citynews...British & Irish Lions vs Chiefs – 20 June 2017 Excitement grows in Chiefs camp Andrew Strawbridge is finally set to get a crack at the British & Irish Lions. Strawbridge

A $1.4 million project to improve access to the award-winning Hamilton Gardens begins this month.

Work on the Sillary St pedestrian and biking underpass for State Highway 1-Cobham Dr will begin on 22 May and is expected to be completed in mid-September.

Four-lane Cobham Dr, which carries a daily average of 28,000 vehicles and has a posted speed limit of 80km/h, is difficult for cyclists and pedestrians to cross easily.

The underpass will provide a safe link between Hamilton East at Sillary St with Hamilton Gardens, as well as a connection for walkers and bikers into the city.

Jason Harrison, the Council’s Transport Unit Manager, says the project will be welcomed by local residents.

“Hamilton is a great city for walking and biking, and we’ve already got around 150km of on and off road cycleways. This underpass is another link in connecting our city and we look forward to its opening.”

The project is being constructed by Downer NZ on behalf of the NZ Transport Agency, which builds and maintains state highways.

Transport Agency Waikato Highway Manager

Karen Boyt said: “The project team will be working very hard to get traffic through the construction site with the least delay possible. But it’s not going to be easy and we ask people to be patient during this time or consider other routes.

“This underpass is going to be a great asset for the city, safely linking Hamilton East to Hamilton Gardens for pedestrians and cyclists.”

Two lanes will be maintained throughout the project. From about 6 June there will be no right turn into Grey St from Cobham Dr until the project nears completion. Hamilton Gardens Gate 2 will remain open to the public.

The project is supported by the Council, cycle groups and the Hamilton East community. Once complete the four-metre wide, well-lit and level underpass will be a safe and user-friendly option.

DINOSAURS’ ANCESTORS: Step back in time 290 million years when bizarre-looking animals dominated life on Earth at Waikato Museum’s blockbuster exhibition Permian Monster: Life Before the Dinosaurs. View an amazing collection of fossils and models from a relatively unknown time period, the Permian, and dig and identify remains in the interactive dig pits. Meet the crocodile-like Eryops, pictured here leaping at a passing Meganeuropsis, a giant dragonfly, and find out what nearly killed them all to make way for Earth’s next rulers, the dinosaurs. See story on page 4 Image: Early Permian Landscape, Julius Csotonyi

citynewsHAMILTON

hamilton.govt.nz /hamiltoncitycouncil @CouncilHamilton1

May 2017

PAGE 5KUMARA CROP: Gardens’ produce goes to worthy cause.

PAGES 2-3LIONS ROAR: Looking ahead to the big game.

SHOW BUSINESS: 30 years in theatres.

PAGE 4

COMING SOON: There will be changes for motorists when underpass construction gets underway.

Work to begin on Cobham underpass

citynews


British & Irish Lions vs Chiefs – 20 June 2017

Business event at the stadium

Natalie Barrott has a key role to play when the British & Irish Lions come up against the Chiefs at FMG Stadium Waikato, but she’s unlikely to see much of the on-field action.

Mrs Barrott is an Events Manager for H3 – the division of the Council responsible for event facilities and major events – working at FMG Stadium Waikato and Seddon Park. She’s been working at the stadia for nine years, ensuring events run smoothly.

Although planning for the Lions match has been ongoing for a year, in the days immediately before the game the activity will increase dramatically.

“Three days leading up to match day, and everyone is starting to ‘pack in’ – broadcasters, caterers, people bringing in generators and cell phone towers, teams coming in for captain’s runs, the guys coming in to paint the logos on the field,” she says.

“For those three days, the adrenalin is really pumping. You’re working long days, but

there is a buzz with a lot of people coming and going – it’s a hive of activity.”

For the Lions match that will include an expanded area for visiting media and the usual extensive broadcast technology overlay.

“Sometimes you have to get involved in the grunt work, and that’s fine, it gets you out of your seat,” she says.

She’ll be part of the H3 team working on match day, one of more than 100 people connected on a radio-telephone network – the earpieces and microphones – as well as a further 300 staff and contractors involved in match delivery.

“When the gates open, that’s when the radio-telephone chatter really starts, and if there are any issues, we can deal with them. It’s pretty full-on for those first couple of hours.”

From her position in the venue’s control room – up high in the Brian Perry Stand – she’ll be monitoring activity and event

delivery across the venue. That extends to ensuring all patrons leave safely post-match, followed by two debriefs to wrap up the event.

