The Waikouaiti Coast Community Board of the Dunedin City Council has released the results of their "Your Community, Your Future, Your Vision" survey of local residents. Their summary of comments follows.

1. PUBLIC TRANSPORT

1.1 What changes to the current bus service would encourage you to use it more often?

This question was answered by 54 people.

Nineteen respondents suggested that frequency was the most significant factor that would encourage them to use the bus service more often. Of these people, four would like a shopping bus on one or two weekday mornings and three would like a timetable more suited to the working day (8am – 5.30pm).

More pick up and drop off points was the next most popular request: eleven respondents said this would encourage them to use the bus more often. Seven people would like the bus to go along the Coast Road to Warrington.

Lower fares might persuade ten respondents to travel by bus more regularly.

Eight people consider the bus system to be fine as it is while four will never use it - regardless of any changes made.

Other suggestions for change included: more readily accessible timetable information, a train service, seatbelts for children, a shorter journey, a more current model bus, concession cards with discounts, and door-to-door service for the elderly.

1.2 What are your views regarding lower bus fares for school children and elderly persons, if that meant a slight increase in fares for others?

This question was answered by 55 people

Twenty three of the respondents indicated their support for this. An additional three people agree as long as fares for everyone continue to be affordable.

Eight people believe that fares should stay as they are because age should not be used as a price discriminant.

Five people responded that the fares should be lower for everybody, four want lower fares for beneficiaries, two people think that fares should be lower for Community Service Card holders, while another two people suggested lower fares for low-wage earners. Another suggestion was a fare reduction for frequent users. Four people felt that fares should be lowered for the elderly but not for children as they have access to the EOHS bus for free.

Other suggestions include: that the bus driver should decide, lower fares for school children and the elderly but don't increase other fares, decrease fares for children during the school week only, and confusion – don't these groups already have concessions on fares?

2. FOOTPATHS

2.1 There is currently a footpath upgrading programme underway. How do you think footpath upgrades should be prioritised? What standard of footpath should be provided – asphalt, gravel, concrete kerb, etc?

This question was answered by 69 people

Four respondents believe that footpath upgrades should be prioritised according to safety; another four believe that it should be according to usage. Two think they should be prioritised according to the most densely populated areas.

Respondents identified many specific streets and places that they would prioritise in regard to the footpath upgrading programme. Four people identified Warrington; three people identified each of the following: Karitane, McGregor Street, and Collins Street; two people identified each of these areas: the main shopping area, Beach Street, Thomas Street, and Doctors Point Road; and one respondent suggested each of these streets: Stewart Street, Lower Kildare Street, Upper Kildare Street, Pratt Street, Henry Street, and Ferguson Street.

Sixteen people would prefer asphalt footpaths. Another fourteen would like asphalt footpaths but with a concrete kerb. Some of these respondents gave reasons for their preference such as asphalt is suitable for prams, bare feet, and other mobility devices. Some of these respondents felt that gravel washes away in heavy rain, that it is dangerous, and that it causes problems with lawn mowing.

Ten respondents would be happy with gravel footpaths. Two people suggested asphalt for footpaths in high usage areas and gravel in others. One person commented that they would add to the country style of the place.

Other suggestions included concrete footpaths, concrete kerb with bricks in the main shopping area, and no kerb. One person felt that the footpaths are OK as they are, while another warned against spending too much money on this project as there are hardly any pedestrians in Warrington.

3. ROADS

3.1 We continue to monitor road safety issues throughout the ward. Please identify any sections of road you are concerned about, and explain your particular areas of concern.

This question was answered by 69 respondents

Speed was the biggest issue for those who took part in this survey. Twenty-eight people were concerned with speed in various parts of Waikouaiti. Eight respondents felt that motorists drive far too fast along Coast Road and of these people, three suggested that the speed limit should be reduced. Five respondents were unhappy about the speed along the Main Road in Waikouaiti; three felt that too many motorists speed in each of the following areas: Sulisker Street (Karitane), Beach Street (Karitane), and Waitati. Speed bumps and pedestrian crossings were suggested to alleviate these situations. Other areas where speed is a concern include Doctor's Point Road, SH1, Collins Street, Henry Street, and Bourke Street.

The next most pressing issue for respondents was visibility. Sixteen people identified this as an issue. Six people stated that the turn from Mount Street into Collins Street was dangerous in terms of visibility because of the trees. Five respondents felt that visibility is an issue at various points along Coast Road, Karitane. Other places that visibility is a problem include the turn from Jefferis Road onto Highway 1; the Main Road south of Waikouaiti; the end of Quarry and Ramrock Road; Edinburgh Street; and the corner of Geelong and Bourke Street.

