For all the development and news going on in Canterbury - that is all those areas outside the Greater Christchurch (Christchurch City, Rangiora, Kaipoi, Pegasus, Woodend, Lincoln, Rolleston, Akaroa etc) area.

Places like:

Timaru, Ashburton, Kaikora :banana:

Development Opposed

A business park near Ashburton would severely disrupt the lifestyles of nearby residents, a planning hearing in the town has been told.


Basil Attewell, speaking for eight other residents of the proposed development north-east of Ashburton, said the park would create noise and safety issues, possible pollution problems, loss of rural outlook and 24-hour activity.

Attewell was opposing an application by the Ashburton District Council to rezone 126ha of land in Northpark Road to create a business park to cater for the town's industrial needs for the next 20 years.

The council is also seeking a notice of requirement for road works associated with the $18 million development.

Attewell told commissioner Bob Batty, who is hearing the applications on behalf of the council, that it was a delight to look out a window and see children on ponies or learning to ride bikes.

"We have turned gorse-covered paddocks into homes surrounded by gardens and trees that afford the residents an oasis they can retreat to, to recover from the stresses of modern life or to enjoy in retirement," he said.

Residents were not interested in noise-abatement bunds or double-glazing, as proposed by a supporter of the scheme.

"Bunds are an ugly eyesore – that is readily evident every time you travel past the Rolleston area along the main road. Even the offer of double-glazing does not address the problems and concerns we have regarding safety from the increase in heavy traffic," Attewell said.

A compromise would be to not allow commercial vehicles access to the park from the southern end, restricting access to the park off Bremners Road and Northpark Road to private vehicles and cycles, and putting heavy traffic "where it belongs – out on State Highway 1, and they would enter through Works Road and Company Road".

The council chose the Northpark site for its proximity to State Highway 1, the railway and Ashburton Airport, and to allow the shifting of the rail yard from the town centre.

Maybe I should Start a Regional Scraper Count on another Thread :banana:

http://propertysearch.colliers.co.nz/property_images/24235_1.jpg

Do Marky - :banana:

Timaru is a fab little city with lost of potential. They are investing millions of dollars in the development of the harbour, which is smack in the town centre and on Caroline Bay which is a wonderful beach and entertainment area also in the town centre.

I haven't been to Timaru for years, when I was there last we were on a sea scout regatta. Is the population over 30, 000 yet? I can remember when I was there in the early 80s there was a fairly modern building down the main street, I think it was a bank or something. This is another area which could significantly benefit from a good rail service. :)

I haven't been to Timaru for years, when I was there last we were on a sea scout regatta. Is the population over 30, 000 yet? I can remember when I was there in the early 80s there was a fairly modern building down the main street, I think it was a bank or something. This is another area which could significantly benefit from a good rail service. :)

The population is about 22,000 in the city the district is about 30,000 I think.

ewwww what the hell is that thing!

ewwww what the hell is that thing!

Do you think it needs a Re-Furb ? :lol:

ewwww what the hell is that thing!

Good old Kiwiana 1980s government buildings...our gift to the world :lol: :lol: :lol:

has anyone been to Methven and Mt Hutt Ski Area about an Hours drive from Christchurch :D, I went there at the start of this year, Didnt think much of it but then again I aint a pro skier

^^
of all the main ski areas in the South island I would rate Mt Hutt at the bottom of the list. The skiing is ok but I much prefer the Southern Lakes ski fields.

The Press | Tuesday, 11 December 2007

Support has flooded in for Ashburton's proposed $6 million art gallery and museum, but Transit New Zealand objects to its location on State High-way 1.
More than 80 submissions have been received, most in support, and the Ashburton District Council will decide next week on whether to proceed or if there will be any changes to the proposal.

The council proposes to sell the existing art gallery-museum building, the old county council offices in Baring Square East, to the Ashburton Trust for $2m.

The trust plans to create a 35 to 50-room top-line hotel within the building. Any sale would include a caveat to protect the facade and character of the building.

The council will put the $2m towards the $6m complex it proposes to build on council-owned land on the corner of State Highway 1 (West Street) and Cameron and Wills streets.

It proposes to borrow $3.5m over 25 years for the project. It had already budgeted $2.5m to upgrade the existing, cramped building.

The council has received dozens of submissions backing the project, including some from near neighbours, but Transit said it was disappointing there was no early consultation, given its proximity to the highway.

"Transit is also concerned there is no clear understanding of how the museum will fit with the Ashburton District Development Plan and the effect it will have on the central business district," said regional manager Colin Knaggs.

"Transit is experiencing pressure for retail activity along West Street, which it is currently looking to oppose."

The proposal is also opposed by Peter Opthoog, a candidate at the last local body elections.

He said the new site could create a traffic hazard and it was unlikely through-traffic would stop to visit the complex. He suggested the existing gallery be upgraded.

The proposal is backed by gallery curator Kathryn Mitchell.

She said a new facility would give the gallery more options to raise money for operational costs, including function, cafe and retail space.

The council will hear submissions on the proposal on Thursday.

Capital costs of the building would be funded from the council's commercial property activity and have a minor impact on rates.

Thursday, 13 December 2007

An ambitious "mini Auckland viaduct" planned for Kaikoura would bring big spending tourism to Kaikoura, including cruise ships, says the developer.

Plans for the 7000 square metre multi-million dollar wharf development include a boat-shaped building, an all weather marina, premises for high end New Zealand tourism retailers, offices, an extensive outdoor eating area and a 50-bedroom boutique hotel.

The development will cater for cruise ships, would be ideal for community spaces such a library or museum and would attract more people to Kaikoura during the winter months, says Kaikoura Wharf Ltd spokesman Tim Archibald.

The company includes some members of Cedar Properties Ltd, which is developing the Mangamaunu Bay Farm Park.

The concept was to be examined by the Kaikoura District Council Tourism and Development Committee today. Commercial sensitivity meant Mr Archibald could not reveal which businesses had their eye on the seaside spot, but a major tenant was set to sign up in two days. Two new tourism operators also had their pens poised, he said.

Mr Archibald had planned to speak on the concept but had decided not to as there were some sensitive issues to deal with first - including the purchase of more land for car parking.

Mr Archibald had been involved with Beach Road Developments, which plans to build a mall next to New World in Beach Road. He said some national retailers had shown interest in the development but after visiting in winter realised it would be "retail suicide".

People needed to be attracted to Kaikoura during the winter before development could take on a snowball effect, he said.

Kaikoura Mayor Kevin Heays said the current wharf site needed to be spruced up.

"We think something down there would be a huge asset to the community, but we want to support the right thing."

Mr Heays said the wharf land was council owned. Kaikoura Wharf Ltd took over the Pacifica lease after the company's fish processing factories closed in 2005.

In 2004, under Cedar Properties Marlborough Ltd, Mr Archibald presented a plan for a 48-unit retirement complex for Beach Rd in Kaikoura.

Mr Archibald was declared bankrupt in 2004 over a failed company. Kaikoura District Council planner Matt Hoggard said no application had been received by the council for the plans.

A new Mixed use complex for Timaru :cheers:

http://www.bayleys.co.nz/images/list_img/53708/53708_03.jpg

The Press |
Support has flooded in for Ashburton's proposed $6 million art gallery and museum, but Transit New Zealand objects to its location on State High-way 1.

"Transit is also concerned there is no clear understanding of how the museum will fit with the Ashburton District Development Plan and the effect it will have on the central business district," said regional manager Colin Knaggs.

"Transit is experiencing pressure for retail activity along West Street, which it is currently looking to oppose."

He said the new site could create a traffic hazard and it was unlikely through-traffic would stop to visit the complex. He suggested the existing gallery be upgraded.

F*** Transit really pisses me off at times...

I most other developed countries, a town the size of Ashburton would be bypassed completely. Transit does not do this, instead, opting for urban routes that bypass the business district only. Examples of this include Ashburton, Temuka and Timaru.

Transit must realise that if they want a route that does not have development along it, they must build it along a new or existing rural route, upgrade it, and designate it either a Limited Access Road (aka Expressway) or Controlled Access Route (aka Motorway).

Originally, the highway went through East St and through the middle of the business district. In the 1980's, they moved across the railway line to West St. This street was already reasonably well developed commercially.

What they should have done in the 1980's is build a Western Bypass that runs outside the urban fence. If they had done that, they wouldn't have the problem today.

Remember, Transits key objective is to build and maintain suitable road transport infrastructure to meet EXISTING and FUTURE need, not to hinder development by protesting about something that is being built along their road (which is in the wrong place to start with).

They should be spending less money in the court room, and spending it on developing a more future proof solution to Ashburton's highway problem.

F*** Transit really pisses me off at times...

I most other developed countries, a town the size of Ashburton would be bypassed completely. Transit does not do this, instead, opting for urban routes that bypass the business district only. Examples of this include Ashburton, Temuka and Timaru.

