Our Māpua

What Happened at the October Meeting?

At MDCA’s October meeting, the AED (Automated External Defibrillator) subcommittee reported they had their first meeting and discussed the pros and cons of the MDCA taking “ownership” of the AED’s at the Wharf and outside Cushla’s, with more research about the costs, obligations and liabilities needed before deciding. It was suggested that a fund be set up to help cover projected costs estimated at $400 for a replacement battery every 4 years and $75 for pads every 5 years, or after every use. The committee is currently investigating the expiry date on the defibs in the village to determine how quickly this fund is needed. The subcommittee will appoint two people to monitor each AED use, easily determined because they are behind glass. Thanks goes to the Mapua Four Square who recently announced they will place an additional AED outside their store.

The Waterfront Upgrade subcommittee reported that all materials have been received for the 4 picnic tables and construction would be completed soon. The tables and the children’s playground equipment, including a grass covered pipe tunnel and timber zig zag pathway, balance rail and jump steps, should be installed in November. In addition, the Mapua School will be completing two interactive sculptures, their personally designed and built tribute to the Mapua aquarium “Touch the Sea,” destroyed by fire in 2011. (See attached drawings.)

In additional news: The wet spring has been fantastic for plant growth in Dominion Flats and residents are encouraged to go for a bike ride or walk through the grounds as it is something we should all be proud of. And the TDC has completed significant work on Higgs Reserve, on its way toward planting nearly 4000 trees in this location.

The TDC’s announcement of its Wharf and Waterfront Park decisions, resulting from the many months of meetings and consultations including a recent visit to the area with the harbourmaster, is expected “before Christmas” per Councillor Tim King.

Discussions took place about the growing importance of a local public transport system – perhaps a community bus for local residents who don’t drive to get access to the wharf, especially on weekends and could be used mid-week for other transport tasks. Chairperson Elena Meredith said the time has come to explore in more detail the transport needs of our community.

Naomi Aporo, a recent addition to the MDCA Executive Committee and responsible for the portfolio of Relationships/Archiving, will be working with Shona Mclean to digitize MDCA archives and going out into the community to discover what Mapua historical stories and information other people might have. If you know someone who has a box of treasured information, please contact Naomi and share it so we can start to tell the stories of our community.

With discussion about the proposed Waimea Dam heating up and the TDC opening consultation on the divisive issue in late October, Council will be in Mapua on Monday, 13 November to hear local residents’ opinions.  First at 6 PM at Mapua Hall, Councillors and their advisors will hold a “drop in” session. Then at 7 PM, the discussion will formally move to the Mapua and Districts Community Association’s regular November meeting in the Hall’s Bill Marris room. With an estimated $82.5 million total cost, proposed to be funded by a mix of ratepayer, irrigator and Crown funding, and Nelson City just recently asked to pitch in $5 million, the dam has been mired in controversy. The likely model going to consultation has the TDC in a joint venture with Waimea Irrigators Ltd., with the TDC responsible for $26.8 million, underwriting a further $29 million and covering the cost of any overruns above $3 million.

And congratulations to Mapua native and activist volunteer Pat Perry, who was unanimously affirmed as this year’s recipient of the MDCA Lifetime Member award and will be honoured at the December meeting.

What Happened at the September Meeting?

Motueka Senior Constable Grant Heney warned the Mapua community that complacency about security can “catch you out.” Speaking on a “security and safety” panel at September’s MDCA meeting he warned that over the past 18 months “idiots” have been coming to Mapua to commit commercial burglaries and citizens need to be vigilant about locking doors and storing away private property. “Mapua is a lovely village,” Constable Heney stated, “Not much tends to happen in Mapua, so it’s very easy to get relaxed and let your standards drop. These idiots think ‘Wow, it’s nice, small and remote.’ It’s away from police stations in Mot and Richmond and it gives them an opportunity to do their crime and bugger off.”

Making reference to a recent theft of a trailer on Higgs road, Heney stated, “You don’t have to live in a fortress, but on the other hand you do want to make it as difficult as possible for some of these people or else they just keep doing it. Word gets around: ‘Mapua is really easy.’ Yes, Mapua is a lovely quiet place, but the main road is just outside and the whole world can come into Mapua. Don’t be complacent.”

Updating the progress on installing 12-14 security cameras at the Wharf and Village, Constable Heney stated the project is nearing completion. The cameras’ recordings are sent to and monitored by the Motueka police station and have the capacity to store 3 months of activity. The cameras will be publicly notified with signage and easily seen. The video footage will only be accessed by police personnel when investigating any reported crimes. Heney reported the system is already working having captured the license plate of the Higgs Road trailer thief leading to his arrest.

Roger Ball, Regional Manager for Civil Defense Emergency Management for Tasman District and Nelson City, explained the primary hazards we face in our area: severe weather (the flood of 2011), tsunami and earthquakes (make sure your own property is safe – are your bookshelves tied back, your wall mirrors secured and crockery capable of withstanding a severe shake?) And join a Neighbourhood Support group because “There is no army in the cupboard, we are the army.” It’s not a matter of if a major earthquake will hit, but when. “That day is coming, probably a lot sooner than most people think. Within the next 50 years, we have a 30% chance or greater of being involved in a magnitude 8 or greater event. And communities like this will need to rely on resources that are available to them locally for some time.” Figure 3-7 days, potentially, without power. Regarding Tsunamis, our area does not have a siren alert. But Civil Defence will have a smart phone app going active in November that will alert you, wherever you are in NZ.  And think ahead: if you do have to leave your house, what will you take and where will you go? When should you evacuate? Remember: “Long and Strong – Get Gone.”  Civil Defense evacuation centers locally are Hills Community Church and Mahana School.

