First of all I want to acknowledge the deeply sad news that one of our Council roading contractors was fatally injured in an accident whilst working last week. My thoughts are with their family, their work colleagues, and their friends.

I have to say, February has been a bonanza of celebrations and I have been attending all I can.

Last Tuesday I attended celebrations at Waitangi. It is some years since I have attended and it was good to reconnect with the events of the day.

The end of the year is certainly a time for reflection, and I have been doing plenty of that as we approach the summer break. It’s been a huge year for the Council and for all of us here in Kaipara District. 

It’s been fantastic to have so many locals engaging with Elected Members and Council staff at the recent market events. In the last month we’ve had stands at Mangawhai Tavern Market, Dargaville Community Market, and Maungaturoto Night Market. We also hosted a Dargaville Business Meet and Mingle in partnership with Dargaville Community Development Board.