10 February 2023
Media: Rotorua Daily Post
Topic: Rotorua getting NRL All Stars games
Enquiry
I'm doing a story on how Rotorua scored the coup to get the NRL games to Rotorua.
I have much of the info from JD at Aotearoa NZ Maori Rugby League and from a council press release that came out in July last year.
I understand from JD there was a lot of great work done by the council's former sport development manager Steve Watene, current deputy chief executive Anaru Pewhairangi and his team and Te Arawa representatives.
Two areas were shortlisted and the council and iwi delegates put together a proposal including a range of submissions, which was eventually successful.
I have quotes still from Tania's speech I haven't yet used and will include in this story but would Tania please be able to send a quote or two for me on the following? (It might be the council itself answers the second two questions, but I'm in your hands if that's something she will respond to or if it has to come from council).
- Is this perfect timing given the city is starting to get into better shape to be back on the word stage after a difficult 2-3 years?
- What has been the financial investment from the council?
- Has there been an economic impact study done on what it could potentially mean for Rotorua?
Subsequent from reporter:
apologies, stand down on question 3! Just seen this in the council press statement from last year.
The economic impact from the match is expected to generate around $4 million in revenue, and will attract both national and international visitors to Rotorua.
Response
Mayor Tapsell provided the following response:
”Hosting the NRL Harvey Norman All Stars matches gives us a chance to showcase Rotorua on the international stage once again, while supporting indigenous players. This event brings a much needed boost of excitement after a challenging 3 years for Rotorua. We warmly welcome visitors who will also be providing welcome support for local businesses.”
RLC provided the following information:
Re financial investment from council:
From DCE wellbeing Anaru Pewhairangi:
We will have that information once we have completed a full reconciliation taking into account all final costs and revenue and that happens after an event has concluded.
There are a number of benefits from investing in an event like this including reinvigorating Rotorua and creating a legacy that is relevant to our Māori culture and it’s also about the economic benefits for local businesses and rebuilding the event sector in the post Covid era. There’s also a longer term view taken when it comes to high profile events because of the exposure they bring to Rotorua – this event, for example, is being broadcast to more than 110 countries so the benefits of big events are both immediate and longer term and about benefit to Rotorua as a whole.
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Media: NZME (Rotorua Daily Post and BOP Times)
Topic: Council submissions policy
Enquiry
I'm seeking a response from the council in regards to a press release from the Free Speech Union. I'm sure you'll already be familiar with this but if not, I've included a copy of it below.
Fyi, we are aware of the mayor's interview with Mike Hosking this morning in which she's already responded to the concerns raised below, and which we will be reporting on, but we would like to offer to the opportunity to add anything further.
In particular:
- the threat of legal action:
- the references to there being a 'clear violation of the speech rights of submitters'; and there being a breach of the Bill of Rights Act, and the decision being aimed at 'suppressing submissions the council simply doesn't want to hear'
Rotorua Lakes Council votes to silence submitters with censorious submissions policy
The Rotorua Lakes Council voted yesterday, without public consultation, to progress a policy to “remove from consideration” public submissions if they are deemed “offensive”, “discriminatory” or “irrelevant”. This represents a clear violation of the speech rights of submitters to this Council, and a breach of the Bill of Rights Act says Jonathan Ayling, Chief Executive of the Free Speech Union.
‘When this policy was presented to the Councillors yesterday, it was initially sold as abridging language such as swear words, or clearly vexatious submissions. Yet the true effect of the policy was immediately betrayed with discussion on it capturing “hate speech”.
‘Empty gestures were made about protecting freedom of speech. Yet, as the policy was described as “running a filter over things” it is clearly aimed at suppressing submissions the Council simply does want to hear. The debate on the policy was truly disappointing, revealing the contempt some of the Councillors had for the public submissions process. Councillor Trevor Maxwell incredibly remarked “you sit there and go "how did this get through."
‘Particularly insulting (and ironic) is the fact that the policy was put to Council without any consultation with either the public, or even elected representatives. Concerns were raised about the perception of this policy and the reputational risk it poses to the Council. Such concerns are entirely justified.