Also on the “Security and Safety” panel was David Herd of the Motueka/Tasman Neighbourhood support region. David reported that Mapua is well covered with 23 neighbourhood groups helping each other stay alert to local crime and prepared for any natural disaster. Per Constable Heney, “If there is ever a serious natural disaster – earth quake or tsunami – you’re going to have to sort yourselves out for a day, a few days, a week.” Your local Neighbourhood Support group can be a life saver in such situations.

In other business, Wayne Chisnall reported that tenders were soon to go out for construction of a kea crossing on Aranui Road at the Mapua Drive/Stafford Drive intersection, immediately opposite Mapua Country Store, to facilitate pedestrian traffic to Mapua School.  There has been considerable dissatisfaction amongst the Mapua community over this location, considered as by most as extremely unsafe. It was resolved that Wayne should seek to delay the tendering process, send a letter to Jamie McPherson (TDC Transportation Manager) and set up a meeting with Dale Vercoe (owner of the Mapua Country Store Property), the Store leasee and the Mapua School to clarify the situation. The community and Dale Vercoe believe that children coming down Mapua Drive should be directed through Aranui Park to a crossing sited south of the Store near the clothing bins.

Concern also was expressed about the unsafe conditions at the new Mamaku Drive/Dominion Road school bus drop off location. Recently 40 kids were seen disembarking and being met by 20 cars creating an congested and unsafe pickup situation. It was resolved to contact Cr Tim King to seek a resolution with the NZTA of either creating a safe parking zone at this location or dropping off the children in Mapua.

In additional news, David Davison reported the Riwaka Croquet Club has been trying to raise support for a croquet club in Mapua. Noting that croquet is a growing sport, David is trying to get 2 greens (25 x 30 meters) set up alongside the bowling club. He has the backing of 3 clubs in Nelson area and is applying for national support. They are planning an open day and are encouraging everyone to come along when that happens.

Meet The Candidates Meeting

West Coast Tasman Electorate 2017

Wednesday, September 6, 2017

7-9pm

The Playhouse Café
171 Westdale Rd Mapua

[Café open from 6pm for meals]

Hosted and MC’d by Nick Roland – The Playhouse

7 PM Candidates introduce themselves – name and party affiliation

7:10 PM Questions put to candidates by MC – each candidate will have a turn at responding first with their party’s policies- focusing on this electorate
• Housing – priorities
• Education – priorities
• Families / Chn in poverty / support for community agencies – approach
• Health – priorities
• Local issues – Re-entry into Pike River Mine?
• Support development of Waimea Dam?

8pm – Questions from the Floor

8.45pm – Final Summary statement from each candidate

9pm Close

2016-17 AGM Annual Report

Mapua and Districts Community Association (MDCA) Annual Report

August 2016 – August 2017

Executive Summary

Tena koutou katoa – ngἇ mihi nui ki a koutou; ngἇ mana whenua ratou ko ngἇ mema ko ngἇ hoa ὄ tenei rohe! Greetings to all iwi, members and supporters of this region and THE Mapua and Districts Community Association.

A great thankyou to all who have worked for, contributed to and supported the significant range of projects and issues we have been involved with and addressed this year. Special thanks to our 3 TDC Ward Councillors – Trevor Norriss and Brian Ensor did not stand again this year and we thanked them for their years of commitment to our community’s affairs and well-being. Tim King, Anne Turley and Dean McNamara are our current ward councillors and we appreciate their regular attendance at our meetings and especially for their willingness to receive feedback and follow up many diverse queries and concerns in a very busy year.

Executive Committee members share the tasks of resourcing and running meetings, disseminating information, presenting MDCA viewpoints, lobbying the TDC and envisioning important community changes. Sincere thanks to you all for a great year and to those who are standing down, take our appreciation with you. We hope that you will stay involved as members! At our last AGM we thanked and farewelled Neville Bibby (as Treasurer), Graeme Stradling (as Secretary) and John Fountain and have benefitted from their ongoing input as members.

Other members have taken responsibility for leading subcommittees, representing the Association on community wide bodies and providing researched information and resources. Thank you all – time is a precious resource and we appreciate your willingness to give this so freely. We also value the connections and relationships with a range of other community-focused organizations such as Mapua and Districts Business Association, the Mapua Community Hall Association, Mapua School, the Mapua Boat Club and other community associations.

As an Association we have made submissions on the Mapua Wharf/Waterfront TDC land development and proposal and The TDC Long Term Plan.

We recognize that there is no “ Association viewpoint” on most issues and have encouraged robust discussions and presented multiple suggestions to reflect the diversity within our community

A wide range of speakers have formally presented at our monthly meetings. Input from individuals and other community groups keep our membership abreast of current thinking, strategies and affairs.