Transit must realise that if they want a route that does not have development along it, they must build it along a new or existing rural route, upgrade it, and designate it either a Limited Access Road (aka Expressway) or Controlled Access Route (aka Motorway).

Originally, the highway went through East St and through the middle of the business district. In the 1980's, they moved across the railway line to West St. This street was already reasonably well developed commercially.

What they should have done in the 1980's is build a Western Bypass that runs outside the urban fence. If they had done that, they wouldn't have the problem today.

Remember, Transits key objective is to build and maintain suitable road transport infrastructure to meet EXISTING and FUTURE need, not to hinder development by protesting about something that is being built along their road (which is in the wrong place to start with).

They should be spending less money in the court room, and spending it on developing a more future proof solution to Ashburton's highway problem.

Well put KaneD. They spend our money on opposing progress and doing temporary solutions (like traffic light roundabouts!) when they should be encouraging progress and increasing efficiency. But in the end they just don't get enough from the government to do enough. Bugger the inflation - if it wasn't so high the govt could be spending lots more on infrastructure.

...Ashburton is a fantastic town that is now growing rather quickly and will become an even more vital hub for mid Canterbury. Transit NZ must support the central town development not hinder it. We were in Ashburton this time last year and it was crazy the way huge volumes of heavy traffic was passing through the centre of town like it was some outback post :ohno: Ashburton has past that now. It's a town of 17000 people and growing - let it flourish. Transit should be planning as Kane said, routes that will be suitable for the future - ie a new SH1 of motorway standard, by passing the town centre, that will be of benifit for Ashburton not hindder it.

Love Ashburton. Its a neat place and the town centre is buzzier than what you would expect. I really wanna see a 4 lane motorway out to Ashburton. And a bypass for the town, the huge amount of trucks going through town aren't a great look. Businesses usually object to bypasses thinking it's taking away potential $$$ but I dont think that argument rings true.

I dont like sitting having a coffee and lunch while a huge truck crammed full of sheep reeking to heaven is pumping out diesel fumes while waiting for the traffic lights to change. I had that experience recently. :ohno:

Love Ashburton. Its a neat place and the town centre is buzzier than what you would expect. I really wanna see a 4 lane motorway out to Ashburton. And a bypass for the town, the huge amount of trucks going through town aren't a great look. Businesses usually object to bypasses thinking it's taking away potential $$$ but I dont think that argument rings true.

I dont like sitting having a coffee and lunch while a huge truck crammed full of sheep reeking to heaven is pumping out diesel fumes while waiting for the traffic lights to change. I had that experience recently. :ohno:

:lol::lol:So true!!!

Love Ashburton. Its a neat place and the town centre is buzzier than what you would expect. I really wanna see a 4 lane motorway out to Ashburton. And a bypass for the town, the huge amount of trucks going through town aren't a great look. Businesses usually object to bypasses thinking it's taking away potential $$$ but I dont think that argument rings true.

I dont like sitting having a coffee and lunch while a huge truck crammed full of sheep reeking to heaven is pumping out diesel fumes while waiting for the traffic lights to change. I had that experience recently. :ohno:

If you want a successful argument for bypasses look at Pokeno, South Auckland :).

Or Nambour on Qlds Sunshine Coast about 80ks (?) north of Brisbane. Its a cute little town similar in size to Ashburton but completely different terrain. Very hilly, with the main highway running through the town centre. Big rigs would be charging through slamming on those hydraulic breaks, the amount of traffic really hurt the main street and businesses started to relocate.

Since the bypass was put in back in the early 90's the town centre took off. Also about the same time got a regular commuter train service from Brisbane so got nana's, tourists and the curious coming up to spend a day looking around and spending money.

Everyone happy. Even the farmers who lost land to the bypass- big pay outs from roading.

If you want a successful argument for bypasses look at Pokeno, South Auckland :).

Yes - I remember that quite well. The residents were highly opposed to it to start with but what people should remember is that it is FAR better to have a town that markets itself as a destination in its own right rather than just being yet another town to pass through.

Take Picton for example. In the 1990's, Transrail wanted to bypass Picton and have the ferry terminal at Clifford Bay, some 50km to the south. This would save travellers about an hour and a half off the total Chch-Welly road trip.

Residents were opposed to it in general claiming that they would lose lots of business from traffic passing through the town when each ferry comes and goes. In practice, most people who drove off the ferry simply went straight through the town without stopping.

Picton is a town that has lots to offer people... All they need to do is to market themselves to make more people want to go there - This will be ultimately be what makes tills ring.

So, in Ashburton, I would suspect the same rule would apply, with most possibly opposing a full town bypass. But, with careful management by the local council (who has the lowest household rates bill of anywhere in the country), they can make Ashburton a true destination. When that happens, a motorway bypassing the town completely will only be a good thing.

Nambour would be over 100 km from Brisbane. The decline of the sugar cane industry was one of the main reasons for the town's demise. It was once the hub of the Sunshine Coast, in the late 80s. There are moves to revitalise the town centre with talk of a Mirvac shopping of around 40,000 sq.m. It is a Transit Oriented Development and is in the process of undergoing rapid change. :cheers:

Spotted this resource consent notice (http://www.mackenzie.govt.nz/planning/planning.php?notifytekapo) when passing through Tekapo the other week and decided to do a bit of research when I got back. Looks like some major development is planned! :banana:

From the resource consent notice, the key features of the proposal are:

a) Reorientation of the village to address the lake by expanding the village centre to the north of the existing commercial area, to include the development of retail, restaurant and café, accommodation, commercial, residential and recreational activities, including provision for a small district museum/observatory;
b) The retention and redevelopment of existing buildings within the Commercial Area in stages;
c) The provision of additional car parking incrementally as required;
d) The introduction of a central spine road (Hay Street); and an additional vehicle/pedestrian lane (Wharariki Lane), running east to west;
e) Implementation of themed landscaping and a temporary landscaping plant nursery throughout the staged development;
f) New buildings will be required to comply with an amended set of design principles based on the original Tekapo design guidelines
g) Provision for sustainable design principles, ie use of solar energy, on-site energy generation, water saving devices, rainwater collection system and grey and black water recycling systems;
h) The closing of an existing access point off the State Highway;
i) Minor filling and site levelling;
j) A new stormwater system to be developed (appropriate consents to be sought from Environment Canterbury);
k) The development will be staged over a number of years requiring a 10 year lapsing period within which to implement the consent.


http://www.mackenzie.govt.nz/planning/images/Artist%20impression%20looking%20towards%20lake.jpg

http://www.mackenzie.govt.nz/planning/images/artist%20impression%20of%20streetscape.jpg

http://www.mackenzie.govt.nz/planning/images/artist%20impression%20of%20view%20looking%20from%20cnr%20hay%20and%20station%20street%20north.jpg

http://www.mackenzie.govt.nz/planning/images/artist%20view%20from%20sh8%20edge%20of%20frontage%2Clandscaping%2C%20carparking.jpg

http://www.mackenzie.govt.nz/planning/images/artist%20view%20of%20station%20street%20from%20domain.jpg

http://www.mackenzie.govt.nz/planning/images/extent%20of%20site%20layout%20and%20area.jpg

http://www.mackenzie.govt.nz/planning/images/general%20zones%20and%20useages%20proposed%20first%20floor.jpg

Full set of 25 pics available on the McKenzie District Council's website (http://www.mackenzie.govt.nz/planning/imagepages/image1.html).

That is so quaint, I love it.

been long time since been to timaru, any plans yet for hydro grand site or other plans on bay hill?

been long time since been to timaru, any plans yet for hydro grand site or other plans on bay hill?

Welcome nthbeach - are you a Timaru boy or do you live in North Beach CHC?:)

Actually northern beaches of sydney, but home town is timaru. Always keen to see whats happening in timaru and chch.

Welcome nthbeach. Im sure that someone will be able to advise on what is happening.

Retail-park proposal opposed
By JOHN KEAST - The Press | Wednesday, 07 May 2008

Developing a big-box retail park on the old Timaru A&P showgrounds site would ruin the central business district (CBD), long-time district councillor Ian Bowan says.

Bowan spoke out yesterday as the council's planning and regulation committee considered an application from Haines Planning, on behalf of Calder Stewart Industries, to seek a private plan change.

The applicant seeks to change the zoning of the 12.2ha site from recreation 2 to commercial 2a.

Bowan said Timaru did not need the development and it would "bugger the CBD".

If the council wanted to show its strength it should submit against the proposal, he said.
more (http://www.stuff.co.nz/thepress/4513380a19753.html)

Developer draws up new plans for Tekapo village
The Press - Tuesday, 19 August 2008

Plans to redevelop Tekapo village have been reworked and a new resource consent application will be filed with the Mackenzie District Council.

In March, Coldwater Developments withdrew its application for a multimillion-dollar makeover of the village after a report prepared for a hearing set for May did not support all aspects of the proposal.
more (http://www.stuff.co.nz/thepress/4660483a19753.html)

Not development, but anyway: a couple of pics taken when I was passing through back in April.

