Auction proceeds are donated to three Wellington Charities

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On 17 November we had a very busy meeting, incorporating a range of guests from the three Wellington Charities our club have chosen to support with the proceeds of our annual charity auction, who each spoke briefly on the work they do, and how the money donated might be used to support their organisations to move forward, continuing to do fantastic work for women, children, and people with (currently) uncurable diseases.
Auction proceeds are donated to three Wellington Charities Hayley Burns 2022-11-18 11:00:00Z 0 Charity auction 2022,malaghan institute,te wao nui,wellington children's hospital,wellington homeless woments trust,whwt
A re-induction and a semi-forum 2022-11-12 11:00:00Z 0

Andy Ellis talks about NZ's Mental Health

Our speaker Andy Ellis, is one of our newest members who was inducted today! He is responsible for running about 30 different government websites related to social harm and mental health issues and he has taken a leadership role across a number of different health campaigns.
 
As an IT professional with real life experience of our mental health system, he brings his skill set of software development, marketing and digital technologies to help to ease the strain on the current mental health system. But how can technology help? One in four of us experience mental health challenges at some stage in their lives. It’s part of being human. But we have such a shortage of health professionals with long wait times for services, using technology for good can reduce the demand and ease some of the pressure.
Andy Ellis talks about NZ's Mental Health Brenda Lazelle 2022-01-29 11:00:00Z 0 andy ellis,mental health,technology

Climate Change 

 
Dr Richard Levy’s profile says that he is a glacial stratigrapher and paleoclimatologist with expertise in microfossil analysis. His research primarily focuses on the evolution of Earth’s climate system over the past 40 million years in the mid to high southern latitudes.
Essentially there isn’t much about climate change that Dr Richard doesn’t know about. He is currently the Programme Leader – NZ SeaRise Programme at GNS.
With the politicians around the world heading to COP26 to save us all from climate change oblivion, it’s worth taking the time to look at where we are at.
 
 
Climate Change Brent Gerrard 2021-10-29 11:00:00Z 0

Eden's Ko wai au

If opportunity does not knock, build a door for it!
 
Eden Skipper, who joined our Club in 2020, stepped in at short notice last week to be our speaker. 
. 
 
Eden shared his life journey to date, where he comes from and how he became a Rotarian. 
Eden's Ko wai au 2021-10-08 11:00:00Z 0 Eden,member talks

Goal Setter Awards - 2021

 
Three moving stories of adversity overcome were presented at the Rotary Club of Port Nicholson’s  Goalsetter Awards ceremony held in Parliament’s Banquet Hall on Wednesday 10 March, 2021.
Goal Setter Awards - 2021 2021-03-14 11:00:00Z 0

Climate Change - Gary Wilson

Guest Speaker - Professor Gary Wilson
Climate Change - Antarctica
 
General Manager Strategy at GNS Science
Vice President - Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research
Chair – NZ Royal Society Committee on Antarctic Sciences
Trustee – Sir Peter Blake Trust
Editor in Chief – Geological Oceanography - Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, MDPI Basel Switzerland
Councillor – Australian Institute for Nuclear Science and Engineering
Physical Science Lead – NZ Antarctic Science Platform
Director – Otago Southern Ocean Marine Institute
 
3rd March 2021
 
With credentials like this, for those of you who are climate change sceptics, I challenge you to spend just 30 minutes with Gary and see how you get on arguing your point of view.
Climate Change - Gary Wilson 2021-03-10 11:00:00Z 0
Goal Setters 2021 Applications now open 2020-10-08 11:00:00Z 0

Goal Setter Awards Presentation 2020

Rotary Club of Port Nicholson Goal Setter Awards 2020
 
The two people receiving Goalsetter Awards at the RC of Port Nicholson’s award ceremony so moved the audience with their stories of adversity overcome, that some were openly crying.
 
The awards are available for students in at least their second year of tertiary study in Wellington who have shown they can achieve goals, have overcome severe difficulties and have given service to the community.
 
 As President Mike Selvadurai said “these awards are entrenched in the Club’s DNA.”
 
This year’s three awards of $3,500 were presented by local Member of Parliament and Minister of Finance Hon Grant Robertson at a sold-out breakfast function in Wellington on 10 August attended by 170 people.
 
Hannah Gibson was born with a rare and debilitating condition that prevented her from any formal education between the ages of 12 and 20. She recently submitted the first draft of her PhD in Cultural Anthropology. Hannah was unable to attend and received her award at a club meeting a week earlier.
 
Kahui Tihore suffered from traumatic abuse as a child and didn’t learn to read till he was in the army at the age of 20. He has suffered from severe depression and PTSD but is now in a position help other young Maori men who have suffered traumatic experiences. He will begin his post doctorate studies in management next year.
 
Melissa Dol was raised in a dysfunctional family forcing her to take on responsibilities way beyond her years. She is now in her fourth year of medical studies and hopes the adversities she has faced will make her a more empathetic doctor.
 
“Every year club members and their guests are moved by the tales of persistence, determination and the audacity to believe that what they want to achieve is possible.” said Awards convenor Jane Paterson
 
 
Kahui Tihore and Melissa Dol with awards presenter Hon Grant Roberston, Minister of Finance
 
 
Hannah Gibson also received an award but was unable to attend the breakfast. Hannah was presented with her award the previous week at the club's Rotary meeting by Jane Paterson and Port Nicholson Rotary Club President Mike Selvadurai.
 
 
Past District Governor John Mohi also presented Mark Dunajtschik with his Paul Harris Fellow award to recognise his strong community commitment - especially with the new Wellington Children's Hospital.
Goal Setter Awards Presentation 2020 Paula Smith McKnight 2020-08-16 12:00:00Z 0

Goal Setter Awards Presentation

Kahui Tihore and Melissa Dol were presented with their Goalsetter Awards at a breakfast which took place on Monday 10 August 2020 at the InterContinental Hotel. The guest speaker was the Hon Grant Robertson who presented the awards to Kahui and Melissa. Around 170 business people and Rotary members attended.
 
Hannah Gibson also received an award but was unable to attend the breakfast. Hannah was presented with her award the previous week at the club's Rotary meeting.
 