Projects covered this year include:

  • Hosting the “ Meet the Candidates” Meeting for the local authority elections
  • Relocating the Boat Ramp ( ongoing debate and consultation, including a poll of the membership)
  • Restoring and caring for Wetlands and Estuaries in our rohe
  • Mapua Waterfront developments with a particular focus on providing input to the TDC review of future developments of their land in the area
  • Subdivisions, new and planned, including impacts on neighbours- with a strong focus on water
  • Footpaths and roading, safety and landscaping
  • Establishing and extending a Website and Facebook presence
  • Updating the Constitution
  • Taking responsibility for monitoring the AEDs ( Defibrillators) in our area

These as well as the regular areas of our work are reported on in the rest of this report by those Executive Committee members responsible for each particular portfolio.

 

Treasurer and Member Services Report (by Aileen Connell)

 For 2015-2016 year we had 43 paid members. At the end of the 2017 financial year (30 June 2017) we had 139 members this includes our 3 life members Hugh Gordon (inducted into this group in December 2016), Wilma Tansley and Bill Williams (who sadly passed away while this report was being compiled). In the past 12 months we have tidied up the membership list. We know who are members are and how to get in touch with them. All payments are tracked back to the receipt book.  We use the most up to date list for each mail out.

Our constitution has been updated to include changes to match what we do! We are in the process of lodging this with Incorporated Societies section of Companies Office

We have 3 automatic payments set up for the secretary and social media honoraria and one for the Mapua Hall (for our 2 meetings a month). We also completed a leaflet drop in letterboxes promoting the MDCA, this was part of our agreed strategy to promote the MDCA and make sure as many people as possible where given the chance to know we exist! We now use electronic banking for as many transactions as we can, this both helps us and those that we are paying. It is also making it easier for people to pay their membership.

As of the 30th June 2017 we have $13,757.45 in our bank account. Our income for the general running of the MDCA is from a TDC grand and membership fee. All income for Dominion Flats is from grants.

Summary

  General Fund Dominion Flats Waterfront Park
30 Jun 2017 $3,209.59 $10,547.86 $0.00
Income $4,918.30 $23,700.00 $0.00
Expenditure $5,679.02 $20,653.25 $10,000
1 Jul 2016 $3,970.31 $7,500.11 $10,000

A summary of the accounts will be sent to David Beatson for review

 

Environment – Dominion Flats (by Helen Bibby)

This has been another good year for the planting and beautification of Dominion Flats even though it was such a dry summer. The growth on the plants during the autumn and early winter has been fantastic and plantings are really showing up amongst the tall grass.

The project continues to track along the path of intensive planting for the first five years, to be followed by five years of secondary planting, with an end vision of a patch of easily accessible native bush that is a haven for birds and other fauna, with a stream meandering through and that is a peaceful sanctuary for the community.

We have been successful with grant applications again and have received another $10,000 from Rata Foundation and another $4,500 from Pub Charities. Do you know that since this project

started we have had over $43,000 in grants from Rata Foundation, Pub Charities, Network Tasman Trust, Deloitte, Sargood Bequest, Greenwood Trust, Mapua/Ruby Bay Trust, MDCA, Fonterra Grassroots Fund, JS Watson Trust, World Wildlife Fund, Waimea Intermediate School, and Coastal News?

It is wonderful to see organisations and people willing to help make our country green again and we are extremely grateful. We have had practical assistance from many locals organizations including Waimea Intermediate, Crombie Lockwood, Tamaha Scout Group, Whenua Iti, Mapua School, Jonathan Kennett and friends from Wellington, and NMIT DOC cadets. We have had a large kahikatea from The Big Plant Depot, plants from Nelmac, large numbers of plant protectors passed on to the project and plants grown from locally sourced trees given by community members. All this adds up to a huge amount that cannot be given a dollar number.

A very small group go each Tuesday morning to work, mostly freeing up plants and keeping the tracks useable. Anyone is welcome to join in as it is a huge job although some of the latest grant money is specifically to help with this. We have good interaction with the TDC and get our share of money, help and advice from them, particularly from Richard Hilton who is always enthusiastic and keen to help.

 

Roads and Footpaths (by Wayne Chisnall)

 The focus on footpaths in the Mapua area has been on the following during 2016-17:

  • Developing a safe passage for pedestrians from the foot of Mapua Drive around the Country Store site to the Mapua School
    • Considerable discussion with all parties was held during FY16 but the School and Country Store property owner came to an agreement with the TDC this year to site the crossing just in from the corner of Mapua Drive and Aranui Road. It will be a double kea crossing with a refuge in the existing island. This was not universally accepted by the community as the safest option but the School has signed off on it and will manage it before and after school using flags and swinging arms.
    • The footpath around the store and the crossing have been designed and put out to tender. We expect it to be constructed in the latter half of 2017
  • Pedestrian refuge crossing on Aranui Road near the library.
      • This has been designed and put out to tender. We expect it to be constructed in the latter half of 2017
  • Higgs Road footpath from Lionel Place to the Mapua Drive roundabout
    • This has been designed and put out to tender for constructionin the latter half of 2017
  • Seaton Valley Road footpath
    • The TDC is still finalising the 2017-18 footpath programme so have yet to confirm whether this will fit within the available budget
  • Mapua Drive path to Higgs Reserve
    • The initial design exceeded budget due to the need for a physical barrier to protect path users. TDC is looking at ways to reduce cost to fit within available budget.