Kaikoura

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3329/3585138354_7d10418e5f_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/12497592@N02/3585138354/)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3299/3584332001_d2a92241ae_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/12497592@N02/3584332001/)

Been a long time coming, still a long way to go. Check the link for a picture
http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/2769723/Top-class-hotel-in-Grand-project
Personally i think the design needs some work, but good to see some progress


An ambitious $60 million hotel and apartment complex is being planned for the Timaru Hydro Grand site and neighbouring properties.

The partners of Grand Piazza Ltd last night outlined what was in store for the high-profile site and surrounding properties for which they paid about $5.5 million.

The vision is to build a first class 100-room hotel on six levels by 2012, subject to gaining the appropriate resource consents.

The plans also incorporate a separate six-level apartment block, with the bottom two levels providing 24 apartments linked to the hotel.

The upper four levels will include 22 top class residential apartments, with price tags of over a million dollars each.

The apartment block is to be built on the Seabreeze Motel site owned by the Lambie Family Trust, which has joined forces with the partners of Grand Piazza.

The hotel will have a wide range of rooms, from standard to executive, and includes a minimum of 100 underground car parks.

The height of the new hotel would be 20m, which is approximately one level higher than the existing Hydro Grand roof line.

The ground floor would have a theme bar, restaurants with outdoor dining, a wine bar and day spa.

There would also be a club lounge for the independent woman traveller, which research showed was needed.

Level two would include a function centre and meeting rooms for 250 people, gymnasium, swimming pool and leisure centre.

Grand Piazza spokesperson Sid McAuley said they were happy to receive any comments, criticisms and ideas as part of their community consultation process.

Mr McAuley stressed the drawings of the hotel and apartment complex at this stage just gave an indication of their thinking.

Grand Piazza had been working closely with Australian hotel specialist Andreas Piltz, who had plenty of experience with the Ramada and Wyndham hotel groups.

Mr McAuley said the idea was to build a modern hotel of which the community could be proud.

"Timaru is the only place of its size in New Zealand without a decent hotel."

"We believe it is critical that this development is first-class in every respect.

"In 1912, they built something to attract people and we want to do the same in 2012."

The design allows a view from Sefton St through to Caroline Bay between the hotel and apartments, he said.

Mr McAuley said public and business feedback was important.

Grand Piazza was still working on funding but there may be opportunities for the people of South Canterbury to invest, he said.

Mr McAuley said the demolition of the Hydro Grand was essential to Grand Piazza's plans.

"Everyone talks about the hotel but it is clearly the site that is iconic.

"I don't think there is anywhere else in the South Island where a hotel has a sea view like this."

He was confident they would get the necessary consents.

http://static.stuff.co.nz/1250751551/580/2772580.jpg

Nice.......will give Timaru a touch of class. It's a great place to holiday - the weather is usually really good. Great beach and good access to the high country :)

Great project for Timaru; let's hope they get this built. :)

Thought it would be cool if there was a domed bar on the top level in the same position as the exisitng viewing dome of the Hydro Grand. The view would be unreal, the building would be new and keep a little of the old in the new.
Dont know if it will be possible to sell million dollar apartments in Timaru, the high end housing does not reach this price.
This will be fantastic with whatever happens, it will be an improvement.

Future of Century Pool (from stuff.co.nz)

Not a bad idea, I would like to see if it were possible to put an ice rink in, though it may be too small.

Century Pool could be heading in another sporting direction but still remain a training centre for budding young Olympians.

Aorangi Gymsports is the only sporting organisation to express an interest in the pool when it closes and is promoting the idea of a `Movement Excellence Centre'.

The group is in discussions with the Timaru District Council about the feasibility of the idea and Sport South Canterbury has been asked to provide input to the proposal over the next three months.

The idea is to use the facility, minus the pools, as the permanent base for gymnastics clubs and also incorporate other movement sports like martial arts. Other activities such as yoga, over 60s exercise groups and scouts or guides may also be included.

No costs have yet been attached to the proposal.

The proposal is on behalf of the Timaru and Highfield Gymnastics Clubs and supported by Gym Sports New Zealand.

The three clubs in Timaru all hire space in different halls and centres and are limited in what Gymsport programmes they can provide by both access times and space available.

Potential users include early childhood, schools and competitive athletes.

Other possible users identified were dance groups, indoor marching and cheerleading, corporate team building, indoor adventure-based training with abseiling and rock climbing as well as self-defence groups.

The group has provided a possible `Movement Excellence Centre' timetable showing it would be used most days from 8am to 9pm.

The proposal states that 6000 potential users could be tempted by activities in the venue.

Aorangi Gymsports spokesman Cleave Hay said it was an exciting proposal but it was still at the strategic level at this stage.

"There is no talk of how much it would cost but rather we have engaged the council in discussions and believe it would be an appropriate venue," he said.

One of the advantages of having a permanent facility was gear would not have to be taken out and put away after each use, he said.

Mr Hay said it would also have a positive spin-off of attracting more people to gymnastics.

"We are hoping there will also be an opportunity to employ a fulltime person for both programme delivery and administrative tasks."

Good News Support From Historic Places Trust Advocate for new Hotel

Hotel upgrade in spirit of original says historian
By MATHEW LITTLEWOOD - The Timaru Herald Last updated 05:00 24/08/2009SharePrint Text Size Relevant offers
Historic Places Trust advocate Jeff Elston is in favour of the proposed redevelopment of the old Hydro Grand Hotel site.

The hotel was built in 1912, but visitors and residents have complained that the site has fallen into neglect.

Late last week, the Herald reported the partners of Grand Piazza Ltd had proposed a $60 million hotel and apartment complex, having already paid $5.5m for the high-profile site and its surrounding properties.

Spokesman Sid McAuley said the firm envisaged building a first-class 100-room hotel to be completed by 2012, subject to resource consent.

Mr Elston said while it would be nice if the original hotel could be restored, the proposed development "could be something special".

"The idea for the original Hydro Grand Hotel was that the building would be a focal point for Caroline Bay and Timaru," he said.

"The design seems to be in the spirit of the original building."

He agreed the Hydro Grand Hotel had seen better days.

"It would be sad to see the original building go, but by the same token, you can't stop progress," he said. "I would really like the proposed development to become an iconic feature for Timaru."

Mr Elston, a historian, has campaigned for the preservation of several heritage buildings within Timaru city and South Canterbury.

In 2007, he protested against the demolition of the Orange Lodge Hall on the grounds it was a genuine heritage site.

"I suppose my remarks here seem a bit contrary to what I usually stand for, but I realise the cost of preserving the Hydro Grand would probably be too much, and come at the expense of something that may be very good for Timaru," he said.

Mr Elston said he would not oppose Grand Piazza Ltd's consent application.

Loving the look of that new development for Timaru and think it will add a big touch of class to the city.

Firms keen on aqua centre


There's much interest from firms wanting to design and build Timaru's new aquatic leisure centre.

The council has received nine full submissions and four part-submissions, three or four more than expected, district services manager Ashley Harper said yesterday. Submitters had been invited to present their proposals to the council on September 15 and 16.

The companies are all New Zealand-based or owned.

"They do a whole range of projects, there is no one out there that just does swimming pools," Mr Harper said. "We have looked at their credentials and created a shortlist of those who are coming to see council."

He would not say how many were on the shortlist, but did say there were quite a few.

"They know themselves but do not know who the others are."

The submissions will cover areas including architectural work, building services, structural design, landscaping, geotechnical and acoustic elements.

www.stuff.co.nz/294088

Canterbury skifield plans $250 million redevelopment.

^^ Fantastic! read the article here (http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/2794088/Canterbury-ski-field-plans-250m-development) And see the TV3 news video here (http://www.3news.co.nz/Porters-ski-field-plans-expansion-in-Crystal-Valley/tabid/309/articleID/118389/cat/70/Default.aspx) :cheers:

Excellent news, would like to see a south island skifield really be devleoped to compare to european or nth american fields, they're all so small with stuff all facilities.

Road projects get $60m
By AL WILLIAMS - The Timaru Herald Last
Some of Timaru's bigger roading projects are about to receive funding from the Government's $636 million Canterbury land transport package.

South Canterbury will receive nearly $60 million over the next three years toward transport infrastructure.

The New Zealand Transport Agency issued details of the package in its national land transport programme yesterday.

Several proposals were highlighted as key safety projects which would probably receive funding.

State Highway 1 passing lanes between Winchester and Orari have been given the green light, while the the Factory Rd single-lane bridge over the Orari River will get an extra lane.

Work will go ahead on the State Highway 1 intersection with State Highway 8 to Pleasant Point, and funds will be available for upgrades to walking and cycling paths and tracks.

The report briefly outlined plans for work to start on improving access to Timaru's port from 2012.

However, the funding package has been questioned by Timaru District Council district services manager Ashley Harper.

