Turangi councillors front
Council candidates competing in the Turangi-Tongariro ward has an opportunity to face the public ahead of the election paper mailout.
Te Kainga New kicked off proceedings with an environmental focus. ‘‘Did you know we put 4,500 kilograms of nitrates from sewerage into our lake,’’ he said. ‘‘We need to perform better for our lake and the environment.’’
Zane Cozens revealed plans to get more spending for Turangi during the next triennium.
‘‘We’re not supported by Taupo district council,’’ he said. ‘‘We pay 19.8 per cent of the rates and receive 9 per cent in comparative expenditure.’’ Cozens also revealed plans to build an indoor sports centre.
Gary Keepa reminded residents of his role in changing the street names in Turangi and fingered a villain for the run down town centre.
Tangonui Kingi said he was a ‘‘humble servant of Turangi’’ and has learned much in his community work.
‘‘I have heard your concerns and I have heard your aspirations due to my long standing community service,’’ he said.
Maggie Stewart has spent 12 years on the community board and said she needs another three years on council.
‘‘I felt my voice needed to be up at the top table,’’she said.
She reminded people of her work with the community food bank and organisations.
‘‘The biggest problem with our town centre is absentee land owners.’’ Gary Keepa