The focus for 2017-18 is as follows:

  • Seeing the completion of all the projects above cognisant that there is real pressure on contractors due to the work associated with the Kaikoura earthquake
  • Completing the Seaton Valley Stream footpath from the Old Mill Pathway around the estuary and across the northern end of the 102 Aranui Road subdivision to Moreland Place. There have been some problems negotiated access across private roads.
  • The Jessie Street – Aranui Road pathway became a possibility with the purchase of the associated property for development.

Social Media 2016-17 Annual Report

Submitted by: Tim Hawthorne, MDCA Social Media Manager

MDCA’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/MapuaCommunityAssociation), launched in February, 2016, continues to perform strongly and serve as an important communications medium for the Association. Our FB page is now “liked” and followed by 676 people, a high number for a Facebook small community page. We post matters of community interest on the page on average 2 times per week and reach an average of 500 to 1000 people for each post. In 2016-17, we posted 119 items and were viewed over 50,000 times. Our June, 2017 posts alone were viewed over 12,000 times.

Some of our posts reached over 3000 people in the Top of the South with the assistance of Facebook “promotion” or advertising, which places a MDCA post on a local FB user’s page even if they don’t “follow” our page. Total expenses to “promote” our FB posts from Oct 2016 – June 2017 totaled $224.43, at an average promotion cost of $10 per post. Further distribution of the Association’s message is via posts on the local social media network “Neighbourly.” Our most successful post (“Please Vote on How to Honour the Mapua Aquarium”) reached over 9,600 people.

Additionally, our new MDCA website (www.ourmapua.org), established in early 2016, has been upgraded to showcase the MDCA’s Facebook posts on the front page, so that non-Facebook

members can read what’s happening immediately in our community on the internet. The website also serves as the repository of all the Association’s monthly meeting notes, agendas, minutes, and correspondence, under the “Archives” drop down menu heading

 

Mapua Waterfront Park and Advisory Group (on behalf of Trish Smith)

Trish Smith took over chairing this subcommittee and co-ordinated a wider working group to ensure that the $10,000 grant from the Rata Foundation for purchasing picnic-tables and

children’s play equipment has been spent. Work is proceeding on building the tables and hopefully installing them and the equipment in conjunction with TDC Parks and Reserves in October this year.

With such diverse views on future development in the park, subcommittee members met with Boat Club and Sea Scout representatives to determine any “ shared vision” on Park/boat-ramp development

Trish Smith also took over the representation of MDCA on the Mapua Waterfront Advisory Group from Elena Meredith and now shares this role with Martyn Barlow

 

Appreciation 

Thank you again to all those who have been involved in these projects and all the voluntary time and thought you have given. Much of this work is “underground” and often not acknowledged. Without you all we couldn’t do what we do!! There will be a new Executive Committee for the coming year and no doubt new challenges as well as satisfactions with a job well done. We look forward to that……

 

Noho ora mai ra koutou Elena Meredith

(Chairperson on behalf of the Executive Committee)

What Happened at the August MDCA AGM Meeting?

The MDCA’s New Logo.

Selected from over 10 entries, Adi Tait’s logo entry took home first place in the Mapua & Districts Community Association’s new logo competition and took home the $150 prize at the 2017 AGM on 14 August.  Adi’s logo “utilises the image of the three old coolstores on the wharf, and a stylised version of Hamish the heron. The coolstores not only gives the impression of a mountain range which is a backdrop to this region, but of houses within a community.” Adi is an acclaimed local graphic designer, sculptor and multi-media artist who has participated in over 30 solo and group exhibitions in New Zealand and overseas. Other fine logo images were submitted by Ben Mills, Simone Jarmai Gill, Jeff Morris and 8 year old Milla Moon Waters. The MDCA thanks all entrants for their creative inspiration!

The results of the AGM’s officer and Executive Committee member elections saw Elena Meredith and Wayne Chisnall returned as Chair and Vice-Chair, and Mary Garner as Secretary and Aileen Connell as Treasurer.  Returning Exec Committee members are Helen Bibby, Colin Walker and Tim Hawthorne. New to the Exec Committee will be Mike Kininmonth, Trish Smith, Marion Satherly and Naomi Aporo.

The following members were approved for existing subcommittees and liaison:

  • Waterfront/Wharf Advisory Forum – Martyn Barlow & Trish Smith
  • Waimea Inlet Forum – Gillian Pollock
  • Footpaths and Roads – Wayne Chisnall
  • Dominion Flats – Helen Bibby and Neville Bibby

Elena noted in her AGM Chairperson’s report: “As an Association we have made submissions [in 2016-71] on the Mapua Wharf/Waterfront TDC land development and proposal and The TDC Long Term Plan. We recognize that there is no “ Association viewpoint” on most issues and have encouraged robust discussions and presented multiple suggestions to reflect the diversity within our community. A wide range of speakers have formally presented at our monthly meetings. Input from individuals and other community groups keep our membership abreast of current thinking, strategies and affairs.

