Stadium: a conversation

(tonight at What if?)

Anonymous:
Ask Harlene: how well-developed is the university plan to acquire the stadium? As in “take it off your hands no trouble Guv” as opposed to buy it for book value. Just asking.

Elizabeth:
Ask the winkler Stuart McLauchlan.

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

DCC: New audit and risk subcommittee a little too late !!

Dunedin City Council – Media Release
Audit and Risk Subcommittee Appointment Made

This item was published on 26 Feb 2014

The Dunedin City Council has appointed the first of two independent members to its new Audit and Risk Subcommittee. Susie Johnstone, who is managing partner of accounting firm Shand Thomson, Balclutha, has been appointed by the Council as Subcommittee Chair.

Mayor of Dunedin Dave Cull says Mrs Johnstone has a great deal of experience leading audit and risk committees across a range of public sector entities. “We are very fortunate to have someone of Mrs Johnstone’s calibre on the Subcommittee. Her skills, attributes and knowledge will be of huge benefit to the Subcommittee’s work.”

Mrs Johnstone is Deputy Chair of the Otago Polytechnic Council and a director of REANNZ, which is responsible for the provision of an advanced high capacity internet service to the New Zealand research and education communities. She is a Fellow of the New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants and a member of its Governance Committee. She has also served on the boards of Tourism New Zealand, the Southland, Otago and Southern District Health Boards, the New Zealand Blood Service and the New Zealand Hockey Federation.

Mrs Johnstone says, “I am looking forward to working with Council and am supportive of their increasing focus on the governance aspects of audit and risk. These matters tend to fly below the radar until something doesn’t go so well so the Council is to be commended for taking the initiative in this area.”

The Audit and Risk Subcommittee has been set up to provide the Council with a degree of comfort that risk is being managed appropriately within the organisation. The Subcommittee’s responsibilities include risk management and internal control and it will oversee governance policies in areas such as conflict of interest, insurance, procurement, risk, fraud, and health and safety. It will also include oversight of the Annual Report.

The Subcommittee will report directly to the Council.

At this stage, the Subcommittee members are Mrs Johnstone, Cr Richard Thomson, Cr Hilary Calvert and Deputy Mayor Chris Staynes. The Council will shortly publicly advertise for a second independent member.

Contact Mayor of Dunedin on 03 477 4000.

DCC Link

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

Hotel: Rosemary McQueen on consent decision LUC 2012-212 (41 Wharf St)

41 Wharf Street, Dunedin (DCC WebMap)

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Copy supplied.
Also published at Otago Daily Times (page 17).

### ODT Online Wed, 26 Feb 2014
Opinion
Hotel decision was legal, not political
By Rosemary McQueen
Two related misapprehensions run through nearly all the comment on the application to build a 27-storey residential building in the industrial zone.

The first is that the reason the development was rejected was that a minority of noisy nay-sayers objected to the proposal. Yet, had 500 supporters put in submissions and only 4 or 5 naysayers, the decision would have been the same. The decision was not made on the basis of counting heads (though no doubt the planners were gratified that the District Plan’s provisions were so whole-heartedly supported by the populace) but on the basis of law. The developers want to build their accommodation block in an industrial area. Residential activity is specifically excluded from this area and only allowed at the discretion of the court hearing the application. Discretionary treatment can only be accorded if the effects of the variation to what is allowed are minor and the general intention accords with the aims and objectives of the district plan. The applicants’ arguments to this effect were rejected at law – not by counting heads. Until that decision is found to be wrong, or those aspects of the proposal change, it can not proceed.

There is also a view that the the city council could and should have found a way of overturning – or at least of getting round – the planning committee’s decision. This is a misapprehension because the decision is a legal one that can only be overturned by a higher court and the council is not a court. The negotiations that have been taking place have been around trying to find a site and design that complies with the city’s district plan and the developers’ needs. By describing the setback to the development as “red tape” the ODT implied that the development’s lack of progress since being rejected by the planning committee is caused by overweening bureaucracy. But Ms Song has made clear that the site and design are not negotiable. How can the lack of progress be the fault of red tape when the impediment is so clearly the developers’ intransigence, despite having had their application for that site and design turned down because it doesn’t meet the law?

By insisting the proposal is non-negotiable during their discussion with the city, the developers appear to believe that overturning the planning decision is on the discussion’s agenda and within the council’s power. Instead of dismissing any such suggestion, the ODT and the Chamber of Commerce have encouraged them in the view that the council can change or flout the law in order to allow the development to go ahead. Fostering these misapprehensions has led to unnecessary division in the city. It’s time to stop accusing bureaucrats and antis of holding up progress and start explaining why changes to our built environment are not effected by political whim, but are, and need to be, conducted by rule of law that has undergone full democratic process.

ODT Link

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Related Posts and Comments:
14.2.14 Hotel: The height of arrogance
25.6.13 Hotel/Apartment Tower decision to be appealed

For more, enter *hotel* in the search box at right.

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

Stadium costs, read uncapped multimillion-dollar LOSSES

Forsyth Barr Stadium critic Russell Garbutt, of Clyde, is not surprised by reports of looming stadium losses.

### ODT Online Wed, 26 Feb 2014
Opinion
Stadium costs predictable, so why the surprise now?
By Russell Garbutt
The ongoing revelations on stadium losses detailed today (ODT, 21.2.14) come as no surprise to anyone who has closely followed this debacle from when the Otago Rugby Football Union first gathered the Carisbrook working party together until now, when a succession of different managers, directors and councillors are all realising that what was promised is as chalk is to cheese.
While not directly specified in the article, the turnaround of an expected $10,000 profit to a $1,400,000 loss in 2014-15 is in the operational budget, and it seems Sir John Hansen, chairman of DVML, is putting most of the blame for this truly stupendous reversal of fortunes down to costs of running the stadium.

While ratepayers continue to face annual injections of over $9 million into the stadium, this is by no means the real figure.

The ”realities” of the real costs of running the stadium are now being recognised, it seems. But let us all just remember a few things that occurred when the stadium was being proposed and then built.
Read more

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Related Posts and Comments:
11.2.14 Stadium: ‘Business case for DVML temporary seating purchase’
24.1.14 Stadium: It came to pass . . .
20.12.13 DVML: No harassment policy or complaints procedure, really?
3.12.13 DVML issues and rankles [Burden’s reply]
30.11.13 DVML in disarray
18.11.13 DVML: Burden heads to Christchurch #EntirelyPredictable
12.10.13 DVML works media/DCC to spend more ratepayer money
4.10.13 DVML . . . | ‘Make the stadium work’ losses continue
20.8.13 DVML foists invoices on DCC
20.6.13 Stadium: DVML, DVL miserable losers! #grandtheftdebt

For more, enter *dvml* or *stadium* into the search box at right.

