Jane Comben

Pukerua Bay Community Garden Calendar 2026

Back by popular demand, our popular fundraising calendar is back!

BUY NOW:
$25 for one, $40 for two.

(We can deliver to Pukerua Bay addresses)

Also available at the RSA

Account: Pukerua Bay Residents Association 02 0536 0134648 002
Ref:  your name & CGFF
Email us: PukeruaBayCommunityGarden@gmail.com

This year we’ve featured 12 gardens that are part of our NEW garden trail!
The trail is happening on Sunday, 9th November 2025 – 10am to 2pm.

Lambing on Wairaka Farm has started 

A message from Wairaka Farm:
(Wairaka Farm is on the left as you go north through Pukerua Bay.)

Please do not to go onto the farm until Tuesday 31 October. 

This is so that the mothers and lambs aren’t disturbed. 
Please pass this message on to anyone who needs to know. 

Any questions, please contact Kerry Kilminster on 027 389 9212. 

Image credit: David Griffiths unsplash.com

Climate Action Rōpū at the Pop-up Parlour

This year at the PKB HUB’s Pop-up Parlour the Pukerua Bay Climate Action Rōpū are hosting three events:

1) Let’s Talk Climate Change


Wednesday, 3 September 2025
7:00–8:30 pm, St Marks, 98 Rawhiti Road, Pukerua Bay

A talk by Mark Wendelker from Plimmerton Climate Café.

A lay person’s guide to climate change concepts.
Marks presentation explains aspects of climate change (such as carbon footprint, planetary boundaries, de-growth etc.) what they mean, how they interact and why they’re important. 

Link to the event here

2) Pukerua Bay Crop Swap


Saturday, 20 September 2025
3-4pm, St Marks, 98 Rawhiti Road, Pukerua Bay

Crop Swapping and recycling are sustainability focused events supported by the Pukerua Bay Climate Action Group, Waste Free Pukerua Bay and a local sustainability business My Bihome. Set up is at 3pm, with a karakia, then we swap to our hearts content.

Special this month:

  • Drop in with Nick at Predator Free Pukerua Bay. Ask questions, get advice or buy a tunnel trap.
  • Demonstration by Pukerua Bay Community Garden and Food Forest – growing microgreens as an affordable and healthy salad option.
  • Stick around for the Pukerua Bay Climate Action Group’s Clothes Swap after the Crop Swap.

P.S. Please come along even if you have nothing to share that week. Swapping is not limited to home grown plants and anything ‘garden and home’ (e.g. baking, preserves, flowers) is welcome.

Link to the event here

3) Clothes Swap


Saturday, 20 September 2025
4:00 –5:30 pm, St Marks, 98 Rawhiti Road, Pukerua Bay

Please bring along your unwanted quality clothing and accessories and swap them for some new treasures! Arrive with your clothes and they will be sorted while you browse. 
Entry: by gold coin/folding Koha and includes a cuppa and baking.

What we’re swapping:
Feel free to bring womens, mens and kids clothing as well as jewellery, shoes and accessories.

NO books, toys or ripped/stained clothing thanks. 
(Only CLEAN items you’d be happy to drop off at the charity shop please).

Link to the event here

We hope to see you at the Pop-up!

August 2025 Residents Association meeting minutes

Minutes Tuesday 12 August 2025
7:30 –9:00 pm RSA Wairaka Rd

Attending: Paul FitzGerald, Jane Comben, Judith Frost-Evans, Margaret Blair, Cr Josh Trlin Dorothy Ibrahim, Nathan Gray, Aditi Tiwari, Arram Don Silva
Apologies: Moira Lawler, Nikky Winchester

Last month’s minutes a true and accurate representation

Moved Paul / seconded Judith. All in favour. Carried.

Council updates

PCC –

Council business has slowed down.

Update on Plunket Rooms – decision has been made to demolished leaving it free for a while with the longterm intention it’s available if any community group lease.

The cheapest option.

Change to speed limits close to schools. Last year the consultation decided on permanent 30km speed limits. New government has forced councils to change to variable signs. They pushed back and although they passed the motion they noted their displeasure and extra costs.

Fixed signage were chosen as cheapest option.

Now in pre-election period.

Informed of rejection by Government of Specified Development Project on Northern Growth Area. Will provide more info when he knows more.

Pukerua Bay entrance sign damage

The signs origin is unclear but Council has been fixing it up over time and we think it would be a council asset. Josh said will follow up for us if required

Candidates Meeting (Mayoralty, Pauatahanui, Māori and GWRC) on 7pm at the school hall on Wed 20th August. Paul will put up on FB, noticeboard, flyer to school and email to other RAs.

