction between bird and minder was absolutely delightful.

News and events such as night tours, talks and social/ band evenings
can be found on www.orokonui.org.nz and facebook.

The Visitor Centre is open daily 9.30 – 4.30 (cafe 10 – 4).

WAIKOUAITI COAST COMMUNITY BOARD

2011-09-22T10:39:00.001+12:00

by Gerard Collins

The Waikouaiti Coast Community Board (WCCB) has noticed a significant
increase in applications for funding from community groups and
non-profit organisations from within our community over recent months.
It is recognised that it is becoming more difficult for community
groups to access funds for projects and activities. At a recent
meeting with the Otago Community Trust and Dunedin City Council (DCC)
community grants staff, both organisations expressed a desire to
provide guidance and assistance to community groups considering
projects that may or may not attract funding assistance. The advice is
free and their knowledge of charitable funding bodies extends well
beyond their own organisation. I am eager to hear from community
groups and organisations that are interested in the WCCB facilitating
a workshop on community fundraising within our area.

At our September meeting the board will consider opening the locked
gates at the Warrington Reserve during summer months. The gates have
been locked over the winter in response to damage caused by boy
racers.

The information facility at East Otago Events Centre in Waikouaiti
during the Rugby World Cup has received a positive response. It is
pleasing to hear that a number of the visitors have been either new
residents or people seriously thinking about moving into the district.
A special thanks to all those volunteers who have committed their
time to manning the centre.

Special thanks also to those who made sure the world cup train from
Waitati was a real community event, the success of the first train was
a credit to those involved.

I am pleased to hear that the fundraising effort for the Blueskin
library project is well underway. This project has the ability to
deliver a much deserved first class facility for our community. The
fundraising group members have provided a personal commitment of their
time and effort in order to achieve a positive outcome for us all. It
is important that we as a community get behind the fundraising effort.

Copies of Dunedin City Council documents out for consultation are
available from the DCC office and through the council's website
http://www.dunedin.govt.nz/council-online/currently-consulting-on

The September WCCB meeting is at 5.30pm, 28 September, at Warrington
Surf Club rooms. The next meeting will be at 5.30pm, 9 November
2011, in the Karitane Hall.
Members of the public wishing to speak at the public forum before each
meeting need to advise Jane Hinkley our Governance Support Officer
(Phone 4743374) by 12 noon on the day prior to the meeting.

Remember, you can view the WCCB's meeting agendas, reports and minutes
at either the Waikouaiti or Blueskin libraries or through the DCC's
website at http://www.dunedin.govt.nz/your-council/council-minutes

Members of the board are only too happy to hear (by phone or email)
from members of the community about any issues within our area.

Gerard Collings
Chairperson
Waikouaiti Coast Community Board

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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Meet the Blue Sticks

2011-09-22T10:19:00.001+12:00

by Elspeth Moody

What is it about Blueskin Bay that produces so many good hockey
players? Last yearʼs
Otago Under-13 Girlsʼ Hockey Team had five players from Warrington,
and this year's
team has gone one better: of the 2011 squad of 16 players, six hail
from Blueskin
Bay, including the captain and the vice-captain.

Maybe itʼs the clean air, or all of the energetic outdoor activities
that children from our
community enjoy. Perhaps itʼs because of the wonderful coaching and
support they get
from teachers, parents and schools. It certainly has a lot to do with
the many hours of hard
work, and the enthusiasm and commitment these girls have shown in
order to earn their
places on the team against some tough competition.

In the October school holidays, they will travel with the team,
including manager Polly
Higham, to Palmerston North, where they will compete in the Collier
Trophy hockey
tournament against the top under-13 girlsʼ hockey teams from around New Zealand.
So, to Isabelle Becconsall-Ryan, Charlotte Becconsall-Ryan, Ruby Randall, Devon
Familton, Mira Neuman and Izzie Locker -- well done, girls, weʼre
proud of you. And good
luck in Palmerston North!

--
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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Waitati Volunteer Fire Brigade: Smoke Alarm Maintenance

2011-09-16T10:47:00.001+12:00

by Deanne Burrell

Dust and spider webs can affect smoke alarms. Clean your alarm with a
vacuum cleaner once a month, and while doing so test the alarm by
pushing the test button. Batteries must be changed once a year; time
this to recur on a regular date (such as on New Year's day, daylight
saving or a family member's birthday). All smoke alarms will sound a
short 'beep' every so often indicating that the battery is going flat.

Smoke alarms have a life expectancy of 10 years. A smoke alarm
constantly monitors the air 24 hours a day. At the end of 10 years, it
has gone through over 3.5 million monitoring cycles. After this much
use, components may become less reliable. This means that as the
detector gets older, the potential of failing to detect a fire
increases. Smoke alarms that are wired into an electrical system (or
burglar alarm) also need to be replaced every 10 years.

If an alarm regularly responds to smoke from cooking, there are
several options to handle this problem. One way is to replace the
alarm with one that has a button to silence it for a few minutes. Or
you could move the alarm further away, giving the smoke more time to
dissipate.

If the detector is of the ionization type, another option is to
replace it with a photoelectric alarm; this type of detector is less
sensitive to the smaller particles so is less affected by cooking
smoke. A further option is to use a heat detector rather than a smoke
alarm.

To stop an alarm sounding, you need to clear the air in the sensor
chamber. Fanning the alarm with a paper or tea towel is the best
method and the alarm will stop automatically. Do not disable the
alarm by removing the battery.

--
--
Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Rugby World Cup 2011: Waitati Train Service Tweaked

2011-09-16T10:31:00.001+12:00

Very light bookings for the Waitati to Dunedin train service for two
of the Rugby World Cup (RWC) matches resulted in the decision to
cancel those two trips. 'The first train services to a Dunedin Rugby
World Cup 2011 match were a fantastic success', the Dunedin City
Council's RWC Transport Co-ordinator Greg Sligo said. 'However, it
was not financially viable to run the Waitati train for the England v
Georgia and England v Romania matches. We consulted with the Waitati
organisers before making this decision, and they agreed that the train
would run again only for the Ireland v Italy game on 2 October, which
is expected to sell out.'

People who hold tickets for the canceled services are being contacted
where possible and can claim a refund from Taieri Gorge Railway or the
Dunedin i-SITE Visitor Centre.
An additional bus will be put on from Palmerston for all those who
wish to use public transport to the matches. Bookings for the bus can
be made by phoning Dunedin Passenger Transport Ltd on 03 474 1669.

Greg said that the Mosgiel to Dunedin and Waitati to Dunedin train
services were well used for the first match, and feedback from all
those who travelled aboard had been positive. Almost 300 people used
the Mosgiel service and about 130 were on the Waitati train. The
Dunedin City Council is underwriting the cost of the trains.

For more information, please contact:
Greg Sligo
DCC RWC Transport Co-ordinator
021 819397

--
--
Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Does this belong to you?

2011-09-16T10:02:00.001+12:00

Recently the people of Waitati generously gave their time, food and
bedding when refugees were stranded here during the snow storms.

There are lots of blankets, pillows, duvets, sleeping bags, umbrellas,
hats and scarves left at the Waitati hall. If you think any of these
items are yours please contact the Blueskin Bay library on 482 2444.

--
--
Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

WAITATI VOLUNTEER FIRE BRIGADE

2011-09-10T15:51:00.001+12:00

By Deanne Burrell

On Saturday 20 August the Annual General Meeting of the Waitati
Volunteer Fire Brigade was held at the fire station, and a great night
was enjoyed by all. It was reported that for the calendar year
01/01/10 to 31/12/10 the brigade had attended 68 calls. This is a
marked increase on the previous year, so the brigade hopes to increase
advertising and advice through our local Blueskin News to reverse this
trend. Since the last AGM staffing has remained constant with the
only addition being Sam Todd our junior recruit. Sam shows great
enthusiasm and motivation and we welcome him to the brigade.

Congratulations to the following members who received awards on the night:
Fire Fighter of the Year – Charles Abraham. This award is decided by
members of the brigade. It is awarded to the person who the members
feel contributed that little bit extra during the year, so
congratulations Charles on an award well deserved.
Best Attendance – Lindsay Scott. Lindsay's dedication and commitment
to the brigade is constant and very much appreciated.
Piston Broke Trophy (oopsy award) – Seraya Figgins. Sorry Seraya, but
someone's got to get it.

