Ōrākei celebrates success

From saving open spaces to funding meaningful events for locals, Ōrākei Local Board looks back at a few of the things it has accomplished for our community so far this electoral term.

A key part of the board's responsibilities is looking after parks and community facilities. In the past 18 months the soccer field and amenities at Michaels Avenue Reserve were brought up to the latest international professional standards to host Argentina for the Women's FIFA World Cup, the playground in Crossfield Reserve has been upgraded, and a new mural by artist Hana Maihi was commissioned and created at Little Rangitoto Reserve.

Little Rangitoto Reserve. Mural artist: Hana Maihi

The board is thrilled that Tagalad Reserve in Mission Bay has been saved from being sold by council and returned to the local board's governance eight years after its initial closure.

"This achievement has taken much time, effort, and persistence not only from the board, but the residents association and community as well," says Ōrākei Local Board chair, Scott Milne.

"We couldn't have done it without you!"

After the flooding and storm events in early 2023, some of our parks and reserves got hit hard and required extensive clean up and remediation work.

St Johns Bush track is one example of a pathway that was damaged during the severe weather events, requiring works to refill and reform the track including new retaining structures and a renewed boardwalk.

Additional culverts and bigger pipes have been installed to facilitate faster drainage. The work was completed on time and on budget in May 2024, creating a better walking experience for locals.

"Keeping parks and reserves safe and in good condition for users is one of the local board's priorities," says Scott.

"We've already received positive feedback from the community describing their excitement that it's now fit to use in all seasons."

Last year St Heliers Library reopened in its original heritage building after the completion of seismic strengthening and restoration work.

This year it's Remuera Library's turn, with works starting in July 2024 which are scheduled to take approximately 12 months. Remuera Library will temporarily find a home at the Somervell Presbyterian Church while the works take place.

St Heliers Library.

Giving the community more chances to come together and enjoy our parks and public places, the board has hosted a Movies in Parks event each summer at Vellenoweth Green in St Heliers and partnered with Akarana Marine Sports Charitable Trust to put on Splash Landing.

The inaugural Splash Landing event took place in March 2024 at The Landing on Tāmaki Drive as part of the Moana Festival, showcasing what this waterfront park has to offer with safe access to the sea for families to play and learn.

Other key events this term include the annual St Heliers Anzac Parade and Service, and our biannual staples: the Ōrākei Local Board Business Awards (November 2023) and the Ōrākei Local Board Enviro Forum (May 2024).

Splash Landing, March 2024.

Local businesses are the heart of our community, and the Business Awards provides a chance to recognise and celebrate their achievements.

Community organisations and volunteers are crucial to the protection and restoration of the area's natural environment, and the board acknowledges and encourages this through the Enviro Forum - an educational networking event for local environmental groups and individuals.

Scott assures locals there is still plenty of work to be done:

"We're not stopping there; we've got big plans for the rest of the electoral term."

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