We are fortunate to live in a city that has something to offer everyone.

There are not many places in the world where you can go from magnificent beaches to the bush within half an hour.

Otanewainuku Forest is a treasure right on our back doorstep. The forest is home to kiwis and offers an easy half-hour loop walk among mature native trees, or a more strenuous climb to a look out.

I took my grandsons to Classic Flyers last weekend. This is a well run aviation history museum that excels with the assistance of volunteers. Classic Flyers is a reminder of how it is possible to be self-sustainable when you think outside the square.

A birthday party was in progress and some cruise ship passengers from the ‘hop on, hop off' bus were relaxing with a cup of coffee.

In the afternoon I attended the Boat Expo on the waterfront in the CBD. At $5 per person entrance fee, it was well patronised and great to see enthusiastic youngsters sailing in a race – the Peter Burlings of tomorrow.

With temperatures reaching the mid-20s, Mount Main Beach was a popular choice for many locals and visitors from cruise ships Oosterdam and Dawn Princess.

Last week, I attended ‘Tutus on Tour' by the Royal New Zealand Ballet – a good opportunity to see talented dancers performing at Baycourt theatre.

One of the upcoming elected members discussions will be on whether or not to continue operating Baycourt as a standalone operation or to incorporate it into Bay Leisure & Events Ltd – a council-controlled organisation.

Back at Tauranga City Council this week workshops included listening to a cross section of Tauranga's community who shared their visions and aspirations for Tauranga.

Each person was given 10 minutes to present their views to elected members. A 17-year-old high school student impressed me with his positive attitude and visionary thinking.

Elected members had a one day workshop on standing orders and chair training. TCC will have its first meeting on Tuesday, November 19. The agenda will include committees, standing orders and code of conduct.

Other workshops this week have included an economic briefing from Cameron Bagrie, ANZ chief economist, information on Route K/Hairini and updates on events and tsunami issues.