During the meeting the following issue was raised. Members of the
Waitati brigade would like to make further inquiries of the brigade,
Fire Service, the committee and St John into further equipping and
training members to be medical co-responders. The brigade voted
unanimously to look more closely at this proposal, and any community
feedback would be appreciated.

Recently when the motorway was closed due to the snow the brigade was
pleased to be able to offer assistance to many people who were
stranded, from taking cups of tea and soup to truckies to informing
people about the use of the hall. We were proud to be part of the
community spirit of Blueskin Bay. Well done to everyone who helped
out and showed people the hospitality that our community provides.

--
--
Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Orokonui Ecosanctuary

2011-08-24T09:55:00.001+12:00

By Sue Hensley

The extreme weather and snow of the past month has affected us all. It
has driven the bellbirds, tui and silvereyes to the sugar water
feeders, amusing us all with their songs, squabbles and chases. And
like the antidote to invisible ink the snow made kiwi footprints
appear on many of the top tracks.

We hope the snow has also affected the mouse population – downwards.
More monitoring tracks in areas of high mouse density have been cut in
an effort to contain numbers.

Snow too has affected preparations for Sirocco's visit. Field staff,
volunteers and builders have all been working under tight time
constraints as well as wicked weather to complete the kakapo's living
and display pens. Special mention is due to the team leadership skills
of track ranger Craig Leach who is never deterred whatever the
weather.

Sirocco takes off from his home on Maud Island (Marlborough Sounds)
and flies in to Orokonui on September 1, making his first public
appearance on the 3rd. He is one of only 131 kakapo which now survive
only on restricted access offshore islands. This is an amazing
opportunity to observe one of these rare and extremely unusual birds
close up.

News and events such as night tours, Sirocco tours, mini film
festivals and social/ band evenings can be found on
www.orokonui.org.nz and the Orokonui facebook page.
The Visitor Centre is open daily 9.30 – 4.30 (cafe 10 – 4).

BLUESKIN BAY LIBRARY REDEVELOPMENT UPDATE

2011-08-24T09:44:00.000+12:00

A Progress Report from Stuart Strachan, Chair, Blueskin Bay Library Redevelopment Trust

Since the very successful launch of the Redevelopment Trust at the Orokonui Eco-sanctuary on June 10, the fundraising team has been very busy. The committee undertaking this work consists of myself, Alasdair Morrison, Marshal Seifert, Des Smith, Blueskin residents with fundraising experience and our local councillor, Andrew Noone.

The total amount needing to be raised, additional to the budgeted DCC contribution of $575,000, and community contributions and donations of $83,200 pledged so far, is $330,800.

The committee has met on several occasions to plan the raising of the balance needed. With support from Department of Internal Affairs advisory staff applications are in place with major funding agencies and the outcome of these applications will be known prior to the end of the year.

In addition, a number of community events are planned. These include a quiz evening (Waitati v. Warrington), a display at the annual Fireworks Event hosted by the Waitati School on September 23, and an as yet unspecified activity taking advantage of RWC visitors.

We will continue to keep the community informed of progress towards our goal of raising all the funding required for this most worthwhile project by May next year.

Waitati School column

2011-08-23T13:32:00.000+12:00

By Antony Deaker

Several big changes have happened at Waitati School in the last few weeks.

Blueskin Playcentre has moved into Room 5. This is a temporary venue for Playcentre as they complete planning and fundraising for the development of permanent facilities and playground in Room 4 (nearest the tennis court). There are many great synergies for the school and Playcentre to be so close to each other.

We have appointed a new teacher to manage the rapid increase in school roll in the junior classes. Naomi Wadsworth is now teaching Years 2, 3 and 4 each morning. Naomi comes to us with a strong background in numeracy and literacy training, having most recently worked at Number Works.

We also have a new caretaker. Danny Barrett of Waikouaiti returns to a similar role he held at school four or five years ago. Cyndi Ngamoki continues as our tutor in te reo Maori and kapahaka and is working hard with the pupils at present in preparation for Polyfest in early September.

The admin building has finally gone. The sale of the building partly funded our extra teacher and the empty space will be put to good use, too. Pupils and whanau are contributing ideas for a possible structure that will have multiple purposes near the entry to the school buildings.

The school put together a great show for Stars on Stage at the Regent Theatre in August. A dance tribute to Elvis which included the junior class as aliens was applauded loudly by a packed house.

The Blueskin netball team with pupils from Warrington and Waitati Schools fought hard to win the semi-final and then the final in their division. We are very proud of their composure and determination under pressure.

We recently held a school open night in which parents could rotate around different stations to gain insight to current teaching and curriculum practices. As it is at least 20 years ago that most of us were at primary school the opportunity to be bought up to date with how it all works for our kids was very valuable.

We celebrated Te Wiki o Te Reo Maori with a school visit to the Te Whare Arohanui in Waitati. The pupils enjoyed korero, raranga, waiata and kai with our generous hosts.

The whole school is currently having swimming lessons at Moana Pool. The years 6, 7 and 8 kids are heading off on ski camp to Coronet Peak this month. The junior class will have a sleep-over at the Museum, then the bigger kids will go to Quarantine Island for a camp in October.

We hope to see you all at the Fireworks night Friday 23 September (24 if postponed for rain) and a Quiz Night soon after.

News: Blueskin Playcentre Moves to school

2011-08-23T13:29:00.000+12:00

by Antony Deaker

A massive effort by several local families in the last few months has seen the first stage in the Blueskin Playcentre’s relocation to Waitati School successfully completed. The Playcentre is now operating from its temporary premises in Room 4 at the school. A permanent facility will be built in Room 5 over the summer holidays.

Playcentre president, Mikaela Wilson says, “The parents have jointly put in at least 460 volunteer hours planning, organising, shifting, cleaning and building, plus making cheese rolls. Much of this was in the recent school holidays.”

“Our view is that having an early childhood facility accessible to our community is very important. Our effort now is similar to that in the past where local families organised the development of the Playcentre into different buildings. It is not just for us now, it is also for those children that will keep coming to Playcentre in the future.”

The shift to school has immediately resulted in new families joining the Playcentre. There is currently a roll of around 20 children who can attend sessions three times a week.

Mikaela Wilson says, “We want to acknowledge the generous support of East Otago Transport, Waikouaiti Community Coast Board, Blueskin Media, Otago Playcentre Association, Waitati School and Russel Butson. They have all helped in their way to make this transition possible.”

Blueskin Energy Project column

2011-08-23T10:27:00.001+12:00

By Scott Willis

The first thing you'll notice this month is a name change. I know
there are too many acronyms in Blueskin Bay, however the Waitati
Energy Project has long outgrown its modest beginnings, and as you'll
see at the forthcoming Open Days, it is now a truly "Blueskin"
project, so the change to the 'Blueskin Energy Project'. This is a
change by necessity and accuracy too, as no-one could argue that
participants in Waitati Energy Project activities hail only from
Waitati anymore. What's in a name? A more inclusive, accurate and
powerful collective action is the goal.

Our community energy journey
'Blueskin Energy Project' Open Days begin this month, kicking off at
Long Beach Hall on the 11th of September, then at the Warrington and
Waitati Halls the following weekend (17th & 18th – see advertisement
p?) What we've done is summarise the work to date in a range of
graphic displays. The idea of community wind turbines was first mooted
in 2006 and community energy work began in 2007, with a focus
initially on raising awareness about energy issues and energy
efficiency. It wasn't until 2009 that substantial work on making our
houses more energy efficient (the Waitati Energy Project Retrofit
Programme) and establishing the feasibility of local renewable energy
really began. Since then, much has been achieved, and discussed at
numerous public events and meetings. The open dialogue at Waitati
Energy Project meetings has provided a wealth of information that has
helped guide the project forward, but there have been gaps.
Information has not been as well spread in all Blueskin settlements,
and there are different levels of understanding so we'll be taking the
displays into communities and asking everyone to have a say. We really
want to see as many people as possible, and to that end, are making
sure that there will be things for everyone, i.e. fun bits and pieces
alongside rich information. Please come along to discuss, yarn,
observe, play, or whatever, on one of these weekend afternoons.