Although she’s worked on numerous international events at both venues – including several world cups – Mrs Barrott is genuinely excited by the British & Irish Lions match.

“These jobs don’t come up very often, and you take a lot of pride in what you do – you want to be the best venue,” she says.

Although she’ll put in a long day at the stadium for the game, Mrs Barrott won’t get a chance to keep an eye on the score.

“I always go home and watch the replay on TV,” she laughs. “Sometimes I don’t even know

what the score of the game when I get home, and I say to my husband ‘did we win?’.”

Watching match replays also gives her a chance to look at how the event is delivered.

“I get a proud feeling when I watch it on TV, and think ‘yeah, I did that’.”

fmgstadiumwaikato.co.nz

KEY PLAYER: Natalie Barrott, Events Manager for H3 at FMG Stadium Waikato where the Chiefs will play the British and Irish Lions in June.

Hamilton’s businesspeople can tour FMG Stadium Waikato at a special networking function ahead of the city’s involvement in two major events this year.

Hamilton is a host city for the DHL New Zealand Lions Series next month, with the Gallagher Chiefs set to play the visiting British & Irish Lions on 20 June at FMG Stadium Waikato. In November, Hamilton is a host city for two matches as part of Rugby League World Cup.

To give insight into what business people can expect, the Council has partnered with Hamilton Central Business Association, the Waikato Chamber of Commerce and Hamilton Waikato Tourism to host the 2017 Major Events Information Evening on 11 May at FMG Stadium Waikato.

Chad Hooker, Hamilton City Council’s Major Events Director, says the city’s business community is a crucial stakeholder for the two events, and the Council wanted to engage with business people in advance of the matches.

“Our major events this year are expected to draw several thousand visiting fans, which presents some good opportunities for our business community,” Mr Hooker says.

“They’re exciting events for Hamilton and its communities and we want to make sure we deliver the best experience we can as a city.”

Mr Hooker says the event will include guest speakers from both sporting events, as well as Council staff involved. There’ll be an opportunity for guests to take a “behind the scenes” tour of FMG Stadium Waikato, and gain information on the Major Events Management Act (or MEMA), which guides what businesses can do around major events. Attendees will be able to ask questions.

The 2017 Major Events Information is free, but registrations are essential, via waikatochamber.co.nz. Drinks and nibbles will be served, and the event is expected to run for about two hours.

The buzz of the big game

Campervans come to town following LionsA temporary campervan park at Claudelands and a brand new host city website are among the initiatives being rolled out ahead of the city’s involvement in the historic DHL New Zealand Lions Series.

Comprising players from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, the British & Irish Lions are coached by Waikato rugby icon and Hamilton Ambassador Warren Gatland.

The Lions play the Chiefs on 20 June at FMG Stadium Waikato as part of the DHL New Zealand Lions Series, with a large influx of visiting British and Irish rugby fans expected to descend on the city.

Chad Hooker, Hamilton City Council’s Director of Major Events, says the city has a range of initiatives to enhance the city’s status as a host city for the Lions visit – the combined team’s first trip to New Zealand since 2005.

The grassed oval area at Claudelands will be used as an additional “spill over” temporary campervan park for the city’s

involvement in the series.

“We’re anticipating a convoy of British, Irish and kiwi campervan tourists following the matches around the country,” Mr Hooker says. “With Hamilton’s existing camping grounds already fully booked for the night of the Chiefs game, we’ll be operating a temporary campervan park on the field adjacent to Claudelands to cater for the influx.”

The Claudelands campervan park will only be available to fully self-contained campervans and bookings will be taken through the Hamilton i-SITE, which will also have a pop-up stand at Claudelands. Although commercial accommodation in the city remains available for the night of the match, it is expected to fill up quickly.

Visiting fans will also be able to find their way into the central city via a marked walking route from Claudelands. The route has been designed to take pedestrians below River Road and avoid having to cross one of the city’s busiest streets.

Other initiatives rolling out as part of DHL NZ Lions Series include the creation of hamiltonhostcity.co.nz, a new event and visitor-focussed website which will feature a range of information on Hamilton’s involvement in the event. The site, which is live today, includes traffic information, details on the Major Events Management Act and what it means for local business, as well as links to other relevant online channels for the city and region. The site acts as a template and will be rebranded for other major events the city hosts in future.

Mr Hooker says the Council’s Major Events Team is also engaging with Hamilton’s schools to create themed artworks to mark a walking route from Claudelands to the central city, and on to FMG Stadium Waikato.