Mr Harper expressed concerns about the reduced allocation for road maintenance within the Timaru District Council's roading boundaries.

He said the local road safety allocation had been reduced by about 30 per cent and he would be seeking clarification on the matter.

Timaru District Mayor Janie Annear said the package was a big win for Canterbury after years of being underfunded.

She attributed the funding allocation to proactive planning on the part of Canterbury's district councils.

Meanwhile, the Waitaki and Waimate communities will have to wait and see if funding will be allocated for a two-lane bridge at Kurow.

NZTA Canterbury regional director Mark Yaxley would not say whether the project would go ahead and if costs and plans had been considered.

He did indicate that construction would start in two to three years if funding was made available.

NZTA chairman Brian Roche said the agency had given top priority to activities which encouraged economic growth, productivity and employment.

Significant increases in the level of funding included:

A 21 per cent increase for public transport ($899 million over the next three years).

A 19 per cent increase for New Zealand's state highway network ($4.5 billion investment over the next three years).

A 4 per cent increase for local roads ($1.9 billion investment over the next three years).

NZTA plans to invest $8.7 billion nationally on roading and transport in the next three years.

Interesting article, doubt anything this good would ever happen anywhere in NZ

Myth bus-ting in Switzerland

The Timaru Herald

On holiday in Europe earlier this year, Environment Canterbury passenger transport strategic planner Shannon Ussher visited Schaffhausen, a small city on the northern border of Switzerland that has achieved big things with its public transport system.

Schaffhausen has a population of around 33,000, similar to Timaru, but the buses carry 13 million passengers every year. This means that up to 40,000 people use the buses every day in Schaffhausen, while the daily patronage is only around 800 in Timaru.

This success has been achieved in Schaffhausen with a relatively small and simple public-transport network. There are only six bus routes, but they operate every 10 minutes throughout the day. The city's central terminus is located beside the railway station, allowing easy interchange between regional and international rail services, regional buses and local buses. Despite the freezing winter weather, there are not a lot of shelters or extravagant infrastructure because the services are so frequent and reliable that passengers know they won't have to wait long.

Although Switzerland is half a world away from New Zealand and there may not seem like any point in comparing the two, there are actually quite a few similarities between Schaffhausen and Timaru. This suggests that we could learn some valuable lessons from the Swiss town and achieve similar levels of success with the Timaru bus network.

First we need to dispel a few myths.

One of the main reasons used to explain the low bus usage in Timaru is that it is a small city that doesn't have enough people to support public transport. This myth is busted in Schaffhausen, which has a similar-sized population but carries more than 50 times as many people on the buses every year.

Another common argument heard across New Zealand is that we simply do not have the population densities to support a strong public-transport network. With our rural background we still like our big sections, unlike the high-rise apartments in European cities. Once again, Schaffhausen proves that this is not always the case. This small city is set in a rural area with many small rural towns nearby, similar to Timaru with nearby Temuka and Pleasant Point. Schaffhausen covers 33 square kilometres and actually has a lower population density than Timaru, which only has an urban area of 23 square kilometres.

Traffic congestion is often thought to be a key factor behind a successful public-transport system. When the roads are busy it can become slow and frustrating to drive a car so more people use public transport to move around. In Timaru, the traffic flows relatively freely, so it is easy and quick to drive. Again, Schaffhausen shows that congestion is not necessary to make public transport successful. It has very little congestion on the roads due to the low population, but people still use public transport. There are bus lanes at some intersections and bus priority at all traffic lights. This is because they want to make the bus as fast and attractive as possible as their transport planner explained: "Stopping at bus stops is slow enough, so you don't want to wait at traffic lights as well."

Ad Feedback Another common myth used to justify our low bus usage is the cultural cliche that Kiwis love their cars too much. It is just part of our culture, unlike many European cities with a strong public-transport history. However, this love of cars is also true in many European countries, where BMWs, Mercedes Benz and Porsches are a common sight. But many people prefer to use car-sharing schemes which give them access to a variety of cars, so they can use a different one for every trip to suit their needs. If they are going shopping, they can select a small car that is easy to park. If they are going on a family holiday they can use a larger, more comfortable vehicle with cruise control and space for the kids.

While it may also be true that public transport is ingrained in the history of some old European cities, Schaffhausen again illustrates that this is not always the case. Like many cities around the world, tram lines were removed during the 1960s and the system has had to be built back up in recent years with buses and trolley buses. There are examples of town squares, surrounded by beautiful old buildings, that were once used as car parks but are now clear, open spaces for the public to enjoy. Schaffhausen experienced a time when the car dominated the city, but its residents made the conscious decision to improve public transport and reduce their reliance on private vehicles.

When petrol prices increased last year it contributed to an increase in public-transport usage and it is often thought that higher petrol prices in Europe force people to use public transport. Again, this is largely a myth. In Switzerland the price of petrol is around 1.60 Swiss francs per litre, which is around NZ$2.20.

Although this is higher than the current price of petrol in New Zealand, it is very comparable when wages and the cost of living are taken into consideration.

It would therefore seem that petrol prices are not driving the success of the public-transport system in Schaffhausen. Fares are reasonable but not as cheap as Timaru, so this does not account for the patronage difference either.

The final excuse we hear in the south is the weather. We may be built tough, but it is too cold to stand around waiting for a bus. However, residents across Switzerland prove that this is not a barrier. In Schaffhausen the average high during their winter (January) is only 1.6 degrees Celsius but patronage on the buses remains strong year round.

With all of these similarities between Schaffhausen and Timaru, why do the buses in Schaffhausen carry so many more people? Up to 250,000 trips are made on Schaffhausen buses every week, which is more than the Timaru Metro buses carry in a whole year. The key is that the six bus routes in Schaffhausen are simple, direct and frequent. This makes them convenient and attractive, so people use them. Limited parking in the inner city makes it more difficult to drive and further encourages public-transport use.

Environment Canterbury and Timaru District Council are now asking the public for feedback on some proposed improvements to the Timaru Metro bus network that will form targets in a new Metro Strategy. The targets are based entirely on public feedback so the councils know they are providing a service that meets the needs of the community.

The first round of public consultation was in April and May this year. That feedback was shaped into 24 proposed improvements, which are now out for the second round of public consultation to find out which ones people think are the most important. This will help prioritise and finalise the targets so a new Metro Strategy can be taken to both councils for adoption in November.

The top five public suggestions from the first round of consultation were:

Review all bus routes to provide faster, direct services into town and an orbiter service which links key attractions around Timaru.

Investigate options for increasing frequency across the Timaru Metro bus network. Consult the public on their preferred frequency and funding options and implement this for a trial period.

Increase operating hours so services start earlier and finish later to suit residents' travel needs.

Investigate the feasibility of operating smaller shuttle buses on some services.

Improve facilities at popular bus stops by installing more bus shelters or seats, particularly at the main central city stops.

Timaru currently has four urban bus routes Gleniti, Grantlea, Marchwiel and South End as well as one school service. Urban services operate every 30 minutes during peak times from 7.30am to 8.30am and 3.30pm to 5.30pm and hourly during the rest of the day and on Saturdays. The weekday services finish about 6pm and Saturday services run from 9am to 5pm. There are currently no Sunday services.

Outside of Timaru, there are four return trips to Temuka on weekdays and a return trip from Twizel to Timaru on Fridays.

This example from Schaffhausen suggests that there could be a very different future for public transport in Timaru if improvements make the services more convenient.

The successes in Schaffhausen have put that small city on the map and the same could be achieved here. Take the opportunity to have your say and help shape the future of public transport in Timaru.

Many, many people in Europe don't have cars, while NZ is blighted with them.

Perhaps that's one reason?

A land swap with DOC has paved the way for a $250 million expansion of Canterbury's Porters Ski Area.

The proposed revamp includes New Zealand's first on-snow village and a gondola.

Porters confirmed it signed a memorandum of agreement to swap 15 hectares next to the Department of Conservation-owned Lord's Bush Scenic Reserve, near Springfield, with 21ha on the ski area's access road.

Porters Ski Area owners say the 15ha square block has a 1.8ha "tongue" of important forest remnants and they plan to spend more than $400,000 over the next decade on ecological restoration.

However, conservationists believe the deal is "inappropriate" and that building an alpine village at the foot of the existing ski area is "the worst example of tourism sprawl in a very special place".

Porters Ski Area managing director Michael Sleigh said expanding the 700ha ski area into the adjoining Crystal Valley and building European-style accommodation for up to 3000 people was essential for the business's survival.

"Without some form of significant development of this kind, Porters is a marginal ski-field."

Blackfish, a consortium of New Zealand and Australian investors, has pumped about $1.2 million into the ski area – which is on a perpetual "ski lease" from DOC – since buying it three years ago.

Sleigh said development consents would be lodged by the end of the year.

Up to 1000 jobs could be created through planning and construction work, as well as permanent and seasonal positions.