Wind Data news
Oh the sad news! Securing data collection at a cold windy site is not
always simple, all the experts know. So when the data collector
stopped sending updates to Our Wind Limited at the end of June, we
weren't concerned at first – there's back-up. In July PJ Clarke and I
added an additional solar panel to increase battery charging, and 24
hours later replaced the battery. However, the original battery had
actually died and so, with it, had the data collection programme. The
next few days it blew and blew and blew. But the wind tower wasn't
registering anything comprehensible. It was only after Laurence Hay on
his regular check did an 'unplug – replug' that the programme could be
uploaded and data collected again. All in all we lost about 6 weeks of
data – six very windy weeks I might add! Still, things are back on
track and Porteous Hill is again demonstrating that there is good wind
resource available (see wind rose).

Contact
Tel: 03 4822048 / email: waitatienergy@gmail.com

Purakanui School

2011-08-23T10:19:00.001+12:00

By Bridget Davidson
We are very busy preparing and practising for Stars on Stage. This
year's production is entitled "Dance of the Tiger". It is set in
Southern India, with a strong conservation message – a spin-off from
one of our rainforest studies in Term 1. Our whole school will perform
at the Regent Theatre on August 25.
Our sports theme continues and we have the cluster Sports Day at the
Edgar Centre coming up for the seniors. Our students continue to be
involved in Harbourside Club Soccer, the Generators being coached by
our junior room teacher, Mr Cook.
We have had two ski trips – one to Ohau and one to Treble Cone.
Unfortunately, our principal, Mrs Allen, returned on crutches from the
Ohau trip but is making a rapid recovery.
Our Quiz Night is coming up on September 23 at the Sawyers Bay Golf
Club. Book in early for a great night out! Our School Fair is
November 27.. We have further copies of our cookbook "Four Seasons in
Purakanui" for sale from the school for $5 each and will be publishing
a new seafood cookbook to coincide with the Carey's Bay Seafood
Festival in October.
We were thrilled to have our Stadium Mural returned to us recently.
Don't forget our Little Cockles and Tiny Pipis pre-school groups on
Mondays and Thursdays. Phone the school on 482 1026 for more
information about these.

BRCT Column

2011-08-23T10:11:00.000+12:00

By Scott Willis

On July 30, BRCT Patron Jeanette Fitzsimons was in Waitati to meet some of the people associated with the Blueskin Resilient Communities Trust and the local initiatives that have some relationship with the trust. The pot-luck hosted by Jenny Hayden and PJ Clarke was a true gastronomic affair and it was equally fulfilling to have the different reports on local initiatives and to share stories and experiences while also learning more of Jeanette’s other work and interests.

In August, BRCT’s two new trustees (PJ Clarke and Chris Skellett) were officially ratified, with both bringing their extensive expertise and skills to the trust and enhancing BRCT’s ability to deliver for Blueskin communities.

Also in August, it was confirmed that the Blueskin Resilient Communities Trust will now proceed promptly with the community engagement and appraisal of the wind cluster proposal after confirmation of a generous donation gifted by the Otago Community Trust (and following a contract awarded by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority). BRCT would like to note its deep appreciation of the Otago Community Trust’s support and vision of building capacity for community action. One further funding application to support effective community participation is being considered by the Waikouaiti Coast Community Board.

The Waitati Energy Project, one of the initiatives under the BRCT umbrella, has just announced a name change: it has now become the ‘Blueskin Energy Project’ and as such it now aligns more accurately with the trust’s strategic plan and overall vision (“to facilitate a positive, healthy, secure and resilient future for Blueskin Bay and linked communities and promote sustainable resource use”). As the Waitati Energy Project has grown and developed, so have the numbers of people involved. The potential for all Blueskin communities to be involved and benefit has also become obvious. The name change had simply become inevitable.

BRCT’s trustees and officers are: Lynnaire Johnston, Antony Deaker, PJ Clarke, Tony Wilson, Gerry Carrington, Chris Skellett and Ross Johnston; Jeanette Fitzsimons is the trust’s patron. Established in 2008, BRCT aims to assist groups and individuals in Blueskin Bay address the opportunities and vulnerabilities associated with climate change and peak oil.

Contact: 03 482 2048

Caption: New BRCT trustees PJ Clarke and Chris Skellett, with Jenny Haydon and BRCT patron Jeanette Fitzsimons, at the Porteous Hill wind tower overlooking Blueskin Bay.

Warrington School Column

2011-08-23T09:58:00.000+12:00

A TIGHT GAME AND A VICTORY
By Indy Perry

Two weeks ago there was a netball match at Warrington School between Blueskin Bay (Warrington/Waitati combined) and Liberton Christian School. In the end it was a tight match at 20-all. It was a tie so to end the game it was first to get two points above the opposite team. It was a battle but the Blueskin Bay team finally managed to win. And we felt really good.

Last week it was the final match for the Blueskin Bay netball team. We were to play the Fairfield Mystics at the Edgar Centre. We were feeling hopeful that we could win. When we played this team once before we had won. At the very start we were losing majorly but then we caught up and we won by 23 to 12. We each got a certificate and a bar of Fair Trade chocolate, which was nice. Now we are the Grade 7 winners in Dunedin.

Pony Club Update

Naomi and Ruby have finally finished the hobby horses they have been working on during the past few weeks. After they had completed them they took all of the children on a pony club trek down the road. Making them included using skills of drawing, cutting, sanding, sawing, painting and screwing. Everyone loves their hobby horse and has taken them home!

WAIKOUAITI COAST COMMUNITY BOARD

2011-08-22T17:24:00.001+12:00

by Gerard Collings, Chairperson

The recent snow events were a big wake up to all that winter is well
and truly here. The Waikouaiti Coast Community Board (WCCB) wishes to
acknowledge the efforts of members of the Waikouaiti RSA, Waitati Fire
Brigade, and residents of Waitati who opened up their respective halls
and homes to accommodate, feed, and keep warm a significant number of
stranded motorists. At our August meeting the board agreed to make a
contribution towards the actual costs incurred by those involved.
Over the next two weeks I will be contacting those associated with
providing assistance to confirm details.

At our July and August meetings the WCCB received applications
totalling approximately $16,000 from community groups seeking funding
assistance from the board's $10,000 discretionary fund. While not
able to provide the level of support requested, the board was happy to
confirm assistance to:

East Otago Creative Fibre, Spinners and Weavers Society, Waikouaiti
Primary School, Waikouaiti RSA, Blueskin Playcentre, Warrington Surf
Life Saving Club, Waitati School PTA, Warrington School, and the
Hawksbury Lagoon Committee

The WCCB's scenic route working party in conjunction with the
Waikouaiti Museum Society is continuing work on setting up a local
information service at East Otago Events Centre in Waikouaiti during
the Rugby World Cup.

The Dunedin City Council (DCC) has agreed to underwrite a train from
Waitati to Dunedin on Rugby World Cup game days. It is unfortunate
that due to budget and timing difficulties it was considered not
feasible to extend the service to Waikouaiti and Palmerston.

The DCC has adopted the new freedom camping policy and the WCCB wishes
to hear from members of the community regarding possible sites within
our area suitable for freedom camping; I ask that suggestions are
forwarded to me by 31 August.

The DCC has completed its review of the Rural Fire Plan, a copy of
which is available through the council's website.

Copies of relevant documents out for consultation are available from
the council and through the website
http://www.dunedin.govt.nz/council-online/currently-consulting-on

The WCCB's next meeting is at 5:30pm on 28 September 2011 at the
Warrington Surf Club rooms. Members of the public wishing to speak at
the public forum need to advise Jane Hinkley our Governance Support
Officer (Phone 474 3374) before 12 noon on the day prior to the
meeting.

Remember you can view the board's meeting agendas, reports and minutes
at either the Waikouaiti or Blueskin libraries or through the DCC's
website at http://www.dunedin.govt.nz/your-council/council-minutes

Members of the board are only too happy to hear (by phone or email)
from members of the community about any issues within our area. Board
contacts:

Home Work Mobile email
Gerard Collings (Chairperson), 4657604
4707494 0274848800 gerard.collings@xtra.co.nz
Alasdair Morrison (Deputy), 4822505 4822505 0274354384 info@calmarine.co.nz
Andy Barratt, 021890048 021890048 asbarratt@farmside.co.nz
Andrew Noone 4657157 0274301727 anoone@dcc.govt.nz
Geraldine Tait, 4822517 0212175492 gstait@clear.net.nz
Les Pullar, 4658138 0274358020 lesgwen.pullar@xtra.co.nz
Mark Brown, 4822833

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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Blueskin Garden Club

2011-08-22T14:07:00.000+12:00

By Lyn Hastie

Our August meeting was held at the home of Lyne and Gilbert Carlyle. Lyne and Rosalie talked of their trip to South America and showed wonderful photos of their travels.The evening concluded with Brazilian food which was delicious. Thanks for a great night!