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

Carisbrook Stadium Trust: ‘Facts about the new Stadium’ (31.5.08)

Image: The Marketing Bureau

### dunedintv.co.nz February 24, 2014 – 7:16pm
Stadium proud of numbers despite opposition and projected losses
The Forsyth Barr Stadium is crowing over numbers through its gates, as the DCC debates a projected $1.4m loss for the facility.
Meanwhile, a stadium opponent is calling for reports from 2008 she says backed claims the stadium would run at a profit.
Ch39 Video

24 February 2014
Reports tabled at the meeting of the Dunedin City Council:

█ Report – Council – 24/02/2014 (PDF, 566.6 KB)
DVL Financials for the Six Months Ended 31 December 2013

█ Report – Council – 24/02/2014 (PDF, 638.8 KB)
DVML Financials for the Six Months Ended 31 December 2013

█ Report – Council – 24/02/2014 (PDF, 47.8 KB)
Statements of Intent – DCHL Group Plus DVL and DVML

█ Report – Council – 24/02/2014 (PDF, 276.4 KB)
Statements of Intent – Dunedin Venues Ltd

█ Report – Council – 24/02/2014 (PDF, 284.1 KB)
Statements of Intent – Dunedin Venues Management Ltd

Other reports

****

Media Release
Bev Butler
Monday 24 February 2014

TIME FOR SOME PLAIN, HONEST ANSWERS

Dunedin ratepayers are being informed by Sir John Hansen, Chairman of both Dunedin Venues Management Ltd and Dunedin Venues Ltd, that the projected $10,000 operating profit forecast for 2014-15 is now forecast to be a $1,400,000 loss, with similar or even greater losses forecast in future years. He puts this staggering reversal in fortunes down to the reality of costs of running the stadium, and few events occurring at the stadium.

But even these revelations don’t tell the full story of this stadium debacle and financial scandal.

Accompanying the annual injection of well over $9 million to run the stadium, are all of the costs of servicing the debt to build the stadium. Because these costs reside within DVL, they are not reported on in the DVML forecasts.

However some very basic questions remain unanswered.

Readers of the Otago Daily Times will recall a full-page advertisement placed by the Carisbrook Stadium Trust on the 31st of May, 2008, at the time the stadium project was being considered. Headed up “The Facts about the new Stadium”, it said: “The stadium will be profitable. The funding target establishes a debt free stadium. On this basis the business plan for the stadium shows that it makes a profit. Unlike nearly all other Council owned facilities it will not need annual funding support. This assessment has been confirmed by two of New Zealand’s leading accountancy firms.”

These statements are unequivocal and cannot be misinterpreted.

Bev Butler has, for over a year, had an official request in to Mr Malcolm Farry, Chair of the Carisbrook Stadium Trust, to supply the names of those two leading accountancy firms and for the documentation supporting the validity of the claims to build a debt-free stadium and for it to run at an annual profit. Mr Farry has so far failed to deliver that information as required under the requirements of the LGOIMA.

“Mr Farry leaves me no choice but to submit an urgent complaint to the Office of the Ombudsman. There is no reason whatsoever why Mr Farry shouldn’t supply this information, if it exists. Mr Farry has breached the requirement under LGOIMA to supply this information,” said Bev Butler.

How much notice was taken by members of the public and those Councillors and others who were considering whether it made sense to build a new stadium? Perhaps hard to assess. But surely it must not be too hard for Mr Malcolm Farry to reveal to Dunedin ratepayers just how it was that they would have a debt-free stadium and an annual profit instead of a stadium that is millions in debt and costing ratepayers further millions in its staggering operational losses.

[ends]

[click to enlarge]

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Related Posts and Comments:
22.2.14 Carisbrook Stadium Trust costs
2.2.14 Stadium: ODT editorial (1.2.14) —Garbutt debunks myths
1.2.14 Stadium: ODT editorial (1.2.14) —“Palpable claptrap” says Oaten
27.1.14 Stadium: No 4 at interest.co.nz
24.1.14 Stadium: It came to pass . . .

For more, enter *cst*, *carisbrook stadium charitable trust*, *carisbrook stadium trust*, or *dvml* in the search box at left.

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

Earthquake-prone Buildings Amendment Bill

The proposed amendment bill raises significant concerns about the maintenance of current building stock, the character and identity of towns and cities, and the economic and financial wellbeing of provincial councils and their communities. More than 7000 buildings south of Timaru would require upgrading, at a cost of $1.77 billion over a 15-year period.

### ODT Online Mon, 24 Feb 2014
Councils aghast changes could cost billions
By Andrew Ashton
South Island councils are expected to offer a ”united front” in opposing new Government building regulations that could cost councils billions of dollars to implement.
Last year the Waitaki District Council joined the Dunedin and Invercargill city councils and the Central Otago, Clutha, Gore, Mackenzie, Southland, Timaru and Waimate district councils to present a joint submission on a discussion paper detailing proposed changes to the way earthquake-prone buildings are managed.
Read more

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

*Image: Town Halls and auxillary functions (clockwise from top left) Invercargill, Dunedin, Timaru and Oamaru – posterised by whatifdunedin

Mayor Cull ‘handshakes’ Hodgson

Taxpayers’ Union executive director Jordan Williams questioned whether the Auditor General should be involved. “No wonder this council has a history of financial troubles, they’re running it like a cake stall.”

### Sunday Star-Times Sun, 23 Feb 2014
Mayor Cull defends deal (page A9)
By Hamish Rutherford
Dunedin mayor Dave Cull is defending a “gentleman’s” agreement which saw a former MP paid $3400 for lobbying following a handshake deal. Documents released under the Official Information Act reveal that former Dunedin North MP Pete Hodgson was paid by the council to lobby the Government not to strip core functions of Ag Research Limited from Invermay, near Dunedin.
The council said the main point of contact for the deal with Hodgson was Cull, but could not locate a single email, contract or any other document relating to the agreement. […] “Mr Hodgson did not provide any reports relating to his services,” governance support officer Grace Ockwell said.
See article for more.

[click to enlarge]

█ The Taxpayers’ Union broke the story, read their media release (24.2.14), and later they blogged it.

Related Post and Comments (today):
12.9.13 Dunedin community v government-led centralisation

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

*Images: pocketbook.co.uk – handshake; en.wikipedia.org – Dave Cull, Pete Hodgson (re-imaged by whatifdunedin)

Carisbrook Stadium Trust costs

A 2009 cashflow report suggested the total trust and administration costs for CST for the project should be $3.7 million, but in the end they were $5.4 million. (PricewaterhouseCoopers)

### ODT Online Sat, 22 Feb 2014
Council payments to trust queried
By Debbie Porteous
A stadium opponent has questioned a series of historic administration cost payments from the Dunedin City Council to the trust in charge of the Forsyth Barr Stadium’s development. Bev Butler says it remains unclear what exactly the payments to the Carisbrook Stadium Trust (CST)*, mostly labelled ”trust costs”, were for. The payments, ranging from $40,000 to $80,000 a month, were made between 2007 and 2011.
Read more

*Properly known as the Carisbrook Stadium Charitable Trust (CSCT)

Related Post and Comments:
24.1.14 Stadium: It came to pass . . .

