Retail: $2
www.gbweekly.co.nz
Friday 8 April 2022
Funds for war refugees
Mike Kennedy and Andyara Milan raising funds for Ukrainian war refugees on Tākaka’s Village Green. Photo: Jo Richards. JO RICHARDS
When Mike Kennedy saw the “shocking images” emerging from the war in Ukraine, he decided to do something positive. That something was to organise last Saturday’s Shelter for Ukraine fundraising event on Tākaka’s Village Green. Just before he took the stage at midday, the accomplished singer-songwriter explained that all funds raised would go directly to help provide accommodation for refugees escaping the war. “There are two huge barns in a small town in Slovakia, five hours from the Ukrainian border, in the safe zone. The money will go towards doing them up. Insulating them is the first objective.” The 30-metre-long barns, located in rural Nemcinany, are owned by the Taylor McCabe Institute, a philanthropic organisation founded by an Auckland-based couple. Acquired several years ago, the two buildings were being converted into a skill-sharing school for adults until Covid put the work on hold. Now they are being repurposed to provide safe, warm housing for around 40 refugees for at
least the next two years. Mike said plans are already in place to transport fleeing Ukrainians to safety. “The local mechanic has a minibus ready to get the first 12 refugees from the border to the town.” He explained that this pragmatic approach, along with the very specific objective, encouraged him to get involved. “I resonated with the cause. It’s a targeted project; you can see where the money’s going.” Competing with the attractions of the Village Market, Saturday’s fundraiser attracted a modest but enthusiastic crowd who were treated to some high-quality live music throughout the afternoon. “After a slow start a few people came in and music was played by myself and Barrett Newton,” said Mike. Supplementing the cash donations deposited into Mike’s guitar case were the proceeds from sales of Andyara Milan’s organic products and Karen Kell’s succulent plants. Tākaka-based artist Kate Burness also contributed in kind by gifting a print of her artwork featuring sunflowers, the national flower of Ukraine. After totting up the proceeds, Mike said
We can replace or repair your windscreen Phone 525 7274, 027 622 2228 96a Commercial Street Takaka
just stunning
Call us today for all your property advice inc. current market estimate on your property.
Certifying Plumber, Gasfitter & Drainlayer
www.goldenbayplumbing.nz
THE GB WEEKLY, FRIDAY 8 APRIL 2022
Tasman District ratepayers will be hit by a larger than expected rates increase this year, but can have a say on the final figure. The increase, according to Tasman District Council ( TDC) is a result of “substantial changes in the wider legislative, social, and economic environment in which the Tasman District Council operates”. A detailed explanation is provided in TDC’s new draft Annual Plan 2022/2023, which is now out for public consultation. The document’s publication comes just eight months after the council adopted its 10 Year Plan 2021-2031. TDC says “the landscape has changed dramatically” since that document was adopted, citing economic pressures including high fuel costs, inflation, higher interest and finance charges, supply chain issues and skills shortages. Aside from the budget blow-outs on the Waimea Dam project, there is also the expense associated with legislative changes, says mayor Tim King. “Implementing government requirements and responding to the many proposed reforms is having a significant impact on our costs.” Tim explains that the council is “keenly aware” of the pressures everyone is currently facing and accepts some “tough decisions” have had to be made. As part of the consultation feedback the public is encouraged to support one of the two options presented in the draft Annual Plan: Option 1 specifies an increase of 7.7 per cent in the overall rates revenue, while Option 2 reduces that figure to 5.51 per cent by deferring some work and projects. However both options represent a hike over the planned increase of 4.17 per cent indicated in the 10 Year Plan. Whatever the cost pressures, the council still needs to deliver essential services while dealing with growth demands. To help, TDC will fund the dam cost overruns on an interest-only basis in the short-term and is using income from forestry to reduce the impact on rates. TDC CEO Leonie Rae says staff have worked hard to find day-to-day savings and are committed to further savings without compromising services. The public can provide feedback on the draft Annual Plan by attending an online forum (20, 26 April and 3 May), completing a submission form, or uploading a video submission. Public hearings are scheduled for Wednesday 18 May. More information is available at: tasman. govt.nz/annual-plan
YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERTS Barry Graham I Ph 027 465 7888, 525 8787
Head students
JO RICHARDS
scenic flights
INSURANCE JOB?
Inside:
the event raised the sum of $408.60, which has since been credited to the initiative’s givealittle account. While he understands that some locals are seemingly uncomfortable about supporting the victims of the Ukrainian conflict, Mike said he felt compelled to take action. “I’m quite aware there are other wars going on but saw the shocking images coming out of Ukraine and wanted to help. I believe we are all connected, and if we can help people on the other side of the world, we should.” In addition to much-needed funding, the project is also looking for skilled volunteers to travel to the Slovakian site and provide practical help, but Mike said that, without leaving Golden Bay, the locals who turned out on Saturday had already made a difference. “Thanks to everybody that came along to contribute and support.” To make a donation, go to: https:// givealittle.co.nz/cause/shelter-for-ukraine Fo r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n a b o u t t h e Taylor McCabe Institute and its Shelter for Ukraine project, visit: https://www. taylormccabeinstitute.com/
TDC draft Annual Plan
OK Grow
Church aid
Golden Bay Air goldenbayair.co.nz 0800 588 885
Locally owned and operated Ray White Golden Bay || Billy Kerrisk Licensed Agent REAA 2008 Level 1, 11 Buxton lane, Takaka || Billy 0276085606 || Sam 0273014209
St John
Movie review
S c h e d u l e d • S c e n i c • C h a rt e r ISSN (PRINT) 2538-0923 ISSN (ONLINE) 2538-0931
1