More announcements on additional activities and initiatives connected to the DHL NZ Lions Series are expected over coming weeks, Mr Hooker added.

hamiltonhostcity.co.nz

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3hamilton.govt.nz /hamiltoncitycouncil @CouncilHamilton

British & Irish Lions vs Chiefs – 20 June 2017

Excitement grows in Chiefs campAndrew Strawbridge is finally set to get a crack at the British & Irish Lions.Strawbridge – the Chiefs Defence and Skills Coach, and a Waikato rugby stalwart who played more than 130 games for the province through the 1980s and 1990s – missed out on his chance to play the Lions in 1993 through injury.

“I’d had a knee reconstruction,” says the former fullback. “I think I was in the radio commentary box that day. But Waikato did very well.”

The Waikato side’s 38-10 win over the tourists was “a very exciting day”, with the Lions “getting a good seeing to” from the home team.

“We were very proud of how well Waikato did against international teams,” Strawbridge says of his era as a player in the provincial side.

Although there is plenty of regular-season Super Rugby before the Lions

match, Strawbridge says there’s genuine excitement in the club

about the chance to play an overseas team.

“We relished the opportunity last

year against the Welsh –

we were

stoked,” he says of the Chiefs’ stunning 40-7 win over a Wales side coached by his former Waikato team mate Warren Gatland, and who is now in charge of the Lions.

Strawbridge says fans may see some less familiar faces in the Chiefs team to take the field against the Lions next month: it’s possible the club’s All Blacks and Maori All Blacks won’t be available for selection.

“But that doesn’t taint the excitement,” Strawbridge says. “For some of the guys, it will be a real highlight, and a chance to measure themselves against some men who have done some pretty special things over in their (rugby) environments.”

However, Strawbridge says the coaching group’s attention hasn’t turned to the Lions yet. The squad’s mentors usually work two or three weeks ahead, initially undertaking video and technical analysis of upcoming opponents.

“We didn’t look at much Welsh footage last year – they were a new team, and well, a lot of stuff…we guessed about,” he says. “It meant we focussed on ourselves, and that’s a good thing.”

Strawbridge played dozens of Waikato games alongside Gatland, but isn’t sure if there will be a chance to catch

up after the game.

“He might come and have a beer if they beat us!”

chiefs.co.nz

HOW THE BRITISH & IRISH LIONS HAVE FARED IN PAST MATCHES IN HAMILTON

Lions’ history in Hamilton1930British Isles* 40

Waikato-King Country-Thames Valley 13

1950British & Irish Lions 30Waikato-King Country-Thames Valley 0

1959British & Irish Lions 14Waikato 0






2005British & Irish Lions 13New Zealand Maori 19

2017British & Irish Lions ?Chiefs ?

A limited number of General Admission tickets are available for the DHL New Zealand Lions Series match between the Chiefs and the British & Irish Lions on 20 June. To purchase tickets, visit nzlionsseries17.com/tickets

A temporary stand at the eastern end of the ground will be used for this match, taking the venue capacity to 30,000.

Match tickets available

MENTOR: Andrew Strawbridge is part of the Chiefs coaching group.

* The British & Irish Lions were known as the British Isles until 1950.

citynews


No business like show business

Even after three decades on the job, Richard Sutherland still finds excitement in show business.

Mr Sutherland recently notched up 30 years’ service to the Council, having started as an Event Technician at Founders Theatre in 1987. He’s now the Business Development Manager for H3, booking local, national and international shows for Claudelands, and is one of the Council’s longest-serving staff members.

In the late ‘80s, Founders had what was then state of the art technology, so he had to learn fast when it came to things like the venue wiring and lighting plans and audio systems. His experience in local amateur theatre and performance groups was invaluable.

“The first show I had to deal with was the Royal New Zealand Ballet, with Giselle,” he remembers. “As a newbie, I was very nervous – but they were a great bunch to work with, and some of them are still colleagues in the business now, which is

really quite neat.”

He started working before the advent of computers, which meant writing out purchase and requisition orders and invoices by hand. Paperwork had to be physically taken to the main Council building. He’s worked through the tenures of five different Chief Executives and eight Mayors.

Mr Sutherland’s career has seen major changes in the performance industry, health and safety, changes in touring product types and particularly event technology, including ticketing for events.

“We (Founders) were the first venue outside of Auckland go on to an electronic ticketing system – that would’ve been in 1988 or ’89. Now you can turn up with your phone and have something scanned, and more than 70 per cent of ticket sales are via the internet.”

