30 October 2023
Media: Local Democracy Reporter
Topic: Beppu visits
Enquiry
I was wondering if someone could please tell me the last time an elected member visited [RLC sister city in Japan] Beppu? I see in the business case Wuzhong was 2017 but don't see the last time for Beppu.
Response
The reporter was told the last elected member to visit Beppu was former Mayor Steve Chadwick in 2014 and 2016 to foster good relations and support spa/tourism opportunities.
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Media: Rotorua Daily Post
Topic: Old mall entrance roof near Ngongotaha roundabout
Enquiry
I am currently writing a story on the Rotorua Old Mall entrance roof which is on the side of the road near Ngongotaha and State Highway 5. This is thought to be owned by Pukeroa Oruawhata Trust.
I was wondering if you could please answer the following questions:
- Rotorua resident Owen Campbell said it was creating an "eyesore" for the town and cleaning up the area would be positive for Rotorua's tourism and clean image. What is your response to this?
- Does the Rotorua Lakes Council believe the roof and building need to be removed from its current place?
NOTE: The reporter said she had checked in with Pukeroa Oruawhata Trust who were unsure who owned the land
Response
It was explained to the reporter that the structure belongs to Pukeroa Oruawhata Trust and questions should be directed to them and that RLC had no comment to make at this point-in-time. Mayor Tapsell’s Office also responded to the reporter saying due to the structure being on private land she wouldn’t make comment at this stage but would reconsider if the reporter heard back from the land owner.