Projects covered this year include:

  • Hosting the “Meet the Candidates” Meeting for the local authority elections
  • Relocating the Boat Ramp (ongoing debate and consultation, including a poll of the membership)
  • Restoring and caring for Wetlands and Estuaries in our rohe
  • Mapua Waterfront developments with a particular focus on providing input to the TDC review of future developments of their land in the area
  • Subdivisions, new and planned, including impacts on neighbours – with a strong focus on water
  • Footpaths and roading, safety and landscaping
  • Establishing and extending a Website and Facebook presence
  • Updating our Constitution
  • Taking responsibility for monitoring the AED’s in our area

Aileen Connell noted in her Treasurer’s report that we have dramatically increased our paid membership this past year from 43 to 139. “We also completed a leaflet drop in letterboxes promoting the MDCA, this was part of our agreed strategy to promote the MDCA and make sure as many people as possible where given the chance to know we exist! We now use electronic banking for as many transactions as we can, this both helps us and those that we are paying. It is also making it easier for people to pay their membership. As of the 30th June 2017 we have $13,757.45 in our bank account, $10,000 of which is earmarked for Dominion Flats plantings.”

Helen Bibby reported in her Dominion Flats year-end update: “We have been successful with grant applications again and have received another $10,000 from Rata Foundation and another $4,500 from Pub Charities.” And that since this project started, we have received over $43,000 in grants from Rata Foundation, Pub Charities, Network Tasman Trust, Deloitte, Sargood Bequest, Greenwood Trust, Mapua/Ruby Bay Trust, MDCA, Fonterra Grassroots Fund, JS Watson Trust, World Wildlife Fund, Waimea Intermediate School, and Coastal News. We thank all these organizations for supporting such an important ecological cause.

Tim Hawthorne updated the progress the MDCA has achieved in Social Media: “MDCA’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/MapuaCommunityAssociation ), launched in February, 2016, continues to perform strongly and serve as an important communications medium for the Association. Our FB page is now “liked” and followed by 676 people, a high number for a Facebook small community page. We post matters of community interest on the page on average 2 times per week and reach an average of 500 to 1000 people for each post. In 2016-17, we posted 119 items and were viewed over 50,000 times. Our June, 2017 posts alone were viewed over 12,000 times. Some of our posts reached over 3000 people in the Top of the South. Further distribution of the Association’s message is via posts on the local social media network “Neighbourly.” Our most successful post (“Please Vote on How to Honour the Mapua Aquarium”) reached over 9,600 people.”

A reminder to all: a comprehensive training on how to use the 3 public AED’s (automatic External Defibrillator) in Mapua will take place at 7 PM on Thursday, September 21 at Mapua Hall.  Everyone is welcome.

What Happened at the July MDCA Meeting?

The Bill Marris Room at the Mapua Hall was full for the July 10th meeting of the Mapua and District Community Association meeting. Community members had come mainly to hear TDC staff talk about water access issues for Mapua and the range of proposed options for boat access in Mapua that Catherine MacFaul had gathered in the last few months.

Lindsay Mckenzie TDC CEO, opened the discussion then handed over to Cath who outlined the background to the TDC review and the subsequent range of options which are now attracting submissions. These close on the 14 August.
Sharon Flood then spoke about the submission process noting that TDC will have an Information Tent in the wharf area on 29th July between 10- 12.30 (probably in the hall if wet).

It is really important to be informed and the TDC website is a good place to get information from. On their website look for – Public Consultation – Mapua Waterfront Options- which gives links to follow.

Mike Shruer and Juliet Westbury, TDC staff, spoke about the background causes contributing to the flooding in the area, particularly in the recent heavy downpours and in the Mapua School area. He assured the meeting this is being dealt with as are the wider water and waste water systems for the area.

During the meeting members were given voting slips to choose a new logo for MDCA from finalists selected by the Exec. The choice was not easy as the selection was all of a very high standard. The result of this will be announced at the August meeting.

The Waterfront Park Upgrade sub committee have made good progress and tabled a plan showing the placement of picnic tables in the park. Spokesperson, Trish Smith, said the next step is to find funding for a BBQ for the area.

The death of Bill Williams was noted with sadness .He had been given Life Membership of the Association to acknowledge all the work he had done for the community over the years. Several members spoke of particular contributions he had made and projects he had been involved with.

The next meeting of the Community Association is the AGM on August 14th. Do consider putting your name forward as a representative on the Exec. And remember to put in your own submissions regarding water access in this area.

What Happened at the June MDCA Meeting?

A wide range of community issues were canvassed at our June meeting with many focused on water!!
Councillor Tim King presented a potted summary of the rationale for and developments relating to the Waimea Dam – noting the significant TDC meeting which was held June 14th to determine if this would proceed.

The results of the polling of the membership relating to Waterfront Park development were tabled with some discussion. It was noted that the TDC proposal resulting from their consultation on Waterfront Land will be available for public consultation in “ early to mid-July” and Cath McFaul ( the contracted consultant) will be presenting at the Association’s July 10th monthly meeting.

Concerns were raised relating to the repeat flooding of Mapua School and the Association will explore this as a major focus in a future meeting this year. Members of the Waterfront Park Upgrade Subcommittee met with Richard from TDC Parks and Reserves to explore the future placement of picnic tables and children’s playground equipment purchased from the Rata Foundation Grant.