GWRC –

none

Matters arising

none

Financial report as at 12 August 2025

BNZ		$ 9,538.79
Income:
$5.84 Interest
$40.00 Korero Invoices
$385.00 CGFF Calendars @ 7/8/2025

Expenditure:
$736.00 CGFF Aon Insurance
$1707.47 CGFF Calendar Printing
$850.00 He Ara Bevan Story
$814.20 Korero Flying Colours
$200.00 Residents’ Assoc Rent to RSA



Account balances as at 12 August 2025
Res Assn 000 $262.58
He Ara 001 $161.87
CGFF 002 $122.33
Kōrero 066 $0.87
Climate 083 $0.01
Surf Seat 067 $174.73
On Call Acct 025 $8816.40
CGFF $3550.00 On Hold & Donation
He Ara $2750.00 Donation
Korero $1250.00 On Hold & Donation
Climate $550.00 Donation
Residents $716.40 Interest & Donation
________________________________________________________________
Action Notes:
• RSA Rental
• Aon Insurance : “For this renewal I can reduce the fee to $90.00 then next year we could look for some alternative insurers to save on premium.”
• Korero – Moira notes the price increase - it will impact on their budget

Financials

Moved Paul/ seconded Jane All in favour. Carried

Correspondence

14 May 2025
From: Judith frost-Evans
Subject: Beach Signs
Email trail of information and notes from PCC Gillian, Briony etc.

5 August
From: Flying Colours
Subject: Invoice for Korero

29 July
From: RA Secretary Plimmerton 
Subject: Plimmerton Residents Association AGM Mon 25 August, 7pm
Responded: Thanked Robin

23 July
From: Ian
Subject: Photos of Pukerua Bay
Responded: Suggested He Ara website

21 July
From: Megan Krishnan from PCC 
Subject:  reduction – team offering to give a talk.
Responded: I’ll share with Climate Action Ropu

11 July
From: Maureen Dunn
Subject: Toy library info
Responded: Try facebook or turning up as it may have stopped.

10 July
From: Zoe
Subject: PBRA website inquiry: Muri Road development
Response: forwarded the details from Jayden

7 July
From: Megan Krishnan from PCC 
Subject: Bizezi – FREE Business Training Programme for Porirua (30 July – 1 August)

1 July
From: <elections@poriruacity.govt.nz>
Subject: Local Elections 2025 – Nominations open this Friday

Action Items

Train Replacement Bus Service – No progress

Dog/Penguin signs – Made some progress with an on-site meeting at the beach with Andrew Gray.

Josh and Ross Leggett helped make it happen. Megan Marine biologist, Gillian Candler gave advice what the sign should say. It will be a year’s process and we’ve had a lot of input (including Briony resident). Andrew is away so nothing much happening until Oct Nov. Judith suggested a meeting for feedback Megan suggested it could be with the Pop-up. The rules and signage around the beach unclear.

Brendan Beach Rubbish Bin –Photo in the signage talkof the bin that has been removed. Briony asked to have it put back. Briony has been asked to send a photo of bin to Josh.

Village – see general business

Project Updates

Climate Action

The group are supporting the Pop-up with:

Ella is running the Crop Swap 3-4pm 20th Sept with the usual recycling collection, including a drop-in from Nick at Predator Free Pukerua Bay and representatives from the Community Garden showing how to grow affordable micro-greens. The Crop Swap will be followed at 4-5.30pm by a Clothes Swap (entry by Koha) run by Ella and Jane. All help welcome.

Community Garden

  • Pop-up – we’ll bring some info on how to grow micogreens to the Crop Swap on 20 August at St. Mark’s.
  • Calendars – they look great and we need to start selling them. Jane will put up a promo post on Facebook soon.
  • Boundary fence  – The garden has been in touch with Josh Trlin again about the council talking to the new owners about a new fence with the neighbouring site at the back of the garden.
  • Strawberries – the new bed is looking great.
  • Rongoa – Still more trees to buy (approx 12) which will need to be bought and planted soon before the season changes.
  • Jobs and planning in the garden –
    • We’re getting a new drone photo of the garden so we can identity the trees and planting areas for planning rotation in Spring and Summer.
    • As part of that Brian will think about putting the tree signs on stakes to prevent the signs damaging the trees.
    • Brian’s compost is cooking nicely and will be ready in November.
  • Gay asked permission to buy an Omega Plum tree. We’re agreed this can come out of the plants and soil budget and Ara may get it from the excellent nursery in Riverton when she visits.

He Ara Report

The Kapiti Observer article about Pukerua Bay new shops on Rawhiti Road.