Consultant ecologist Vaughan Keesing, of Boffa Miskell, said the addition of the 15ha block would make DOC's Lord's Bush site more viable.

The 50-year vision for the site was reintroducing rimu and totara, creating wetlands and public walkways, and spending up to $439,000 on restoration over 10 years.

DOC Waimakariri area manager Kingsley Timpson said lowland forest was under-represented in Canterbury and, outside of Christchurch's Riccarton Bush, the Lord's Bush area was the next-largest piece available. "We're not seeing a loss of any of that significant landscape. It's a world-renowned ski-field and we're supporting that concept by allowing for appropriate activities to take place on conservation land."

However, Forest & Bird South Island conservation manager Chris Todd said the exchange was "quite inappropriate" and a village did not fit well with the primary purpose of the adjacent conservation land.

He did not think the conservation values at the Lord's Bush site were particularly high.

Conservationist Lesley Shand called the exchange "a major land grab".

The Selwyn District Council anticipated more development between Springfield and Arthur's Pass by putting land aside at Castle Hill, which was not fully developed.

"[Castle Hill is] a far more appropriate village site because there's sewerage there, streets, footpaths, street lighting and an existing community – and it's a mere seven kilometres down the road," she said. "I consider it's [the proposed development] the worst example of tourism sprawl in a very special place."

Christchurch and Canterbury Tourism chief executive Christine Prince said the Porters expansion would cement the South Island as "the place to ski" and enable Canterbury to better compete with Queenstown.

Darfield farmer John Morten, Selwyn district's deputy mayor, said the "ambitious" development would not be possible without a change in attitude by DOC, adding: "I can't see any negatives about the proposal."

The Press

A proposed $250 million skifield development in Canterbury has attracted a high-profile opponent.

Castle Hill Ltd, owned by Auckland businesswoman Christine Fernyhough and her author-photographer husband John Bougen, has objected to a proposed plan change that would enable the Porters Ski Area to expand into Craigieburn's Crystal Valley.

The Porters expansion plan includes a 3500-bed alpine village, hot pools, and a 1.8km gondola ski-lift.

Castle Hill's submission to the Selwyn District Council opposes the plan "in its entirety". It said the development would be "dominantly conspicuous" and the area "does not need another partially completed town".

"Why [do] we need to further pollute the pristine land and skyscapes of the Castle Hill basin to service the fickle overseas tourism market for purely commercial gain, especially where the skifield profits will not be retained in the Selwyn District?" it said. Blackfish, which owns the skifield, is mainly Australian-owned.

Bougen said Castle Hill, the ski area's neighbour, was surprised not to be notified of the plan change.

Blackfish plans to swap 56 hectares near Le Bons Bay on Banks Peninsula for the freehold of almost 200ha in Crystal Valley and near the Porters River to enable the development.

The Department of Conservation, which manages the land, is considering the deal.

Surprisingly Timaru seems to have been missed out on this thread. A major big box retail park on the A & P showgrounds has been given the greenlight which will be around 40,000 sq.m. Timaru is also experiencing a number of store refurbishments down its main street, Stafford Street. There are also a number of retailers keen on setting up shop in Timaru.

DAVID WILLIAMS

http://static2.stuff.co.nz/1282299900/044/4046044.jpg

INVESTMENT TALKS: An artist's impression of a proposed multi-million dollar planned development at Porters Ski Area.

Giving up valuable conservation land for a Canterbury skifield's expansion could undermine the Nature Heritage Fund, the Canterbury Aoraki Conservation Board says.

The board has recommended Conservation Minister Kate Wilkinson reject a proposal to swap 200 hectares of public land in the Craigieburn area in return for 56ha on Banks Peninsula and the partial surrender of the Porters Ski Area lease.

It is suggesting a lease of almost 50 years instead, so the Department of Conservation can maintain public ownership and monitor concession conditions.

Australian company Blackfish Ltd wants to spend $250 million developing Porters, and plans include a 3500-bed alpine village and gondola ski-lift.

It says the land in the neighbouring Crystal Valley needs to be freeholded so it can finance the development.

However, the board said the valley was high-value public conservation land bought by the government-funded Nature Heritage Fund for protection, after a compelling case from the Department of Conservation.

"To accept Blackfish's proposal could be seen as challenging the raison d'etre and activities of the Nature Heritage Fund," the board's recommendation said.

"The fund's ongoing ability to be guided by robust, defensible principles could be compromised and the department's relationship with the fund undermined."

If sold, a continuous line of parks created by previous heritage fund purchases, which flank the Waimakariri basin and extend to the Southern Alps, would be broken, the board said.

Board chairman Steve Lowndes said its land committee, which sent the recommendation, thought the development was a "damn good idea".

However, freeholding was a step too far.

"Our desire isn't to kill the proposal at all."

A DOC ecological report said Crystal Valley was "largely as it would have been in pre-human times" and a consultant report for Blackfish called it "virtually pristine".

However, even under a lease the company might be able to build infrastructure, such as a dam, access road, gondolas, ski-lifts and make slope changes to a third of Crystal Basin.

Lowndes said the board was concerned about threats to conservation values but said it was "trying to avoid being naysayers and purists".

Blackfish's Michael Sleigh said the recommendation did not seem to reflect the view of the entire board.

"There are various things we don't agree with in that report and we'll come to that in due course," he said.Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism chief executive Tim Hunter said extending Porters ski terrain was "pretty important" and accommodation at the field would be attractive to Australian skiers.

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Forest & Bird Canterbury/West Coast field officer Jen Miller said the board's recommendation was an "appropriate response".

- The Press

Would be great but dont see it happening

Rail link proposal for city

A Timaru-Christchurch passenger train service has been mooted in the wake of the February 22 earthquake.

Christchurch's earthquake has left many people uncertain about their future and Aoraki Development Business and Tourism has received reports that up to 30 businesses have decided to relocate to Timaru, for periods ranging from three months to the long term.

ADBT chief executive Wendy Smith said the organisation was discussing how to accommodate a possible increase in Timaru's population as a result of the earthquakes. She said one proposal was a commuter train which could run from Timaru to Christchurch.

"It was raised at a recent think-tank, and we haven't really progressed beyond the idea, but it's certainly something in the mix," Mrs Smith said.

"Nothing's been fleshed out, but we're developing a `five-point' plan in the wake of the Christchurch earthquakes, and one aspect we're exploring is communication and infrastructure."

It has been nearly a decade since Timaru last had a passenger train service. In 2002, the Government canned the 32-year-old Southerner passenger express train service, which ran from Christchurch to Invercargill, after a Ministry of Economic Development feasibility study found it wanting.

KiwiRail Tranz Scenic manager Tom Evers-Swindell said before the organisation could even consider a project such as a Timaru to Christchurch service, there were a number of factors which had to be taken into account.

"Once the situation in Christchurch is more certain and our existing Tranz Scenic South Island operations more settled we would be happy to discuss new passenger transport initiatives. We would need to carry out a feasibility study for any proposed service," he said.

Mr Evers-Swindell said it would also have to consider the distance from Timaru to Christchurch, and whether there was appropriate rolling stock available.

"At 160km, the train would have to share the largely single track line with freight. Travel time is likely to be around three hours each way," he said.

Ad Feedback - The Timaru Herald

1. 30 businesse have relocated, thats pretty big for Timaru.
2. 3 hours for a 160km dead straight train journey, thats an average speed of 53km/hour, this guy for real or are NZ trains really that slow, I was thinking 1 hour to 1 and half hours, either way too long a commute for Canterbians who use to 30min max.

I'd honestly like to see the Southerner reinstated (and more people to use it, I know I would), this could be a step in that direction...but likely not. I hope this does go ahead and price feasible, would be a good indicator of SI rail demand.

$20m plan for salmon production

http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/4798402/20m-plan-for-salmon-production

Hydro Grand Hotel demolition bid

The owners of Timaru's Hydro Grand Hotel have applied for consents to demolish the category two historic building and build a multi-storey hotel on the site.

But the two applications had been sent back to the owners for more information, district planner Peter Kloosterman confirmed yesterday.

Mr Kloosterman said the information provided was deficient in areas including the type of materials and finishes to be used in the new hotel.

That happened several weeks ago and no further information had been received. Mr Kloosterman said the application had been prepared by a Christchurch consultancy and he was unaware whether or not it was operating at this stage.

The Hydro Grand is in the Commercial 1A (Timaru) zone, where the demolition of any building visible from a street frontage and the construction of any building along a street frontage are discretionary activities.

Mr Kloosterman said a decision on whether the applications would be treated as notified or non-notified would be made once all the information required by the council was supplied.

The plans provided for the hotel and apartment complex were very similar to those that the site owner, Grand Piazza, had previously made public.

Grand Piazza spokesman Sid McAuley declined to comment on the applications.

Eighteen months ago the company said it planned to have a $60 million hotel and apartment complex built by 2012.