Safety and security in our community were also raised considering possible CCTV Camera placements; police presence as well as the community’s own “ watchdog” roles. This will also be the focus of a future meeting with local police and neighbourhood support groups invited to present.

We are excited about the response to the MDCA Logo competition ( for which entries closed June 25) There are certainly some talented artists out there!! The top 4 entries will be voted on by membership at the July meeting and the winner presented with the $150 prize money at the August meeting.

Members were encouraged to consider offering to be nominated for the 2017/18 Executive Committee to be voted on at the AGM August 14th . All are warmly invited to attend.

Finally we responded to a suggestion that the many volunteers in our district be honoured and Helen Bibby did so in this way:
What a Community…

Following the nasty break in at the Mapua Bakery the very efficient grape vine told me how the community rallied to show their support to those affected which reminded me just what a caring community we live in.

At the last Association meeting we discussed whether it was possible to acknowledge all those who ,in one way or another, volunteer their services to the community. The outcome of the discussion was that we would be overwhelmed by numbers, as so many people do their bit to make the wheels go round using skills, coaching, manpower, a listening ear,or a multitude of other ways to help their fellow man.

So, instead of a function (run by volunteers) in the hall ( managed by volunteers) let’s all say a big thank you via the printed word ( Coastal News put together by more volunteers) to the many people in our extended community from the kindly neighbour over the fence to the fire-officers who race off in the dead of night and all those in between, for all the help and kindness we show to one another.

What a privilege to live in this place.

Please join us in ensuring that we have an ongoing voice and input into this community we love – the next Association meeting is Monday July 10th  7 pm in the Bill Marris Room – all welcome !!

 

What Happened at the May MDCA Meeting?

Nearly the winter solstice – a time for deeper reflection and considering future changes as the whole of our community is currently doing in relation to our precious Waterfront wharf and park. We all know that there are many diverse views on: how this area should be preserved and developed; how to keep a balance between community and commercial interests and how to acknowledge the visions and plans of different groups and individuals. The Association has tried to provide an open forum for both discussing and then representing this diversity – not easy and a strategy open to pleasing/displeasing members.
 
The May MDCA meeting approved the purchasing of picnic tables and play equipment from the Rata Foundation grant – a start to implementing the approved plan for a “ family-friendly” park. There was also a call for the wider membership to be consulted on whether this plan and the possible location of a future boat ramp in the park are compatible. Our MDCA reps on the Waterfront Advisory Group raised the issue of health and safety requirements for those wanting to stage an event on the park, noting that these should be known by community groups in advance and querying their actual relevance. The TDC will look into this.
 
The TDC Long-Term Plan ( LTP) was also a focus of this meeting with members taking the opportunity to provide input into the Association’s submission to TDC. Many of these focused on the wish for the “village character” of the area to be maintained and enhanced amidst the growing population. In relation to this, there was also a call for the infrastructure especially in relation to water/sewerage and roads to be addressed so that more development could be adequately supported.
 
Some members raised concerns about the speed limits especially along Aranui Road and motions were passed asking TDC to consider a 40kmh limit on all roads in Mapua Village and that parking arrangements ( especially alongside access driveways into the Playcentre & the supermarket) be reconsidered in respect of safety concerns.
It was noted that the Association’s new leaflet had been distributed around the area- thanks to Chocolate Dog for their expertise and assistance in its design! The idea of a competition for an MDCA logo was raised and will be explored – watch this space!!
 
The revised Constitution was discussed and the pre-circulated changes approved. This document now reflects the current structure of the Association and is (hopefully!) easier to read!! Special thanks to Mary Garner and Aileen Connell for their detailed work on this project!!
 
The Association has agreed to be “the guardians” of the AEDs (defibrillators) in the Mapua region and a small subcommittee is being set up to monitor these: make sure they have adequate battery power and replace pads and glass panels if they are used. Please contact the MDCA secretary on info@ourmapua.org if you are interested in being part of that subcommittee. We are negotiating with St Johns to provide a community-wide training session in AEDs/CPR so that as many of us as possible know where these are and how to access and use them if needed – lives can be saved! We will advertise this meeting widely once we have the information.
 
Our AGM is in August and now is a great time for people to consider if serving on the Executive Committee or one of the subcommittees is something you would be willing and able to do. It is important to keep introducing new perspectives and ways of doing things – all positions are open for election and your offers and interest will be welcomed and appreciated. Again, please contact the secretary at info@ourmapua.org if this is something you could and would consider.
 
The next monthly General Meeting is Monday 12 June 7pm at the Mapua Community Hall – all are welcome to attend.

