A Word from the Mayor
The submission time for the Water Services Entity Bill has now closed and it is anticipated that you should be heard by the Finance and Expenditure committee in Christchurch during the week of 15th August. I trust that those of you who made a choice to inform the government of your position will receive this opportunity.
Smokefree and Vapefree streets have a high level of support from tourists, businesses, and residents as stated in the August 5th 2022 release of the New Zealand Medical Journal: a report by David Brinson, Charlotte Ward, Cheryl Ford and Annabel Begg states:-
“The aim of the communication plan was to raise public awareness of the initiative and help empower the public to provide positive social reinforcement if smoking behaviors were observed in the zone”
“Breathe Easy Hanmer Springs was a 6-month trial of a Smokefree and Vapefree zone implemented across key public spaces, including the street frontage of the retail/business area of the village.”
In 2019 the Hurunui District Council in collaboration with the Hanmer Springs Community Board supported the Cancer Society survey, which was implemented to raise public awareness and empower the public to support zones within the alpine village. The results indicate a supportive majority in each of the three stakeholders groups from business, residents and notably visitors”.
In conclusion the report states “The weight of evidence from the project evaluation points toward a net benefit both for individuals and for the community from implementing voluntary Smokefree and Vapefree zones in tourist destinations in New Zealand.”
We have again been hit by significant weather patterns with more flood rain over the 3rd week in a row, the pastures are at capacity and the roads have taken a hammering. I hope that you have all you need to get through and if I may offer a timely reminder that there are a range of support agencies available to assist.
Hurunui District Council is about to embark on the “Welcoming Committees” project. This is a funded initiative and supports newcomers to our district, this is an exciting opportunity to ensure we live up to our strategic goal to support and empower sustainable communities and ensure our communities are vibrant and full of energy and life.
Take care of yourselves
Marie