 
 
Goal Setter Awards Presentation Paula Smith McKnight 2020-08-16 12:00:00Z 0

RCPN Ambulance on it's way to Samoa!!

A DASH ACROSS THE COUNTRY

July 8 2020
 
Our ambulance is on the way to Samoa. Driver Darryl and navigator Rick took the Samoa bound ambulance on the first leg of its trip to Apia. What was expected to be an uneventful and well-planned drive through to Auckland on Thursday turned out to be a series of small challenges.
 
RCPN Ambulance on it's way to Samoa!! Paula McKnight 2020-07-11 12:00:00Z 1

Waitangi Park 30th Anniversary Project

 
Dawn and Bev met with Carl Noland, WCC and Fiona  Christeller , architect, to discuss our 30th Anniversary project for Waitangi Park. More details to come in the New Year!
 
 
Waitangi Park 30th Anniversary Project 2019-12-22 11:00:00Z 0

House of Grace

Posted on Dec 15, 2019
The Rotary Club of Port Nicholson continues to support The House of Grace Trust which provides a home for pregnant young teens to live, learn, prepare for childbirth and make plans for their future. Club members provided gifts for young Mums, their babies, pantry supplies and for the live-in supervisors. President, David Shackleton and Past President Bev Wells were delighted to deliver these items to the hard-working staff and volunteers of the House. Members of the Trust are very appreciative of Rotary’s generosity which they said provides a positive impact on young Mums and their babies.
 
Earlier in the year the club provided $10,000 towards their Warm Home Project to re-roof and insulate the house situated in the greater Wellington region. We are proud to have a long association with the House of Grace Trust providing support for this much-needed initiative.

 
 
 
 
 
House of Grace 2019-12-14 11:00:00Z 0

Refugee Household Items Required

Donations of household items needed for Refugee support
 
   
 
The Rotary Club of Port Nicholson are coordinating the supply of a house lot of household items for a refugee and would like to invite volunteers to source one or more of these items. To pick an item, Click on Sign Up to view available slots and book yourself directly online via the club's website.
 
 
The next family will be arriving in Wellington in October, so if you would like to take part please sign up to source an item. We will need to deliver the items to the Loaves and Fishes at the Anglican Cathedral, Hill Street on Sunday 7 October 2018 between 2pm and 4pm .  We have got most things but are still in need of the following items:
 

We are still in need of the following items:
- A broom
- A double blanket
- 4 x single sheets
- An electric egg whisk/rotary beater

If you can help please let Marc Rands know marands962@gmail.com of click here to  Sign Up

We appreciate your participation and look forward to making this a great event together!
Refugee Household Items Required Linda Wellington 2018-09-25 12:00:00Z 0

Tawa Reserve Tree Planting

 
 
 
   
 
A significant number of our members, partners and Friends partnered with the Friends of Tawa Bush Reserves on Sunday 10 June 2018 to improve Wellington’s backyard for walks and our native birds.   We planted 500 trees in two hours comfortably achieving our goal of planting a tree for every Rotarian.  Thank you everyone for your help!
   
Tawa Reserve Tree Planting Linda Wellington 2018-06-11 12:00:00Z 0 conservation,tree planting,trees

Goal Setters 2018

 
Congratulations to our Goal Setter Awardees for 2018. On Friday 16 March, Mayor Justin Lester presented the awards to Nadia Cooper, Brooke Leota and Jordan Tewhaiti-Smith. It was a wonder celebration of goal setting and achievement. These three young people have all dealt with significant challenges while achieving amazing things and helping others. We look forward to seeing them progress in their chosen careers and we know they will be valuable contributors to our communities.
 
Goal Setters 2018 Linda Wellington 2018-03-21 11:00:00Z 0

Collecting for  Tonga

  
       
 
On Tuesday 27 February and Wednesday 28 February our Rotarians are at New Wold Thorndon collecting for Emergency Response Kits and other aid to be sent to Tonga in the wake of the devastation caused by cyclone Gita. 
Collecting for Tonga Linda Wellington 2018-02-27 11:00:00Z 0

Monday is our new Day

Our regular meeting day has changed from Wednesday to Monday. The first Monday meeting is 12 February 2018. The meeting place and time remains the same. It is breakfast  at 7am at the Intercontinental Hotel, Grey Street Wellington
Monday is our new Day 2018-02-12 11:00:00Z 0

Tara Canton at the Underground Market

​​​​​​
 
Tara Canton is performing at the Underground Market under Frank Kits park, Jervois Quay Wellington on Saturday 3 February. supported by the Rotary Club of Port Nicholson. Tara is a student and, at 15 years old, a young singer songwriter who loves writing music and entertaining others through performing. She has played guitar for 5 years and has been singing since she can remember, writing her first original song at age 10 and instantly loving how she can express myself through music. In 2016 she won the Wellington regional Smokefree Rockquest and a year later came second in the Mount Maunganui busking festival. On Saturday Tara will be performing a range of original music as well as some well known covers with her guitar and voice.
Tara Canton at the Underground Market Linda Wellington 2018-01-28 11:00:00Z 0

Marama Te Kira at Harbourside Markets

Marama Te Kira will be performing at Harbourside Markets on the Wellington Waterfront by Chaffers Marina this Sunday 21 January from 11am to 1pm, supported by Port Nicholson Rotary. Marama has had over 20 years experience working professionally in the music industry throughout Australasia, primarily as a vocalist but also as a music teacher/ dancer/ musician/ choreographer/ musical director/ promoter. She has an extensive repertoire including rock, disco, rap, funk, soul, blues, reggae, jazz...& the list goes on... She now plays regularly around Wellington. Come and and enjoy!
Marama Te Kira at Harbourside Markets Linda Wellington 2018-01-18 11:00:00Z 0
This weeks meeting Wednesday 4 October 2107 2017-09-30 11:00:00Z 0

Next Meeting - Tuesday 26 September 2017

Posted by Linda Wellington on Sep 25, 2017
Please note that our next meeting is on Tuesday 26 September 2017 and not our usual Wednesday. It will be at the same venue - Intercontinental Hotel, Wellington at 7am. Or speaker will be Caitlin Goldsack talking about her experience at the inaugural Innovative Young Minds. Come along - we would love to see you there!
Next Meeting - Tuesday 26 September 2017 Linda Wellington 2017-09-24 11:00:00Z 0
2018 Goal Setters Awards applications open Jane Paterson 2017-09-02 12:00:00Z 0