The third road safety issue, identified by seven respondents, was the quality of the road. Three people would like Short Cut Road to be resealed and two would like the same done for Henry Street. State Highway 1 from Waikouaiti to Dunedin is also an issue as is McGregor Street.

Five respondents found that the lack of footpaths in certain areas is a road safety issue. Two people identified Doctor's Point Road and one identified McGregor Street. Other areas of concern were the road from Waikouaiti to Karitane, Waitati, and Warrington.

Narrow streets are also a road safety issue in the Waikouaiti area. Three respondents think that Beach Street is too narrow especially with the amount of heavy vehicles that frequent this stretch of road. Coast Road was also identified as being too narrow.

Three respondents think that cycle tracks should be built in the general area to keep a growing number of cyclists safe from other traffic.

Other issues include: Beach Street due to parking congestion; Main road, Kildare Street, and the Evansdale turnoff due to "danger"; the sharp bends after the bridge at Carey's Creek and at Waitati's Blueskin Store; the road to Buckland's Crossing due to drivers on the wrong side of the road; several railway crossings are dilapidated; there are no "Children" signs around Warrington School; and the give way signs at the corner of Hill and Station Road and at the corner of Coast and Park road are both considered unsafe.

Other suggestions include: opening Thomas Street at the railway line; having a roundabout at Waikouaiti school; and having a pedestrian crossing outside the dairy on the main street of Waikouaiti.

4. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

With a steady increase in visitor numbers to the ward area, what are your feelings regarding:

1. Promoting Coast Road as a scenic route, with increased high-profile signage detailing attractions and services in our area?

This question was answered by 68 people

Thirty-seven people indicated that they are in favour of this idea. Three would prefer the road to be upgraded first and two would rather have low-profile than high-profile signage. Other suggestions include: promote history with murals; have a sign in the Domain about Truby King; plant topiary shrubs in planters on the main road; promote the lagoon; make a map of the area available; and put 'Slow Down' signs along Coast Road.

Thirteen people oppose this idea. Three respondents would rather keep the traffic down while two believe that the signage equates to "visual pollution" and another two think that the project will be too expensive. Other issues include: the road is too narrow; it would be better promoted as a cycle route; the road quality is too poor; the river and beach are polluted; and Waikouaiti citizens would lose their privacy.

Sixteen respondents have reservations but did not have an entirely negative response to the idea. Seven people commented that the road would need to be improved first and three feel that the road is not appropriate for heavy traffic. Another three respondents feel that the idea is of low priority with the suggestion made that it would be better to attract tourists to local businesses rather than to Coast Road. Two people think that facilities such as the toilets at the Domain would have to be improved before the project went ahead. Another respondent thinks that the idea should be promoted for cycling, walking, and riding only.

4.2 The potential for new businesses to develop in our area?

This question was answered by 56 people

Thirty people believe that the potential for growth in Waikouaiti is good. Seven respondents would prefer small, local businesses that serve the community and four people are only interested in economic growth if the environment is not put at risk. Two comments related to the idea broadband coverage is needed before businesses can flourish. Other relevant issues to consider are government assistance, revamping of the town centre, and safety.

Three people would like a supermarket. Other business suggestions include: accommodation (an overflow area for Dunedin perhaps); cafes and restaurants; eco-tourism; arts; historical tours; and a weekend market at Waikouaiti.

Seven respondents do not think the area has much potential for growth because it's a small seaside village; the water quality is poor; Dunedin is too large a competitor; and the District Plan will not allow development.

4.3 The overall effect of more visitors coming into our area?

This question was answered by 58 people

Twenty seven respondents think that the overall effect of more visitors would be positive. Seven of these would like more visitors because they bring income and opportunity for local businesses. Three people prefer low-key visitors and suggested that motorbikes, boats, and cars be restricted in certain areas.

A significant number of people believe that changes would have to be made to Waikouaiti to accommodate an increasing number of tourists. Nine respondents are concerned with rubbish and suggested more bins, a skip, and more signage. Four people believe the public toilets would need to be revamped and another four people suggested a facelift to the area in general with one of these commenting specifically on the environment. Other considerations included more parking; a camping ground; footpaths; a decent bus service; more signage; and some means of encouraging visitors to correctly pronounce "Waikouaiti."

