The DVML-Dunedin Railways "Trains Not Planes" campaign was a hot topic of discussion for the Waikouaiti Community Board at its meeting last week.
The talk was prompted by a public forum presentation from Waitati business owners Mel Borrell, of Harvey Street Merchant, and Sally Brown, of Blueskin Nurseries & Cafe, on behalf of their local business community, in support of continuing regular train trips from Dunedin to Waitati.
Later in the meeting, after extensive discussion, board chairman Alasdair Morrison said the board would be putting in a submission to the council urging that the train trips continue.
Also presenting at the public forum was Judy Martin, of the OneCoast group which is working to establish a transfer station and recycling centre in Waikouaiti.
Ms Martin thanked the board for its support in the past and said that the site was almost ready to open.
She also highlighted OneCoast’s funding application for $969.15 to buy a wind blade and stand, so the public would know when the facility was open, and a first-aid kit.
Later in the meeting, the board agreed unanimously to grant the funds to OneCoast.
Waikouaiti police officer Olivia Windbush addressed the board, highlighting a range of issues in the area — from an increase in calls for mental health issues and family harm incidents, to a rise in burglaries.
There had also been some "boy racer" issues recently, and several cars had been impounded.
The community board also heard from city marketing manager Malcolm Anderson about the Dunedin Destination Plan refresh the Dunedin City Council has under way.
"There are 32 regional tourism organisations in New Zealand going through this process, and Enterprise Dunedin is one of them," Mr Anderson said.
Community board members discussed tourism opportunities that could be highlighted in the north coast area, including the Seasider train trips, freedom camping and natural beauty.
Submissions on the refresh plan close on April 16.
In her governance support officer’s report, Rebecca Murray highlighted the council’s 10-year plan consultation, the upcoming Community Board Conference in Gore and an extensive update from the Three Waters department on progress on investigating the source of lead in the water earlier this year.
Considering several funding applications, the board agreed to grant $912 to the Waikouaiti Rodeo Association for 17 strainer posts, declined a funding application from the Waitati Valley Rd Group and approved $969.15 for the OneCoast sign.
An application from the Blueskin Bay A&P Society for $500 towards the cost of a new tuatara mural, painted by local artist Bruce Mahalski in Waitati, was also approved by the board.
