A Word from the Mayor
A snapshot of ..................
The month of June has showcased many of the wonderful things that often go under the radar.
The Cheviot Licensing Trust hosted the annual conference for all trustee’s from across New Zealand, it was wonderful to play a very small part of this, with my invitation to speak to the delegates at the opening address. Cheviot showcased the district with a visit to Colin and Lynne Harrison’s beautiful garden along with sampling a range of locally produced treats. Congratulations to Sue Harrison and her team for coordinating and executing a great event.
“Together Hurunui” is a non-statutory network of social services operating in the Hurunui District and includes community groups, schools, health centers, NGO agencies local and central government. Together Hurunui endeavours to identify gaps in service provision and advocate for the right services to fill these through regular network events and communications. Older Persons health was the focus at the session held recently with a strong advocacy voice from Grey Power.
Another fabulous event hosted by Together Hurunui was held in Culverden with a Basketball tournament culminating with the final championship game and presentation of awards. The Filipino community are skilled at the game and came together for the final, with glorious food and a prize giving it was such a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the diversity of cultures within our district. This week is World Wellbeing week with the aim to provide our community with the tools and knowledge to help manage their mental health, simple things like being active, connecting with others, taking notice and keep learning will all support our wellbeing.
Matariki was celebrated for the first time this year with a public holiday but at a local level many schools and preschools created their own celebrations. I was fortunate to attend the Amberley Prep and Preschool celebration when the tamariki performed to many parents and grandparents. It was such a lovely gesture that all families received the generous gift of vegetables to take home and produce a “hearty soup for the soul”. I also attended an event at Amberley Primary school, where again I appreciated the performance of the students showcasing Waiata and craft along with a delicious hangi catering for over 270 people. I am so proud of all the events and the amazing community folk who have brought this all together.
From a sporting perspective I watched the Glenmark-Cheviot rugby team win the Luisetti seeds Combined rugby competition a fantastic spectacle with two North Canterbury teams in the final, it’s wonderful to see so many volunteers contributing to clubs across the district.
And last but not least on Friday 1 July I will be participating in the “Big Splash” a fundraising event to support the Stroke Foundation and Rangiora St Johns. Although I am not really excited to jump into a pool of ice water, I am delighted to support these wonderful causes and am thankful for generous support through sponsorship.
Considering we are in the deepest of winter we have much to be grateful for with a wonderful place to work, live and play.