Interact at Zealandia

Posted by Victoria Triegaardt on Jul 08, 2017
 
Last Sunday, the 30th of June, the Interact club of Port Nicholson volunteered at Zealandia. The group, about 15 of us, spent three hours in the beautiful park learning about the conservation work they do to support New Zealand native plants and birds. After a quick and slightly challenging walk up to our site the team excitedly got to work cutting down blackberry bushes. We used "Cut and Paste" a special paste developed to stop the blackberry regrowing and which will give the native plants that will be planted there soon more room to grow. It was great exercise and despite the cold and slightly drizzly weather the day was a roaring success.
Interact at Zealandia Victoria Triegaardt 2017-07-07 12:00:00Z 0

District Changeover 2017

District Changeover.
A good crowd of some 180 Rotarians gathered in the Palmerston North Fire Station - no fires or callouts were observed or caused during our presence. Four members of RCPN attended.
 
The District SGM passed the motion to have a financial review of the District accounts rather than the employment of an auditor. This was the only change to the District Constitution.
 
For Changeover, Martin Garcia gave a broad review of his year and its highlights. District PHFs were awarded to Deb Gimblett, Graeme Blick, Adrienne Murray, and Richard Stephen for long periods of special service.
 
The new DG Mitchell Brown enhanced his arrival on the scene with a fantastic and youthful dance troupe performance. He introduced his team of Assistant Governors. We will continue to have John Mohi as our AG ( he is also now District Governor Nominee [i.e. DG for 2019-2020]). Lisa King will be an AG but in a different cluster of clubs. Howard continues to be one of the 2 District Trustees.
 
The DG will not be starting club visits until September so clubs have time to get started for the year. Visit to RCPN will be on 21 February 2018.
The tradition of awarding a District PHF to the previous DGs partner was observed and awarded to Denise Garcia.
 
District Changeover 2017 2017-07-02 12:00:00Z 0

Rotary of the Move

Ideas to Strengthen Our Club
At our recent session John Bishop, our incoming President, encouraged us as member of Port Nicholson to be proud of our association with Rotary.  We have a strong Club but can always improve by attracting new members and with that they comes new ideas and new commitment.  ‘Rotary on the Move’ is circulated widely amongst  Australian and New Zealand Rotarians.  It is a monthly circular that has excellent articles.
 
One article states:
  • Clubs who are well organised attract members
  • Clubs who communicate well attract members
  • Clubs who develop strategic partnerships attract members
  • Clubs who understand that their 'clients' are their community attract members
  • Clubs who know their demographics attract members
  • Clubs who listen to their members and respond to their interests attract members
  • Clubs who have a great Public Relations /Marketing team attract members
  • Clubs who have effective programs attract members.
 
New ideas increase our desire to do more for our community through the time we give to serving others.
Please click HERE to view - download the ‘Rotary On The Move’ Newsletter for June 2017.
Rotary of the Move 2017-06-14 12:00:00Z 0

Fit for the future: Boosting resilience in the face of uncertainty
 

Posted by Rosalene Fogel on Jun 14, 2017
  
Fit for the future: Boosting resilience in the face of uncertainty
 
Deloitte and Victoria University of Wellington, State of the State of New Zealand 2017
Presenters from Deloitte: Dave Farrelly, Partner; Cassie Favage and Jeff Brandt
 
Dave Farrelly told us how, in partnership with Victoria University’s School of Government, Deloittes published in 2016 their first report forming a view on how they think New Zealand is performing, focusing on Social Investment.
This year they have recently published their report for 2017 on the topic of resilience and wellbeing, Fit for the Future: Boosting Resilience in the face of uncertainty. Interviews were conducted with some of New Zealand’s brightest thinkers and most senior leaders, people from the public sector, business, non-government, media and academia.
For the purpose of the report, resilience is defined as ‘the ability to absorb, bounce back from or adapt to disruption without compromising wellbeing.’ Wellbeing is our quality of life.
From the report:
“Life in New Zealand is pretty good. We have one of the best performing economies in the developed world and enjoy comparatively high levels of social cohesion and connectedness. We are buoyed by strong institutions built on solid governance. And we boast a vibrant business environment.
Together these factors underpin our wellbeing – our quality of life. We recognise that kiwi values such as fairness, connection with our natural surroundings, whanau and community, lie at the heart of what makes New Zealand one of the best places in the world to live.

If wellbeing is our quality of life, then resilience is how secure that quality of life is.”
 
Cassie Favager was one of the authors and researchers for the report, telling us the focus was particularly on household resilience, with household is defined as people residing together – but not always as a family unit, who have shared resources and an inter-dependent standard of living.

Households are prone to major and minor shocks, for example. earthquakes and change. She said that every year:
  • 70% of houses face major change or disruption
  • 1 in every 9 working age New Zealanders face a major drop in income
  • 14% of kiwi kids go without seven or more things they need eg. a second pair of shoes, healthcare, adequate food.
Many New Zealand households are on the edge and are not able to manage at all.
 
Jeff Brandt posed the question, how can households create resilience? In an environment where household wellbeing is tested by disruptions, there are strong arguments for government to take an active role in increasing household resilience.
 
The report makes four recommendations to boost resilience and ensure New Zealand is fit for the future:
  1. A resilience outcome from universal social services – the report recommends government explicitly applies and evaluates resilience objective in health, education and housing policy.
     
  2. Explore policy interventions that address income factors for household resilience – the report recommends government progress interventions to address income factors for household resilience, advancing trials to build household resilience through a social investment approach and income support.
     
  3. Strength our public institutions’ focus on resilience – the report recommends government establishes a Resilience Unit within one of the central agencies with end-to-end accountability for ensuring public institutions and policy are actively boosting resilience from strategy and policy through to operations and coordination.
     
  4. Engage with New Zealanders to build a wellbeing and resilience index – the report recommends the government engages with New Zealanders to describe the aspects of wellbeing and resilience that are important, identifies appropriate indicators to measure them, and uses these indicators to guide and evaluate policy-making and government services.
Resilience underpins the security of our wellbeing. Boosting household resilience in the face of uncertainty will help ensure we are fit for the future.
 
