Be proud of helping with flood recovery
Kia ora Horowhenua, We should be proud of how we have supported the Hawke’s Bay and Tararua districts as they recover from the devastating effects of Cyclone Gabrielle. Many schools, organisations and individuals held fundraisers, gave time, food, clothing, resources and money to those in need, and The Black Out was also a huge success. Our district came together for the fundraising initiative giving generously and dressing in black on Friday, March 31 to support the cause.
The auction evening the following night was enjoyed by a large number of people, including Central Hawke’s Bay Mayor Alex Walker, Tararua District Mayor Tracey Collis and their chief executives. Credit goes to the remarkable organisers of the event, and all the individuals and businesses who donated time, goods, services and money to make The Black Out happen. Together we raised more than $104,000 for the Tararua
Mayoral Relief Fund and Hawkes Bay Disaster Relief Fund.
Being out and about in our community and acknowledging those who contribute voluntarily to this fantastic district is always a pleasure. Recently, I was honoured to attend an afternoon tea for Pamela and David Houghton’s 60th wedding anniversary, I saw first-hand the results of the hard work from the Riding for the Disabled team who, with help from the Rotary Club of Levin, have relocated to a new facility in Mako Mako Rd, Levin. I was also fortunate to witness Mike Gerard receive a Gold Star for his 25 years of service in the Foxton Volunteer Fire Brigade at a recent function.
There are some remarkable people in Horowhenua and I’d also like to acknowledge a group of young people who saved the lives of four family members at Foxton Beach. Foxton Surf Life Saving Club received a letter of commendation from St John for their brave actions, and they were awarded second place by Surf Life Saving New Zealand for “Rescue of the Month” in February. We are lucky to have heroes like Emily Gavan, Kelsey Lewis, Tyrone Gavan, Charlotte Pratt, George Fell, Alec Ball, Liam Neal, and Nic Neal in our community.
It was also great to reflect in the honour that was bestowed recently on Professor Rangi Ma¯ ta¯ mua. Born and raised in Levin, Government’s chief adviser Ma¯ tauranga Matariki and Ma¯ ori astronomy expert he was recognised as 2023 New Zealander of the Year. Known as “the man behind Matariki”, he received the prestigious award for his contribution to the wellbeing of our country.
We are hosting Anzac Day observances across the district and online, which you are all welcome to attend. The full list is available at horowhenua. govt.nz/Anzac.
On Saturday, May 6, we will mark the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III with a tree planting ceremony at Thompson House Gardens at 11am. And last but not least, Council’s Long Term Plan Amendment consultation period is open. Visit www. letskorero.horowhenua.govt. nz/LTPA to have your say.