September's monthly meeting will be held on Thursday 8th, 7.30pm at the Warrington Hall. We will have a speaker talking about daffodils and their many varieties. There will also be a floral art display to help with our creations for the flower show plus the usual bloom and vegetable or produce competition. We will also have a raffle. All welcome and please note the venue – Warrington NOT Waitati.

Annual Spring Flower Show 24th and 25th September. This will coincide with lots of activities on in and around the greater Dunedin area including the RWC.Please see the schedule in this bulletin for all the details of the show. We look forward to catching up with many locals who always come along and support the show. If you haven't been before (or for a long time) come along and see all the beautfiul blooms which have been grown in Blueskin Bay.The local children's work is a big part of our show and once again we welcome the Blueskin and Warrington Playcentre and Waitati and Warrington Schools' large number of amazing, colourful and creative entries.

Any queries to Lyne 482 2822, Lyn 482 2896 or Glenys 482 2640.

A Complex Issue

2011-08-21T15:08:00.001+12:00

by Rosemary Penwarden

If you have visited the Dunedin City Library website lately you will
have seen that the new library building planned for Waitati has
morphed again into the 'Blueskin Bay Community Complex'. It has a new
name to attract the half million dollar funding it needs to get built.
'Library' is not the right word to attract funding from the likes of
Lotto. Libraries are the domain of local councils and they are already
coughing up half a million for ours. But multi-purpose 'community
complexes' that 'meet the informational and recreational needs' of the
community as well as accommodating their 'events and cultural
activities' tick all the word boxes so that the man who makes the
funding decision can give us the dosh

The dosh sits in big coffers, collected from less well-off people and
distributed to more well-off people who have access to cleverly worded
funding applications. The less well-off people buy the most Lotto
tickets, sit at pokie machines and live in the poorer socio-economic
areas, which have fewer public amenities such as libraries. South
Dunedin has pokie machines but no library. Waitati, on the other hand,
has no pokie machines but has a library which is soon to be demolished
and replaced, at the cost of almost a million dollars, with the
'Blueskin Bay Community Complex'.

--
--
Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Winter Ain’t Over Till the Blackbird Sings

2011-08-21T14:55:00.001+12:00

By Rosemary Penwarden and Derek Onley

Song thrushes have started singing madly again; they're maintaining
their territories and beginning to nest. They usually sing through the
autumn, are far less enthusiastic mid-winter, and then start singing
again in early spring. August is nesting time, usually in the same
place as last year. May's heavy rain got them singing madly for a
while; it brought worms to the surface – easy pickings, and part of a
varied diet that also includes fruit and insects.

Blackbirds, on the other hand, hardly ever sing in the autumn. They
don't usually start their more laid back whistly tune until mid- to
late August, and nest a couple of weeks later than the song thrushes.

Only female blackbirds and song thrushes sit on eggs, so the males of
both species keep singing to defend their territory. They feed the
nesting females to help in their egg production ('courtship feeding'
in ornithological language). Both mum and dad feed the babies – so the
males get too busy to sing once the chicks appear. It takes about two
and a half weeks for the eggs to hatch and another two for the chicks
to fledge. After fledging the males keep feeding the little guys for
another couple of weeks. Females help with this part too, but also
build another nest and lay more eggs.

Song thrushes tend to like the open paddocks more than blackbirds do.
There are hardly any song thrushes in native forest, but heaps of
blackbirds, which are probably one of the commonest birds in New
Zealand now. You will find them not only on your lawn and in sheep and
cow paddocks but also on offshore islands, in forests and even up in
the sub-alpine areas.

One thousand blackbirds and several hundred song thrushes arrived in
New Zealand via the Acclimatisation Society between 1862 and 1878,
introduced for 'sentimental reasons'. By 1900 blackbirds had colonised
the whole of the country including the Chatham and Auckland islands,
and song thrushes had done the same, though they kept out of the
forested areas.

Singing blackbirds and song thrushes both feature in our Orokonui bird
surveys in the spring, but there are more blackbirds. Song thrushes
and blackbirds nest all through the Orokonui Ecosanctuary but song
thrushes feed outside the fence while blackbirds feed both inside and
outside.

The ecosanctuary has given us a wonderful opportunity to look at
nesting behaviour. Outside the predator-proof fence the predation rate
is so high – 70 to 80%, due to cats, rats, stoats and possums – that
the males are singing nearly all the time. This predation rate is par
for the course for all small birds (passerines) in New Zealand. Of the
common native birds remaining in our forests and gardens, all have
learnt to adapt to losing this many young.

Outside the fence blackbirds and song thrushes would have up to five
or six clutches every season. Inside the fence, where the risk of
predation has disappeared, you might expect the Orokonui forest to be
crammed full of blackbirds, but it's not, for two possible reasons.
One: once they reach a certain number of healthy young, they don't
bother nesting again, and two: there is not enough food. Habitat,
which means a dependable food source, is just as important as
predation on bird populations.

The oldest recorded blackbird in New Zealand is 15 years old. Song
thrushes and blackbirds have an amazing variety of tunes. Both can
mimic -- telephones, other birds, whistling the dog. I love the
blackbird's lower pitch and altogether lazier sounding song best, as
if he's singing the blues. When he sings, you know winter is over.

--
--
Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Are you registered for Waitati planting day?

2011-08-21T14:35:00.001+12:00

by Liz Sherwood, Dept of Conservation

Living Legends and the Department of Conservation encourage you to
register your interest (on the website or by phoning DoC) for the
Great Living Legends Muck-in. With not long to go, your registrations
help us to plan for catering, transport and traffic management. I
predict that it will be a popular event, being free and
family-friendly.

Sharpen your spades and grab your gloves, because we will be digging
through a deep turf layer to plant a range of natives including flax,
cabbage trees, sedges, rushes and kahikatea, fuchsia and tree daisies.
The 4,600 plants will greatly enhance the estuary margin for wildlife,
from the Waitati River to Doctors Point Road.

Activities will start at 1pm at the Foyle Street entrance to Orokonui
Scenic Reserve. Some publications and websites have an earlier start
time advertised but the correct time is 1-4pm on Sunday, September 25.

This habitat restoration project is jointly managed by Living Legends
staff and local DoC staff. If you have any questions, please contact
Liz Sherwood at DoC in Dunedin Ph 477 0677 or email
lsherwood@doc.govt.nz.

For more information and to register visit www.livinglegends.co.nz. If
your group or school would like to take up this opportunity to
fundraise by sausage sizzle, cake or soup stall, or would like to run
a children's activity, please contact either Liz or Kay at
contact@livinglegends.co.nz

--
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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Trains That Get You To The Games: WRC match day train schedule and pricing

2011-08-19T09:18:00.001+12:00

The final details of the trains that will take passengers to and from
Waitati on Dunedin's Rugby World Cup 2011 match days have been
announced.

A return ticket will cost just $20 for the trip either to or from the
Dunedin Railway Station and up to 200 passengers on each train can
take advantage of this exciting way to start and end their Rugby World
Cup adventure.

Louise Burnside, from Taieri Gorge Railway Marketing, says: "Taieri
Gorge Railway are delighted to be involved in this major Dunedin
attraction. We hope that Otago residents embrace the opportunity to
eliminate car parking hassles and travel by train."

Bookings are being taken at Taieri Gorge Railway and the Dunedin
i-SITE Visitor Centre. For more information, please contact:

Louise Burnside
Taieri Gorge Railway
477 4449

The timetable for the trains is:

Sunday 18 September 2011 and Saturday 24 September 2011

Departs Waitati 3.15pm
Arrives Dunedin 4.05pm
Departs Dunedin 9.30pm
Arrives Waitati 10.20pm

Saturday 10 September 2011 and Sunday 2 October 2011

Departs Waitati 5.40pm
Arrives Dunedin 6.30pm
Departs Dunedin 11.30pm
Arrives Waitati 12.20am

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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

BLUESKIN YOUTH CENTRE ASSOCIATION

2011-08-19T08:53:00.001+12:00

by Paul Sirota

Another year has flown by and the Blueskin Youth Centre Association
(BYCA) is set to hold its AGM once again. The time and date of the
meeting is scheduled for 6:30pm, 20 September, and is to be held at
the Waitati Fire Station. The meeting will be a good time to reflect
upon achievements of the last year, eg, the construction of the courts
and skatepark facility, and to encourage participation in our plans
for the year to come.