Ros Fogel
Club Reporter
 
Fit for the future: Boosting resilience in the face of uncertainty  Rosalene Fogel 2017-06-13 12:00:00Z 0

World Refugee Day

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Kia ora,
This World Refugee Day, June 20th, ChangeMakers will be out on the streets of Wellington, collecting essential funds for our work to support New Zealanders of a refugee background. We need your help! We need volunteers to join us with collection buckets at one of several central Wellington locations for an hour or two (or more!) on this day.

Locations:
- Cuba Street (near the Bucket Fountain)
- Willis Street (near New World)
- Lambton Quay (near the Cable Car)
- Train Station (outside at the front entrance)

Times:
- 7.30-9am
- 10-11am
- 12 - 2pm
- 3 - 4pm
- 5 - 7pm

What you need:
- your biggest smile!
- solidarity with people of a refugee background

Email ellie@crf.org.nz with:
- the time that you can help
- the area you are able to collect at
- your phone number
 
Email ellie@crf.org.nz or give us a call on 04 801 5812 if you want more information.

ChangeMakers Refugee Forum's work centres around supporting New Zealanders of a refugee background to fully participate in NZ life.

This includes:
- Community Development - including helping people learn to drive and a drop-in centre for advice and support
- Advocacy - advocating for former refugee rights, alongside people of a refugee background
- Research - collaborating on research which will benefit refugee background communities.

Your help collecting will allow us to continue this essential work. We look forward to meeting you on June 20th!
 
Ngā mihi,
Ellie
World Refugee Day 2017-06-13 12:00:00Z 0

Youthline Collection

 
Fellow Rotarians

Thank you all for braving the cold and the wind and giving of your time so
generously on Friday for the Youthline Street Appeal. Collecting funds in
temperatures of 7 degrees on Lampton Quay is truly "Service above self".

The time you spent collecting funds was greatly appreciated and I know the
money we collected has been very gratefully received by the Youthline group.


I am not sure of the total amount we collected as those calculations have
yet to be done. However rest assured it all helps and has gone to a very
worthy and deserving cause. 

I was particularly touched by one young man who approached me and donated,
telling me that Youthline, in many ways, saved his life. 

Thank you again 

David 



David Shackleton
Partner
NEM New Zealand 
Mobile: 021 654 738
Email: dshackleton@nemnz.co.nz 
Web: www.nemnz.co.nz 

 
Youthline Collection 2017-06-04 12:00:00Z 0

Speaker: Sigurd Magnussen

 

Electrifying for Port Nicholson Rotary members

or Electric cars rule − DC

 

The title is perhaps a bit over the top, and perhaps confusing, but the excellent presentation last week was yet another reason why we get out of bed in the dark on a Wednesday. This time it was to hear Sigurd Magnussen who has taken time out from his work to spend more time with electrically powered cars and help promote their use in New Zealand.

 

For those still in the dark, he explained how much better electric vehicles are than petrol or diesel ones. They are faster, have more torque and with most of the electricity being produced from renewable energy, are cheaper to run and are not that bad for the planet. Electric cars are also getting cheaper to buy. For those near the top of the price range, such as Porsche and BMW, electric ones are already cheaper than petrol ones, although we cannot yet buy them new here. It is expected that by 2020, average size electric cars will be the same price as their equivalent petrol model.

 

The cost of fuel for small electric car is currently about $100 for 5,000 kilometres if you mainly charge the battery at night from a domestic supply. Using one of the 70 charging stations around the country will cost a bit more. More of these charging stations are planned as a lot are needed if we want to make sure we do not run out of amps on the way.

 

There are just a few thousand electric vehicles at the moment. The number is expected to be over 60,000 by 2021 and then start doubling every year. This is only a fraction of the 150,000 electric vehicles already in Norway, a country with a similar sized population. However, Norwegians get generous tax subsidies for electric cars, New Zealanders only get tax free electricity.

 

Sigurd has been out and about travelling with a voltage – this is a new collective noun − of electric cars from Bluff to Cape Reinga. This showed the trip could be made, although the part from Kaitaia north and back was a bit of a stretch for the power cables.

 

The future is electric.

 

Julian Bateson

Stand in, part-time, unwilling reporter

Speaker: Sigurd Magnussen 2017-05-28 12:00:00Z 0
A sell out and a record!! What a night!! 2017-05-22 12:00:00Z 0

Life So Far - President Elect John Bishop 

Posted by Ed Hamilton on May 16, 2017
John's talk under the heading "Life so Far" was about new members and his background for credibility. He has been a member for 10 years and was introduced by Carol Johnson, who also came to talk. He became a member on 7 May 2007 and also introduced his wife Rosemary Bishop who married him 40 years ago. He is a successful man and she is a very surprised woman.
 
He was born in Hastings and grew up in Lower Hutt, Wellington and Christchurch. He went to school in Karori and then Wellington College. His interests at school were debating, drama and a bit of rugby. At university he gained his MA honours in political science.
 
In 1975 he returned to Wellington where he became a public servant, then joined Radio New Zealand and later TV news. In 1981 the country's  economic development was a great field in journalism for John. He later went to Parliament to observe politics under Bill Rawling, Muldoon and Helen Clark. Other aspects of his journalism career included the Mount Erebus air crash in 1979, where Air New Zealand lost a plane with no survivors, in 1981 the Mr Asia Drug Trial and in 1984 the general election for Muldoon. At a conference in New Delhi he met Margaret Thatcher's husband Denis who. kicked him on his leg. Dennis's family came from Wanganui. In 1987 he joined a PR firm, as it was well paid etc, and in 1996 he went solo .
 
His interest in Rotary came from motivation and curiosity. Why people do stuff and have great ideas and the source of their motivation,religion, and helping others is important and works with the Chamber of Commerce in Wellington. His catch cry is "Let's Be Proud Rotarians". He will seek to lead not to manage. Giving service and being helpful is a clear-sighted focus, which doesn't rule out having fun. He hopes to build better Sergeants Sessions, get more of us doing stuff and build a better club, which includes bringing others into the club.
Life So Far - President Elect John Bishop Ed Hamilton 2017-05-15 12:00:00Z 0


Transmission Gully – all roads lead to.... Wellington

 
 

This week Craig Nicholson, the Principal Project Manager for the Transmission Gully project, gave us some insight into the histrory, scale and trajectory of this long anticiapted road transport corridor. The 27km four lane, median divided motorway will run between MacKays to Linden and contain a number of interchanges, including a connection to SH1 at Tawa. 

