I can’t believe we’re almost through the first month of 2024! I hope everyone had a good Christmas and New Years.
I enjoyed Christmas with my whānau, with my sister up from the South Island. It’s always good fun, especially with the nephews and nieces. Managed to sneak in a visit to the Zoo with one of my brothers, my sister, brother-in-law and their children which was fun.
Got through some of the tasks I’d set myself, including tackling our front garden at home which had become a mess. Still a work in progress, but definitely looking a lot better!
I also managed to coordinate a week off with my partner last week, taking the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful summer weather in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland while we can. Lunch at Mission Bay followed by an afternoon exploring the nearby beaches and bays.
Unfortunately I did have a mishap with an e-scooter and injured myself in the process. Nothing overly serious, although it did force us to change some of our plans (no swimming for example). Good reminder to take care when using these!
Despite this, we got away to Rotorua, taking the opportunity to visit Hobbiton on the way through. As a massive Lord of Rings fan, it was an awesome experience. Last December they opened Bagshot Row so you can go inside two of the Hobbit-holes which were beautifully decorated by people involved with the movies - well worth a visit!
We had a nice relaxing time in Rotorua. And you can’t go and not visit the iconic Luge! There were some activities that we didn’t manage to do in our short stay so we’re already planning a return trip.
I’m back to work from Monday 15 January, meeting with staff, local residents and planning for the next few months.
We’ve got a big year ahead of us, with the Long Term Plan (10 year strategy and budget) consultation looming. Our main focus for this will be ensuring that the Flat Bush Community Centre and Library is delivered sooner.
We’re also looking forward to the opening of the Youth Space in Botany, progressing the options for Howick Kauri Kids, and implementing a local readiness and response plan.
In July our new Local Board Plan officially kicks in, and we’re already working through potential budgets and priorities to deliver on this aspirational yet practical strategy. We’ll be consulting with the public in February and March to understand what locals want us to focus on over the coming year.