In 1997 he became the Theatre Services Manager, a role which covered Clarence St Theatre and The Meteor as well as

Founders. This required attending a wide range of events to liaise with promoters and ensuring everything ran smoothly.

Despite working alongside famous show business personalities, Mr Sutherland says there’s no time for idle talk with the stars.

“If the venue or event staff are hanging around talking to the artists, they’re not doing their jobs – the job comes first,” he says. “It’s an accepted part of the industry: you leave the artist to themselves, but if they want to have a chat to you, that’s great.”

The closure of Founders last year was a difficult day for Mr Sutherland and his colleagues, and staff were charged with informing clients of the news. Reactions from clients ranged from “what do you mean?” and “what about my show?” to “how are the staff?”. Contingency plans to relocate shows were crucial, and remain a vital part of his role for key clients such as the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra – a client he’s had a long relationship with.

Staff were able to relocate more than 70 per cent of the shows booked for Founders to other facilities in Hamilton.

“I still get a real thrill out of signing up something really big, and what we’re bringing to the city,” he says.

Mr Sutherland was part of the project control group for the development and build of the Waikato University Academy of Performing Arts, and he has been part of a team of H3 staff to receive two industry awards from Entertainment Venues Association (EVANZ). A hugely experienced theatre and performance industry professional, Mr Sutherland spent nine years on the EVANZ Executive and now is supporting planning for the proposed new regional theatre, which has energised him.

“I want to open this new theatre – that’s my next goal.”

h3group.co.nz

THEATRE VETERAN: Richard Sutherland has spent 30 years working for the Council’s theatres and event venues.

THE WEIRD AND WONDERFULMr Sutherland’s career has included some unique and special events:

• working alongside Michael Barrymore, Billy Connolly, Dame Malvina Major, Sir Howard Morrison, Dame Kate Harcourt and her daughter Miranda

• numerous large-scale musicals such as Les Miserables and Evita

• New Zealand Squash Open, with the glass playing court on the Founders Theatre stage

• the launch of a new model of Toyota, with the car lowered onto the stage using the theatre’s flying system

• a cattle sale for a stud farm with the beasts paraded on the stage

• dancing horses from Hungary

• televised Miss New Zealand pageants

• political party rallies with tight police security and bomb squads

• Russian ballet company tours – complete with KGB minders.

Permian Monsters rumble into Waikato MuseumHamilton will be the first city in New Zealand to host the blockbuster exhibition Permian Monsters: Life Before the Dinosaurs when it opens at Waikato Museum on 13 May.

Permian Monsters reveals what life on Earth was like 290 million years ago, when bizarre-looking creatures dominated the land and sea.

The exhibition blends art and science with fossilised skeletons and full-size models of the animals that ruled the world before the age of dinosaurs, in a time known as the Permian.

The Permian period ended with the largest extinction Earth ever experienced, which wiped out 90 per cent of all species on the planet.

The cause of the end – Permian devastation – had baffled scientists before a recent discovery shed new light on a contributor to the catastrophe: possible global warming.

Visitors will find out how this familiar phenomenon, started by a huge volcanic eruption, set off a chain of events that contributed to this mass extinction.

Developed by Gondwana Studios in Tasmania, Permian Monsters has been touring Australian cities since 2013.

Waikato Museum Director Cherie Meecham is excited to be bringing this innovative exhibition to Hamilton, before it heads to other New Zealand venues.

“Many of us could instantly recognise a

Tyrannosaurus Rex or Pterodactyl, but very little is known about the ancestors of the dinosaurs,” she says.

“Permian Monsters lifts the veil on an important period in Earth’s history, and uncovers what wiped out more than 90 per cent of all plant and animal life.”

The exhibition opens on 13 May and runs until 13 August. Admission costs: $12 adult, $8 child, $10 concession, $20 small family (one adult and two children), $40 large family (two adults and up to four children), children 0-3 free. Waikato Museum is open daily from 10am to 5pm.

Meanwhile, the museum is the first Council visitor destination to be awarded the new Qualmark Gold award, under four revised Sustainable Tourism Business criteria:

Economic, Environmental, People, and Health and Safety.

The award is evidence that Waikato Museum is committed to protecting New Zealand’s natural environment, enhancing connections with local communities, while also delivering a quality, safe experience for all visitors.

“[Waikato Museum] has some fantastic systems in place,” says Qualmark Tourism Business Advisor Rob Finlayson.

“The Health and Safety staff engagements are second to none I have seen and are something Waikato Museum, its staff and Hamilton City Council should be very proud of.”

waikatomuseum.co.nz

citynews


Collaboration leads to 43 new homes

Kumara crop goes to worthy cause

Hamilton will soon have 43 new two-bedroom homes thanks to Housing New Zealand’s new infill programme.