The first known reference to something that looked like the current TG was a proposal by an MP in 1919.  Desktop design was undertaken in the 1980s and extensive public consultation established there was little appetite for a coastal road, with overwhelming support for the TG alternative.  The Western Corridor Transport Study in 2006 confirmed this approach, and a project team was established at that point. Consent applications were made in 2009-2011 and environmental impact analysis undertaken. The contract was let in 2014 and design and construction began, with the opening of TG scheduled for April 2020.

TG is being built under a PPP arrangement – a public private partnership whereby the commercial partner builds the infrastructure and then maintains the road system for 25 years, during which time the government progressively pays the cost and owns the road after 25 years of operation.

There are three key construction challenges for TG. Firstly the scale. 6.5 million cubic meters of material will need to be moved, there are cut heights up to 70 meters and 27 bridges to be built, including the 230m long 60m high Cannons Creek bridge.  This will require 2.5 thousand cement trucks worth of concrete for the pylon foundation blocks alone. Secondly, there are access constraints, with only 3 access points along the route which severely constrains how the build can occur.  Thirdly there are a number of other services, including power, water and gas supply that need to be moved or built around.

The project involves a number of environmental control measures, including removing native fish and  lizard populations which will then be moved back at the completion of the build. Sediment control ponds are building built to handle runoff during the build process, and the build takes account of seismic and climatic conditions.

Craig showed us a number of pictures of the work in progress and left us eagerly anticipating the added convenience of  being able to use the Transmission Gully motorway in a few years.

Transmission Gully – all roads lead to.... Wellington Teresa Dickinson 2017-05-08 12:00:00Z 0

26 April Cameron Bagrie, Chief Economist, ANZ Bank

 

Cameron began his talk state of the economy talk by tracing the history of economic recessions since of the past 50 years showing a 10-year pattern - 1997/78, 1987, 1998 and 2008.

 

He said it is a common perception that New Zealand blows itself up after global events. The fact is, it is before. The housing market goes crazy and people go into debt – there is a housing and consumption boom.

 

So, in 2017 what are we seeing?

 

The Auckland housing market is off the charts. Credit growth is growing faster than income growth. Will there be a recession in 2018? Cameron feels this time is different.

1. While there is a housing boom, there is no consumption equivalent – they are not hand-in-hand as previously. NZ’ers are more inclined now to save for tomorrow eg. Kiwisaver

2. There are not enough houses being built to meet the demand.

3. The Reserve bank is not sitting idly by – rather it is playing a ‘bouncer at the door’ role, not prepared to let history repeat itself.

4. Regulators for the banking sector are being stricter with the mismatch between money coming in, money going out and slower deposit growth.

5. Productivity growth – historically productivity takes a hit before economic crises. While earthquakes have led to major economic hits and productivity growth, New Zealand is working towards good growth.

 

Internationally interest rates are lower leading to recession and pressure on the economic fabric. Brexit, Donald Trump, and the French elections are a concern.

 

With a higher awareness of social justice Cameron sees New Zealand’s biggest issues as being housing and affordability, income and expenditure, and immigration. We are shifting to a new economic world and will have to tilt very gradually in a new direction – although we don’t yet know what that is.

 

He thinks New Zealand is in a great space and hopes that in 2018, history does not repeat.

 

Ros Fogel

Club Reporter

26 April Cameron Bagrie, Chief Economist, ANZ Bank 2017-04-30 12:00:00Z 0

Interact in Action

 

On a Sunday afternoon during their holidays a selection of Interact members assisted with unloading household goods dropped off by parishioners at St Pauls Cathedral's hall in Wellington for the 12 incoming families of refugees arriving in Wellington later this week.  The students worked happily all afternoon and did a marvelous job.

 
 
Interact in Action 2017-04-30 12:00:00Z 0
Multi week Roster from 19th April 2017-04-17 12:00:00Z 0

What a meeting!!

In a jam-packed omnibus meeting the following happened:

 

 

We presented both a cheque and a PHF award to Prof Graham Le Gros (FRSNZ), the Director of the Malaghan Institute.  The cheque represented the funds raised towards the Malaghan from last year’s auction, and the PHF citation acknowledged Prof Le Gros’ commitment to furthering peace and understanding in the world in line with Rotary values.  His research work in the field of allergic and parasitic diseases has made a significant contribution to scientific knowledge and health.  In his remarks the Prof noted that RCPN provided a much appreciated and motivating community face for the Malaghan.

 

 

 

We inducted a new member – welcome Anne Hare.  Anne is a former Olympic athlete and has been an active member in a range of community organisations including the Wellington Trust Board with Dawn and Pres Mark.  She was a former member of Wellington North Rotary Club and is looking forward to being part of RCPN. In welcoming Anne, Dawn Saunders made the comment that whatever Anne undertakes she commits to with vigour and passion – so we warmly welcome Anne as a member. She will be on the Youth Committee.

 

We had a heartfelt presentation from Malin Waipoura from Wellington College who attended the 28th Rotary National Science and Technology Forum in Auckland over January.  The forum had a strong impact on Mailn – personally and in relation to his studies – and he has now committed to studying engineering. Mailin highlighted the range of science modules and visits he undertook and the camaraderie that developed very quickly across the group.  He especially enjoyed the robotics project work. The passion and inspiration provided by the keynote speaker Michelle Dickinson (aka nonogirl) also got a special mention. Malin expressed his deep appreciation of the support offered by our Club to make his attendance possible.

 

 

And, finally, we had a new member talk from Julie Hood.  Julie gave us a set of personal and illuminating insights in her talk “Four endings and a beginning”.  The endings were her job, a friendship, a relationship and a car.  For the second time Julie chose to leave a job – in this case CE of the Veterinary Association of NZ – after 10 years to take a career break and explore “what next” for her.  The benefit of purposely taking the time out to refresh and regroup came through clearly.  Also in recent times Julie lost a dear friend to cancer and had a relationship end.  All these events are life changing and, to top it off, her much loved and highly symbolic Saab convertible died unceremoniously and had to be traded in for a Kia.  Through all of this Julie has been inspired by the experiences and wisdom of others – she shared some of her favourite quotes and books – and sees her current stage in life as an exciting new beginning.