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[back file]
### ODT Online Mon, 12 May 2008
Stadium Trust heads to regions
By Hamish McNeilly
Representatives from the Carisbrook Stadium Trust will venture south this week, hoping to persuade people to not only support the project – but also pay for some of the Awatea St stadium. Trust chairman Malcolm Farry said the tour would be an opportunity to discuss the project and detail some of the packages available. Read more

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

*Image: scene.co.nz – Malcolm Farry (re-imaged by whatifdunedin)

National-led government rejects state sector reform

● The Trusts Charitable Foundation (TTCF Inc) ● The Trusts Community Foundation Ltd (TTCF Ltd) ● Otago Rugby Football Union (ORFU) ● Professional Rugby ● Centre of Excellence for Amateur Sport ● Harness Racing ● Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) ● Gambling Commission ● Pokies ● Rorts ● Organised Crime ● Serious Fraud ● Political Interference

On the subjects of RUGBY and POKIE TRUSTS (with respect to evolving evidence of organised white collar crime and serious fraud), we note the very troubling lack of accountability and transparency demonstrated by the top brass of Department of Internal Affairs, Serious Fraud Office, Office of the Auditor-General, Office of the Ombudsmen, and New Zealand Police. And indeed government ministers who, practised in the art of political interference, obfuscation and worse, see themselves as entirely above the law.

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### radionz.co.nz 23 February 2014
Radio New Zealand National
Sunday Morning with Richard Langston
http://www.radionz.co.nz/sunday

8:12 Insight: The Public Service – will it survive reforms?
In the last month, the Prime Minister and the Finance Minister have both confirmed that the drive under the “Better Public Services” banner will continue. The programme is one of the government’s four priorities and includes a cap on core administrative positions. The State Services Commission say the key to doing more with less lies in productivity, innovation, and increased agility to provide services. But, as Philippa Tolley has been finding out, others say public servants are now too wary to offer free and frank advice and that their democratic role is being undermined.
Audio | Download: Ogg   MP3 (27:51)

****

“The system needs to be overhauled. New Zealand’s got a lot of serious problems that it’s going to have to face up to in the future and those problems require the best-quality governance that we can possibly have – and the public service is a vital part of that.”

### radionz.co.nz Updated at 9:45 am today
RNZ News
‘Total overhaul’ of state sector sought
The former prime minister Sir Geoffrey Palmer is calling for a royal commission of inquiry into the public sector, saying it needs a complete overhaul. Sir Geoffrey says many departments and ministries do not cooperate with one another and lack the capacity to be effective. He says morale in the public sector is low, and too little attention is given to the appointment of chief executives.
Sir Geoffrey says a royal commission is needed to establish some clear principles for the public service to adhere to.
Read more

[Audio] http://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/morningreport/audio/2586376/former-pm-calls-for-overhaul-of-public-sector

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

DCC bylaws (good governance?)

LONG LIVE CITY SKATEBOARDING

### ODT Online
Wed, 19 Feb 2014
Board bylaw reviewed
By Debbie Porteous
Having the ability to confiscate skateboards in the inner city would be ”extremely useful”, Dunedin police say.
City councillors seem set to recommend that the power to confiscate boards from people riding in prohibited areas in the central city be added to a reviewed skateboarding bylaw.
Read more

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Worthy comment at ODT Online:

Where’s the problem?
Submitted by Challispoint on Wed, 19/02/2014 – 9:59am.
Sometimes I really wonder at the focus of our Dunedin City Council. With all the major issues and challenges they are facing they have decided to focus on . . . . skateboarding. After two days of public hearings (attended by four groups I understand) the staff are recommending that the current by-law be strengthened to allow “recreational vehicles” to be confiscated and the owner fined $100 if caught riding their scooter or skateboard in the central city area, the Gardens or St Clair.
Read more

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Related comments at another thread…
https://dunedinstadium.wordpress.com/2014/02/15/university-of-otago-starter-questions-for-harlene/#comment-45578
https://dunedinstadium.wordpress.com/2014/02/15/university-of-otago-starter-questions-for-harlene/#comment-45585
https://dunedinstadium.wordpress.com/2014/02/15/university-of-otago-starter-questions-for-harlene/#comment-45586

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

*Image: schidt.com – skateboarder adds shape to Dunedin streets
re-imaged by whatifdunedin

Mayor of Dunedin issues apology

Remember this:

[Interviewed by 3News before the elections in October] Mr Cull says he’s quietly confident he’ll get another term in office, and isn’t worried about his eight rivals. “Six of them have no public office experience, and the other two that do have a pretty shonky record at public office experience. You know, extreme, nutty policies.”

[screenshot] Mayor Cull (3News 7.10.13) — read and view the item here.

——————–

Correspondence received from Lee Vandervis
Tuesday, 18 February 2014 7:47 p.m.
Subject: FW: Letter from the Mayor

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On 17/02/14 5:44 PM, Vivienne Harvey wrote:

Regards

Vivienne

Vivienne Harvey
PA to the Chief Executive Officer
Dunedin City Council

Letter by Attachment (PDF, 24.3 KB): SC2200115514021715260[2]

——————–

On 17/02/2014, at 9:33 pm, Lee Vandervis wrote:

Re: Letter from the Mayor
Dear Mayor Cull,

Thank you for your apology which I appreciate and assume Cr. Calvert will appreciate also.
Looking forward to Cr. Calvert’s confirmation that we can all put this behind us.

Kind regards,
Lee

On 17/02/14 10:24 PM, Hilary Calvert wrote:

Looks like an apology to me.
Hasn’t offence got a ‘c’?

[ends]

Related Post and Comments:
1.11.13 Council appointments (rumbles)

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

Oil and gas: Supply base competition

Southland Chamber of Commerce v Otago Chamber of Commerce

Is it just me, or does the Southland Chamber of Commerce sound more professional and well-thought than our local chamber’s (non value-added) offhand patter ??? Why would we think that.

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### ODT Online Mon, 17 Feb 2014
Case for the base
The Otago Daily Times asked the chambers of commerce in both Otago and Southland to provide 10 reasons why their city should win the bid as Anadarko’s support base. Anadarko drill ship Noble Bob Douglas has begun test drilling 65km off the coast of the Otago Peninsula. The search for gas and oil has millions of dollars worth of potential for the city – either Dunedin or Invercargill – chosen as the support base.
Read more

And the winner is . . . (on paper) the far far south.
Lots of knowhow, space and capacity at Bluff, Southland

****

Mike Dickison (@adzebill) tweeted at 7:50 AM on Mon, Feb 17, 2014:
Ooh, I’m in a stoush with the head of NZ Oil and Gas over whether petrol’s made of dinosaurs. [with newspaper link]

### Herald Online 6:25 AM Monday Feb 17, 2014 8 comments
Oil/gas show queried
By Staff Reporter – Wanganui Chronical –
The use of dinosaurs to promote an oil industry roadshow is a “cynical ploy”, says a curator at Whanganui Regional Museum.
The roadshow What Lives Down Under is touring South Taranaki and Wanganui to explain the work of New Zealand Gas & Oil, Beach Energy and Tag Oil. It has a large dinosaur on the side of the roadshow big truck and the image is used in the promotional material.
The museum’s curator of natural history, Mike Dickison, says dinosaurs have nothing to do with oil. “It was not an educational show at all but is entirely funded by the gas and oil industry to convince kids that drilling is safe and cool.” The roadshow website linked oil and dinosaurs saying “the gas in your family’s car might have been a dinosaur”, which Dr Dickison said was incorrect.
Read more