Eight respondents believe the overall effect of more visitors would be negative, while several others also had reservations. Four people believe more visitors would spoil the peace and solitude of the area and another four are concerned with road safety, which is already an issue that would only escalate with more tourists. Other issues included disturbance to wild/bird life; an increase in housing prices; an increase in population (farmland may then become residential); a dependence on tourism; and a loss of charm.

5. ZONING ISSUES

5.1 Dunedin City Council is currently reviewing the rural and landscape sections of the District Plan. We would like to hear your views regarding issues which may arise from this review.

This question was answered by 39 people

Thirteen respondents indicated that they believe that there should be no change to current zoning. Four people want to keep the area rural while three believe that development and subdivision spoils the scenic landscape. Other respondents felt that housing development should stop or be confined; housing should be built in keeping with the surroundings; and cluster development around existing settlements is preferable to changes in zoning.

Seven respondents felt they did not have enough information to comment.

Three people are in favour of development. One said if tourism is to be encouraged, then the resource consent process should be made easier and another would like to attract more residents to Waikouaiti.

Suggestions for improvement to the Waikouaiti landscape include: the provision of adequate water and sewerage systems for what exists now; an upgrade to the Beach St landscape; a clean up of the gorse in Main St, opposite the school; and a removal of two containers on the street boundary in Henry Street, that are ruining the view of a neighbour.

Other comments from this survey include that that committees need to stop talking and start acting; that the Council should stick to the District Plan and have the same rules for all; and that these types of decisions should be done through City Planning.

5.2 Do you feel that the current Coastal Landscape Protection Area is appropriate? Do you think that it should be extended to include Blueskin Bay?

This question was answered by 54 people

Thirteen people responded to this question with a single "yes" answer and it was therefore difficult to ascertain which part of the question was being answered.

Twenty-four respondents feel that the current Coastal Landscape Protection Area is appropriate while three people feel that it is not. Of these people, one person felt that it is inappropriate because of the 15-hectare lots along the coast and another that the CLPA is too focussed on amenity rather than normal rural use.

At least twenty-three people advocate the extension of the CLPA to include Blueskin Bay. One person commented that access could run along a coastal footpath from Aramoana to Karitane and another urged the DCC to take more consideration of Seacliff. 3 people do not think the CLPA should extend to Blueskin Bay as 1 feels that Orokonui Sanctuary will protect enough land and another feels that this would only impose more rules and regulations on citizens of Waikouaiti.

6. THE ENVIRONMENT

6.1 The Board is looking at various environmental issues in our area including coastal erosion, effects of climate change, protecting our natural environment, etc. What are you concerns regarding these topics?

This question was answered by 58 people

Twelve people are concerned with the effect that economic development will have on the environment. Four people stated that the environment should always come before development and tourism; three people are concerned with Mainland Poultry – high water use, effluent discharge, and smell; and two people would like to protect the coast and foreshore from commercial development. Other comments about development included: commercial cockle fishing should be monitored; a mussel farm should not go ahead; and tourism and housing development should be carefully controlled.

Twelve respondents are concerned with water pollution. Three people would like the waterways protected from stock; perhaps farmers could stop their animals from grazing at river edges. Another three people are more worried about water pollution. Others worry about effluent discharges near waterways; algae etc. in the creek on Stornoway Street; the Waikouaiti landfill discharge to the Wetlands; rubbish disposal that runs off to the bay; pollution at Waikouaiti bay; and the state of Blueskin Bay (green with moss and aqua life).

Erosion in the area is a concern to ten of the respondents. There were several suggestions about how to combat this: prohibit motorbikes from the beach (three people advocate this); build a wooden retaining wall along the beachfront; and planting initiatives. One respondent pointed out that building should not be approved on these sites. Two respondents identified the Spit at Warrington and Blueskin Bay as problem areas.

Seven respondents have concerns about trees in the area. Four people would like to see more native trees and one person would like hawthorn hedges protected. Another respondent views the pine trees on Waikouaiti beach as an eyesore while another would agree that the spread of pest tree species is an issue.

Seven respondents commented generally that it is of the utmost importance to protect the natural environment while five have no concerns about the environment.

Wildlife is a concern for five people who answered this question. Old Man's Beard is destroying native bush, home to the bird life; the bird life on Warrington Spit is also at risk; possums need protecting and paradoxically, controlling; and the swans at Blueskin Bay have been driven from their natural environment due to effluent in the bay.