What a meeting!! 2017-04-17 12:00:00Z 0

Showcasing Rotary at the Great Forest Event

 

We had all bases covered with participants in half marathon run and walk and 10km run and walk.  Met up with a Rotarian from Auckland who had completed 46 marathons and was down for the day.  The T shirts certainly get noticed.

Showcasing Rotary at the Great Forest Event 2017-04-17 12:00:00Z 0

Speaker: Paul Atkins - Zealandia

 
 

Zealandia is the world's first fully fenced urban sanctuary with a 500 year vision to restore a Wellington Valley Forest and freshwater ecosystem as closely as possible to their pre-human state. The 225 hectare eco-sanctuary is a ground breaking conservation project that has reintroduced 18 species of nature wildlife back into the area, six of which were previously absent from mainly in New Zealand for over 100 years. Their ultimate restoration goal is to create a self sustaining ecosystem as free as possible from non-native species.

 

Paul Atkins discussed the 500 year journey with part covering the last 20 years. He commented on the 1990s and the building of the 9 km fence which was predator proof, killing all predators which was considered absolutely crazy at the time. Crazy is now the reality. His comments were focused on the next 20 years. 2016 saw  126,000 visitors to the sanctuary and Zealandia is in good health and the Valley has managed to transform the city.

 

Living with nature is the strategy for the 2016-2035 period covering within and beyond the fence.  Zealandia will be the place to transform biodiversity, people and knowledge and through this to transform our capacity for living with nature. A large aspect of this will be making Wellington a better place to live and part of this will be the sanctuary to sea project. This will cover looking at the whole water catchment area from Zealandia lake to the sea with one area in the migration of eels.

 

Another aspect will be Enhancing the Halo, outside the fence. There is a huge predatory presence there and part of the aspect will be to reduce the number of predators. This will let people hear the birds and restore them in that area. Hopefully this will enable the establishment of a New Zealand urban ecology research centre with active research projects in the sanctuary and establish the health benefits of contact with the natural world. The focus is on the Valley that transforms the way we live with nature, not just in Wellington but in New Zealand and the outside world

 

Pauls last comments were to refer us to their website at www.visitzealandia.com/livingwithnature

 

Ed

Speaker: Paul Atkins - Zealandia 2017-04-02 12:00:00Z 0

Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) 2017 Attendees

From left: John Williams, Steve Lawton, Adam Colman, Gillian Robertson, Jamie Brunton and Liam Dick
 
 

“Everyone person you meet with inspire you in some way” (Liam)

This week we heard from the three most recent RYLA-ians that we sponsored onto this programme. Steve Lawton (Mr RYLA) introduced the trio of Adam, Liam and Jamie, noting that they bring to 18 the number of people that we have sponsored onto the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards over the last five years. Steve also paid tribute to Warwick Bell and John Williams, who has just completed his 14th year as facilitator, reminding us that both (and Steve too, for that matter) had been awarded PHFs for their enormous contribution to RYLA.

These three very impressive young men spoke in turn about their takw-aways and learnings from the programme. Specific highlights included our own Gaylene, with special mention for the “Fish” and “First follower” videos (check both out – they’re great), the inspirational team of our Governor General and her husband, hearing about the various challenges that key speakers had overcome, the Adrenalin Forest (high wires course) and the great teamwork and camaraderie of the five days.

A key takeaway message for all participants was that a characteristic of leadership is the willingness to take on the opportunities that life gives you, to do your best, own the consequences and move on. Liam summaried the programme in five words: enthuasic; empowering; rewarding; fun and inspiring – with his noting that everyone is inspiring in some way.

All three of our speakers intend to keep up the RYLA energy and vibe through SMART goal setting, engaging in service, and being more deliberate about making the most of each day – a possibly saluatory reminder to the rest of us to do likewise!

The trio concluded with a Scout’s version of congratulating someone the “BRAVO”.  You had to be there ;-).

 
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) 2017 Attendees 2017-03-20 11:00:00Z 0

Following on from RYLA...changing lives...

The RYLA session resonated so well with the Trustees Scholarships Victoria offer and our focus on future citizens.

 

I thought our Rotary colleagues might appreciate seeing this film clip:

 

www.victoria.ac.nz/change-lives
 

and scroll down to select the ‘Donations at work’ button.

 

Rotary Club of Wellington has been donating to Victoria every year since 1994 – we sincerely appreciate their (your) support.

 

I’d be very grateful if you could share this link with our team!

 

Warm regards,

Ros

 

Rosalene Fogel

Development Manager – Bequests and Senior Stewardship

Email: Rosalene.fogel@vuw.ac.nz

Victoria University Development Office

Website  www.victoria.ac.nz/developmentoffice

Following on from RYLA...changing lives... 2017-03-20 11:00:00Z 0
Multi week roster from 1 March 2017-02-26 11:00:00Z 0
Multi week roster 8th February, 2017 2017-02-13 11:00:00Z 0

Rotary Peace Fellowships

ROTARY PEACE CENTERS

 

Dear Rotarian,

The 2018 Rotary Peace Fellowship application is now available! Our new online application will streamline the submission and review process and help districts manage the increasing number of Rotary Peace Fellowship applications. 

Users of the new application can expect:

  • Better functionality and design
  • A district dashboard for reviewing and endorsing applications and communicating with applicants
  • Automated email communications from the platform
  • Technical support and training from our platform provider, Embark
  • A sign-in process that is separate from My Rotary and other Rotary databases and applications

Please note that the application is in English only, and we will no longer be able to accept PDF applications. As a Rotary leader, you play a key role in communicating information about the peace centers program to club and district leaders, who help identify and nominate candidates for the fellowships. We encourage you to use and share these resources:

  • Webinars for applicants (Chicago time, UTC-6, for all listings):
  • Webinars for Rotarians (Chicago time, UTC-6, for all listings):

Candidates have until 31 May to submit applications to their district. Districts must submit endorsed applications to The Rotary Foundation by 1 July. Should you need technical support in this transition, please contact Embark at support@embark.com. General inquiries regarding the fellowship program may be sent to rotarypeacecenters@rotary.org. We thank you for your dedication to the Rotary Peace Centers and your continuous support in educating the Rotary network about the fellowships!