Photo: Bevan Conley

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Related Posts and Comments:
21.1.14 Jints, this one’s forya
13.1.14 Taking to water like a duck on oil
9.4.13 Dunedin: Future service town to Shell? #realitycheck
24.9.12 Stadium Councillors back coastal oil exploration
13.4.10 Dunedin – an oil base?
18.3.10 Dunedin harbourside for oil base?
26.2.10 Latest on Dunedin’s offshore oil and gas prospects

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

Corruption: US mirror to ministerial meddling in DIA business

● The Trusts Charitable Foundation (TTCF Inc) ● The Trusts Community Foundation Ltd (TTCF Ltd) ● Otago Rugby Football Union (ORFU) ● Professional Rugby ● Centre of Excellence for Amateur Sport ● Harness Racing ● Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) ● Gambling Commission ● Pokies ● Rorts ● Organised Crime ● Serious Fraud ● Political Interference

Published on 13 Feb 2014. The800meters.

Bloomfield Police Chief Position is not for Sale
James Behre, Acting Police Chief in Bloomfield, New Jersey stands up to town council and Mayor regarding political interference. This video is an excerpt from the Town Council meeting on February 10, 2014.

Two days later Bloomfield councilman Carlos Bernard is placed on Administrative leave…

The wider story: Bloomfield councilman asking acting police chief to trade favours to secure appointment as top cop (via NJ.Com)

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Close to Home
What would this United States police chief say about the least corrupt country in the world? A country where a Minister of Parliament, Peter Dunne, contacts the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) about a pokie trust (TTCF) with which he has had a long association, right at the time that DIA holds evidence sufficient for the head of that regulatory body to suggest the immediate proposal to cancel TTCF’s Gambling Operators Licence.

Would the police chief be concerned that Racing Clubs, the Otago Rugby Football Union (ORFU) and its intermediary, the Centre of Excellence for Amateur Sport, have never been investigated which would result in criminal prosecution and the potential to seek the return of nearly $7 million dollars of community funds from illegal arrangements with TTCF.

Corruption is the abuse of entrusted power for private gain. It hurts everyone whose life, livelihood or happiness depends on the integrity of people in a position of authority.

For more information, enter *dia*, *dunne*, *ttcf*, *orfu*, or *pokies* in the search box at right.

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

University of Otago: Starter questions for Harlene

Updating . . .

Anonymous is asking questions of University of Otago Vice-Chancellor Harlene Hayne, and threatening to make this a weekly feature. What if? happily and loosely accommodates regular questions so long as they’re narly.

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There’s the big question about university sponsorship of the Highlanders. Understandably, this leads to questions for our bluestocking about her appropriateness or not for the role of vice-chancellor, turning on research, teaching and funding priorities, marketing, and decision-making processes within the local ivy league.

Who is Harlene Hayne?
She is a psychology researcher by training, and her work has focused on field memory development in infants, children, adolescents and adults. Prof Hayne was born in Oklahoma, raised in Colorado, and earned degrees at Colorado College and Rutgers University. She was recruited to the University of Otago after doing a postdoctoral fellowship at Princeton University. With a decade of teaching at Otago under her belt, Prof Hayne recently assumed the University’s Vice-Chancellorship. She is the first woman selected to lead the institution in its 142-year history. Outside the University, she sits on the Innovation Board of the Ministry of Science and Innovation, and serves as co-chair of the Prime Minister’s Science Advisory Committee Working Party on Reducing Social and Psychological Morbidity during Adolescence.

University Announcement: Professor Harlene Hayne to lead Otago and becomes first woman Vice-Chancellor of New Zealand’s first university. Link

Channel 9 (now Ch39) February 10, 2011 – 7:21pm
Prof Harlene Hayne is both excited and passionate about the prospect of her new role as Vice-Chancellor. She talks candidly about her hopes and aspirations for the future. Video

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Anonymous
February 11, 2014 at 5:14 pm
Ask Harlene about senior managers from University Union getting tickets/trips to All Blacks tests and whether or not Frucor still makes loyalty payments.

Anonymous
February 15, 2014 at 11:57 am
Ask Harlene, 15/2/2014 (this will be a weekly feature)
How many staff are being made redundant from Marketing and Communications? What are the proposed retrenchments in the current year? Have any staff been threatened with termination for non-performance on medical grounds?

Anonymous
February 16, 2014 at 6:53 pm
Ask Harlene, 16/2/2014
Do you approve?
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10152222730813139

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2014 Orientation Hyde Street Fire. Video by Critic – Te Arohi 15.2.14
[screenshots by whatifdunedin]

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

*Image: Harlene Hayne with longer hair… re-imaged by whatifdunedin

DCC: Broadband AND bicycles #fraudband speed

Contentious McPravda | ‘Cull, Vandervis censured over feud’ —read Rob Hamlin on the front page headline and story appearing at ODT today. Link

Video link received Friday, 14 February 2014 at 2:33 a.m.

Subject: Broadband AND bicycles
Comment: Yes, it’s possible to have the best of all worlds, almost.

ClarkeAndDawe Published 11 Apr 2013

A Very Smooth Presentation
“Malcolm Turnbull and Tony Abbott release the Opposition Broadband policy” Originally aired on ABC TV: 11/04/2013

Discussing the cheaper alternative to Fibre to the Premises (FttP), known as BttP or Bicycle to the Premises.

ABCTV: For 25 years John Clarke and Bryan Dawe have broadcast a weekly interview in which prominent figures speak about matters of public importance. John pretends to be someone he isn’t pretending to be and Bryan behaves with grace under pressure. The interviews are broadcast on ABCTV on Thursday nights and are available online here, on mrjohnclarke.com and on YouTube. They are also available by prescription at selected retail outlets.

http://www.twitter.com/mrjohnclarke
http://www.facebook.com/ClarkeAndDawe

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More Clarke and Dawe at What if? Dunedin:
29.12.13 Clarke and Dawe —November/December 2013
17.11.13 Cull, MacTavish: (to borrow a phrase) “Have you fixed the debt crisis?”
9.11.13 Quiz on politics

Related Posts and Comments:
9.10.14 DCC’s Daaave at university bollard, in his twilight
14.1.14 DCC: Hospital area parking changes #cyclelanes
24.12.13 Daaave’s $47 million Christmas present to Jinty. We’re paying.
29.10.13 DCC (EDU) invents new job! [GigatownDunedin]

For more on cycle lanes, enter *cycle* in the search box at right.

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

Hotel: The height of arrogance

Don’t care how much you’ve spent on slapping Dunedin’s face, chook.
GO AWAY —give your ‘Swarovski crystal’ to some other place.

Bored housewife syndrome:
If you’ve spent a million already your consultants are out of control.