As has been previously reported, the BYCA has employed an impartial
consultant, Andrew Henderson from Boulder Planning Ltd., to engage
with the Blueskin community. This process has been initiated to assess
the current and future needs of Blueskin youth and their families in
the bay area. If you have some ideas about something that may benefit
our community and haven't yet had the chance to speak with Andrew,
then maybe contact him on 471 8503 or at 027 212 4432. This part of
the consultation process will draw to a conclusion fairly soon, so if
you have some good achievable ideas, please share them with us. We
look forward to meeting at our AGM members of the community interested
in helping to enhance the living experience of the families of
Blueskin Bay.

See you there.

--
--
Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Thank you, thank you, thank you, Waitati!

2011-08-15T20:41:00.001+12:00

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!

I was one of the many folk trapped in vehicles on the Kilmog/motorway
during the recent big snow fall. After being helped off the hill by
the superb Downers staff, many were directed to Waitati Hall to be
greeted by a friendly welcome, warm cuppa and even a movie! My stay
was only brief (about 3 hours) before we were moved on over the
motorway to Dunedin. Many with young families opted to stay
overnight at the hall or the marae. The wonderful community spirit
and true caring in our time of need was much appreciated. A big
thanks to all involved – what a great little community you have!

Thanks
Ronda Peacock
Port Chalmers

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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

BLUESKIN YOUTH CENTRE ASSOCIATION

2011-08-12T11:32:00.001+12:00

By Andrew Holden

In a previous issue of the Blueskin News, the Blueskin Youth Centre
Association (BYCA) reported that it had employed an independent
consultancy to engage with the community in order to assess current
and future needs of youth and
families in the Bay area.

Andrew Henderson of Boulder Planning has been engaged to undertake
this research and has started contacting community groups to arrange
times to discuss ideas. Andrew can be contacted on 471 8503 or 027 212
4432, or via email at andrew@boulder-group.com, and would be more than
happy to discuss your ideas, irrespective of whether or not you are
associated with a community group or association. Following the
engagement process, initial findings and recommendations will be
presented. Once again, the BYCA invites you to put your thinking caps
on regarding your ideas for what might benefit our community into the
future.

--
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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Waitati Residents Help Out "Refugees"

2011-07-25T14:03:00.000+12:00

By the editors

More than 200 stranded motorists and their passengers crowded into the
Waitati Hall on Sunday evening July 24, when snow closed State Highway
One.
Local residents rallied round to feed the "refugees" and to offer them
accommodation. Families and the elderly were housed at the Maori
education centre, Te Whare Arohanui, while the remainder bedded down
in the hall, the library (which has underfloor heating) and the fire
station.
At the hall volunteers (L to R) Jaya Verma, Karen Clements, Jeevan
Verma, Donna, Craiston, Jack Monaghan, Chris Robinson and Daisy Forest
were flat out cooking and heating up pasta, soup, potatoes and other
food locals had dropped off.
Waitati Volunteer Fire Brigade Chief Fire Officer Jeff Burrow was
"stoked" at the way the community responded, with one resident
ferrying a TV set to the hall in a wheelbarrow, so the youngsters
there could watch DVDs.

Photo: Lynnaire Johnston

Market on the Move

2011-07-23T14:13:00.001+12:00

By Liz Abbott and Rudie Verhoef

Coast Road Market is reopening this spring in the grounds of
Warrington School with its first market on Sunday 4 September from
11am – 2pm.
The market began in Seacliff three years ago as a community support
activity in the grounds of Coast Road Retreat. Organisers Liz Abbott
and Rudie Verhoef are excited about the market's new location five
kilometres down the road.
"We really appreciate the generosity of the Warrington School
community in giving us the opportunity to keep this monthly community
event alive out here along the coast at such a fantastic venue," they
say.
The school grounds in Ferguson Street include a large tennis court,
playground and covered verandahs while there is plenty of extra
parking at Warrington Beach, five minutes walk from the school.
The market will continue on the first Sunday of every month from 11am
to 2pm with its unique blend of food, coffee, art, craft, prints,
pakoras, plants, produce, preserves and more.
Free stalls continue to be available and children's stalls are
particularly welcome.
For dates and details phone 027 781 1799 or visit
www.market.betterthannormal.co.nz

Blueskin Resilient Communities Trust

2011-07-23T13:49:00.001+12:00

By Scott Willis

Preparing for BRCT's Annual General Meeting (I know, most people like
to avoid them) has been a fascinating experience for the Trust (the
AGM was held on 27 July). Reflecting on a busy past 12 months is a
little like sitting back with a cup of tea and reviewing a good job.
Yes, there could always have been improvements here or there, but
overall it has been satisfying to see the consolidation that has
occurred, the transition to a new office and the range of successful
projects.
Highlights of the past 12 months have to be:
1). The fantastic progress on developing a wind cluster for Blueskin
Bay, and associated with that all the new opportunities opening up
around 'Blueskin Power' as a community energy project with many
clean-technologies.
2). Waitati Open Orchards (a branch of the Weggies) is thriving, while
BRCT is happy to see the Blueskin Bays Edible Gardens work has now
become a longer term funded position at Waitati School with 'World
Wide Fund for Nature' support, ensuring a deepening of the
enviroschool programme, (all other Weggie activities are also in good
heart).
3). Get-The-Train had a successful 'Car Free Day' in 2010 and has
maintained its lobbying role.
4). Blueskin Low Oil Commuting had a great launch on the Global Day of
Action on Climate Change (10/10/10) last year and has become a quiet
network of bicycle commuters and a lobbying force for the strategic
transport zone of Blueskin Bay.
5). Finally, BRCT was proud to be associated with the development of
the Waitati PTA's "Blueskin Community Directory" in March this year
(have you got your copy yet?).
Most recently, BRCT received notification of funding success for the
Waitati Open Orchards, thanks to the ANZ Staff Foundation. BRCT also
secured a contract from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation
Authority for community engagement, and is anticipating learning the
results of another funding application in support of the energy
project.
A deep winter occasion for BRCT supported groups and friends to get
together will be (as I write) on 30 July, when BRCT patron Jeanette
Fitzsimons is in Waitati for a catch-up visit and to have a look
around all that is going on in our wider Blueskin community. In other
Trust news, Simon Sheppard has stepped down from his role as treasurer
to focus on his university work. BRCT thanks Simon for his valuable
input over the past year and wishes him the best in exams and study.
And BRCT volunteer Justine Molloy, having found cosy BRCT homes for
'the lost files', has now joined the Puketeraki Marae team, leaving
the BRCT office with clear desks and straightforward files (long may
it last!). Thank you Justine for all your help!
Established in 2008, BRCT aims to assist groups and individuals in
Blueskin Bay address the opportunities and vulnerabilities associated
with Climate Change and Peak Oil.
Contact: 03 482 2048.

Waitati Energy Project

2011-07-23T13:42:00.001+12:00

By Scott Willis

Action on Energy
Last month I wrote about the Democratising Energy Hui and gave a
little detail on feed-in tariffs. Since then, copies of the hui
presentations have been loaded onto the website
(www.transitiontowns.org.nz/waitati, follow link to Blueskin Power/WEP
– a brief summary of what was achieved is there, too). Now, a small
national working group on feed-in tariffs has been established with
participation from the Blueskin Resilient Communities Trust, Nelson
Environment Centre, 350 Aotearoa, and Refit-NZ. We're anticipating
some further input as the working group establishes policy
recommendations and already this is a very positive development given
the abject lack of detail in the glossy 2011 New Zealand Energy
Strategy on just how we can build a more sustainable energy future.

Work on preparing posters and material about the Blueskin Wind Cluster
project to take to all communities within the Blueskin zone continues
apace – though you all would have noticed that we weren't able to go
public in July, mainly due to lack of resources. Keep your eyes on
this space and, meanwhile, the story on local energy just keeps
getting better. Of note is the Dunedin City Council's recent 'Solar
Promise' (ODT, Tues, 12 Jul 2011), in which Mayor Dave Cull signed up
alongside other councils to promote solar energy. At the same time the
DCC is working on developing a energy efficiency programme offering
targetted rates to allow people to invest in clean technology, such as
solar hot water and insulation and improve their household's energy
profile. I am hopeful there will be a neat marriage between
opportunities we establish and DCC support packages to make access
simple.