Sincerely, 
Rotary Peace Centers

ONE ROTARY CENTER

1560 SHERMAN AVENUE

EVANSTON, ILLINOIS 60201-3698 USA

+1 866.976.8279

CONTACT.CENTER@ROTARY.ORG

ROTARY.ORG

Rotary Peace Fellowships 2017-01-23 00:00:00Z 0
Aotearoa Bike Challenge 2016-12-18 00:00:00Z 0

Friendship exchange with D9211 - Tanzania and Uganda

Hi Howard and Bob

 

As you may be aware, since Deb and I visited Africa I have been trying to put in place a friendship exchange with D9211 which takes in all of Uganda and Tanzania. 

 

The proposal as it stands is to have a group of up to 8 couples hosted in our district from Saturday April 8 to Saturday 22nd April which is the conference weekend.  These dates may change by a day or two but seem like a good option.

 

The visitors would be hosted by 3 different Rotarians for periods of 5 nights, 4 nights and 5 nights although the last night would be the Friday evening of conference and we would plan to take them there.  Ideally we would get a good geographical coverage within our district - last time we placed them in Wellington/Kapiti,  Ohakune/Waitara and PN/Horowhenua/Wairarapa.

 

Hosts are free to entertain the visitors as they wish.  The American exchange included activities such as walking the Tongariro Divide, Feilding saleyards, Mt Bruce reserve, visiting Napier, fishing at Taupo, Te Papa, golf etc.  Most visitors also appreciated a bit of down time.

 

Where they can be hosted by he same club it also offers the chance to organise group activity.

 

If you have individuals who wish to be involved please ask them to contact me or if you would like to work as a club/cluster could you arrange for 1 person to be in touch with me.  To date Plimmerton Club have suggested they will act as organiser for their area and can also work in the Wellington clubs if required.

 

At this stage I have not organised a return date.  My original thoughts were to try for May next year when their district conference is in Arusha, the launching point for many Serengeti safaris.  This is probably looking to be too short a time frame now and I would look to discuss this once I have the inwards better organised.

 

Thanks

Neville Gimblett

021 1212214

Friendship exchange with D9211 - Tanzania and Uganda 2016-12-18 00:00:00Z 0

Waterfront Piano

 
On Friday our piano by Tuatua cafe on the waterfront got its annual tune up and health check. The professional opinion from our piano tuner, Len Fifield is that its seen better days and in his opinion dates back to the 1890's (!!) however it looks great in all its splendour. Passers by had again been very generous and contributed some more dollars to help with our good works.
Rick
Waterfront Piano 2016-12-18 00:00:00Z 0

Not just about the Dreadlocks - Hayley Burns

 
This week Hayley, one of the club’s more recent acquisitions, told us about herself and her life. She said she expected that her dreadlocks would be a subject we would require many answers to, so she started with an explanation, including detailed pictures...
Not just about the Dreadlocks - Hayley Burns 2016-12-18 00:00:00Z 0

Perambulators

There were eight keen Perambulators who turned up at Lyall Bay for a walk organised by Paula. After walking up nearly 200 steps to Houghton Terrace, we walked along a ridge to get to Te Raukawa Moana Lookout, then down to Princess Bay and a walk back to our cars. Great coffee stop finish at Bel Mondo café and International Food Market on Tirangi Road. A great walk in excellent company!

 

Thanks

 

Bev

Perambulators 2016-12-05 00:00:00Z 0

We need your support!!

 
 
It's not too late to show your support for the Interact Hangout but we need to know today!
 
As we have mentioned, our wonderful Interact Club are having an event to bring 100+ 14-18 year olds from all walks of life together in a fun social event to encourage networking and friendship. They would like us to help them by providing cold finger food and beverages for their lunch at the event. This event is on Saturday 10 December at Evans Bay Intermediate, 14 Kemp St Kilbirnie from 11-3pm (lunch at 1pm). 
 
A number of you have responded and I am truly thankful but we need some more. We are short on the sandwich/savoury/beverage space. We have been thinking that a donation or commitment can also help us put some pizza on the table. I am happy to pick up items from you between 10 and 11 am.
 
 Please let me know if you can help - for planning purposes I need to know asap.
 
Gillian has also asked for some adults to come to the event in a supervisory role to ensure the event is a safe and successful one for these young people.  The more the merrier.  
Thank you so much for your help - Lisa :-)
 
Please email or call me if you are available to help with food or supervision. 
lisakingaling@gmail.com. Or give me a call on 2325685 or 0212656220.    
Thank you 😊 
 
 ** Merry Christmas **
 
We need your support!! 2016-11-22 00:00:00Z 0

Speaker: Fred Dodds - Financial Planner

In 1974 the Kirk Labour Government introduced a superannuation scheme that could have been worth $300 billion today.

Muldoon’s subsequent government put a stop to that, promising instead a universal pension at age 60 that was 80 percent of the average wage.

Today the pension is payable five years later at age 65 and it is 66 percent of the average wage.

And Kiwisaver, aka the Cullen fund, is worth a mere $30 billion.

People are living longer and most will not have enough money throughout their retirement.

That is where financial advisors like Fred Dodds come in.