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### ODT Online Fri, 14 Feb 2014
Harbour hotel now ‘a long shot’
By Chris Morris
The woman behind the plan to build a $100 million waterfront hotel in Dunedin says the proposal is now “a long shot”. Betterways Advisory Ltd director Jing Song, of Queenstown, told the Otago Daily Times she was frustrated by the delays and cost involved, after spending more than $1 million so far on pursuing the project at 41 Wharf St.
Read more

DEPLORABLY, Mayor Cull has held several meetings with the developers in Auckland “to try to advance the project”. The Mayor deliberately mixes HIS politics with a resource management matter, SHAME.

*Mr Rodgers is Mr Cull’s personal solicitor.

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Related Post and Comments:
25.6.13 Hotel/Apartment Tower decision to be appealed

For more, enter *hotel* in the search box at right.

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

DCC: Growth v development contributions

Worth a read —Whaleoil link received from Anonymous
Tuesday, 11 February 2014 8:11 p.m.

### whaleoil.co.nz February 10, 2014
Why do Property Developers hate development contributions?
By Cameron Slater
A property developer writes:
“Lately Developers and Councils have been busy preparing submissions on the proposed changes to the Local Government Act relating to development contributions. There are many issues. Firstly, the issue with charging developers for improvements that have nothing to do with growth.
(1) Hiding the real cost apportionment and charging developers for improvements that [have] nothing to do with new development growth:
When developing up capital works and budgeting the Annual Plan councils develop formula and apportion some of the costs to ‘growth’ – which is then charged to developers. Councils argue that as cities grow and intensify – the costs of that growth include replacing or improving infrastructure. Hence they want new developments to pay for it.
Developers take issue however with the amount of money required from them to pay for the infrastructure improvements not that they have to pay for their share of growth. As such the argument is about whether the right pro-rata apportionment is applied.
Obfuscating the debate is that all Councils must replace infrastructure as it ages and is due for replacement. Additionally, most Councils are in recent times adopting new development standards that increase the capacity of assets and they improve assets as technology advances.
Replacing assets is supposed to occur from a built sinking fund that is generated over the life span of an infrastructure asset. Council receive money over the lifespan in cash as depreciation as part of rates. Over time, and subject to annual revaluation each asset builds up a depreciation sinking fund that should be sufficient to replace it. Developers are concerned that Councils spend that money through internal loans to OPEX and other creative accounting and then hope to use ‘growth’ as a mechanism for replacing the assets. A psuedo ponzi scheme with ratepayers the duped investors.”
Read more

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DCC: Development Contributions Policy
Development contributions are charges paid by property developers to meet the increased demand for infrastructure resulting from growth.
The Council is proposing some significant changes to its Development Contributions Policy.
In April 2011, the Council released a Statement of Proposal to adopt a Draft Revised Development Contributions Policy (the Draft Policy). The proposal included a schedule of charges which could apply if the Draft Policy was adopted. Submissions on the Draft Policy closed in July 2011 and were followed by hearings in November 2011. After beginning its deliberations the Hearings Committee decided that more information was required from Council staff before the Draft Policy could be considered further. Deliberations started again in December 2012 with Council staff reporting back to the Committee on the information it requested. The Committee has yet to conclude its deliberations.
As a final decision on the Draft Policy is yet to be made, the Council’s existing Development Contributions Policy applies until further notice. Read more

DCC: Spatial Plan for Dunedin
‘Dunedin Towards 2050′ (The Spatial Plan), sets the strategic direction for Dunedin’s growth and development for the next 30+ years. It outlines a broad set of principles, strategic directions, policies, and actions and visually illustrates how the city may develop in the future. It will be used to guide land-use planning in the city as well as influencing how future infrastructure and services may be provided or limited. The Spatial Plan is primarily, but not solely, concerned with Dunedin’s urban form and design. Urban form and design refer to the spatial arrangement of a city, in other words, the shape of a city as seen from the air including the overall pattern of development, activities, and infrastructure as well as the design or ‘look and feel’ of the city and how it functions. Urban form and design have a significant impact on the sustainability, liveability and economic performance of cities.

DCC: Second Generation Plan for Dunedin
The Dunedin City District Plan controls what people can do on their land and how it can be developed. While there have been some changes and new zones added (eg the Stadium, Airport and Harbourside zones), most of the current Plan has not been reviewed since 2006 and a lot of it dates back to the 1990s. The council is reviewing the Plan as a whole to fix the parts that are not clear or working properly, to recognise the changes to land use and development within Dunedin, to discourage poor development and to align with changes in national policy guidance. The review will produce a second generation plan (2GP), which is the second plan prepared under the Resource Management Act 1991. This is a long process with a lot of research and analysis, and input from stakeholders and the community.

DCC: Strategic Directions
The Strategic Directions of the second generation plan will establish the overall management approach for the 2GP, stating the important outcomes for the city:
● Dunedin is Environmentally Sustainable and Resilient
● Dunedin is Economically Prosperous
● Dunedin is a Memorable and Distinctive City with a Strong Built and Natural Character
● Dunedin has Strong Social and Cultural Capital
● Dunedin has an Attractive and Enjoyable Built Environment
● Dunedin has Affordable and Efficient Public Infrastructure
● Dunedin has Quality and Affordable Housing
● Dunedin is a Compact City with Resilient Townships

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On the local . . .
Meanwhile, developers across the Taieri are champing at the bit to re-create ‘Wanaka sprawl’ on the flood plain with little regard for the protection of high class soils —despite the objectives of the spatial plan that places wise emphasis on the rural area becoming the city’s food basket (resilience).

### ODT Online Wed, 12 Feb 2014
Benefits seen for Taieri area
By Rosie Manins
Mosgiel, Middlemarch and the wider Taieri area will benefit from a new marketing approach by the Dunedin City Council, chief executive Sue Bidrose says. The establishment of an in-house marketing agency at the council, replacing Tourism Dunedin, would offer ”more bang for buck”, she said. The agency would use existing council staff, such as those in human resources and finance, and run alongside the council’s economic development unit.
Read more

New chief executive Sue Bidrose says the council will review performance of the in-house marketing agency after 18 months, with a view to assessing if in the longer term the agency should become a council-owned company. (via ODT)

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Other ODT stories:
● Riccarton Rd widening set to begin Asked if the upgrade was designed to accommodate more heavy vehicle traffic, Mr Matheson played down those concerns. [Evan Matheson hasn’t referenced the revising ‘district plans’ then]
● Trail trust awaits talks outcome The group behind a project aiming to provide a cycle link between Mosgiel and Dunedin is awaiting the result of crucial land negotiations.
● Crematorium not yet begun Hope and Sons is yet to begin construction of its new Mosgiel crematorium, but hopes to have it operating this year. Managing director Michael Hope said it was still working on gaining building consent.
● Police presence of concern
● Town’s population to disappear Mosgiel’s Pearl of the Plain sign in Quarry Rd is to lose its population figure and receive a general spruce-up. [spot feathery bill]
● Hope signal problems fixed