  • The latest story for He Ara website The Shops and Stores of Pukerua Bay, along with 16 photos, is with the web developer.
  • He Ara contribution to the Hub Pop-Up Parlour will be an exhibition of original Pukerua Bay paintings and a presentation by two Pukerua Bay artists.
  • The He Ara website normally averages five visitors per day but on the 18 July 120 individuals visited the site – all from Germany. There is no known explanation for this interest.  

Kōrero

Our current issue on “getting about” and our experiences with our trails, walkways, roads, and paths is out for distribution. We were very happy to promote the planned meet the candidate evening and to run several items from the Residents’ Association and our partner organisations under the village planning korowai.

The theme for the next issue is “good neighbours”.  The copy deadline is 6 October, with delivery in November.

General Business

Pukerua Bay entrance sign Paul been in touch with council and they will keep him informed. Parks have secured the sign with cones and tape. It represents the fault through PKB

Northern Growth Area – nothing we can do about that. Opportunity lost to have some coordination between the various developments.

Muri Road development – approached them to see if they’d come to the AGM.

The first section is the land designated residential. The other section still rural. Once the internal road is done it will break through to Muri Road. The other issue is protecting Taupō swamp. A small part of this development feeds into its headwaters.

RA in the future – demographic is older we need to think how to proceed.

Village planning review – take it to the community planning meeting

Nathan found the meeting thoroughly entertaining!

Meeting ended 8.55 pm

July 2025 Residents Association meeting minutes

Minutes Tuesday 8 July 2025
7:30 –9:00 pm RSA Wairaka Rd

Attending: Paul FitzGerald, Nikky Winchester, Margaret Blair, Judith Frost-Evans (via Zoom)
Apologies: Jane Comben, Cr Josh Trlin,

Last month’s minutes a true and accurate representation

Moved Paul / seconded Margaret. All in favour. Carried.
Basic minutes as Jane was away

Council updates

None

Matters arising

There will be a Candidates Meeting on 20 August at 7pm at the School and Community Hall, using the stage and half of the floor.

Financial report as at 5 July 2025

BNZ		$ 13,415.62
Income:
$6.16 Interest
$140.00 CGFF Plant sales
$360.00 Korero Invoices
$100.00 He Ara Invoice/Matariki

Expenditure:
$376.11 He Ara Frampton Signs
$503.44 He Ara Frameworks
$546.20 He Ara Anne Johnson
$814.20 Korero Flying Colours
$100.05 CGFF Hannah Zwartz Gardens
$ 50.00 CGFF Koha for Rongoa blessing
$ 14.00 CGFF Weedeater repair
$ 27.98 CGFF Marking Pens

Invoices - Outstanding:
$40.00 Korero

Account balances as at 5 July 2025
Res Assn 000 $462.58
He Ara 001 $161.87
CGFF 002 $2180.80
Kōrero 066 $375.07
Climate 083 $0.01
Surf Seat 067 $174.73
On Call Acct 025 $10060.56
CGFF $3550.00 On Hold & Donation
He Ara $3600.00 Donation
Korero $1650.00 On Hold & Donation
Climate $550.00 Donation
Residents $710.56 Interest & Donation
________________________________________________________________
Action Notes:
Aon Insurance declaration returned 28 May 2025 with question:
“May we question the increase of the brokerage/admin fee – a 79% increase seems a bit steep, especially as the community garden is a voluntary, community activity with no income except for the generosity of grant funding.”
Aon response 25/6/2025: Regarding the broker/admin fee, this increase was provided by our head office mid-term of your renewal. It is the new standard for Aon for every commercial policy we provide. For this renewal I can reduce the fee to $90.00 then next year we could look for some alternative insurers to save on premium.

The motion was placed to accept the AON Insurance premium quote of $736, which includes a slight discount. This will be paid within the month.

Moved Paul/ seconded Margaret All in favour. Carried

Correspondence

– Janice R and Paul L, Muri Road: complaining about lack of notice from contractors. Paul checked with the contractors, who said that they had talked to some residents in the even-numbered houses, but they didn’t leave any information for those houses where they didn’t talk to residents. However, information about the planned work was put on the RA website and social media.

– Business training programme; no response required.

– Judith hasn’t heard back from PCC. Action: Judith to ask Josh Trlin to follow up.

Action items

– Rail replacement bus stops: no response.

– Dog and penguin signs: no progress, but these are still expected to be installed at some point in this financial year.

– Remediation works: no further info.

– Ara Harakeke: fixing this wasn’t included with the other remediation works.

– Brendan Beach: no progress.

– MOUs for subgroups: no progress.

– Candidates meeting: as above.

Project Updates

Kōrero

Content for next issue is due by 7 July, with hard copy delivery due 16-18 August. The theme is “exploring our village”.

