Mayoral column January 2023

I hope everyone is enjoying the days here and there when it actually feels like summer this year! I have managed to get out on the boat a few times over the break and spent plenty of time with the grandkids as well.

The new year is well underway and the councillors and I already have full calendars of events and meetings over the next 12 months – it is going to be a very busy year. You may have read about the new committee structure, and I’d like to thank the councillors who have stepped into new roles chairing those committees or attending joint governance meetings with a huge range of other agencies. You are welcome at most of the public parts of these meetings or you can watch us on livestream. If you would like to speak, there is an opportunity to do so at the start of council meetings (please let us know if you would like to a few days in advance so we make sure we set aside time and space for you).

We held our first citizenship ceremony for a couple of years this week and it was an honour to welcome seven new citizens who have chosen to bring their unique skills and perspectives to our district. We are very lucky to have you all.

Arts Ōpōtiki have an exhibition currently open called “Sandy’s Showdown”. I have heard really good things about it and hope to get along before it closes this weekend. I encourage everyone else to do so as well.

I have also had a great time attending some of the events being run by the hard-working i-SITE team. I particularly enjoyed the beach dig with my grandson and I understand the Coastie Beach Dig was also really well attended. There are still some events to come, including of course the popular Lantern Festival. We are spoilt to have these amazing events on our doorstep, so support them, have fun and make the most of the rest of summer.

David Moore, Ōpōtiki Mayor