Speaking of solar, it appears the panel that allows electronic
transmission of wind data on the wind tower at Porteous Hill has not
been up to the job recently (hence the limited Wind Rose this month)
and some minor maintenance is required. We are still collecting all
the data, it's just that to conserve energy there's been a pause in
data transmission to our friends at Our Wind Limited for a few weeks.
Meanwhile, Laurence and Margaret Hay have been wonderful 'keepers' for
the tower, maintaining stock fences, ensuring all guy-lines are firm
and generally keeping an eye on things.

Energy Advice
The Waitati Energy Project as it has grown and morphed into a Blueskin
community energy project has developed a deep body of knowledge and
rich relationships relating to energy. We work from and for the
Blueskin community and receive a large number of requests for
information and advice on energy matters which are answered as and
when possible. However, we don't currently have any resources to do
this formally. The Blueskin Resilient Communities Trust has recognised
that there is potential for a new staff member to provide community
energy advice and developing our capacity to deliver results will be a
focus over the next 12 months, alongside the existing work on the wind
cluster and community energy.

Contact: 03 482 2048, email waitatienergy@gmail.com

Orokonui Ecosanctuary

2011-07-23T13:35:00.001+12:00

By Sue Hensley

Orokonui has been favoured by two visiting VIPs and a third is due in
September.

First was the internationally acclaimed scientist Jane Goodall. Her lecture
at the Otago University was inspiring and covered not just her
groundbreaking research with chimpanzees, but development of grass roots
programmes ensuring the long term sustainability of populations of both
chimps and local people as well as habitat. Field work remains important to
her and while at Orokonui she met with conservation manager Elton Smith
about the Ecosanctuary project and with Kakapo recovery team members about
their work.

Another well known name Lucy Lawless (Xena Warrior Princess), now a
Greenpeace ambassador, also came on a mission to find out about the work at
Orokonui and her remarks can be seen in the visitor's book. Lucy's sharp
vision spied a jewelled gecko and a saddleback on her walk inside the fence
(Elton's expertise perhaps helped a little!).

The third and again internationally renowned visitor, mostly for his bad
behavior with Stephen Fry and screened on YouTube, is Sirocco. He will be
staying at Orokonui during September and will hold regular audiences
for his adoring public. A special viewing pen, living pen and food
preparation facilities are being constructed for this very special kakapo.
Once on the brink of extinction these birds now number 131. The 14-year old
Sirocco was hand raised and became imprinted on humans. He has shown no sign
of interest in the ladies and has become instead an ambassador for kakapo
conservation. He totally believes he is a person and enjoys interacting with
groups.

Species that have been reintroduced appear to be holding on so far with
field workers regularly seeing robins and visitors seeing lots of sign of
kiwi probe holes and scat. A couple of young (all dark) saddleback seem to
be staying in the top area and are also occasionally seen by visitors.

News and events such as night tours, Sirocco tours, mini film festivals and
social/ band evenings can be found on www.orokonui.org.nz and facebook.

The Visitor Centre is open daily 9.30am – 4.30pm with the cafe open 10am – 4pm.

Blueskin Garden Club

2011-07-21T18:04:00.001+12:00

By Glenys Clements

Blueskin Garden Club's next meeting will be held on August 11 at 12 Station Rd,
Warrington at 7.30 pm. The theme will be "Travels in South America
with Lyne Carlyle" and the evening will include a food tasting. There
will also be the usual vegetable and flower competition.
The following month the Spring Flower Show will be held at the Waitati
Hall, on September 24 and 25. Entry classes will be published in next
month's "Blueskin News" and schedules will be
available at Blueskin Library, Blueskin Nurseries and Blueskin Store
from early in September.
Garden Club enquiries to Lyn 482 2896 or Glenys 482 2640; come and join us.

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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

BLUESKIN BAY FM

2011-07-18T20:17:00.001+12:00

by Brent Bell

Since the first meeting, on 2 November 2009, to discuss the proposal
for Blueskin Bay FM88.2, the local community radio station has become
well established and is still broadcasting. I would like to thank all
those who helped to get Blueskin Bay FM88.2 where it is today. A
special thanks to the Waikouaiti Coast Community Board for the initial
funding and support, and to the Warrington School Board of Trustees
for allowing us to continue broadcasting from the school studio. I
would also like to thank Lindsay Scott and Mike McAlevy for arranging
the building materials and aerial equipment, and the people from the
local community who helped us struggle on 16 January 2010 to position
the aerial. Yes, it was a struggle but was worth it because the
aerial has withstood not only the airwaves broadcasting through it but
also the stormy weather we have had since that day.

Thank you to all Blueskin Bay FM88.2 committee members, including Peter Dowden
for his time and effort in making this happen, and Nathan Parker, the
Warrington School Principal and a committee member, for having the
vision to have Warrington School children involved in broadcasting
opportunities through the station, which has given children the
confidence to learn and share their knowledge. Warrington School
children have been broadcasting news and events for the
community since we started. Nathan has also invited Waitati School
children to be involved in broadcasting opportunities.

As this station has been built on community spirit we also welcome anyone in the
community to broadcast their own show whether music, storytelling,
drama or even the next big live music gig. I am sure in our wide
range of community people there is another 'Wolfman Jack', 'Kasey
Kasum' or even another 'Paul Holmes' who maybe living next door to you
just waiting for their broadcasting talents to be unleashed. The
committee is open to discussing any ideas that you have and want to
broadcast. Please remember that this is a COMMUNITY radio station, so
the
opportunity is there for you to use. As we are a community station and
broadcasting from Warrington School there are rules and regulations
that must be followed.

Our original proposal for funding from the Waikouaiti Coast Community
Board included the commitment that we would enable this station to be
used in an
emergency. We have not met that obligation at this point of time and
in the next few months we will be working towards an emergency power
supply. We are in discussion with a couple of community
people with knowledge in this field, and should have this resolved in a
few months. One of the main reasons for having this emergency power
supply is so Blueskin Bay FM88.2 can broadcast in a civil defence
emergency to our community. We will be working with Graeme Still, our
local Civil Defence Officer from the Dunedin City Council, and are in
ongoing talks with our local Fire Rescue Service at Waitati to work
together to formulate an emergency broadcasting plan.

We would like to thank the local people and businesses who gave us
sponsorship for 12 months, these include Blueskin General Store;
Lindsay Scott Builder; Frank Tainton Painter & Paperhanger; Alasdair
Morrison Caledonian Marine; Richard Templeton Bailing & Contracting
Services and Blueskin Media, the publishers of Blueskin News.
Sponsorship costs only $2.00 a week, so $104.00 per year, this allows
us to broadcast a little jingle thanking you for your sponsorship.
This jingle will be repeated several times throughout the day.

As we are into a new 12-month period we at Blueskin Bay FM88.2 are
needing further sponsorship, and will be approaching our present
sponsors and, of course, welcome more. This sponsorship allows us to pay
for our music licences and also helps towards our back-up emergency
power supply and ongoing maintenance. If you want to discuss this
sponsorship opportunity please contact Brent Bell on 482 1144.

We would like to take this opportunity to welcome two new Blueskin
Bay FM88.2 committee members: Nancy Todd and Patrick Moody. Nancy
will be broadcasting her health and music show on Monday nights from
approximately 7pm until 9pm, and Patrick will be broadcasting very
soon. In the next Blueskin News we will hopefully have a "who's who"
of what shows they will be broadcasting.

Blueskin Bay FM88.2 now has a telephone line into the station studio
which is also the Warrington School telephone line. You will be able to
phone the studio when the studio is being hosted. I have been
broadcasting a music show from 7pm until late on Saturday nights
featuring R & B, Soul, Pop, and Rock & Roll. On Saturday 6 August
2011 there will be a special show featuring the music and history of
Earth, Wind & Fire, the Commodores, and Kool and the Gang. I will also talk
about my experience of meeting and chatting with Earth, Wind & Fire.
This show will be co-hosted with Nancy, so tune into Blueskin Bay
FM88.2 for an exciting and informative evening of music and history.
We welcome you to phone us on this night -- 482 2605.