Community Garden

It was confirmed that the Garden group sold 400 copies of the calendar last year.
The motion was placed to cover the printing of 300 copies.
Moved Judith seconded Margaret All in favour. Carried

He Ara Pukerua

The motion was placed to put forward a grant proposal to Hutt Mana in the March 2026 round.
Moved Margaret, seconded Paul All in favour. Carried

A payment to Isaac du Toit was approved.

General business

– The AGM will take place on 22 October at 7pm. A notice will be included in the next issue of Kōrero. Further details, including guest speakers, will be shared on the RA website and social media. Action: Paul to invite the Muri Road developers to speak.

Meeting ended 8.23pm.

May 2025 Residents Association meeting minutes

Minutes Tuesday 13 May 2025
7:30 –9:00 pm RSA Wairaka Rd

Attending: Paul FitzGerald, Judith Frost-Evans (Via Zoom), Jane Comben, Nikky Winchester, Cr Josh Trlin, Margaret Blair
Apologies: none
Community Member: Moira Lawler

He timatanga: Whakataka te hau
Whakataka te hau ki te uru
Whakataka te hau ki te tonga
Kia mākinakina ki uta
Kia mātaratara ki tai
E hī ake ana te ataakura
He tio, he huka, he hauhunga

Tīhei Mauri Ora
Cease the winds from the west
Cease the winds from the south
let the breeze blow over the land
Let the red tipped dawn come
with a sharpened air,
A touch of frost, a promise of a
glorious day


Last month’s minutes a true and accurate representation

Moved Nikky / seconded Paul. All in favour. Carried.

Council updates

PCC –

Josh will be here until the election. Here till 8.15.

Te Puna Korero committee meeting.

Alcohol review and keeping animals bylaw.

Alcohol

Looking at high level alcolhol policy.

More restrictions on off licence locations (not on license).

Animals

More restrictions on cats, fewer on bees.

Bees – More bees in residential environments up to 4 hives unless it will create a nuisance.

Cats – added to restrictions. Registration and compulsory chipping. Doesn’t have resources to enforce but should make a difference.

Chickens – more permissive. Proposing allowing up to 10 hens. Allowance for more in some circumstances. None in city. Roosters allowed just in rural areas.

Annual plan and water reform proposals – consultation submissions next week.

Annual plan is passed to strike the rates. Projecting 15% Consulting on some suggestions to get it 7.75%. Judith – asking about budget for beach signage. Update signage accurate signage dogs, penguins etc. Josh will look into it. With cost pressures most things not considered urgent are on hold.

Freedom camping bylaw

Slowed down process as what supplied wasn’t fit for purpose. Contractor did the work but not suitable. Having another workshop. Either come back with more suggestions or just not have a bylaw (Wellington doesn’t have one).

Plunket Rooms

From previous minutes. 6 April submissions close. Hearing June, decisions and deliberations in July. Likely to be 5th or 12th or 26th. Moira is doing a submission.

Waste water tank

Not sure when completed but getting there.

Brendon beach rubbish bin

Residents unhappy with bin location as they’re picking up rubbish and people don’t walk 100m. Josh saying these operational stuff gets decided without councillors.

Josh says probably best to send complaint to enquiries email address and provide photo evidence of increased litter etc. and ask to attention to Wendy. Josh will also follow up if you get no response.

GWRC –

none

Matters arising

None

Financial report as at 11 May 2025

BNZ		$ 13287.06
Income:
$8.64 Interest
$686.00 Korero Adverts
$2113.00 CGFF Hutt Mana Grant #

Expenditure:
4$678.50 Korero
$351.08 CGFF Catering
$145.00 CGFF Rongoa Plants
$30.00 CGFF Pea Straw
$84.95 CGFF Project Screws

Invoices – Overdue
$500.00 CGFF

Account balances as at 11 May 2025
Res Assn 000 $462.58
He Ara 001 $87.67
CGFF 002 $2485.18
Kōrero 066 $229.27
Climate 083 $0.01
Surf Seat 067 $174.73
On Call Acct 025 $9847.62
CGFF $3000.00 On Hold
He Ara $5000.00 Donation
Korero $1700.00 On Hold
Residents $147.62 Interest

# Grant for Aon Insurance ($720) Compost and Storage ($1400 )
________________________________________________________________
Action Notes:
MAY
• Accountability Report to Pelorus Trust for Nov 2024 grant acknowledged.
• Copy of invoice issued by CGFF to Palmers required from CGFF
• Iain MacLean authorisation deleted from BNZ account
• New signatory required for BNZ
• Costings for other CGFF projects

APRIL
• Korero – Overdue invoices to be followed up Paid
• Copies of Funding Applications to treasurer Received
• Honorarium Korero designer (Moira says Anne is asked regularly but doesn’t want it)
• All invoices to be issued by the treasurer. Garden noted

Moved Margaret / seconded Paul. All in favour. Carried

Correspondence

Sat 22 March

We discussed the info in Placemaking & community followup on EM discussion.