Four respondents feel that rubbish is an issue in the Waikouaiti area. Three commented that it should be better controlled with more rubbish bins. The fee for using the dump should perhaps be lowered and the car bodies scattered about the town should be removed.

Four people are worried about rising sea levels and flooding. Again a respondent warned that building on these sites should not be approved.

Lack of water supply concerns a total of four respondents. Drought and, as mentioned, Mainland Poultry are the reasons supplied.

Three respondents commented on climate change. One person suggested that through the promotion of public transport, local holidays, and local food production this problem might be alleviated.

Two people are concerned with sewage disposal. One person suggested that a plan is needed to continue the existing good practice as the population grows and another advocates healthy septic tanks.

Two people would like a wind farm or solar energy production in the area.

Other comments from this survey include: preserve the views; remove the sand from Sulisker Road; stop spraying the roadside; and protect Rabbit Island as a reserve.

7. RECREATION AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES

7.1 This encompasses such things as parks, playgrounds, reserves, beaches, halls, libraries, community centres, etc. What improvements would you like to see the Community Board advocating for?

This question was answered by 62 people

Twelve people indicated that they would like local libraries retained and/or upgraded. Longer hours, more space, and library as an art centre were suggested. Nine respondents are satisfied with facilities as they are.

Eight people would like the town hall complex speeded up while eight believe that the funding for this project would be better spent on existing facilities that will get more use such as medical rooms.

Seven respondents would like to see changes in Warrington. Suggestions included: planting, BBQs, and pleasant toilets at Warrington Domain; an extension of Warrington hall; trees in Warrington playground; and a cycle track from Warrington to Waitati.

The beach is an area that could be improved according to six respondents. Three people would like vehicles banned from the beach. Others would like to see more beach plantings, sheltered areas, and the brown residue removed.

Six respondents would like work to be done on the current sporting facilities. Two suggestions were: eradicate rabbits at Waikouaiti sports ground and put down some more tar-seal.

Five people would like to see more rubbish bins around. Children's playgrounds are a priority for another five respondents. Four people are supportive of continued funding for Moana swimming pool. Three people would like to see an improvement in public toilet facilities. Other facilities that people would like are picnic areas on Matakana Drive and elsewhere; a museum; a skate ramp; and an agency of leading banks in Waikouaiti perhaps once a week.

Other alterations that respondents suggested include pruning the pine trees on Matakana Drive; maintaining Waikouaiti gardens; and installing a fire hydrant close to Waitati School.

8. WATER

8.1 The Board is disappointed about the delay in implementing the Northern Water Schemes Upgrade. So do you have any comments regarding the upgrade?

55 People answered this question

A large proportion (20 people) is desperate for the upgrade. Six of these are appalled that they have to boil water. The local supply should be upgraded at present according to four respondents while another four believe that the local supply is the permanent solution.

Three people said they require more information about the scheme and/or previous schemes with one commenting that all the information received was biased in some way.

Two respondents believe that the community was only consulted as a formality and that there was no actual listening involved.

Two of the respondents to this question believe that residents should not be charged for water that they cannot drink and one of them suggested that the DCC compensate residents for costs incurred.

Increased water taken from the Waikouaiti River is detrimental to the current and future population according to two respondents. Another two people mentioned that this is a serious health and safety problem.

One person is happy with the current water supply and one person thinks the Northern Water Schemes Upgrade is a good idea.

Other suggestions included: put every water user on meters and charge for using any water that goes over the allocated amount; extend the water pipe from Dunedin; get more holding tanks; and encourage home users to collect their own water; and keep residents informed of developments.

Generally, residents hope that the quality of the water will vastly improve and that the water pressure will also improve.

8.2 Do you have any comments regarding the concept of charging for water based on the quantity used?

56 people answered this question

The largest proportion of respondents (one in five people) is against the user pay system. Their arguments include that it will unfairly disadvantage poor people, large families and people who stay at home during the day. Some concerns are also expressed relating to the implementation cost of the system, and whether these will outweigh the benefits. Another concern among those who are against the concept is that the quality of water is so low that it is unethical to charge for it.

Thirteen people indicated that they support the concept of charging for water. They see the potential benefits of this, in particular the way it will prevent water wastage. Another two people say they would be in favour of this concept if they can be assured that the scheme will never be privatised. Another person would be in favour if all of the funds generated from this system will be put back into the community.

Six people said they would be willing to pay for water only if the quality is improved significantly. One of these six people also wants the water pressure to be better. Another five people suggested that water should only be charged after a certain amount has been used.

