The countdown to the election is on
Election time is fast approaching and ahead of it we asked you what issues were on your mind. NZ First leader Winston Peters recently addressed a gathering of Grey Power members, highlighting his concerns of immigration and the lack of a police presence in Upper Hutt. We wanted to know if there were any areas of concern we, as a community, need our candidates to address.
SANDRA ALEXANDER, TIMBERLEA
Personally, the subject of politics is way over my head for a variety of reasons. ’’Are there any issues we as a community need our candidates to address?’’ would be a good starting point. If we can get a consensus on that question, we, as a community may unite to battle the forces as it were. Then we can target question (and hold to account) local party representatives. So my issue is: Promise of no more interference in local government. Allow ‘‘nearby neighbouring’’ councils join forces where logistically viable whilst allowing for uniqueness. No ‘Big Brother’ stuff.
MARY BETH TAYLOR, WALLACEVILLE - WHITEMANS VALLEY
The bringing together of small themed businesses into one location can provide interesting shopping and mutual support to like minded enterprises. I have been working at convincing council of the need for a backpackers’ hostel which could work in with a travel outfitter or cycle rental or small cafe or laundry facility or shuttle service to take tourists to destinations. A recreation hub from which to launch a range of our local activities might be a positive addition. This would support council’s theme of Upper Hutt Gateway to the Great Outdoors.
JOY BULLEN, TIMBERLEA
As someone who prefers to shop locally I would like to see more specialist and/or niche shops in Upper Hutt, e.g. haberdashery, as not all want to buy via chain stores. In my limited knowledge of the ‘drivers’ that lead stores into being opened - my opinion is that clean bright smaller spaces are attractive to consumers. Perhaps some niche providers could amalgamate into one store and quarter it to fashion a more intimate space for shoppers. For ladies an example may well be a hairdresser with one of the ‘nails’ shops and one that does facials, so a ‘pamper day’ could be realised.
The secret would be in keeping it small enough for the client base to feel special but big enough to house the service. At the moment most of the retail we have is large. Having frequented such a space in Rotorua the success enjoyed by the owners was good, their relationships with each other and the clients was delightful, and I would book a month ahead if flying into town for my employment to be sure to enjoy the experience. I have also introduced colleagues to the space and they too found the experience exhilarating.
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WHAT YOU SAID