What they’re doing around EM.

(Paul to talk to Matt Meladonis about having another event)

29 April

From: Jodi Watene

Subject: Porirua Community Leaders Forum – June 2025

Date: Saturday 14 June 2025

Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Request to RSVP either way

(Paul to respond – forward onto Paul)

27 April

From: tiana

Subject: Aerosol can recycle

Asking if we recycled these. Responded they try sustainability trust.

20 April

From: Board Trustees Board

Subject: School and Community Hall

Explaining their position on the Hall, current and upcoming disruption/works and intention to keep in touch with RA and other community groups.

(The new principal came to Anzac Service at 8am which was very gracious)

15 April

From: Alice Machin Kiwirail

Subject: Pukerua Bay rail works, Easter & ANZAC

Information about upcoming works

13 April:

From: Flying Colours

Subject: Invoice INV-3885 from FLYING LASER COLOURS (1994) LIMITED for Pukerua Bay Newsletter

(left for Korero members to sort)

8 April

From: secretary parematara

Subject: Paremata Residents Association PO Box cancellation

Replacement address

8 April

From: Tim Costley

Subject: RE: Anzac Service this year

And 10 April

From: Alanna Gorin

Thanking for response and offering Tim’s services at Anzac Service.

(Left for Yvonne to decide)

10 April

From: Judith Frost-Evans (forwarded info)

Subject : Forwarding the previous email exchange about the Brendan Beach Public Rubbish Bin – Ross Leggett

Wendy explained bin relocated to shops. Not replaced as another bin is 100m away at toilets. Briony unhappy with response and suppied alternative suggestion

(Josh has suggested we email enquiries with evidence)

10 April

From: Judith Frost-Evans (forwarded info)

Subject : Information re consultation on Pukerua Beach Road– Ross Leggett

Wendy to Ross that PKB works are included in a package of work that is in planning stage.

17 April

From: Paul FizGerald

Subject: Draft Submission re PCC Draft Annual Plan 2025/26

Word doc of submission supplied.

19 April

From: Kate Dreaver

Subject: Koha for the RA

Kate advising us that as the RA held a special place in their hearts we will be receiving a share of Iain’s Give a Little page donations.

(Account now set up)

Action Items

Train Replacement Bus Service – Received from Thomas in April.

Item 8

Metlink response to Cr Thomas Nash

We appreciate the advocacy of the Community Board and acknowledge the concerns of the community. Unfortunately this is a particularly complicated station due to the roading environment that is around it. Transmission Gully has given us an opportunity to review our options as the numbers of vehicles on the highway is reduced. When reviewing options we need to consider pedestrian safety, safe bus spaces outside of the roadway, as well as the accessibility and safety of the proposed bus stop. Unfortunately there are no simple solutions to resolve the Buses Replacing Trains (BRT) bus stop locations here.

To date, Metlink have;

  • trialled buses through the station park and ride carpark, and found there were challenges with overhead clearances, impact of bus weight on the road surface, tight turning circles, and risks for buses re-entering traffic when exiting
  • considered shifting the northbound bus stop back to the old location on SH59 near Te Kura Road, but determined it would be difficult to create an accessible footpath and kerb on Te Kura Road and enable bus movements through this space
  • painted a bus box painted at the northbound bus stop to ensure there is designated space for a bus to pull up close to the kerb and ensure a level of accessibility for the BRT service
  • engaged in an initial discussions with NZTA about their proposal to build a pedestrian crossing near Pukerua Bay Store, and if space for bus stops could be integrated into the design. We have not received any further update from NZTA on the potential design – the team can follow this up

With regards to the proposed Teihana Rd West stops, we acknowledge this idea has merit with stops created in the roadway, in close proximity to station. Some of our current concerns with this location are;

  • Increased bus journey times, and the customer and operational impact this would have
  • Lack of safe pedestrian crossings
  • Decreased accessibility of the buses down narrower residential roads, likely having to navigate parked cars
  • Overhead clearance, likely requiring arborist contracts to maintain tress back from road edge
  • Potential removal of on-street parking to enable safe bus passage
  • Increased noise and disturbance for residents

Ideally BRT services need to be as direct as possible, and using main access roads lends itself to safer and more efficient routes. We note that whilst the current northbound BRT bus stop [the Intercity bus stop at the north end of town] isn’t ideal in proximity to the station, it does have shelter, a safe place for the bus to pull off the road and a good kerb to aid accessibility for passenger to get off and on the bus. We agree that the Southbound stops require a shelter, and we have planned for a shelter to be installed later this year (noting has was delayed due to funding constraints).