MDCA’s Newly Revised and Approved Constitution

MDCA Constitution 30 April 2017
30/4/2017 FINAL
Constitution and Rules of the Mapua and Districts Community Association Incorporated
1. Name
Mapua and Districts Community Association Incorporated
2. Objectives
To initiate and organise actions that:
a) Promote and foster interest in the social, economic, environmental and cultural life of Mapua and surrounding districts
b) Encourage public discussion on the development of Mapua and districts, commensurate with the preservation of its unique qualities and desired lifestyle of residents
c) Serve as a channel of communication with the Tasman District Council (TDC) and any other statutory or interested organisations, in as much as they may affect those who live in the district
d) Collect and disseminate information on matters pertaining to the these objectives and any other matters of interest or concern to the community.
3. Balance Date
The balance date of the Association shall be the 30th June each year
4. Membership
a. Membership is open to any resident or ratepayer in Mapua, Ruby Bay or the surrounding Moutere Hills district
b. There is no limit to the number of members
c. A register of current members including name, physical address and original date of enrolment will be kept in accordance with the rules of Incorporated Societies
d. An annual fee is required and will be fixed for each year at the Annual General Meeting and is due payable on July 1st
e. In the event that the fee is not paid by August 20th the membership will be terminated
f. Payment of the fee shall entitle a member to vote until the end of the AGM
g. New members may join at any time; however, the annual fee cannot be paid pro rata
h. Any member may resign from the association by giving notice in writing to the Secretary
5. Officers
a. The Officers including Chairperson (Char), Vice Chairperson, Secretary , Treasurer shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting and shall serve as part of the Association’s Executive Committee
b. The Officers shall be financial members
6. Chairperson
a. Chairperson shall act impartially in overseeing and facilitating the affairs and business of the Association
b. In the Chairperson’s absence the Vice Chairperson ) shall preside at all meetings. In the event of a tied vote the Chairperson may have the deciding vote.
c. No Chairperson shall serve for more than three consecutive yearly terms as a Chairperson
7. Secretary
a. The Secretary shall record the minutes of all meetings These minutes, when confirmed by the next such meeting and signed by the Chairperson, shall be the official record of what occurred at that meeting.
b. The Secretary shall deal with and answer correspondence, distribute General Meeting minutes and agenda, and perform such other duties as may be required by the Executive.
c. Minutes of Executive or Subcommittee meetings that involve matters as identified in 11e shall generally not be made available to members or the public.
The Secretary shall annually send the minutes from the AGM and the August General Meeting to the Nelson Provincial Museum.
MDCA Constitution 30 April 2017
8. Treasurer
a. All monies received shall be paid to the credit of the Associations bank account(s) and all accounts approved by the Executive for payment shall be paid in a timely manner.
b. The Executive shall approve three Officers as authorised signatories to the bank accounts. Two signatures / authorisations will be required for all payments.
c. All payments to be made on behalf on the MDCA will be approved at either the Exec or public meeting
d. The Treasurer shall present a statement of the status of the bank account at the monthly General Meeting.
e. The treasurer will maintain and manage the membership list
f. The Treasurer shall present an annual reviewed statement of accounts showing receipts and payments and the Associations financial position at the Annual General Meeting.
9. Social Media Manager
a. A Social Media Manager will be appointed by the Exec
b. They will be a financial member
c. The Social Media Manager is responsible for the management of the MDCA website, MDCA Facebook page and other internet communications d. The Social Media Manager and all members of the Exec must abide by rules Final Protocols and Guidelines for Managing MDCA Facebook as written by Exec and approved at a General meeting see at end of doc.
10. Executive Committee
a. The Executive Committee (Executive) shall consist of the Officers and not less than four nor more than seven financial members of the Association elected at the Annual General Meeting.
b. The Executive shall manage the affairs of the Association in the best interests of the membership in accordance with the Objectives
c. Any Officer or other member of the Executive may be removed for behaviour that is not in accordance with the Objectives of the association. Removal shall be by resolution at a General Meeting of which prior written notice was given in the notice of meeting and which is passed by a two thirds majority of those present and voting. Should a motion for removal pass ,it will then be subject to the right of appeal within 62 days of the General Meeting
d. The Executive shall have the responsibility to fill any vacancy occurring on the Executive or subcommittee.
e. In the event of resignation or incapacitation of the Chairperson, a nominated member of the Exec shall serve until the next Annual General meeting.
f. Meetings of the Executive shall he held at least monthly
g. Four members shall form a quorum at the Executive meeting.
h. Executive members shall remain in office until the appointments or election of their successors
i. The Executive may review the standing of any Executive member who fails to attend four consecutive meetings (Executive and General) without notification.
MDCA Constitution 30 April 2017
11. Subcommittees
a. The association may form Subcommittees to address specific community issues
b. Subcommittees shall be formed from interested members for the Association and from individuals who, in the opinion of the members, have the skills, attributes, or knowledge that will assist the work of the subcommittee
c. Subcommittees shall consist of no less than 3 or more than five members one of whom shall be the Subcommittee Leader
d. Chairperson shall be an Ex-officio member of all Subcommittees
e. Each Subcommittee shall actively pursue resolution of the community issue with which it is charged and makes recommendations to the association.
f. Subcommittee Leader shall furnish regular reports to the association.
g. A subcommittee is subject in all things to the control of the Association that formed it, and must carry out general and specific directions of the Association given in relation to the subcommittee or its affairs
h. All sub committees are listed and reported on at the AGM
i. Subcommittee members are voted into position at the AGM and will be disbanded by the Executive when they are deemed to have fulfilled their remit