Grand Piazza bought the 956sqm hotel in April 2003 and closed it six months later. It reopened the following year for six months, as a replacement venue for the Richard Pearse Tavern, which had been damaged by fire.

The company subsequently bought the two adjoining properties.

In August 2009 it announced plans for the hotel and apartment complex. The company's vision was to build a first-class 100-room hotel on six floors by 2012, subject to the project gaining the necessary consents.

The plans incorporated a separate six-level apartment block with the bottom two levels providing 24 apartments linked to the hotel.

The top four floors would include 22 top-class residential apartments.

The hotel would have rooms from standard to executive as well as an underground parking for at least 100 vehicles.

Included in the complex would be a function centre and meeting rooms for 250 people.

Last week Timaru District councillor Terry Kennedy, speaking as a resident and ratepayer, suggested the Hydro Grand be demolished to make way for a public green space. The suggestion has drawn mixed responses, with a number of letters to The Herald critical but some also in support.

- The Timaru Herald

^^ Brilliant - I hope that it will go ahead. Timaru is a great place to launch off and explore the middle area of the South Island. It is in easy access of Christchurch (I do hope that a proper motorway will be built one day between the two). I could see the place becoming a weekend break and conference centre :banana::banana:

Had to happen I guess, someone has to step in and slow/stop massive progress. And motorway between the two would be fantastic, its a pretty good strip at the moment but still room for improvement.

Trust eager to save Hydro

Part of the Hydro Grand Hotel should be retained and incorporated into any new development on the site, the New Zealand Historic Places Trust believes.

The owners of the category II building, Grand Piazza, have gone to the Timaru District Council seeking approval to demolish the building and build a hotel-apartment complex on the hotel site and two adjoining properties the company owns.

Historic Places Trust southern region general manager Malcolm Duff said the trust had talked to the owners about ways to develop the property while retaining its heritage fabric.

"As an affected party to any consent application to alter or demolish the building, the NZHPT would advocate for partial retention that allows for a substantial new build on the site."

Aspects of the "heritage fabric" of an old building which can be incorporated into a new development can include part of the old building's facade, or replicating the "adornments" of the old in the new. The public should be able to look at the new development and still recognise the historic building.

The Hydro Grand is in the Commercial 1A (Timaru) zone, where the demolition of any building visible from a street frontage and the construction of any building along a street frontage, are discretionary activities under the district plan.

The council has sent the applications to demolish the building and the resource consent to build the new hotel, back to the company as there was insufficient information for council staff to proceed on.

The Hydro Grand's category II listing on the NZHPT's register reflected its significance as part of New Zealand's historical and cultural heritage, Mr Duff explained.

Registration does not provide any direct protection to a building, nor does it place any direct legal obligations on the owner.

Mr Duff said the 1912 building's location overlooking Caroline Bay gave it a very prominent position in Timaru's streetscape.

He said the trust offered free architectural, heritage and planning advice to all owners on how best to retain, improve and maintain their heritage properties.

The trust has advocated nationally for the strengthening of earthquake prone buildings to ensure public safety and the retention, where possible, of heritage.

An example of a heritage building that has been redeveloped for new commercial uses is the former Bank of New Zealand building on a corner of Lambton Quay in Wellington. The bank was built in 1901 in an Edwardian Baroque style. Its three floors have been restored and converted into retail and office space.

In Dunedin, both the railway station and the Savoy Building on the main street have been converted. The railway station houses a cafe, art space, the Sports Hall of Fame and office space. The Savoy Building is now used for office and retail purposes.

- The Timaru Herald

Fonterra to pour $250m into Darfield (http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/farming/5222508/Fonterra-to-pour-250m-into-Darfield)

Keep it coming

@ Metroman, this is how I want you to post your links .......

Ngai Tahu's legacy set to grow (http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/christchurch-earthquake-2011/5223148/Ngai-Tahus-legacy-set-to-grow)

Copy and paste the article content too :)

Fonterra to pour $250m into Darfield (http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/farming/5222508/Fonterra-to-pour-250m-into-Darfield)

^just gonna pip Edendale as the biggest eh. That's pretty damn big.

"At 160km, the train would have to share the largely single track line with freight. Travel time is likely to be around three hours each way," he said.

2. 3 hours for a 160km dead straight train journey, thats an average speed of 53km/hour, this guy for real or are NZ trains really that slow, I was thinking 1 hour to 1 and half hours, either way too long a commute for Canterbians who use to 30min max.


Commuter trains from Timaru are a pipe dream - I could see it being feasible between Chch and Ashburton in the medium term.

While the run is flat and straight, this doesn't mean the train can run at 130km/hr average - Firstly, the train has to stop and start to pick up passengers. Secondly, it's a single track line shared with freight services. Yes, passing loops can be made to allow passing of oncoming trains but getting the timing right is a huge mission because all you need is a 'slightly delayed freight train' by say 10 minutes and that means a oncoming passenger service would have that same wait at a loop. But you also have to worry about passing slower trains going in the same direction.

The comparison is that I drive from Rolleston to Christchurch every day - It's 25km from home to work and the speed limit is 100km/hr for half of the trip and 60km/hr for much of the rest with a little bit of 50km/hr. My calculation is that the trip should take a total of about 19 minutes. But in practise, even if I get a comparatively good clear run at off-peak times, the quickest I can do it is about 25 min due to traffic lights etc.

Copy and paste the article content too :)



^just gonna pip Edendale as the biggest eh. That's pretty damn big.

It is and along with some other developments, make commuter rail more likely and feasible.

Such great news, Canterbury really should be the most productive dairy in NZ with its abundance of flat land from the Canterbury Plains and McKenzie Basin, water to be irrigated from the Southern Alps, rail networks and two ports, bring it on Fonterra.

Commuter rail to Darfield? This ain't Switzerland, yet.

I think it will always be held back a bit by lack of water. Not a fan of irrigation, look what it's done to the Mackenzie country.

It is and along with some other developments, make commuter rail more likely and feasible.

Commuter rail to Darfield? You're kidding!

I think it will always be held back a bit by lack of water. Not a fan of irrigation, look what it's done to the Mackenzie country.

Yeah it needs some work, but I think the right management can prove to achieve great results, but there must be enough snow landing on the Southern Alps to provide for the Canterbury Plains and Mckenzie Basin.

A lot of money, no idea what the real end result is?

It's time for an upgrade
Converter transformers unloaded

Two converter transformers destined for Benmore substation have been unloaded at the Port of Timaru.

Transpower spokeswoman Adele Fitzpatrick said the transformers were unloaded successfully and would stay in secured storage until the substation building was prepared and equipment to install them arrived from Wellington.

Two more converters were due to arrive in Timaru next month, she said.

"Separate shipments were planned as a risk mitigation measure."

The transformers are an essential part of the HVDC Pole 3 project, which is updating the link between the North and South islands.

The Pole 3 project is being built to replace ageing Pole 1 equipment. Each transformer weighs 240 tonnes when transported and 330 tonnes when operating. Benmore will have four, one of which will be a spare.

The estimated cost of the Pole 3 project is $672 million.

http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/5275866/Its-time-for-an-upgrade

Boom, been longtime since something like this in Timaru

Patiti Point home to new beachside subdivision

A new subdivision is planned for Patiti Point.

Timaru real estate agent Peter Stray, who is behind the development, said nine sections would be ready for sale later this year.

"They will be on the market in six months, once the services are in.

"At this stage it is going to be called Patiti Beach subdivision. It will be one of the last opportunities to buy a section so close to the sea.

"You can see right along the beach and back up to the mountains."

The Patiti Beach trust purchased the site after Betts Funeral Service was unsuccessful in getting a resource consent to build a tribute centre there.

"There was actually already a resource consent in place for a residential development when we purchased the land," he said.

© Fairfax NZ News

http://www.odt.co.nz/news/farming/202359/agri-business-park-planned-ashburtonA

Motel expansion reflects confidence in Timaru upturn

A renewed faith in South Canterbury has led a Timaru motelier to invest $1.5million in expanding his premises.

Lynnton Brooker, owner of the Cedar Motor Lodge in Timaru, now intends to go ahead with earlier plans to build a complex alongside his existing 15 units in King St.

He will start stage one of a three-level building that will house 10 four-star units.

"Even though there is a recession, there is confidence in Timaru."

Mr Brooker said his existing older premises had achieved good occupancy rates for some time and he believed it was worth taking the risk to be ready for when the turnaround came.

"There's quite a bit going on. With more irrigation there will be more dairying and the Asian markets cannot get enough of our timber."

Mr Brooker said he had noticed many firms were again putting "reps" out on the road as business improved.

The King St development follows work that is already under way by the Winter Trust to build a 16-unit motel complex and manager's accommodation on the corner of Beverley Rd and Evans St. The 16 units will be in a three-storey building and include 19 car-parking spaces.

The Evans St/Beverley Rd complex received council approval in mid-2009 with work starting late last year.