Metlink will carry on engaging with NZTA to advocate for bus stops closer in proximity to the station that would offer a better customer and operational experience.

ENDS

2 issues – location of stop and shelter

Have asked to arrange a meeting, Thomas will try that. Paul to continue.

Dog/Penguin signs

Paul wrote an email to Andrew Gray asking to chat about the signs. Paul to ask he understands the stands for the penguin signs have been built and signs and in storage. We could volunteer to put them up. Waiting for response. Judith asked to be copied into the email.

Pukerua Beach Rd remediation works

Nothing further than the comments from Wendy

Brendan Beach Rubbish Bin

Discussed with Josh. Evidence to be collected.

Ara Harakeke Remediation

Supposed to be tied in with the Beach Road and Whitby contractor package. In the planning stage.

MOUs with groups under umbrella.

Paul will deal with this but has been busy.

Village – see general business

Project Updates

Climate Action

We’re planning the following events:

  • June: item in the next Kōrero about PCC’s climate adaptation strategy
  • July: panel discussion on the Climate Assembly
  • August: spring clean litter cleanup and BBQ
  • September: Hub pop-up: rescue jewellery using flotsam and jetsam
  • November: future focus session

We would appreciate the RA setting up an account for money to be donated in memory of Iain

Community Garden Food

Hutt Mana Trust

We were awarded $2113 towards a composting system and our public liability insurance. Brian is going to work with Paul to put together a rough budget for the 1400 allocated for the new structure for composting. This will include some water tanks for soak hose watering parts of the garden.

Gay and Judith went to the award for people who got grants. Got a certificate and it was good to go to network.

Margaret saying watering system not included.

Motion for RA to approve CGFF purchases

Purchases for the compost and storage (Hutt Mana Trust project)

  • Construction materials budget (including donated materials) – $1,100

Water collection extension

Up to 5 x tanks @ $110 each

Moved Jane / seconded Judith. All in favour. Carried

Rongoa

We need compost for the planting phase of the Rongoa. We plan to buy some compost to supplement the home grown supplies. Possibly with the funds from Iain’s give-a-little funds. Planting is planned for May.

  • Scouts – The scouts are keen to get involved in the garden on a regular basis. They are coming Thursday 8th and possibly on a Saturday to help with driftwood collection and tree planting.
  • Tree Crops Association – when we have time we’ll look at he brochure we’re creating for the Rongoa as well as the stake signs.
  • Spare potted kowhai to go into the Rongoa.

Strawberry Fair

We’re planning a working bee on 17th May inviting people to come and help dig up the strawberry plants so we can replant the strawberry patch. Locals can take home spare plants. We’ll have scones & cream and a sausage sizzle at 11.30am. Jane to do poster and advertising.

Calendar

Jane is working on the calendar. Paul will mark the recycling collection days. One more garden to organise and some more photos to be taken of the beach garden.

Apricot trees

A couple of the apricots have died. We will consider replacing them with more apricots or something else that is thriving.

Potluck Social

We’re having a pot luck supper on Thursday 15th at the RSA from 6pm. All welcome, bring something to share.

He Ara Report

Lindsay Gray DFC Lounge

Approval requested to use He Ara funds for:
Nameplate
Framed photographs and story

Motion for RA to approve CGFF purchases

Approval to have the sign written and the framing of the story from available funds. Printing of 5 photos. Up to $2000

Moved Margaret / seconded Paul. All in favour. Carried

  • Friday 20 June is the date set for the event – the date the title for the building, originally owned by Lindsay Gray, was transferred to the RSA.
  • Work continues on the Bevan story publication.
  • Website story on marine life at Pukerua Bay is still being edited.

Kōrero

We open by acknowledging with love our whanaunga Iain. He will be forever missed.

With Iain’s illness, it has been a difficult start to the year. But through mutual support and the support of our wonderful community, we succeeded in publishing the February and April issues of Kōrero, with the first focused upon the theme of adventure and the second on careers.

Unfortunately, we have had some communication problems that contributed to a misunderstanding about copy deadlines. As a result, an item intended by He Ara Pukerua for the April issue did not arrive until the “finalisation” date. This is the date when the copy has been finalised and is ready to be proofread, preparatory for design. While there can be some wriggle room shortly after the copy deadline, there is none at this point.

We’re very sorry that this happened. A reminder that the copy deadline for the next issue is recorded in the back of each issue.

Our next issue is well into development. It connects with Matariki, the local focus on Tupuānuku, and the values of honouring the past, enjoying the present, and looking forward to the future. The copy deadline was on 8 May.

