Category: Uncategorized

By Greg Presland One of the most controversial aspects of the Auckland super city revamp was the worry at the loss of democratic control over decisions that used to be made by elected representatives.  Auckland Transport was perhaps the area where the loss would be most pronounced. Historically the Auckland Regional Transport Committee was the…

By Greg Presland Auckland Council is reviewing the area’s dog bylaws and policies. This is a herculean task and is something that will attract the attention of a number of we sties. There are a number of different policies and bylaws throughout the legacy territorial local authorities and to understand them and attempt to reconcile…

Some personal thoughts by Greg Presland The Local Board recently made a decision that has caused some concern amongst local groups and individuals.  I thought that I should set out the decision, the reason for the decision, the implications and what I think will happen in the future. Firstly the decision.  On October  26, 2011…

By Greg Presland Economic strategies are unusual beasts.  They are always optimistic, full of platitudes and express the expectation that Nirvana is just around the corner.  They offer generalised conclusions and if followed the promise that we will be rich, rich, rich. The Auckland Council’s draft economic strategy is a bit like this.  The goals…

By Greg Presland This week the combined Westie boards heard submissions from local residents and groups that wanted to make a submission to all of the boards.  Amongst them was National List MP Tau Henare.  Essentially he wanted rates reduced for local businesses. He has an argument.  Waitakere Council had the highest business rates of…