© Fairfax NZ News

Dairy records smashed

The great milking season had by Canterbury dairy farmers has seen records tumble at Fonterra's Clandeboye factory.

At yesterday's inaugural public open day, operations manager Steve McKnight said the factory has had its longest milk collection season since it has been in operation.

The factory is usually scheduled to take its last milk at the end of May. This season this has been pushed out to mid-June, he said.

The factory was running 15 per cent above its forecast and the high output was purely a result of the outstanding season Canterbury farmers have had.

"At the moment we have 7.6 million litres coming into the site today and that's probably the same amount we would have had on March 19 last year," Mr McKnight said.

This is enough milk to fill three Olympic-sized swimming pools.

He targeted June 15 as the date for shutting down the plant for receiving milk and switching to its off-season maintenance.

Yesterday's open day was attended by more than 3000 people and was hugely successful with crowds still streaming in after midday and tours of the factory taking place throughout the day.

The day was held because the company was aware of the connection the factory had with the South Canterbury community.

Many people knew people who worked at the factory or supplied the site, Fonterra's South Island regional operations manager Robert Spurway said.

It was also a record-breaking production season for the factory.

Mr McKnight had heard of 32 new consents being granted for new dairy farms in Mid-Canterbury for next season. In Central Canterbury, there will be about 60 new dairy farms.

"While we are still getting those sorts of conversion rates from arable to dairy, we are going to see the growth."

Clandeboye's dryer 3 also set a new production record for November of 19,529 tonnes, up 3 per cent on the previous record of 18,875 tonnes, set in November 2010.

"The team's managed to get 26.6 tonnes per hour from the dryer last month," Mr McKnight said.

"This is testament to their skill and expertise because it was only designed to produce 24.8 tonnes."

The site's peak milk day for this season was on October 14 when 13,289 million litres of milk were processed, the most in the factory's 102-year history.

© Fairfax NZ News

Salmon firm to expand

Mt Cook Alpine Salmon is looking at Washdyke as a possible site for its new processing plant.

Chief executive Geoff Matthews confirmed the company was doing due diligence on a couple of sites, as it looks to expand operations. The two sites were an existing processing plant in Christchurch and a new site in Washdyke.

"This is a major undertaking. A new factory in South Canterbury could bring up to 80 new jobs," he said.

The company had spent the last nine months going through its options, Mr Matthews said.

"We are still doing the homework, but we will need to make the decision by the end of next month, with a view to getting the first stage of the plant operational before Christmas."

Mr Matthews said the site would process wet fish, and have an added-value plant alongside it.

Mt Cook Alpine Salmon was established in the 1990s, with the encouragement of the canal owners and founding company Southern Sockeye Salmon, and is in the middle of a $20 million expansion.

Over the last year, the company has increased its production rate at its farm in the Upper Waitaki hydro canals to 400 tonnes per year, and is in the process of building more rafts to take extra capacity. It exports its high-grade salmon to the United States twice a week.

"We already employ more than 30 people at Twizel. That number will double over the next two years, but there is simply not enough room to grow much more there. Which is a conundrum, but a positive one. We're one of the biggest employers in the Mackenzie District."

Mr Matthews said once a new site was selected, consents would be sought.

Timaru mayor Janie Annear had heard about the company's interest in a plant at Washdyke, but said it was "early days yet".

© Fairfax NZ News

Main ingredient pours into pools
1.1 million litres of water goes in

It took as much water as all Temuka homes use in a day, but the main pool at Timaru's new CBay Aquatic Centre is now full.

In what district services manager Ashley Harper described as another milestone for the project, the water was turned on late on Thursday, and 20 hours later the 25-square-metre pool was full.

The main pool holds about 1.1 million litres of water, about 4 per cent of the water used in Timaru each day.

Mr Harper said that in spite of the large quantity of water involved, it had not affected other consumers.

By the time the leisure and programme pools are full, an estimated 1.4 million litres of water will have been used.

While the pools have all been filled once previously to check for water-tightness, yesterday's fill marked the start of the real McCoy, with the water being pumped in now, being filtered, treated and heated ready for swimmers. It will take about five days of heating for the main pool to reach its 27 degrees Celsius operating temperature.

Electricity is the primary heating source, with woodchip boilers being used for boost heating. A team of plumbers will move on site this week to fit out the changing facilities in the gym and pool areas.

About half the floor coverings in the gym area are now in place as the list of work to be completed continues to reduce.

The contractors need to complete the complex by June 30 but council staff expect to have access to the complex several weeks before then.

A swimming meet is planned for late June as a test run.

Mr Harper said dates for a public open day were still to be set.

It was planned to have the complex open for several months before an official opening was held.

http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/6821456/Main-ingredient-pours-into-pools

© Fairfax NZ News

Great proof the regions are going strong, in this case Timaru

Growth in jobs, trade hailed

Business and employment growth in the Timaru district has been well above the national average for the last five years, with growth forecast to continue.

A survey of 66 local authorities by Business & Economic Research Ltd (Berl) ranked Timaru 22nd in 2011, up six places on 2010.

The survey looked at economic indicators, including population, gross domestic product (GDP), business numbers, employment, and export potential. Berl also looked at the past five years, with Timaru 13th for business growth and 24th for employment growth.

The figures were proof of the region's importance to the New Zealand economy, Mayor Janie Annear said.

"For the cities to thrive, our rural areas must thrive. I think that has not always generally been a well-understood principle."

While the population figures were steady, the impact of the Christchurch earthquakes on the district's population would not be known until the next census.

"I guess our population growth has always been steady and hasn't declined, as has been predicted in the past. We have steadily bucked the population predictions that we would be in decline."

Mrs Annear said the district's high placing was no surprise, as Canterbury was increasingly becoming New Zealand's "food-producing bowl".

"I think also what is happening in this community is we are getting a lot of value being added on to our produce."

Examples included a new flour mill planned by Timaru company Grainstor, Juice Products NZ's juicing factory, and the additional processing of pelts by New Zealand Light Leathers.

"I think the good thing about our growth is it has always been steady and I think that steady growth will continue. It certainly has been predicted by economists that our GDP is going to be, if not ahead of New Zealand, at least in line with New Zealand.

"We are in a good position to continue that growth."

She said water continued to be the region's key to growth.

The Berl results were similar to research commissioned by Aoraki Development, Business and Tourism, which showed the district in a good light, chief executive Wendy Smith said.

That research benchmarked Timaru against Marlborough, Ashburton, Whangarei, Whanganui, and Invercargill, with Timaru coming out on top based on results for both the last five and 10 years.

Mrs Smith said there were plenty of signs the positive results of recent years were continuing.

http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/6975332/Growth-in-jobs-trade-hailed
© Fairfax NZ News

I came up with this idea some time ago, would be fantastic. I think Timaru and South Canterbury is where ice hockey first started in NZ, not sure about figure skating. Also not sure if the venue would make it suitable but still good to see the idea floating about.

Support for ice rink
Turn Century Pool into an indoor ice-skating rink.

That is Timaru woman Linda Collett's suggestion, and the submission she is making to the Timaru District's long term plan.

In her submission, she mentions visitors to the town, especially young people, telling her Timaru is "boring".

"I would like to suggest that the old Century Pool be converted to an indoor ice-skating rink where young people can go, be physically engaged, and challenged, as well as a safe social environment."

She suggested evening skating could provide a recreational activity, or the facility could be used for competitive skating.

Another submitter suggested Century Pool be retained by the council to provide "training fitness [and] recreational sport for all ages".

It suggests more revenue could be made by extending opening hours, such as an adults session on Saturday morning.

Community groups interested in converting Century Pool to another use have been given an extension. Originally, they had until today to register with the council and provide plandetails.

However, the council has extended the deadline by eight days.

South Canterbury GymSports and the Celtic Sports Club have previously indicated an interest.

http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/7019245/Support-for-ice-rink
© Fairfax NZ News

Milestone at Rangitata

A big milestone has been marked at the massive Rangitata South Irrigation Scheme at Arundel with the completion of earthworks.

Waimate businessman Gary Rooney has bank-rolled the $82million scheme, which is the country's biggest purpose-built storage facility for irrigation.

It is the biggest earthmoving project in the South Island since the 1970s Think Big power project and is bigger than the Lake Opuha-based irrigation scheme.

Mr Rooney's company, Rooney Earthmoving, which has designed and built the project and supplied 50 staff, has shifted more than 4million cubic metres of fill on the south bank of the Rangitata River.

The Arundel-based scheme is on 300 hectares and when completed will irrigate 16,000 hectares of land between the Rangitata and Orari rivers, with a start expected early next year.

The seven storage ponds will harvest floodwater from the Rangitata when flows exceed 110 cubic metres per second (cumecs) and the ponds' capacity will be 16.5 million cubic metres of water.

Water abstraction, filling and emptying of storage ponds and water supply to the race network, will be operated by a state-of-the-art automated, wireless telemetry control system, with 20 hydraulic gates and 70 kilometres of open races in three separate strands.