Housing New Zealand’s General Manager Asset Development Patrick Dougherty says the programme will help meet demand for smaller homes.

“A lot of our Hamilton stock was built in the 1940s, 50s and 60s. In those days, we built thousands of three-bedroom homes across the country for ‘nuclear families’,” says Mr Dougherty.

“These days, social housing is allocated to those with the greatest need, and there have also been demographic changes to

the population.

“The majority of social housing demand in Hamilton is now from single people, couples and small families.

“As a result, around 70 per cent of the people on the social housing register for Hamilton need a one- or two-bedroom home. However, these homes make up only 50 per cent of Housing New Zealand’s Hamilton portfolio.”

The Council’s General Manager City Growth Kelvyn Eglinton says supporting social housing projects is essential for the city.

“Throughout this project, we were able to streamline processes due to high level of

communication and coordination within different areas of the Council and with Housing New Zealand. We were able to complete the full consenting and related processes in an accelerated timeframe,” says Mr Eglinton.

“It’s important we work together with social housing providers like Housing New Zealand to help provide alternative and smarter solutions to housing issues in Hamilton. Growth isn’t always just about building big houses in new subdivisions, it’s also about looking at the current footprint of Hamilton and seeing what areas can benefit from infill housing to cater for a different type of living.”

hnzc.co.nz

Hamilton Gardens has produced a bounty of fresh produce which is assisting local families.

Kumara harvested from Te Parapara Garden this month has been distributed to families through The Salvation Army Foodbanks.

The demand for food parcels has increased nearly 90 per cent this year says Aimee Smith The Salvation Army Foodbank Manager. She believes the combination of increased living costs and more people living in temporary accommodation – including cars – has significantly bolstered the number of people seeking help.

“The donation has come at a very important time,” says Smith. “Fresh produce can be expensive, especially kumara, for families on a strict budget. Leading into the school

holidays and the long Easter weekend is a difficult time for some families.”

The kumara will be distributed in food parcels throughout Hamilton. Nationally, The Salvation Army issues more than 55,000 food parcels each year to those in need.

Gus Flower, Operations Manager Hamilton Gardens says the opportunity to donate produce grown in a public park is very rewarding. “The foodbank service is a very worthy cause,” he says. “It means a lot for our team to be involved with such a significantly important garden in New Zealand, and for their efforts to also benefit the local community.”

The kumara donated includes rare variety taputini which is believed to be only one of four remaining pre-European varieties.

Te Parapara Garden is New Zealand’s only productive pre-European Maaori garden and was originally the name of the pre-European Maaori settlement in what is now the centre of Hamilton Gardens. Before Europeans arrived, the riverbanks throughout central Waikato were lined with many Maaori gardens, so the Waikato /Tainui horticultural heritage in this area is of national significance.

Smith states; “We are The Salvation Army, Te Ope Whakaora, which translates as the ‘Army that Brings Life” so this is a very special link to our mission. We are most grateful for this wonderful gift of food.”

Public can support the foodbank service by donating high need items to local families through an online incentive:

foodbank.org.nz

ZOO PLAN FEEDBACKThere’s still a few days left to provide feedback on the Hamilton Zoo Master Plan. The plan includes a range of initiatives and projects to enhance Hamilton Zoo over the next 10 to 15 years. The projects are not yet funded and would be considered as part of the Council’s 10-Year Plan discussions. To look over the plan, and provide your feedback online.

hamilton.govt.nz/zooplan

COMMUNITY FACILITIES EOICommunity groups have one more month to lodge Expressions of Interest to lease one of the Council’s community facilities. The facilities available include Celebrating Age Centre, Old St Peter’s Hall and the Frankton Railway Institute Hall. For more information on the Expressions of Interest process, visit hamilton.govt.nz/communityleases

ARBOR DAY OPPORTUNITIESIt’s not too late to register for the annual Arbor Day at Waiwhakareke. The yearly event sees thousands of native plant species planted at the site, where a long-term ecological restoration project has been underway for several years. Groups or individuals can register to participate in Arbor Day by emailing [email protected]. The event is on Friday, 2 June, from 10am.

‘BINS OR BAGS’ GETS NATIONAL RECOGNITIONLast year’s consultation with Hamilton residents about proposals for wheeled bins and more recycling options has been named as a finalist in a national public relations award. The Public Relations Institute of New Zealand Awards attracted 98 entries across 12 categories, with 29 finalists named. Category winners and a Supreme Winner will be announced on 25 May. The consultation broke the record for the number of submissions to Council.