Two people felt that people who do not have rain tanks should be charged because they put more pressure on the water availability. Another two people made the suggestion that the user pay system should only be enforced when the available water reaches a certain level.

Nine people made references to rates. Five of these people consider that the rates they pay should cover the water they use. Another two suggest that they are willing to pay for their water usage as long as other Dunedin ratepayers are charged accordingly. The remaining two people would support the scheme as long as their rates will be reduced.

In addition to some of the suggestions made above, one person says that only businesses should be charged. Another person points out that they do not like to see water being taken from the Waikouaiti River because it is environmentally damaging.

10. Waste Disposal

10.1 How do you think the Dunedin City Council could improve the current waste disposal system, and how should they encourage people to recycle more waste?

This question was answered by 55 people

Eleven people indicated that they are satisfied with the current system, some of these mentioned that more encouragement of recycling would be beneficial. Nineteen people explicitly stated that recycling needs to be promoted, they suggested strategies such as education, incentives, less restrictive recycling methods, giving businesses recycle bins, and returning the skip to Waitati, having a recycling unit at Karitane and opening the recycling bins seven days per week to assist in higher levels of recycling.

Seven respondents commented on the quantity of waste that is produced. There were suggestions of a zero-waste strategy, banning advertising pamphlets, banning plastic disposable containers, and putting pressure on waste producers such as supermarkets. Three of these seven people recognise producers rather than consumers being the culprit of waste.

Two issues were raised concerning the dump. One that the dumping charge is too high, the other concern about matter of leachate seeping through to the lagoon area. These issues have already been raised and the respondents questioned where the results were.

Some other suggestions of how to improve the waste disposal system include: a once a quarter collection of 'other' rubbish, summer collections for garden wastes, banning wheelie bins, having larger recycling bins, increasing the price of rubbish bags, decreasing the price of rubbish bags, free recycling bins and encouraging composting.

10.2 What are your views regarding the continued use of the Waikouaiti landfill?

Fifteen people are satisfied with the service it provides. They suggest it assists in recycling. Some people do express concern at the cost of using it, one person suggests a lower charge would discourage the dumping of rubbish, which is currently an issue, another suggests that green waste should be free.

Ten expressed their concern for the environment, recognising that it is too close to a wetland, and questioning its sustainability. Eleven people are concerned about non-local people using the landfill. Two people suggesting that it should not be used as a money making scheme

Three people explicitly state they want the landfill to continue. One person wants it open mid-week and in the weekend. Another questions where their rubbish will go if the landfill gets closed.

Other suggestions relating to the landfill include that a recycle bin should be placed at the entrance, another questions how rodents are dealt with.

10.3 What are your views regarding the current free provision of mega-skips three times a year for Blueskin bay residents to dispose of bulky items?

Forty people commented that they feel this is a good service. One of these people would like the dates on which this occurs more publicised. Similarly, a few people were unaware that this happened and would like to be informed of the dates.

Three people express concerns relating to the recyclability of materials that are being put in the skips. Two suggest that a recycling skip should be placed next to it. Two people are critical of the provision suggesting that it is not needed, and that people should have to pay for their own skips.

One person would like to see this initiative extended to include Waikouaiti.

10.4 What are your views regarding the most efficient disposal methods for green waste

Thirty people indicated that is should be used to make compost. A large number of these people would like to see the creation of a community compost heap. Two people suggest that this could be sold, and that it could provide at least three jobs.

Four people think that it should be free at the landfill. Another person suggests that some sort of arrangement needs to be made with the landfill.

Other suggestions include a once a month kerbside collection, bringing in the mobile chipper that the DCC has and having additional skips available for this type of waste.

11. Energy Conservation

11.1 How do you think that the board should get involved in advocating for energy conservation measures and local power generation schemes?

This question was answered by 52 people

Five people do not think that the board should get involved, suggesting that this is a DCC and ORC issue, and that the water problem needs to be resolved first. Another two suggest that they should only be involved in making the library and hall more energy efficient.

Seven people support the use of wind energy. Of these, two people suggest that wind generation should only be on a minimal scale e.g. small generator per household. One person explicitly states that they do not want to see any windfarms.

Ten people want to see an increase in solar energy being used, especially in new houses. Some people suggest that subsidies would be required to get people to transfer to solar power.

Other suggestions include: turning the street lights off at night, incentives for using less energy, subsidising housing energy-efficiency assessments, holding education seminars on how to be more energy efficient, having higher standards for new houses, and promoting higher levels of insulation.

(Summary compiled by DCC staff)

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