The theme for the following issue is “Exploring our village: Te Araroa trail, reserves and walking track”. We may slightly expand it, to include a story on the Neighbourhood Accessibility Plan. We hope very much that He Ara will contribute, as we know this is an area of special expertise. The copy deadline is 7 July.

General Business

a. Moira

Community Dinner

Moira thought she’d have a go at a monthly dinner. In conversation with Yvonne and Andrew looking at 3 or 4 Sunday. Very light with no purpose or agenda. Bring your won dinner. In particular for people who want to get to know people better. She’s advertising in the next Korero and roll monthly from then. Lots of community events on

Not sure a dinner is best but builds on Pop-up work. Judith suggests games night

Standing for council

90% sure standing for council. Moira wants to go around RA to see what people think are important. Nikky suggested “glow” a new group to support people to stand. Most incumbents standing again.

b. Explore how we know we are acting on behalf of the residents and what we can do to learn more about what is of concern to our community.

Nikki suggested we look at the latest Village Plan. Everyone to read through it and put it on the agenda to discuss at the next meeting. 2022 Village Plan, See if there is anything not covered in there.

Nikki put together A village plan actions 2025. There is a lot of cover.

Judith suggests we address something each meeting
Community Coordinators Is that something we want to do again?

Jane suggests we talk about Social Connections
Some has been happening with the HUB and the RSA which is active have constitution so we’re officially an Pukerua RSA Club trading as PKB RSA and Community Club.
PKB HUB have applied for funding for the another Pop-up Parlour
Explore place for people for people to come together.
Paul has heard a suggestion to move the library into the Plunket Rooms
Moira points out that lots of buildings empty all week. Also asks if a regular coworking space or regular morning tea could happen. Paul says RSA is available for community to use.
If commercial then a charge is required. If not, there has to be a way to cover heating etc. Ideally everyone who came here joined the RSA. Moira’s idea of a dinner would encourage people to check out the RSA and not see it as a drinking hole. For the RSA two big costs are rates and insurance and water metered. Also electricity. Only income comes from the bar and membership (capitation to RSA). Suggest we think about how to encourage the wider community to use the spaces already available. We could approach all the locations and tap into their mailing lists. We could put something in the Korero about our venues and how you book them etc. Margaret thinks there could be more community notices in Korero.
We already have community groups displaying at the school gala. Although it could also be part of the Pop-up parlour. Could build on the community board idea at the Pop-up.

Climate Action
Climate Action Ropu has been set up with ongoing events. Such as a regular crop swap and the fermentation club has been restarted.

Infrastructure
Putting the business directory on the website. Nikky happy to update it.
It was originally on Facebook and then moved to the website. Maybe the frequently asked ones. The Korero business table people aren’t keen to join.

Action: Put something in the Korero about our venues and how you book them etc. Then update the website and promote the website itself.

Karakia Whakamutunga
Kua mutu ā mātou mahi
Mō tēnei wā
Manaakitia mai mātou katoa
ō mātou hoa
ō mātou whānau
Āio ki te Aorangi.

Our work is finished
For the moment
Bless us all
Our friends
Our families
Peace to the Universe.

Meeting ended 9.15pm

Cycling on Wairaka Farm

mountain biker riding through a sunlit forest

Here’s a message from a local farmer:
If any cyclists are planning to cycle on Wairaka Farm at Pukerua Bay (on your left as you go north), please contact the farm manager, Kerry Kilminster, first. He can be contacted on 027 389 9212. Thanks so much

March 2025 Residents Association meeting minutes

Minutes Tuesday 11 March 2025
7:30 –9:00 pm RSA Wairaka Rd

Attending: Paul FitzGerald, Margaret Blair, Ross Leggett, Judith Frost-Evans, Jane Comben, Nikky Winchester,
Apologies: Iain MacLean, Chris Kirk-Burnnand
Community members: Matt Hoffman (PCC Parks Team), Vic McGuigan (PCC Property Services), Ellie Tuckey, Kelly McLean

Last month’s minutes a true and accurate representation

Moved Paul / seconded Jane. All in favour. Carried.

Council updates

PCC
Plunket Rooms, Wairaka Road

Consultation went live 6 March as the Plunket Building needs something done with it. No budget to do the work needed to get it to a suitable standard. Submissions close 6 April with a hearing in June, decisions and deliberations in July.
With extra growth there might be scope for a community centre in the new development area.

This round of consultation is about should it remain or remove.
• A – Remove the building.
• B – If it remains is there a group to upgrade it.
• C – Or lease the empty site for something else.
What about a different model?
What if the cost of removal ($60,000) went towards a community effort to restore it (option B)
Feasibility process is needed into a community partnership, Ahu can apply for funding and we have skills in the bay (trades and architect). PKB doesn’t have a community space. School and Community Hall is currently a classroom.