Syd Brown, Taieri property developer and ex city councillor/FSD chairman

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Related Posts and Comments:
10.2.14 University of Otago major sponsor for Highlanders [rugby, a pool]
5.2.14 Mosgiel pool sluts get their tops off for ex ORFU guy
4.2.14 DCC: Mosgiel Pool, closed-door parallels with stadium project . . .
30.1.14 DCC broke → More PPPs to line private pockets and stuff ratepayers
20.1.14 DCC Draft Annual Plan 2014/15 [see comment & ff]
18.11.13 DCC: New chief executive
16.11.13 Community board (Mosgiel-Taieri) clandestine meetings
7.10.13 DCC councillors, no idea annual cost of owning, operating FB Stadium
23.6.13 DCC Community Boards
21.4.13 Councils “in stchook” —finance & policy analyst Larry.N.Mitchell
6.12.12 Local Government Act Amendment Bill
6.12.12 DCC debt —Cr Vandervis
6.9.12 DCC pays out $millions to cover loss making stadium and rugby…
30.11.11 amalgamation, Anyone?
8.11.11 Development contributions
9.8.11 CRITICAL Dunedin City Council meeting
25.7.11 DCC Finance, Strategy and Development Committee – meeting postponed
16.7.11 Major Dunedin City Council infrastructure assets NOT INSURED
7.7.11 More than $1 billion of infrastructure assets NOT insured
23.3.11 Dunedin City Council’s rock and its hard place

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

Stadium: ‘Business case for DVML temporary seating purchase’

Information supplied.

Two historical LGOIMA requests about the so-called business case for the temporary seating at Forsyth Barr Stadium.

And a quick look at Roger Clark, general manager for The Highlanders.

The Vice-Chancellor needs to be careful who she gets into bed with.

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From: Bev Butler
Sent: Tuesday, 20 December 2011 03:44 p.m.
To: Sandy Graham [DCC]
Subject: LGOIMA request: Business case for the DVML temporary seating purchase

Wednesday 21st December 2011

Dear Sandy

At the Finance, Strategy and Development committee meeting last Monday 12th December 2011, questions were asked by Cr Lee Vandervis about the $1.4m loan DVML received re the temporary seating purchase.
David Davies, CEO of DVML, mentioned a business case had been prepared for this purchase. I requested a copy from DVML but David Davies suggested I request a copy from the DCC.
Therefore, I request an electronic copy of the document containing the business case.

Yours sincerely
Bev Butler

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From: Sandy Graham [DCC]
To: Bev Butler
Date: Thu, 5 Apr 2012 15:16:05 +1200
Subject: RE: LGOIMA request: Business case for the DVML temporary seating purchase

Dear Bev

Please find attached the document that as best I can determine, is the business case for the purchase of the temporary seating.

Sandy

Document download: tempseats

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Date: Fri, 6 Apr 2012 08:33:59 +1200
Subject: FW: LGOIMA request: Business case for the DVML temporary seating purchase
From: Lee Vandervis
To: Bev Butler

Ta Bev,

FYI as below,
Lee

—— Forwarded Message
From: Lee Vandervis
Date: Fri, 06 Apr 2012 08:32:42 +1200
To: Sandy Graham [DCC], David Davies [DVML]
Conversation: LGOIMA request: Business case for the DVML temporary seating purchase
Subject: FW: LGOIMA request: Business case for the DVML temporary seating purchase

Hi Sandy, David,

I have asked the question as to whether Warbirds are using the seating this year, and told apparently not.
Can you confirm that the seating has definitely not been used, and if possible why it has not been used.

Kind regards,
Lee

—————————————————————————–

From: Bev Butler
To: Lee Vandervis
Subject: RE: LGOIMA request: Business case for the DVML temporary seating purchase
Date: Fri, 6 Apr 2012 09:07:49 +1200

Hi Lee

Interesting that the Warbirds are not using the seating.
When I received the business plan yesterday, the first thing I thought of was to ask for the invoice from the Warbirds to see if the $177,000 matched up.
From your query below it sounds like they are not using the seating at all.
Note on the business case I sent you it states the source of the Warbirds information is R. Clark, Warbirds CEO.
It could be interesting to contact him and ask if he had made a commitment to use the seating.
Alternatively, ask DCC/DVML what sort of commitment was in place when DVML used the $177,000 for their business case.

Cheers
Bev

—————————————————————————–

[Roger Clark and Highlanders]

From: Bev Butler
To: Lee Vandervis
Subject: FW: LGOIMA request: Business case for the DVML temporary seating purchase
Date: Fri, 6 Apr 2012 09:55:41 +1200

Hi Lee

Just did a google search on Roger Clark.
He is the CEO of Warbirds over Wanaka:
email roger @ warbirdsoverwanaka.co.nz
Ph 0274 301 389
How about giving him a call?
He was also re-appointed as CEO of Rugby Southland in 2008 until Dec 2011 but departed prior to 9/12/10.
He is also the General Manager of The Highlanders.
It was reported in The Southland Times on 9/12/10 “The Rugby Southland Union owes money to various businesses, including its major funder the Invercargill Licensing Trust where the booze tab is believed to be more than $100,000.”

Cheers
bev

—————————————————————————–

[Roger Clark appointments with Highlanders]

Project manager
14.5.10 ODT Rugby: Highlanders get NZRU help

General manager
11.10.10 Stuff Sport Roger Clark appointed Highlanders GM

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[Roger Clark and Southland Rugby Union]

Southland Times:

9.12.10 Rugby Southland still losing money
[Excerpts] Since then The Southland Times has learned the union owes money to various businesses, including its major funder the Invercargill Licensing Trust where the booze tab is believed to be more than $100,000.
Departed Rugby Southland boss Roger Clark said the union had operated at a loss this year but everyone would be paid in the coming weeks, which always happened at this time of the year, he said.
Clark said the board had budgeted for a $200,000 loss this year to ensure the Stags would be a competitive unit in such a big year.
It is expected the loss will be bigger than that $200,000 mark when it is revealed at next year’s general meeting in April.

1.1.11 Southland rugby union runs out of cash
Rugby Southland is broke after a season of overspending. The union owes about $700,000 to creditors, with no ability to pay, and is forecasting a deficit between $350,000 and $478,000 for the 2010 financial year.

23.3.11 $1.5 million bailout for Rugby Southland

30.4.13 Income decline sets back union recovery
A major reduction in sponsorship dollars and gate takings had Rugby Southland scrambling last year to avoid another financial disaster.
In 2012, Rugby Southland lost more than $800,000 in sponsorship revenue, $230,000 in gate takings and $611,000 in grants.

18.11.13 Stadium takeover is costly for city
Saving the home of the Southland Stags comes with a hefty price tag for ratepayers.

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

*Image: odt.co.nz – Roger Clark, re-imaged by Whatifdunedin

University of Otago major sponsor for Highlanders

Announced today at Fubar Stadium
The University of Otago is the first university in New Zealand to sponsor a super rugby franchise.

The partners will exploit co-marketing initiatives and the Highlanders will be expected to participate in more university activities. The University logo will be painted on the stadium “grass” and added to the back of players’ jerseys alongside the Speight’s logo.

Does anyone realise Thugby is a dying art. YAWN.