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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Matariki celebrations at Warrington School [with photo of stilt-walkers]

2011-07-18T19:19:00.001+12:00

by June Anderson

The evening was crisp and clear as the families of Warrington School
began their traditional Matariki celebrations. Drumming, whistling and
singing drew people from their homes to join the parade as it
converged from the four corners of Warrington. Guided by the dim,
silent lanterns and lofty stilt walkers, the parade made its way into
the school grounds. Lighted lanterns formed a perimeter around the
tennis courts as families and community folk watched performances by
the students. Classes sang their favourite songs heartily, the school
drumming group beat in unison, and Room 1 performed rhythmical
routines with their rakau. The evening finished with the sharing of
supper as the students enjoyed playing tag in the dark.

--
--
Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Fair trade, trading fairly

2011-07-18T19:12:00.001+12:00

By Mary Locker and Elsa Neuman

On Tuesday 21 June, we set off for Otago Girls' High School for a talk
by Harriet Lamb, Head of Campaigns at the World Development Movement.
She talked to us about the importance of the fair trade organisation,
which has changed the lives of so many people so far.

Fair trade ensures that farmers get a fair deal for their products (2
or 3 times the price they usually get) so they have enough money to
live on plus a bit extra.
Harriet Lamb told us a few stories about how much fair trade had done
for people. Here is one of them.

In Malawi, a place in Africa, there was a village where the people had
to walk 1.5 kilometres to a river to get water. The river was infested
with crocodiles; one person a year got attacked, and the water wasn't
even clean!

Because of fair trade, they got extra money and spent it on a water
pump in the village. Another problem was the straw huts they lived in,
which leaked when it rained. So next time the village had enough money
they bought bits of corrugated iron and put it on the huts so they had
proper roofs. With the next extra money they got electricity in the
huts so the danger of fire was decreased.

It really is amazing what fair trade has done for poor farmers in
developing countries.
She told us how much power children have over big companies.
Apparently they really listen to children who write letters to them.

There are still farmers waiting in line to become fair trade farmers
but they can't unless we buy more fair trade products. So it is very
important to buy as many fair trade products as you can so you can
play a part in making life better for others.
Fair trade rocks!

--
--
Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Trouble with the goblins [Full version -- delete earlier copy. Thanks. LH]

2011-07-18T18:56:00.001+12:00

by Rammy El Dessouky

In winter at 1 a.m. everyone was sleeping.
The snow was falling heavily like big balloons on to the frosty ground.
The goblin was a bad guy; he told the snow to fall.
He was happy the flakes were so big.

The chicken was sleeping in the hen house. By 4 a.m. the hen house was
covered in snow.
At 7:10 a.m. I heard from the chicken house "Peck, peck" and "Peck".

I was so shocked I fell out of bed.
I looked out of my window and saw the hen house covered in snow.
I raced for the shovel and got my gloves.
I clambered through the snow to the hen house. I dug and dug and dug.
Finally I saw the hen house door.

I gave the hens some food.
The hen laid a golden egg and I was flabbergasted!
Suddenly the hen started to talk to me, 'I am going to the king of the
goblins to give him the golden egg to feed to the other goblins. This
will make the goblins good, and stop the snow'. Then he flew away.

One hour later it was snowing small flakes, and I heard a "peck, peck"
at my window.
My hen was back.

--
--
Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Trouble with the goblins

2011-07-18T18:50:00.001+12:00

by Rammy El Dessouky

In winter at 1 a.m. everyone was sleeping.
The snow was falling heavily like big balloons on to the frosty ground.
The goblin was a bad guy he told the snow to fall.
He was happy the flakes were so big.

The chicken was sleeping in the hen house. By 4 a.m. the hen house was
covered in snow.
At 7:10 a.m. I heard from the chicken house "Peck, peck" and "Peck".

I gave the hens some food.
The hen laid a golden egg and I was flabbergasted!

--
--
Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

E.coli levels prompt farmer to fence stream

2011-07-18T18:44:00.001+12:00

by Florence Sorrel

A Warrington property owner has decided to fence off a small section
of his property as a public area to protect and provide a filter for
the small stream which runs through it. Richard Somerville was
surprised at the high E.coli levels in the stream, and when approached
by local photographer Laura Blake with a proposal for an area of
native trees and plants to neutralise agricultural waste and stock
effluent, he was happy to co-operate.

A fence was needed to stop cattle eating the plants. To help raise
funds the board of trustees of Warrington School donated $500 and also
organised a raffle. Working bees are organised to control weeds and
clear the stream, with the next working bee on 24 September. Also, a
public meeting will be held on 26 August at Warrington School to
discuss plans.

--
--
Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

WARRINGTON SCHOOL BOARD OF TRUSTEES: Casual Vacancy for an Elected Trustee

2011-07-18T17:51:00.001+12:00

A casual vacancy has occurred on the board of trustees for an elected
parent representative.

The board has resolved under section 105 of the Education Act 1989 to
fill the vacancy by selection.

If ten percent or more of eligible voters on the school roll ask the
board, within 28 days of this notice being published, to hold a
by-election to fill the vacancy, then a by-election will be held.

Any eligible voter who wishes to ask the board to hold a by-election
should write to:

Chairperson
Board of Trustees
Warrington School
CMB 14085
Warrington 9449

By: 1st September 2011

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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

OROKONUI ECOSANCTUARY

2011-06-24T22:05:00.001+12:00

by Sue Hensley

Matariki events were popular and it was great to see lots of families at
Orokonui over the weekend, and many Bay people at the café for the inaugural
Sunset Rhythms. Stay tuned for the next one.

It's official – our fence leaks mice. One vulnerable point is the culverts.
Unfortunately there are 51 of these. The concreting and sealing of
the culverts will be time consuming and costly and will be done over
the next 6 to
12 months.

The most recent tracking tunnel round has mice tracking at quite a modest 5%
but the really good news is that rats are back to undetectable levels.

Biodiversity inside the fence is looking good. Robin pairs can now be
regularly found along with some saddlebacks, and kiwi sign is widespread up
at the top of the valley

The aviary is filling up with two suitors for our kaka Kleopatra to choose
from, two juvenile kaka in the other side ready for release this month from
the Invercargill Queens Park aviary, and subsequently another four for a
spring release.

Mr Roto is moving around the reserve and we have been sent some lovely
photos of visitors' close encounters with him.

CAFÉ HOURS CHANGE. The café is now open 10 – 4. The Visitor Centre remains
9.30-4.30. All day self-guided walking, guided tours and annual passes are
available. Keep up to date with events on Facebook and www.orokonui.org.nz.

--
--
Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

BLUESKIN RESILIENT COMMUNITIES TRUST

2011-06-23T10:51:00.001+12:00

by Scott Willis

Firstly, a clarification regarding an article on the Blueskin
Resilient Communities Trust (BRCT) in last month's issue ('BRCT
honoured in community awards'). BRCT provides an umbrella service and
assistance at the request of several sustainability initiatives in
Blueskin Bay, and, in fact, emerged to fill this need rather than
being the originator of these initiatives. However, BRCT is much more
hands-on in the energy sphere and the Waitati Energy Project, as this
initiative is seen as providing a vehicle that will over time help
build up community resilience and assist other projects. BRCT seeks to
enhance existing creativity and passion and ensure that initiatives
can thrive and enrich our community.

In late May BRCT was invited to a DCC-organised 'Community Builders
Hui'. More than anything this was a wonderful occasion to meet other
community groups around Dunedin, and what was clear to all present was
the incredible value of local media. As such it was a timely reminder
of how important our noteworthy Blueskin News is, not only for us but
also for effectively projecting Blueskin dynamism beyond our
communities.

June was a very full month for the BRCT, mainly around organising the
'Democratising Energy' Hui at Karitane. Kati Huirapa Runaka were
generous hosts for the hui, providing a wonderful mihi/welcome when
visitors arrived at the marae, and ensuring success by helping out
with all the IT needs, etc. BRCT is excited by our strengthening
relationship with the runaka, and with our ongoing relationship with
the Hikurangi Foundation that enabled the hui (see the WEP column for
details).

BRCT (in mid June) is awaiting the results of funding applications in
support of two initiatives: Waitati Energy Project (Blueskin Power)
and Waitati Open Orchards, and of course most groups supported by BRCT
have been busy in June, with mulching, pruning and feasting and
dancing by WOO, WEP's hui, and Get-the-Train's ongoing lobbying via
submissions for a local passenger rail service.