COUNCILLORS DISCUSS SHARED WATER COMPANYAt a public workshop last month, Councillors indicated they may consider forming a non-asset owning shared waters management companywith Waipa and Waikato District Councils. The proposal has yet to be formally agreed by the Council or discussed with the other two councils. The proposal would allow each council to keep control of its own assets and keep each council fully involved in decision-making. Should the Council formally decide to support a shared waters company in early May, Hamilton would look to re-open discussions with Waikato and Waipa District Councils soon after.

PEST CONTROLA public notice on pest control in last month’s City News contained incorrect dates. The correct information is published in this edition, on page 7.

IN BRIEF

VEGETABLE DONATION: From left, Christine Canty, Salvation Army Assistant Foodbank Manager talks to Alice Gwilliam while Juli Furniss, Maraea Erihe, Shaun Allen and Simone Downey load up the van.

citynews


On the street as the river risesPipes, parks and pathways are important aspects for council to consider during a Civil Defence response but the first priority is always the people.

The Council’s Community Development team put its Civil Defence training into action during last month’s cyclonic weather events, keeping affected residents informed and offering assistance where needed.

In serious weather events the Council responds with a cross-organisational team of staff carrying out various roles.

When ex-cyclone Debbie hit in early April, the Waikato River rose rapidly, and concerns for the wellbeing of neighbourhoods rose with it. Then, just a week later, Cyclone Cook compounded these concerns.

The Community Development team donned its finest wet weather gear and got to work, going door-to-door in affected neighbourhoods and updating them the latest situations. Two issues were of concern: a potential drop in water pressure for Hillcrest residents, and welfare of residents in homes close to the river on Ann St and Awatere Ave.

Although the Council did not expect to evacuate residents, ensuring both the

organisation and the residents are prepared for any situation is always critical.

Nick Chester, Social Development Policy Advisor was aware of the need to inform but not panic.

“Residents in these areas have seen high river levels before, so it was not telling them what they already knew and could see, but offering a friendly face and checking to see if they had any specific needs we could help with.”

Hamilton came through the weather relatively unscathed, but Andy Mannering, the Council’s Social Development Manager says it was a useful training exercise.

“The cyclones taught us a lot and showed our ability as a team to respond as required and help the community. We know we can respond again in the future, and the value of being ready before an event has been reinforced.”

DOWN BY THE RIVER: From left, Nick Chester, Fungai Mhlanga, Jovi Abellanosa and Ben Scott from the Council’s Community Development team visited residents in low-lying riverside streets following two major weather events.

Welcome to HamiltonWe welcomed 121 new citizens to Hamilton in April 2017 from 21 different nationalities:

Filipino, British, Indian, Colombian, Ecuadorian, South African, Chinese, Thai, Korean, Australian, Taiwanese, Zambian, Tongan, Angolan, American, Argentinian, Brazilian, Myanmari, Singaporean, Sri Lankan, Samoan

SOLEMN OCCASION: Mayor Andrew King, in his formal red robes, speaks during the 10am Civic Service on ANZAC Day last week. Several thousand people attended the commemorations which were held at the Cenotaph in Memorial Park and also featured guests including representatives of the Australian Defence Force, British High Commission, Turkish Embassy and Hamilton RSA. The number of people attending Hamilton’s ANZAC Day has continued to grow in recent years as a new generation of residents appreciate the significance of the day.

citynews


PUBLIC NOTICESPEST CONTROL OPERATIONS

Waiwhakareke Natural Heritage ParkHamilton City Council’s Parks and Open Spaces Unit is responsible for the management of Hamilton’s 200 parks and open spaces.

A crucial part of the unit’s role is the control of pest animal species such as pigeons, rats, possums, mice, hares and rabbits.

The work is undertaken in collaboration with Waikato Regional Council and focuses on protecting Hamilton’s green spaces, particularly those with ecological significance.

A contractor working on behalf of Hamilton City Council will be undertaking pest control of rabbits and hares at Waiwhakareke Natural Heritage Park. Two operations will take place between 15 – 26 May and 19 – 30 June 2017 between 6pm – 1am. Weather conditions will dictate the exact night each operation takes place. Signs will be up at the entrances when operations are underway.

Rabbits and hares are undermining the work of community groups and stakeholders who are continuing to develop the park. The timing of the operations is around Arbor Day, where approximately 12,000 juvenile plants will be planted. The operations will reduce plant mortality as a result of pest damage.