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### ODT Online Mon, 10 Feb 2014
Otago University to sponsor Highlanders
The University of Otago has become one of the major sponsors of the Dunedin-based Highlanders rugby team. Vice-Chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne said the move is designed to raise the university’s profile. “[Forsyth Barr] Stadium and the Highlanders will be a canvas to highlight the University of Otago, which is located literally on the doorstep of this world-class facility,” she says. “Rugby is not just a game on a Saturday night – it’s a business as well.
Read more

### dunedintv.co.nz February 10, 2014 – 7:11pm
Local institutions partner up in a sponsorship deal the first of its kind
The University of Otago has become the first university in New Zealand to sign on as a major sponsor of a Super Rugby franchise. The deal between the university and the Highlanders was announced at Forsyth Barr Stadium this afternoon. Many of the Highlanders staff and players have studied at Otago, and both organisations feel the partnership will be beneficial.
Video

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THIS IS WHY A NEW “TRAINING POOL” IS NEEDED AT MOSGIEL

Names of “Stadium Councillors” (past and present) allegedly associated with driving the New Mosgiel Pool project:

● Syd Brown
● Colin Weatherall
● Peter Chin
● John Bezett

See pp14-15 of the following DCC document, and in particular point 4 (page 15):

http://www.dunedin.govt.nz/__data/assets/pdf_file/0011/401303/ma_council_m_2014_01_23,24,27.pdf

It’s easier to get a training pool for Professional Rugby built at Mosgiel (under the guise of it being a community pool) than it would be to have DCC ratepayers and general public get behind a pool at the Stadium/Logan Park, as mooted a few years back to go with the High Performance Sport New Zealand Dunedin Centre… the latter was foisted on Dunedin ratepayers with little if any consultation.

### ODT Online Tue, 20 Dec 2011
New centre to churn out champions
By Nigel Benson
A multimillion-dollar Dunedin sports excellence academy could be a factory for future world champions. The High Performance Sport New Zealand Dunedin Centre of Excellence was officially opened at Forsyth Barr Stadium yesterday. The $4.8 million building will be a hub for Otago athletes and house HPSNZ and its tenants – the Highlanders, Sports Medicine New Zealand and New Zealand Turf – which formerly occupied the old Logan Park art gallery building.
Read more

This NEW POOL project also “benefits” the likes of Martin Dillon and Co at Mosgiel because it will be built in the main street and attract more business to the shopping centre, and be a selling point (amenity!) for housing subdivisions in the area [forget noble district plan and spatial plan objectives to protect high class soils, said local developers].

KILLING many birds with one stone.
THE NEW POOL IS PROFESSIONAL RUGBY DRIVEN.
That is why it’s steaming ahead under the radar.

It’s a VERY cunning project that appears to have “not much resistance to it” at DCC because most plodders and desk huggers, councillors, and maybe even the chief executive, think it’s just a nice little community pool that’s out there to be benignly funded by the community –

CORRECTION: The thing is worth maybe $16 million AND MORE —definitely expensive enough for exclusive swim time booked for UNIVERSITY-RUGBY, all funded by the poor Mosgiel-Taieri ratepayers !!!!!!

The rorting RUGBY bastards. Imagine a (prestige) car firm will sponsor the RUGBY 4WDs and peoplemovers, on that new hot highway from DUD to MSG.

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

Otago Chamber, musical chairs

[dancing piccolo] “I’m proud to say I’m leaving it in good heart and good shape financially. Its membership numbers could always be improved, however, and I believe all businesses should be members.” –Peter McIntyre, past chairman

### ODT Online Fri, 7 Feb 2014
Opinion
Dunedin must seize its chances
By Peter McIntyre
After nine years on the board of the Otago Chamber of Commerce, the final three as chairman, Peter McIntyre has stood down, having served his three terms in office. As he leaves, he considers the economic future of Dunedin and Otago.
Read more

Not sure what kind of health the Chamber’s subscription membership is in. But now, hunny of a new plot! —a huntin’ and shaftin’ to boom we go. After seven years as a member of the Chamber, Ali Copeman (47), head of akB* Conference Management (estab. 1999), should know.

*Ali Knows Best . . .

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[clashing cymbals] “You’ve got to go away to appreciate the place.”
–Ali Copeman, chairman

### ODT Online Sat, 8 Feb 2014
Passionate about city ‘about to boom’
By Sally Rae
Ali Copeman reckons Dunedin is “about to boom”.
The conference organiser and newly elected chairwoman of the Otago Chamber of Commerce is unashamedly passionate about the city and also its potential for further growth.
Read more

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Tweets supplied (Friday):

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

Stadium Turf: Ox with a passion

Published 19 Jan 2014. Dunedin NZ.

Ox | Forsyth Barr Stadium | Insiders Dunedin
Groundsman at Forsyth Barr Stadium, Brendan Eathorne (Ox), is pretty sure he has the best job, in the best stadium in the world. This clip shows Forsyth Barr Stadium from the unique perspective of someone who knows it from the ground up. Video by Motion Sickness Studio.

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Related Posts and Comments: (some passing mentions)
3.12.13 DVML issues and rankles [Burden’s reply] (see comment)
30.11.13 DVML in disarray (see comment)
6.2.13 Editorial bias
30.10.12 Stadium turf-day +@#!$%^*&
26.1.12 Stadium debt goes to 40-year term
20.12.11 “High Performance Sport NZ Dunedin Centre” (NZ Turf)
3.8.11 D Scene broke the news (see comments)
15.3.11 Cr Dave Cull speech to Town Hall Meeting (delicious)
18.2.11 “Malcolm, it’s about stadium DEBT”
13.10.10 What to say: “reinforced grass”
23.9.10 Stadium: “Grass grows better inside than outside”
23.4.10 Stadium tenders, turf + future of Carisbrook
21.4.10 Stadium GMP clarification
28.7.09 Stadium turf

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

Waitangi Day tributes

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr —with thanks to Source

*Image: porcupinefarm.blogspot.co.nz – John Key [imaged nicely | screenshot]

Christchurch stadium

“No stadium can make money unless it has millions of moneyed sports fans living within its catchment area.” –Lee Vandervis

Christchurch Mail 30-1-14 page 1 | Christchurch Mail 30-1-14 page 3

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Related Post and Comments:
24.1.14 [DCC announces review] Stadium: It came to pass . . .
10.5.13 Debate over new stadium
7.10.12 New stadium worries, NZ wide + a waterfront, ours
30.9.12 Wake-up call for Christchurch #eqnz #SeriousFraud
30.7.12 National Govt puts champagne and stadium before shelter housing
3.6.12 Sunday Star Times: Stadium story: any sliced bread in the murk?
8.11.11 Christchurch: new temporary stadium
9.8.11 Christchurch’s AMI stadium
16.1.10 Deans Stand at AMI Stadium: DONE

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

Mosgiel pool sluts get their tops off for ex ORFU guy

News this morning (see Jacob’s comments, here and here) that parties pushing the New Mosgiel Pool have selected an ex ORFU Board chairman as the person to head the project. We hear the clandestine selection happened prior to yesterday’s meeting of the Mosgiel-Taieri Community Board. You’re too late, naming rights were sewn up for the poolside spa and bikini bar long long ago.

Mosgiel pool parties with apologies to Bryant Arnold at cartoonaday.com (20.6.10) who sold it at Vegas…

DCC, Slid, if you’re listening —get everything out in the open, don’t dare stymie transparency and accountability through ye olde workshop method where friends of friends clip expensive tickets for each other… while Dunedin ratepayers get ROBBED of natural justice and CLOBBERED for their loot.