12. General Meetings
a. General Meetings will be held monthly February to December (at the Mapua Hall) and will be open to public participation.
b. Meetings shall be conducted in a productive, enjoyable and inclusive manner.
c. Three members of the Executive plus four members of the Association shall form a quorum at the Special or General Meeting.
d. Special General Meetings may be called by the Executive, or by a written request to the Secretary signed by not less than a quarter of the financial members.
e. The Executive reserves the right to go into closed Executive committee over matters it deems may:
i. concern confidentiality and the security of privileged information.
ii. concern the incurring of financial liability
iii. make the Association liable to legal proceedings
iv. be contrary to the aims and objects of the Association
f. The Association will not be bound to take any action which may be required by the passing of a resolution in a General Meeting that may:
i. involve it in financial liability
ii. cause it be liable to legal proceedings
iii. be deemed to be contrary to the aims and objects of the Association
g. The publication Members ‘Meetings by Mark von Dadelszen shall be adopted as the definitive authority for meetings and meeting procedure for guidance where problems arise. A copy of Member’s Meetings will be kept by the Executive at the Moutere Hills Memorial Library for the benefit of all members of the Association and interested public
13. Annual General Meeting
a. The Annual General Meeting (AGM)of the Association shall be held immediately prior to the August General meeting Motion on Notice must be in writing and in the hands of the Secretary at least 14 days prior to the date of the AGM
b. At least 7 clear days before the AGM the secretary shall send to all members written (or email) notice including the Chairperson’s annual report, statement of accounts, list of current financial members and motions to be considered including:
i. Nominations for Officers and Executive Members
ii. Honorarium to be paid
iii. Amount of annual fee
iv. Appointment of a qualified person to review the Associations books
v. Motions on notice and the Executive recommendations in respect thereof on matters of Association governance
c. Three members of the Executive plus seven members of the Association shall form a quorum at the AGM
MDCA Constitution 30 April 2017
14. Indemnity of Officers
The Officers, Executive and Subcommittee members of the Association shall be indemnified from and against all losses and expenses incurred by them in or about the discharge of their respective duties, except where such loss or expense arises by reason of those Officers’, Executive or Subcommittee members’ own wilful neglect or negligence
15. Personal Pecuniary Profit
a. No member or Officer (or person associated with a member for Officer) of the Association shall derive any income, benefit or advantage from the Association or materially influence the payment of any such income benefit or advantage.
b. Except where that income, benefit or advantage is derived from
i. Professional services rendered to the Association and charged at no greater than current market rates
ii. Interest on money loaned to the Association at no greater than current market rates
16. Distribution of Assets on Winding Up
The assets of the Association shall on winding up be distributed in a manner decided at a General meeting convened for that purpose. No member or members shall derive any pecuniary gain from such winding up.
17. Alterations to the Constitution
The Constitution and Rules of the Association shall be in accordance with the rules of the Registrar of Incorporated Societies and may be altered, rescinded or added to by a resolution passed by two thirds of the votes cast by financial members present at a General meeting.
No addition or alteration of the following clauses:
 Clause2 – objectives
 Clause 14the personal pecuniary profit clause
 clause 15the distribution of assets on winding up
shall be binding without the approval of the Inland Revenue Department
18. The Common Seal
The Common Seal of the Association shall be held in the custody of the Executive used by the Chairperson only in the execution of documents in accordance with the Constitution.
MDCA Constitution 30 April 2017
Final Protocols and Guidelines for Managing MDCA Facebook
MDCA Executive Committee, July 2016
The MDCA Facebook has been established to:
1. Enable information on matters of community interest/concern and positions taken by the Assoc. to be disseminated to a far wider audience and demographic than the paid membership and those who attend monthly meetings.
2. Solicit and receive responses, comments on and involvement in such matters from a wider and more representative cross-section of the community.
MDCA Facebook posting guidelines:
1. A Facebook administrator (the Social Media Manager) will be appointed each year from amongst the members of the elected Executive Committee. There shall be an annual honorarium of $1200 ($100 per month) for this position.
2. The Facebook administrator shall post items of community interest – the wider the interest the better.
3. These posts will ask for feedback and comments in order to promote conversation.
4. Submission of reasoned and well written “opinion” pieces is encouraged and these may be accepted and posted after review and editing by the administrator. All such articles will be headlined with: OPINION: [TITLE]; and the author’s name posted at article’s end.
5. Name attribution is required for all submitted opinion pieces but names can be withheld from the actual posting at the Facebook administrator’s discretion (see 10).
6. The Facebook administrator will delete any comments that are offensive, e.g.: racist, misogynistic, profane, or promoting hate.
7. MDCA’s official posts should be clearly identified as such and be “objective” in stance, unless a clear unilateral position has been taken by the MDCA.
8. MDCA resolutions on matters of community interest will be posted after each monthly meeting.
9. 95% of all posts are “generic” (of general community interest) and do not require any outside authorization for the Administrator to post.
10. MDCA Executive Committee will select 2 members (and 1 substitute) to serve as screeners of potentially “controversial” posts. If the Facebook administrator has received any requests for withholding names or has any question about a post (including images) being appropriate for the MDCA Facebook page, he/she should seek confirmation from the 2 screeners (or sub) Exec Comm members.
11. Screeners should have 24 hours to respond yeah or nay or provide edits. If no response is forthcoming, the administrator can use his/her best judgement as to what to post being cognizant of the above guidelines.
12. The Facebook Administrator will report back to MDCA monthly meetings on Facebook feedback received on substantive agenda items