These pest control operations are permitted under The Reserves Act 1977 and are a fundamental part of the Council’s park management.

Hamilton City ParksFrom 26 April to 14 July 2017, a new programme of pest control will commence. The programme will see intensive pest control undertaken in selected parks for a three-month period.

This programme will see a particular focus on the Waikato River:• AJ Seeley Reserve• Chelmsford Park*• Donny Park*• Hammond Park*• Hillary Park*• Hillcrest Park *

• Jubilee Park• Mangaiti Park• Onukutara Park• Ranfurly Park*• Tauhara Park*• Te Awa O Katapaki Esplanade*

*Large parks including dog exercise areas or playgrounds. Pest control will be undertaken in the margins of these parks; however it will be well away from off-lead exercise areas and playgrounds.

The primary tools for pest management are bait stations and traps. The use of these tools is site-specific and can vary depending on the pest species identified and the community’s use of the parks.

Although the Council’s contractors place traps and bait stations in areas of parks which are not generally high use or readily accessed by the public, residents who use these parks are strongly advised to keep themselves, their children and any pet animals under close supervision.

The pest control work is closely monitored and the Council’s contractor uses methods which are sensitive to the use and popularity of the parks. Parks where pest control is underway will feature clear signage which identifies the type of bait or trap in use.

For more information on the Council’s pest control programme, visit hamilton.govt.nz/pestcontrol, or contact Parks and Open Spaces, Hamilton City Council, 838 6699.

Meet the MayorAre there any city issues you would like to discuss with Mayor Andrew King?

Please phone 838 6976 to book a 10-minute appointment during one of the following times:

Thursday, 18 May – 7.45am to 9am

Thursday, 25 May – 7.45am to 9am

Thursday, 1 June – 745am to 9am

Appointments must be booked in advance. Please report to Reception on the ground floor of the Hamilton City Council Building in Civic Square.

Follow us on social media You can keep in touch with the Council’s business from your smartphone, computer or other digital device.The organisation and several of its facilities have a range of social media channels for sharing information, images and videos. You can also engage with Council and our facilities directly through these channels.

Hamilton City Council Hamilton Gardens Hamilton Pools FMG Stadium Waikato Waikato Museum Arts Post Claudelands Hamilton Zoo Hamilton City Libraries Hamilton NZ Hamilton Adopt a Dog National Contemporary Art Award

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Hamilton Gardens

Hamilton City Council Hamilton Zoo

Registering your dog early could pay offDog registration forms will be in letterboxes soon and if registrations are paid online, and before 30 June, dog owners could win one of two prize packs.

The prize packs include a refund of the dog registration, $100 Hamilton Vets voucher and assorted dog food and toys.

Animal Education and Control Manager Susan Stanford says registration fees cover the enforcement of dog control laws, dog owner education, school and community dog safety presentations, and daily patrols.

Dog registration fees are separated into three different timeframes:• before 30 June there is a prompt

payment discount of $15• between 1 and 31 July the

standard fee applies• after 31 July there is a 50 per

cent late penalty fee.

Owners who register their dogs online will receive their dog tags about 10 working days after the application is submitted.

“Dogs are required to wear a collar with current registration tag at all times. It is important dogs wear their tag so they can be clearly

identified,” Ms Stanford.

Payments can also be made in person at the Animal Education and Control office, 217 Ellis St, or at the Council’s Municipal Building.

hamilton.govt.nz/dogsonline

Event sponsorship fund opensApplications for the Council’s Major Event Sponsorship Fund are now open.

The fund provides sponsorship of between $5,000 and $100,000 to event organisers.

The Council’s General Manager of Venues, Tourism and Major Events, Sean Murray, says a total of $384,000 is available to provide support to organisations delivering events in line with Hamilton’s objectives.

The application of the Event Sponsorship Fund will focus on larger event opportunities where exposure will reach well beyond Hamilton, delivering high-profile coverage and where it will attract

significant numbers of visitors.

“Ideally an application will show us the event will result in exposure, promotion and economic benefit for the city as well as promoting pride and a sense of place for Hamiltonians.”

Mr Murray says there are a set of criteria applicable to the granting of funds. The principal criteria and guidance for sponsorship assessment include:• aligned with the Hamilton City

Council vision, profile, and broader strategies

• quantified/proven exposure, benefits and distinctiveness for Hamilton nationally (and internationally) and across business at large

• evidence of target audience attendance at regional/national/international levels

• generation of overnight visitation to the city

• significant number of anticipated participants and future growth potential

• utilisation of city facilities and assets

• strong leverage opportunities and community support

• existing interests and relationships that may give rise to a potential conflict of interest.