Established in 2008, BRCT aims to assist groups and individuals in
Blueskin Bay to address the opportunities and vulnerabilities
associated with climate change and 'peak oil'. The trust's main
community action is energy, and we provide umbrella services to
Waitati Edible Gardeners, Get-The-Train, and Blueskin Low Oil
Commuting. BRCT trustees and officers are Lynnaire Johnston, Antony
Deaker, Simon Sheppard, Ross Johnston, Tony Wilson and Gerry
Carrington, and Jeanette Fitzsimons is the trust's patron. See the
notice this month for information on the BRCT's annual general meeting
in July.

--
--
Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Do you loathe the idea of the Rugby World Cup?

2011-06-23T10:18:00.001+12:00

by Geraldine Tait

You are not alone. A wonderful local antidote to rugby (and to try to
compensate for all that extra carbon in the atmosphere) has been
planned. On Sunday 25 September approximately 5,000 native plants will
be planted by volunteers, both local and from town, at the DoC reserve
beside the Waitati River, below the Orokonui Ecosanctuary. This will
be a fun day where lots of cool people will be giving back to the
environment and be helping to enhance our backyard. Make sure you're
part of the action. We promise not to mention rugby scores all day.
More information will available closer to the time.

--
--
Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Who Stole the Rooster Plate?

2011-06-23T10:06:00.001+12:00

by Geraldine Tait

Who Stole the Rooster Plate? is the latest title in the murder mystery
series written by the famous local author G.S. Potato. In this book
the intrepid private investigator Sue Dunnit is drawn into a circle of
intrigue and danger when she is asked to solve the mystery of the
missing plate. During the Woo Ball, the social event of the year in
the trendy little village of Whytaty, a very valuable antique plate is
stolen from the supper table. The village people are stunned and
shocked by this terrible crime and there is a great deal of
speculation as to who the thief might be. The plate has a very
distinctive pattern of roosters around the rim so anyone who owns
poultry is, of course, under suspicion. Gossip and unkind accusations
are rife in the village, which makes Sue Dunnit's job very difficult.
Sue has to go undercover to spy on the local population for clues as
to who took the plate. She drives around the village in a large green
tractor with an old brown hat pulled down over her eyes. She wears a
dreadlock wig, smokes weed and watches the shop from the bus stop
across the road. She joins the local volunteer fire brigade hoping
that, on practice night, someone will reveal information about the
whereabouts of the plate. She joins the local library and borrows a
book about solar-powered bicycles. But it's not until she attends a
screening at the local film society that the terrible truth of the
missing plate is revealed, and Sue only just survives a close
encounter with a long and depressing German film. To order your copy
of this Potato blockbuster (be in early before it hits the bookshop
shelves) phone 4822 517. Reviewed by Penny Hennie.

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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Blueskin Media AGM: 7-8pm, Tuesday 28 June, Gallery on Blueskin

2011-06-23T10:00:00.001+12:00

Hello everyone/kiaora tatou,

A friendly reminder of the Blueskin Media AGM: 7-8pm, Tuesday 28 June,
Gallery on Blueskin.

By long-standing tradition, all members of the Blueskin Bay community
are allowed to attend, speak and vote at Blueskin Media meetings Our
meetings are notoriously friendly, efficient and brief.

Please come along. You can volunteer to get involved, or ask awkward
questions, or simply observe to hold us accountable to our community.

Before you come, please read the Minutes; they are at the foot of this
message. A Financial Report will follow by email. Minutes and reports
will not be read out at the meeting.

The AGM Agenda are below (plural verb included for Latin scholars' benefit).

Peter Dowden
president/co-editor
Blueskin Media

Agenda:

Welcome and Apologies

Approval of Draft Minutes, 2010 AGM (please read these before you come
to the meeting; they are at the foot of this message. Minutes will not
be read out at the meeting.)

Election of Office Bearers:

- President (The President has indicated an intention to retire.)

- Treasurer

- Secretary

- Committee/editorial team

Approval of Financial Report (please read these before you come to the
meeting; it will follow by email and will not be read out at the
meeting.)

Possible donation to a local community group: (this is included in the
Agenda because it has become somewhat a tradition, but the AGM may or
may not elect to make one this year)

Matters Arising from 2010 Minutes:

- Legal status for Blueskin Media

- District phone directory

- 'Blueskin Bayleaf' Recipe book

- Reporting of Community Board matters

General Business

- Web hosting, website, email issues

- Schoolpupils' reporting

- Any Other Business

OLD MINUTES

Draft Minutes

Annual General Meeting of Blueskin Media

9 May 2010, 7:30 pm

Gallery on Blueskin, Waitati

Present: Louise Booth, Polly Higham, Therése Hailes, Craig Marshall,
Peter Dowden, Lawrence Hay, Geraldine Tait, Ed Higby, Nicky Clarke,
Louise Burnside, Lynnaire Johnston, Alasdair Morrison, Rosemary
Penwarden

Apologies: Colleen Hastie, Gerry Thompson (late), Chris Skellett

Election of Office Bearers

President:

Peter Dowden: nominated by Louise Booth, seconded by Therése Hailes

Louise Booth indicated she was more than happy relinquish this
position and Peter was elected unanimously

Secretary:

Therése Hailes and Lawrence Hay were nominated to share this position
and to ensure there was always someone at each meeting.

The Secretaries job is to record minutes at meetings and to distribute
these, and to deal with non financial correspondence.

Treasurer:

After discussion Colleen Hastie was nominated and elected to this
position subject to her acceptance.

The Treasurer's role is to maintain a two-monthly billing cycle to
each of the paying advertisers, to record payments both inward and
out, to keep a record of donations and payments, and to maintain a
simple set of books that record transactions and balances. Recycled
envelopes were noted as an effective way of recycling and reducing
costs.

Each issue brings in about $340 of revenue and costs an average of
about $310 to produce. Other costs included web hosting and domain
name rentals., along with other sundry costs.

The accounts are not audited by verified (but see below).

Committee:

Louise Burnside, Lynnaire Johnston, Louise Booth, Craig Marshall, Nicky Clarke

Outgoing Treasurer

Polly Higham presented her final Treasurer's report. Revenue for the
year was $3723.5 and costs $3549.67 leaving a surplus of $173.85 for
the year. Our bank balance on April 1st 2009 was $2440.77 and March 31
2010 was $2614.60.

The accounts were verified this year by Frank Stent of Target
Accounting. He noted in his report that Blueskin Media should consider
becoming an Incorporated Society to provide a legal structure for the
group's activities and to limit liability in the event of some kind of
legal action.

General Business

Legal status for Blueskin Media

It was resolved that Geraldine Tait and Alasdair Morrison would
investigate the possibility of Blueskin Media becoming an Incorporated
Society or Charitable Trust, and would report their findings to the
committee.

District phone directory

It was noted that the Waitati School had produced a district phone
directory but this was now about 10 years old and therefore out of
date. It was resolved that Blueskin Media would investigate producing
another such phone directory including addresses in Blueskin Bay,
Warrington, Evansdale, and Seacliff. It was possible this might be
produced by a combination of advertising revenue and sales of the
directory. Alternatively, it was possible that funds from the
Waikouaiti Coast Community Board might be prepared to fund such a
directory allowing it to be distributed free of charge.

Peter Dowden, Nicky Clarke, Geraldine Tait and Therése Hailes to
investigate further and report to the Committee

Collection of recipes from The Blueskin Bayleaf

Peter Dowden and Lynnaire Johnston will investigate collecting
together recipes from The Blueskin Bayleaf and producing these in some
form. It is possible that the WEGies might be interested in assisting
this process.

Donation to Blueskin FM

It was resolved that a donation of $104 ($2 per week for a year) would
be made to Blueskin FM.

Moved Peter Dowden, seconded by Louise Booth

Editorial matters

There was discussion as to how we might include more information from
the Waikouaiti Coast Community Board. Alasdair Morrison noted that
they have a 6 week meeting cycle which does not fit tidily into our
monthly publishing cycle. However, we will continue to include
relevant items from the Board's meetings.

Peter Dowden noted it was the policy of Blueskin Media to publish the
views of the community rather than to publish items written by
'reporters'. This approach has been successful for the most part and
will be continued with.

Presentation to Polly Higham

A small gift was presented to Polly Higham as a token of Blueskin
Media's appreciation of all her work over the years, along with thanks
by acclamation. Polly is the longest serving member of Blueskin Media
and was instrumental in dealing with a serious financial squeeze some
years ago, and has much to do with the very satisfactory current
financial state of the organisation.

Meeting closed at 8:45 pm. It was noted that this broke the record as
Blueskin Media's longest-ever meeting (1 hour, 15 minutes).

--
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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".