21/06/2005

It's looking good for Otorohanga

It has been another busy two months since my last mayoral report.
Otorohanga community's new Westridge residential subdivision has been formally opened.
There is still some final detailing to be done but already the sections are selling faster than predicted - another two were sold last week.
More than a third of the available sections are gone, and new homes will soon be appearing for the lucky new residents to Otorohanga.
The subdivision committee has undertaken its first pricing review of the remaining sections and although the demand and finished quality of the development is outstanding, I can tell you that if you contact our local real estate agents you can still get an absolute bargain at Westridge.
Quotable Value NZ house price figures released recently show a national average for May at 13.5 per cent increase. Otorohanga house prices rose a staggering 43.2 per cent - while other centres such as Nelson dropped.
Further proof indeed that there is desirability and capital gain in the Otorohanga district.
The Wintec Otorohanga Trade Training Centre was also opened recently - another fantastic initiative for our employers and potential employers.
Business growth is strong in this region across all sectors particularly the trades and services, and there is an ongoing need far a high standard of young people to be trained to enter these careers here in Otorohanga.
The trade centre will help meet this need.
More positives for Otorohanga include the success of the Otorohanga Sports Club's rugby teams, leading the Waikato premier division.
It's fantastic to see quality rugby played again at the best ground in the region - the Island Reserve.
Freight Lines Otorohanga soccer teams are also excelling in their league.
Beattie Home recreation hall is another asset to the community, as is the new Harvest Community Centre project now underway in the former Regent picture theatre building, under the capable direction of Peter Coventry and his team.
Rabobank is open, Trevor Walters Pharmacy, Goldpine and many others are expanding their businesses, the railway station refurbishment is about to start, and so much more.
Once our annual plan submissions are heard and the plan is adopted, the Otorohanga District Council will be focusing on planning and resourcing for the district plan review budgeted to begin in the 2006 / 07 financial year.
This will be a significant activity for council and staff as we will seek to engage all interested members of the community to ensure the district plan reflects the needs and expectations of our people. I look forward to your participation in this process.
My council, community boards and staff work hard to present a responsible, financially sound, attractive and progressive district - we are very appreciative of your support.