Howick police presence uncertain

Howick has long had a police station, and a friendly police presence but, in mid 2021, the site was put up for sale and there was some doubt whether the area could continue to maintain such a strong police presence in the village precinct.

Although objections to the sale of the Moore Street property (occupied by the Howick Police Station), are unlikely to prevent it going ahead, there is a chance police will maintain a physical presence locally. Counties Manukau East Police area prevention manager inspector

Colin Higson told a public meeting in May 2021 that the important thing to realise was that the land would be sold.

He also said the police had given a very public undertaking to maintain a presence in the Howick community but added, “what that looks like is a different question.” “What I’m hearing from the community is you want a police station or a police presence in the community, so collectively how do we achieve that purpose? We need to work together with the community to work out a solution that gives the community what it wants.”

Mr Higson said options for the future were to find an alternative premises which, he added, essentially mirrored what was currently available [in Howick].

Another option was some sort of “pop-up” service or presence such as a shop-front situation where [police] would make it known what time and day officers were available for members of the community to drop in and report any issues they may have. “If neither of those options becomes available we need to revisit where we’re at, and how we have a public face within Howick.”

Mr Higson advised the Police needed to be prepared to move from the current Howick station building if a new owner wanted the land however, should the new owner want the Police as a tenant that could be taken into consideration.

“The key message from me is….we are aiming to maintain the same standard of service for the community, because that is our job.”

ABLUTIONS PROJECT AWASH WITH PRAISE!

A long awaited toilet and shower block renovation at Maraetai Beach Boating Club has been given the thumbs up by the local community, the facilities among a major club upgrade aimed at fostering new membership and attracting residents who have boating and other activities in their blood.

Overall redevelopment plans for the club were first unveiled in 2014 with stage one beginning two years later and encompassing asbestos removal, water leak, fire protection, interior upgrades and deck work.

Stage two included the new toilets and showers with mobility access, increased storage and improved kitchens.

Monies for the $430,000 project came from club fundraising and various grants including a $45,000 Franklin Sport and Active Recreation Facilities grant

At the unveiling of stage two, Franklin Local Board, Wairoa representative, Malcolm Bell said that the club had $30,000 and $45,000 in pledges from Pub Charities and the NZ Communities Trust when it approached the Board for assistance.

“We could see how hard they [club members] were working. It was a case of chipping in to get the project over the line, rather than funding everything.”

Today the club is home to a variety of club and organisations and invites membership interest.

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