Waitakere Ranges Local Board’s proposed climate action plan
The Local Board is drafting a climate action for our area to address that most difficult of threats that will need not only national and regional but also local action if we are to properly address its effects.
Why trees are cool #1
The experience of Phoenix, Arizona suggests that trees can have a major beneficial effect on urban heat levels.
The politics of opposition to cycleways
Politicians thinking that opposition to walking and cycling measures is popular may have dramatically misread the public’s mood.
Does Auckland Council need to own cows?
Auckland Council's farming activities contribute 20% of its total greenhouse gas emissions profile and essentially they keep the grass short. Is it time for Council to get out of farming?
Auckland's proposed Climate Change dedicated rate
The mayor is proposing a dedicated rate equating to $1.18 per week for the average ratepayer to address climate change. But is it enough?
RIP John Edgar
Westie artist John Edgar has died. He was immensely influential and was directly responsible for the Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area Act being passed.
Chair's report February 2021 - Kauri sniffer dogs and community heroes
My February Chair's report where I talk about celebrating some local heroes, the Haere Mai project, local park tracks reopenings and the incredible Kauri dieback sniffing dogs.
The Mayor's budget proposal and Auckland's climate change response
Auckland Mayor Phil Goff's recently released budget proposal contains some welcome proposals to address climate change. But of itself this budget will not go near to achieving Auckland's goal of halving emissions by 50% in 2030.
Chair’s report – November 2020 - Derivatives, Open Studio and acknowledging a community hero
My November report where I comment on Council's derivatives policy, talk about the joys of Open Studio, report on Community Waitakere's year and an important speech by their chair David Kenkel, and acknowledge a community hero Ian Henderson.