'Kiwis have the right to be heard by their representatives and to raise concerns with their elected representatives on matters of policy. Representatives have an obligation to hear these concerns, even when the representatives believe the views expressed, or the manner in which they are expressed, are offensive or derogatory.
'This policy, where certain submissions are screened and disregarded due to such content, is inconsistent with the role of local government representatives. We are preparing legal filings against the Council in this issue.'
ENDS
Response
Mayor Tapsell provided the following response:
Re threat of legal action:
If legal action is to eventuate, Council will respond as appropriate.
Re claim that policy is aimed at 'suppressing submissions the council simply doesn't want to hear':
This is simply untrue. This policy has already been legally reviewed, prior to adoption, and there are no issues.
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Media: NZME (Rotorua Daily Post and BOP Times)
Topic Cyclone Gabrielle preparedness
Enquiry
Checking in to see if the council would be able to work on something to get back to us before midday tomorrow if possible or early afternoon regarding Cyclone Gabrielle.
We're looking to run a "news you can use" article that explains how locals can prepare either as our lead or on the likes of A3 on Saturday ahead of the severe weather's arrival on Monday and Tuesday.
I was hoping the council might have some details about what preparations are under way for next week, any specific instructions for locals to look after themselves and their properties, and any other information or messaging around this event you might like to provide.
Response
Reporter was provided with link to Council’s weather update on the RLC website HERE - content at this link is as follows:
Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle is expected to affect parts of the North Island from Sunday 12 February.
While there are currently no weather warnings or watches in place for Rotorua, Bay of Plenty Emergency Management have said it is anticipated that as the track of the cyclone becomes clearer, warnings will be issued for the Bay of Plenty.
Rotorua Lakes Council’s DCE Environmental & Infrastructure Solutions, Stavros Michael, says council is preparing regardless and encourages residents to do the same.
“Our three waters and transport staff and contractors are monitoring the developing forecasts and making the usual preparations ahead of potentially significant weather events.
“This includes checking critical stormwater inlets to make sure they are clear, ensuring wastewater treatment storage ponds are as empty as possible and plant systems (including back-up provisions) are operating.
“Our Civil Defence and Emergency Management team are keeping watch on the situation and are ready to respond if needed.
“People should remain alert to the weather forecast and can keep an eye on Council’s website and social media channels for updates,” says Mr Michael.
During heavy rain and/or strong winds people are advised to avoid driving if possible due to increased hazards on the roads such as flooding, slips, debris and fallen trees.
Due to recent heavy and consistent rainfall, another weather event is likely to result in slips due to the already saturated ground. If we do experience severe weather and travel is required, drivers should take extra care on roads.
Residents who live near waterways should be vigilant about water levels and be prepared to evacuate if the need should arise. Council will be available to assist with evacuation if needed.
Swimming should be avoided for at least 48 hours after heavy rain to avoid illnesses caused by contamination from rural and urban run-off into waterways.
Council staff and contractors endeavour to check as much as they can prior to weather events and we welcome information from the public alerting us to anything that may cause issues. Jobs can be lodged by phoning Council’s 24/7 Customer Centre on 07 348 4199.
If Rotorua is impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle, council contractors and staff will work hard to respond to issues and will prioritise jobs in terms of risk to public safety.
We'll keep you posted, but in the meantime it doesn't hurt to be prepared. Here are some tips to help prepare for a possible weather event:
- Keep an eye on the weather forecast (visit Metservice and BOP Civil Defence for info)
- Clear gutters and drains around the house
- Ensure outdoor furniture is secure in case of severe winds
- Check your insurance is up to date
- Plan ahead for any trips
- Have an emergency preparedness plan and ensure everyone in your household is aware of what to do in an emergency.
Bay of Plenty Emergency Management have also provided the following advice about staying safe during the cyclone:
- Close windows, external and internal doors. Pull curtains and drapes over unprotected glass areas to prevent injury from shattered or flying glass.
- Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary. Surface flooding, restricted visibility and slips are possible during severe weather.
- Avoid recreational activities on or near the water, as storm conditions can cause turbulent and unsafe waters, and coastal inundation is expected.
Unplug small appliances that may be affected by electrical power surges, as power cuts are possible in severe weather. If power is lost, unplug major appliances to reduce the power surge and possible damage when power is restored.