And Slid, never assume the bastion of an ex ORFU man has respectibility and honesty written all over it. This does not compute. How much money has ORFU deliberately set about thieving from DCC ratepayers over the years? Yes, that’s right —HUNDREDS AND HUNDREDS OF MILLIONS OF DOLLARS. And “your DCC” is still on the take to “make the stadium work” —while it quietly plays games with the security of our homes on the global derivatives market. Thanks Athol, mate!

(detail) Stooge William F takes a dip in the pool every afternoon

Here’s a cracking distraction: Let’s sell the hippy idea of retirement living, attract new families to fill them privateers’ residential sections sliced out of high class soils. Crikey, Boys! This needs A POOL !!! “Added value, what? Imagine the real estate brochures, the commissions, the new cars…”

“Come to Mollywood! Visit our FLOODPLAIN spa, come leave your worries behind, choose LIFESTYLE ON THE TAIERI (cheaper and cheesier than Wanaka in snow!). New members receive a free 30-minute personal massage and therapy session, guaranteed to smooth away all doubts, dollars and ethics. Don’t forget this week’s special: every booking for an hour-long therapeutic massage earns a complimentary 30-minute facial with council-facilitated deep muddying to embed harsh effects of dirt and crime. Relax folks, we make it OUR BUSINESS to serve the public good. All credit cards (non returnable), outrageous tips and backhanders accepted.”

Lastly, put a robe on, girls —this is a family show.

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Those glorious raunchy paddling pools of lost youth.
The memories of summer fun that get Slid out of bed every morning.

Diary of a Mosgiel mobster. Saturday. It’s blazing hot today and we spend the day going in and out of the water. In the pool, I overhear a conversation that epitomises childhood:

Six-year-old #1: Wanna play Shark?
Six-year-old #2: Ok, how do you play?
Six-year-old #1: I’m the shark and I chase you around.
Six-year-old #2: (ponders for a moment) Ok!

Sigh.

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Related Posts and Comments:
4.2.14 DCC: Mosgiel Pool, closed-door parallels with stadium project (private profiteering)
30.1.14 DCC broke → More PPPs to line private pockets and stuff ratepayers
20.1.14 DCC Draft Annual Plan 2014/15 [see this comment & ff]
16.11.13 Community board (Mosgiel-Taieri) clandestine meetings
25.1.12 Waipori Fund – inane thinkings from a councillor
19.5.10 DScene – Public libraries, Hillside Workshops, stadium, pools
12.4.10 High-performance training pool at stadium?

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr

*Images and sampled texts via cartoonaday.com (Vegas pool party) and graduatedconfused.blogspot.co.nz (playpool)

‘Hotel’ Hucksters wanna spend $60M at Dunedin

That’s the news or THE MONEY on tonight’s Channel 39 as ODT sprayed saliva over what’s in the newspaper tomorrow. You got it. The Jing-Song-Pings, post-teenagers from hell. HONEY, THEY’RE BACK.

Updated post.

THAT was the fear. Please, not the tasteless cardboard box crew again! Their idea of architecture is merely ‘building’ and gross affrontery to Dunedin’s cultural heritage landscape, not SYMPATHETIC CONTEXTUAL DESIGN.

So, yeah maybe it’s another anonymous bunch who are too conniving or stupid to front to the good people of this small town. Obviously, they’re known to DCC and the Chamber and those who share their pillows, as it turns out. Lovely! Dunedin’s public treated with ignore by our civic leaders and their honkies yet again. Look how that turned with the stadium project. And why the media release ahead of faces, why do that? Why be so crass, desperate and manipulative? —it feeds directly into the deep distrust held for Dunedin City Council by this community. This is no democracy. Where is the openness and transparency we’ve been promised for SO LONG, and not had delivered ??!!

The (blind) Channel 39 announcement came on the heels of a good number of searches at this site lately, in both Jing Song’s, Cao Ping’s and her father’s name — a man known to Michael Hill of Eiontown — no wonder we’re completely off the scent, or was it MISINFORMED.

Chinese plans for Dunedin school
Chinese investors with plans for a $60 million international school have chosen Dunedin as their preferred location, and hope to open a facility within three years.
http://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/290486/chinese-plans-school

But let’s refresh on the horrific notification and resource consenting process followed by the Jing-Song-Pings for the proposed waterfront hotel (via posts and comments) as a check on what happens for the proposed “school” with Daaave and Ali’s (Jinty got bounced) lack of red tape. Carpet, anyone?

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Related Posts and Comments:
12.1.14 Dunedin (apartments) Hotel: Better ways to lipstick a pig
7.1.14 Dunedin Hotel (apartments): Who ARE the developers?
27.8.13 41 Wharf Street —DCC ends debacle
24.7.13 Tauranga: Office leases to cover potential losses from hotel
25.6.13 Hotel/Apartment Tower decision to be appealed
18.6.13 Hotel: COC’s greasy spoon race. Ugh!
5.6.13 Hotel decision . . . (the vacuum)
4.6.13 WATERFRONT HOTEL #DUNEDIN
24.5.13 41 Wharf Street —consent renewed, with HOTEL decision pending
18.5.13 Waterfront hotel investigation II
18.4.13 ‘Heartbreak Hotel’ —Grahame Sydney
18.4.13 Hotel: Grahame Sydney on tenants for 164 apartments
15.4.13 University buys LivingSpace Dunedin
15.4.13 Shane McGrath —Gelber LuftBallon (Dunedin Research Project)
14.4.13 Ballooning! —playing off Betterways
12.4.13 Christchurch: HOTELS with Chinese investment pending
4.4.13 Towering inferno: Fire engulfs luxury apartments and 5-star hotel
16.3.13 Hotel: COC jollies and sweet cherry pie
23.1.13 Proposed hotel: Council and submitters await detailed information
28.12.12 ‘Low-rises are great for the community and the residents’
24.12.12 A Christmas Tale
21.12.12 Proposed hotel – ODT graphic indicates building height
19.12.12 Hearing for proposed hotel – competencies, conflicts of interest?
16.12.12 Proposed Dunedin Hotel #height
10.12.12 Proposed hotel, 41 Wharf St – “LEARNING FROM LAS VEGAS”
7.12.12 Proposed hotel – Truescape shenanigans
6.12.12 Dunedin Hotel – revised design
2.12.12 Roy Rogers and Trigger photographed recently at Dunedin
26.11.12 Proposed hotel, 41 Wharf Street – indicative landscape effects
20.11.12 City planner’s report recommends against consent for hotel
10.11.12 Dunedin Hotel, 41 Wharf Street (LUC 2012-212)
4.10.12 DUNEDIN: We’re short(!) but here is some UK nous…
8.9.12 Waterfront Hotel #Dunedin (Applicant names?)
7.9.12 Waterfront hotel: DCC to notify resource consent application
23.6.12 Mis(t)apprehension: website visits, not bookings?
16.5.12 Dunedin Hotel

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Posted by Elizabeth Kerr