The next step is the lining and armouring of the ponds.

Mr Rooney has also started a Redruth-based recycling business that will likely supply lining for the ponds.

Rangitata South Irrigation Scheme chairman Ian Morten said it was great that it had become a reality and they were looking forward to the first flow of water.

There had been a very good uptake from farmers wanting to be part of the scheme with about 40 involved.

"It's going to give them reliability of production which they have not had for years."

Mr Morten said while the scheme idea had evolved over 14 or more years, Mr Rooney and his wife, Adrienne, were the key components.

"They have been absolutely crucial or else we may have still be talking about it."

Farmers supplied with water will have the option to purchase shares for up to a year after the scheme comes on line.

© Fairfax NZ News
http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/7033321/Milestone-at-Rangitata

New firm to run Chathams link

Timaru's shipping link with the Chatham Islands has been secured with a new company formed to operate the service.

Black Robin Freighters, which has run the link for 10 years, went into receivership late in 2010 partly through the collapse of South Canterbury Finance and partly because surveys failed to pick up a substantial list of faults in a replacement vessel the company bought.

The faults were so bad they led the company to default on a loan to SCF and the vessel, the Jaguar, was cut up for scrap.

Black Robin Freighters was established by Timaru man Kelvyn Leslie, who was retained by the receivers to keep the service running while they attempted to sell the company as a going concern.

He has now formed a new company called South East Shipping which has bought the assets of Black Robin Freighters.

The Chathams trade has been estimated to be worth around $12 millon to businesses in Timaru and employs 18 people.

Mr Leslie said it had been a long and difficult process and issues over the purchase of another vessel and its undetected problems were unconnected to the Chathams service.

He said the Rangatira was still a good ship for the service and it was now "onwards and upwards".

© Fairfax NZ News
http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/7033323/New-firm-to-run-Chathams-link

House prices up by 6.3 per cent

House prices up by 6.3 per cent

Timaru's housing market is tracking well above the national average with a 6 per cent increase during the past 12 months.

Figures from Quotable Value (QV) show Timaru's average house sale price has grown by 6.3 per cent in the 12 months to May.

The average sale price for the past three months was $249,142.

The average property value growth across New Zealand for the past 12 months was up 3.9 per cent. The national average sale price is $411,788.

Nationwide values rose 1 per cent during the past three months, but still 2 per cent below the market peak of late 2007.

Mackenzie houses have an average sale price of $241,397 – up 4 per cent on 12 months ago.

Waimate jumped 3.1 per cent to $171,545, and Waitaki, 2.6 per cent to $207,981.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/7092279/House-prices-up-by-6-3-per-cent

http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/7874996/Race-to-irrigate-behind-ECan-move

The regions are still growing

Economy gets traction

Agriculture helps provinces lead way

South Canterbury's economy has kicked off the year in a strong position, buoyed by the agricultural sector.

Statistics for the end of 2012 show positive growth in commercial, passenger car and tractor registrations, and a $20 million increase in building work in Timaru alone.

Eftpos figures show increased spending, and nearly 10 million kilograms more milk solids was produced than in 2011.

Unemployment has tracked downward as the buoyant economy soaks up job seekers.

South Canterbury Chamber of Commerce chairman Tony Howey said the drop in unemployment was the ultimate telltale sign the economy was doing well.

"There is a good level of confidence out there, in part because of the agricultural and commercial sectors.

"The pessimism that surrounded the dairy payout has lifted as the forecast was revised upward.

"Even the weather getting back to a traditional Canterbury summer has had a positive impact," he said.

Latest statistics from the Motor Trade Association (MTA) show Timaru bucked the national trend with a 46 per cent increase in commercial vehicle registrations from 242 vehicles in 2011, jumping to 353 last year when the national increase was only 16 per cent.

New passenger car registrations increased 29 per cent, against a national average of 20 per cent.

MTA spokesman Ian Stronach said Timaru reflected what other provincial areas were experiencing.

"This is something we saw in several other provincial areas - the real growth seems to have come from places like Timaru, Invercargill and Palmerston North," he said.

"This is a reflection of the flow-through of good confidence from the surrounding agricultural and associated supply businesses," Mr Stronach said.

Building has taken off in South Canterbury with 1104 new buildings and alterations carried out last year, compared with 969 in 2011. The overall value of the work was $128m last year, $15m more than the $113m 2011's building work was valued at.

South Canterbury tractor dealer Paul Wilkins said statistics from the Tractor and Machinery Association, showed there had been an 18.3 per cent increase since 2011 in retail sales of tractors over 20 horsepower (15 kilowatts) in South Canterbury.

The dairy industry had seen a lot of amalgamations, sheep and beef farmers had capitalised on last season's good returns by replacing worn out tractors, and arable farmers were also buying larger tractors over 300 horsepower (220kW) to replace smaller machinery because of higher incomes, he said.
"Compared to everywhere else in the country, South Canterbury's doing particularly well. There seems to me to be a lot of money wooshing around at the moment in all of the sectors," he said.

http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/8165531/Economy-gets-traction

Timaru's economy booming

Timaru's economy has grown at nearly twice the national average, with 4.4 per cent growth.

Latest statistics sourced by Aoraki Development Business and Tourism (ADBT) show the local economy grew 4.4 per cent in the year till March 2012, compared with New Zealand's economy at 2.3 per cent.

ADBT chief executive Wendy Smith said the results reflected the confidence in the region.

"These results concur [with] and back up other statistics we have been receiving. Confidence in the business community is strong, based on the back of a well-performing and diverse agricultural sector with added-value processing."

ADBT commissions regular economic reports to check district performance and help with further analysis and business investment. The report, prepared by Infometrics, showed Timaru's economy has grown by an average 3.2 per cent a year over the last decade, putting the district 13th of 66 territorial authorities in New Zealand.

"This information provides further confidence in the market and confirms that South Canterbury is faring extremely well with strong growth in Gross Domestic Product (GDP)."

The report showed manufacturing was responsible for 25.4 per cent of the GDP, with agriculture second at 13 per cent. Retailing accounted for six per cent and construction provided 3.9 per cent.

South Canterbury Chamber of Commerce chairman Tony Howey said manufacturing would include the processing raw materials from agriculture such as Clandeboye.

"I had the pleasure of escorting the Governor-General around the room at a business function this week and the general theme was one of confidence from business owners, with the exception of retailers.

"As a region we are very much reliant on the primary industry."

Federated Farmers South Canterbury president Ivon Hurst said growth was on the back of a strong farming sector.

"Last March through to August sheep prices took off enormously. Dairy prices have been good, if we didn't have dairy we wouldn't have the affluence in the economy."

On-farm income had a multiplier of three to four times once it worked its way through the economy, he said: "This financial year could be a completely different story with sheep prices low. High sheep prices last year helped halt the number of conversions to dairy."

http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/8342054/Timarus-economy-booming

Death knell for CBD?

Timaru property owners could face $211 million in bills and the whole district an annual rate increase of 2 per cent for five years, if the Government's proposed rules governing earthquake-prone buildings become law.

A shocked Mayor Janie Annear predicts the proposals could be "absolutely devastating" for the district.

Ten South Island councils combined to look at what would happen if the Government goes ahead with shorter time-frames for earthquake-prone buildings to be assessed and strengthened, and greater accountabilities and costs on local authorities.

The councils believe as many as 22,600 rural and urban buildings from Timaru south may need assessment under the proposal, with upwards of 7440 requiring demolition or strengthening.

While Timaru faces the biggest bill among the local councils, the Waimate District Council expects 140 buildings will need to be assessed, at a cost of $1.4m, and Mackenzie has 130 buildings and an estimated assessment bill of $700,000.

In Timaru the assessments would cost the council $3.6m, and require a 2 per cent increase in rates for five years.

"I was shocked," Mrs Annear said.

"I don't believe ratepayers could afford that."

The methodology for carrying out the assessments was still unknown.

"This is the single biggest issue [facing the council] for many, many years.

"It could be absolutely devastating for the central business district and small towns. I am not sure the Government realised the potential impact," she said.

Provincial New Zealand would be hardest hit by the proposed changes, as towns like Timaru had 34 per cent more buildings that required assessment than larger centres with more modern structures.

If the proposals became law, the district could lose its historic buildings. She said the mix of old and new was very important to this community.

"There is a risk we would lose the central business district. There could be scattered ribbon development throughout the district."

The ramifications were huge socially, historically and economically.

"At the rate the Government is suggesting, it is unaffordable. The figures show it. It is very, very clear what the impact could be.

"We are coming out of a recession and we cannot afford not to keep going forward. But where is the money going to come from? Who is going to pay?"

In the meantime Mrs Annear said the safety of many of the buildings could be quickly and cheaply improved if work were done on parapets and verandas.

"We need to remember one person in a million is killed in an earthquake; one in 10,000 is killed in a car."

http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/8342057/Death-knell-for-CBD