A reminder, the by-election for Mount Maunganui/Papamoa ward takes place on February 17, 2015.

Eligible people need to enrol or update their enrolment details by December 22, 2014 to vote in the by-election. Nominations are now open for candidates and close on December 22.

For further information phone 0800 36 76 56 or see www.elections.org.nz

Cycling – a two-way responsibility

As a recreational cyclist I get to see the good, bad and ugly of cyclists and motorists behaviour on our roads.

Many cyclists put themselves at risk by not being visible on the road. A high viz jacket, mirror and light are essential.

Cycling two abreast on our busy roads isn't a good option and comes back to the two-way responsibility.

One of the most frustrating aspects of cycling is the amount of broken glass on our roads.

Tauranga has many off-road tracks to cycle, some with shared walkways.

February is Bike Wise month and a great opportunity to experience the many cycle routes that are available for the recreational rider with the assistance of a leader.

Further information will be available in January on Sport Bay of Plenty website.

Some areas to cycle off-road include around the stormwater reserves in Papamoa, around the Daisy Hardwick walkway, Millers Road reserve, The Lakes, McLaren Falls and the boardwalk down by the Historic Village at 17th Avenue West.

It's possible to cycle from The Lakes to the CBD with most cycling being off-road.

The reception on the ground floor of Taranga City Council has booklets available on walkways/cycleway.

Southern pipeline

Elected members joined TCC staff on a bus tour and site visit to check out progress of the Southern pipeline. We visited Maleme St at Greerton, Memorial Park, Matapihi and Te Maunga.

The Southern pipeline is a $100 million project and is about half-completed.


Elected members check out Southern Pipeline work at Memorial Park.