Speaker: Fred Dodds - Financial Planner 2016-11-22 00:00:00Z 0
Gifts for Christmas 2016-11-22 00:00:00Z 0

Our Speaker: Professor Nick Wilson

 
Professor Nick Wilson, Professor in Public Health at the University of Otago, Wellington, addressed the Club on the topic of “Beyond Death and Taxes: A public Health perspective”.
Our Speaker: Professor Nick Wilson 2016-11-14 00:00:00Z 0

Julie Hood induction

 
Great to have our latest member inducted on Wednesday morning. With Nicole as her mentor and being involved in the Communications Committee, Julie looks forward to contributing to the club as an active member. We warmly welcome her.
Julie Hood induction 2016-11-14 00:00:00Z 0

A Forest at the Heart of Wellington...An Invitation

Kia ora koutou,
 
The Rotary Club of Wellington and Conservation Volunteers New Zealand are pleased to invite you to a collaborative strategy workshop as part of the Rotary Centenary Project – A Forest at the Heart of Wellington.This ambitious multi-organisational project aims to plant another 60,000 native trees on Mount Victoria by 2021/22, taking the total number of trees planted by Rotary to 100,000. What a fantastic legacy for future generations. To succeed this aspirational project needs your help to achieve our collective ambition. Great progress is being made. Now we need to take it to another level.
A Forest at the Heart of Wellington...An Invitation 2016-11-07 00:00:00Z 0
One of us....Karen Holland 2016-11-07 00:00:00Z 0
Multi week Roster 2016-10-30 00:00:00Z 0

Port Nicholson Gardeners...thanks

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Many thanks to the team for turning up on Sunday morning and putting in some hard graft for several hours. While it was a very physical workout, we all enjoyed seeing the fruits of our labour and our gardening voucher purchasers certainly felt that we performed above expectations and were very pleased with the results. Their garden certainly looks the better for our efforts. Thanks once again and remember that the funds were directed to our charitable recipients - Wellington Free Ambulance, Malaghan, Outward Bound and Rotary Foundation.

Cheers,

Brent

 

Port Nicholson Gardeners...thanks 2016-10-30 00:00:00Z 0

Inspired science entrepreneurs needed!

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dr Justin Hodgkiss of the MacDiarmid Institute gave a fascinating talk. He introduced his presentation by saying that if  there  were just 100 inspired entrepreneurs in the high technology sector it would double New Zealand’s export earnings.
Inspired science entrepreneurs needed! 2016-10-30 00:00:00Z 0

Club speakers make impact!!

With the scheduled speaker presenting as a no show, three members of the club were quickly corralled into speaking about an important matter on their mind.
Club speakers make impact!! 2016-10-24 00:00:00Z 0
Speaker 12th Oct, 2016: David Allison - Angel HQ 2016-10-17 00:00:00Z 0
Blunt Umbrellas 2016-10-11 00:00:00Z 0
Speaker: Past President Mark Pickering 2016-10-09 00:00:00Z 0

Survey for Our Auction 

Hi Folks

 

I have used survey monkey to create a very short survey for members to canvass their views on which charities we should support and any changes they would like to see in the format of the evening.  Thanks to those who gave comments on the draft survey.

 

The Survey Monkey URL for the survey is

 

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BGSKH8Z

 

The survey is open it would be great to have the feedback from club members. 

 

Many thanks to all.  Hopefully by the time I arrive back in early November we will have a set of survey results to look at!

 

Cheers

 

Teresa

Survey for Our Auction  2016-10-09 00:00:00Z 0

Red Nose Day

Just a reminder that our Cure Kids Red Nose Day Roadshow is coming up on Monday 10th October, NZ Rugby House, 100 Molesworth Street 5.45pm for a 6pm start and we’d love to see you all there. DG Martin Garcia will also be attending....
Red Nose Day 2016-10-03 00:00:00Z 0
This weeks speaker: The Business (of Our Club) 2016-10-03 00:00:00Z 0
Friday Frolics October 2016-09-18 00:00:00Z 0

Mentor a Rotaractor

 
 
Would you like to mentor a young person in Rotaract?

Then this is for you!   
 
Chelsea from Rotaract put herself forward and was successful being appointed as club Treasurer this year.  Chelsea is keen to have a mentor to help her as she learns and fulfils this role. 
 
If you would like to do this please contact Lisa King - email lisakingaling@gmail.com or phone 2325685.

Thank you :-)
Mentor a Rotaractor 2016-09-18 00:00:00Z 0
InterContinental Hotel Monday 5.30pm 2016-09-16 00:00:00Z 0

ERK Restocking

Fellows,
 
We are currently purchasing and packing 1,000 Emergency Response Kits (ERKs) to replace the 1,000 distributed in Fiji following Cyclone Winston. This came hard on the heels of the 1,000 distributed following Cyclone Pam in Vanuatu and equates to four Kits per New Zealand Rotary Club for both distributions.
 
Your support  of this Rotary New Zealand initiative is much appreciated.
 
Best wishes
Stuart
 
 
PDG Stuart J Batty QSM,JP
Executive Director
RNZWCS Limited (Rotary New Zealand)
PO Box 20309
Christchurch 8543
New Zealand
Ph/Fax 64 3 3599218
cellphone 027 2695615
skype:  superbatts
Member  :  Council for International Development
Charities Services Reg. No. CC26860         
 
RNZWCS2010Logo (4)                cid:image008.jpg@01D206A6.CA127230           New Logo and Identity for Rotary by Siegel+Gale
ERK Restocking 2016-09-04 00:00:00Z 0

Helping people with disabilities make their own music

Music has been an important part of leading an ordinary life for students at the Music School for Children With Disabilities in Honor of Paul Harris in Lublin, Poland. Founded by Rotary members, the school serves 20 students with various disabilities, including Down syndrome, autism, and visual impairments. The Rotary Club of Lublin-Centrum-Maria Curie-Sklodowska has provided funding with help from Rotary Foundation Matching Grants and the Henryk Wieniawski Musical Society, which houses the school.
 
After their son Mateusz was born with underdeveloped eyes, Mariusz and Joanna Kania looked for ways to help him be active. When he showed an aptitude for music, they looked for a teacher and were thrilled to find the Paul Harris music school.
Helping people with disabilities make their own music 2015-05-01 00:00:00Z 0

Finding Safe Haven

For years, Angalia Bianca had slept in abandoned buildings throughout Chicago. She stole. She did drugs. She spent time in and out of jail for forgery, theft, trespassing, and possession of narcotics. But after she landed in prison for the seventh time, something changed -- Bianca knew she wanted a better life. She just didn’t know how to make it happen.
 
After serving her time, Bianca sought help from a local homeless organization, A Safe Haven, and moved to its shelter in the Rogers Park neighborhood. Bianca followed the program closely -- she attended all the required meetings, passed drug tests, and volunteered at every opportunity.
Finding Safe Haven 2015-05-01 00:00:00Z 0
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