Applications for the Major Event Sponsorship Fund close at 4pm on 30 June 2017.

hamilton.govt.nz/our-city/cityevents/eventfunding/


Ordinary Council MeetingThursday, 4 May, 9.30amCouncil Chamber

Growth and Infrastructure Committee MeetingTuesday, 9 May, 9.30amCouncil Chamber

Elected Member BriefingWednesday, 10 May, 9.30amCommittee Room 1

Community and Services Committee MeetingTuesday, 16 May, 9.30amCouncil Chamber

Council Meeting – Annual Plan HearingsThursday, 18 May, 9.30amCouncil Chamber

Hamilton District Licensing CommitteeFriday, 19 May, 9amCouncil Chamber

Finance Committee MeetingTuesday, 23 May, 9.30amCouncil Chamber

Ordinary Council MeetingThursday, 1 June, 9.30amCouncil Chamber

UPCOMING HEARINGSChurch of the Latter-Day Saints Trust BoardPublicly Notified Resource Consent ApplicationWednesday 10 May to Friday 12 May, 9.30am each day

UPCOMING COUNCIL MEETINGS

Meetings are open to the public and are livestreamed on our website.

hamilton.govt.nz/livestream

Elected Member Briefings are for the purposes of providing updates on various topics to Elected Members. The public are welcome to observe the briefings.

* Not livestreamed

City News is Hamilton City Council’s monthly newspaper. Content reflects Council’s role in the development and management of the city and its public assets, and communicates the business of the Council to Hamiltonians. It is delivered to all letterboxes across Hamilton. Feedback is welcome. Email [email protected]

YOUR MAYOR AND COUNCILLORS

Martin GallagherDeputy Mayor07 838 [email protected]

Andrew KingMayor07 838 [email protected]

Paula SouthgateCouncillor: East Ward021 589 [email protected]

Philip YeungCouncillor: East Ward027 808 [email protected]

Siggi HenryCouncillor: West Ward027 808 [email protected]

Dave MacphersonCouncillor: West Ward021 477 [email protected]

Mark BuntingCouncillor: East Ward027 808 [email protected]

James R CassonCouncillor: East Ward027 808 [email protected]

Garry MallettCouncillor: East Ward021 741 [email protected]

Rob PascoeCouncillor: East Ward021 988 [email protected]

Angela O’LearyCouncillor: West Ward 021 343 774 [email protected]

Leo ToomanCouncillor: West Ward021 512 [email protected]

Geoff TaylorCouncillor: West Ward027 808 [email protected]

The Vodafone Warriors are hoping to mark a triple dose of history when they host the St George Illawarra Dragons in their 11th-round NRL clash at FMG Waikato Stadium on Friday, May 19

The match already has a special claim as the first-ever “home” game the Vodafone Warriors have played in Hamilton since entering the NRL competition in 1995.

In previous outings, they were the “away” side against Parramatta in 2005 and 2006 and Canterbury-Bankstown in 2014.

Experienced forwards Ben Matulino and Bodene Thompson are on track for their own slice of history as they eye personal milestones in the Hamilton battle.

The 28-year-old Matulino, who recently made an injury-delayed start to his tenth NRL campaign, is set for his 200th first-grade appearance on May 19. He will become just the fourth player after Stacey Jones, Simon Mannering and Manu Vatuvei to rack up 200 games for the club.

Thompson, also 28, is on target to bring up his 50th appearance for the Vodafone Warriors in this, his third, season with the club. It will be his 135th NRL game overall after earlier stints with Gold Coast and Wests Tigers.

“We place a lot of importance on recognising milestones achieved by our players and by the club as a whole,” said Vodafone Warriors head coach Stephen Kearney.

“We’ve already celebrated a few significant achievements and records this season and, for Ben, it’s a huge effort to appear 200

times for our club having started his career here. We’re really pleased for him and also for Bodene as he looks towards his 50th game in Hamilton.”

Matulino had the distinction of being the

first graduate from the National Youth Competition (NYC) to play 100 games and 150 games in the NRL. However, he was side-lined by injury for the first seven rounds this season allowing Brisbane hooker Andrew McCullough to

beat him to 200 games.

Kick-off for the match is at 8pm. Tickets can be purchased from Ticketek.

warriors.kiwi

Milestones coincide with NRL history in Hamilton

MAN ON THE BURST: Vodafone Warriors forward Ben Matulino. Image: Photosport

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