E.g. Pop-up Parlour proved a need for a community space (especially for the arts). RSA not suitable for young children and no outside space.

The current Plunket building is on Parks area so uses are limited to local purpose community buildings. Can’t be commercial. Leasing process is set out in statute. PCC can issue a lease for certain activities but beyond that it would need negotiation.

Field out the back where playground is scenic reserve. Plunket land is gazetted as community use.

The property is in poor shape. If taken over by somebody else all the fire, sanitation, health codes need to be complied with. Role of plunket – they’re obliged to pay for removal under lease. Neighbours would need to be consulted.

If the building wasn’t there the council would consider a low level outdoor space. The library could do with more outdoor community space.

Ross
Wellington Water – PCC are focused on annual plan and 3 Waters Done Well (WDW).
WDW – 2 options
A- Another entity (similar to WW) that doesn’t own assets but able to deal with regulators (Water standards, etc)
B – Preferred option is 5 local councils (WCC, PCC HCC, UHCC, GWRC) would set up an entity that would be the asset owner of all the 3 water assets. Able to do borrowing etc. Different drivers that WW. All 3 waters debt would transfer too.

It will cost more but cheaper to go to option B.
There has been money invested in infrastructure but not so much on pipes.
Luckily Kainga Ora has done a lot of work related to development in Porirua East.

Consultation will be out soon.

Also there will be future consultation on a larger local government entity (like supercity) which could allow for economies of scale.

Consultation over on:
Freedom camping. Feedback to come.
Keeping of domestic animals – people concerned about cats (registered and chipped), numbers of chickens and bees

Renewal of our climate stategy
PCC looking at a refresh.

Bothamly Park – open again now sewer main is complete.

Spicer Landfill
Ongoing issue in terms of consenting. One of few things that makes money for council.
Issues with smells in Tawa. Working on those. Shifting tip face to help.
2030 need to go to resource consent to keep it open. It may close if there are issues.
This will cost to maintain once closed. If tip closes rubbish will need to be trucked elsewhere.
There is sludge waste from the treatment process which currently goes to Spicer.

With development growth what about the Construction and Demolition waste. There is equipment that is being sold to a private company to deal with it.

Rubbish Bin
Bin removed from Brendon Beach. Old one removed and new one placed. Then the new one was removed. Residents have asked for it to be reinstated. Litter is being left.

GWRC – None

Matters arising

Bus Shelter – No progress

Action Items.

Freedom Camping Submission – Paul spoke to our submission and noted the edge erosion

Financial report as at 8 March 2025

Finance Report to March 2025 Meeting  as at 8 March 2025
BNZ $11,601.15
Income:
$ 10.93 Interest
$ 100.00 CGFF Tea Towels
$ 1140.00 Korero Advert

Expenditure:

$ CGFF Rongoa
$ 150.00 Isaac du Toit Progress Payment
$ 678.50 Korero Printing
$ 152.00 CGFF Irrigation supplies


Invoices – Issued
$ 1620.00 Korero (+$160 pending)
Invoices – Paid
$ 1190.00 Korero

Account balances as at 8 March 2025
Res Assn 000 $ 462.58
He Ara 001 $ 87.67
CGFF 002 $ 483.21
Kōrero 066 $ 61.77
Surf Seat 067 $ 174.73
On Call Acct 025 $10,331.19
CGFF $3000.00 On Hold
CGFF $ 500.00 Payment
He Ara $5000.00 Donation
Korero $1700.00 On Hold
Residents $ 131.19 Interest
BUDGETS -


Funding Applications schedule for 2025
Moved Paul / seconded Judith. All in favour. Carried

Correspondence

None

Project Updates

Community Garden & Food Forest

Plumbing
Brian sorted out the waterline.

Social gathering
Lenka to host a pot luck social in April.

Budget for RA
Judy has built on help from Yvonne. We talked through the proposed numbers.
We’ve allocated funds for insurance and printing costs for the calendars. Roughly we have enough for 3 years covering basic fixed costs. We’ll have a copy at the garden for Saturdays. Yvonne, said it would be good to monitor number of volunteer hours

We discussed the fact that the forecast expenses are budgets we each need to be conscious of and work within. This means the process of approving invoices on behalf of the CGFF needs to change. First of all the funds need to have been allocated. Secondly the expenses incurred need to be within the budget of the purpose for which they are spent. This will be overseen by the CGFF committee. Any spending outside these guidelines puts our forecasts at risk and means we will need to do further fundraising. Our key fund raising players (Jane and Gay) have requested a break from the many many hours of admin associated with e.g. printing a calendar, designing a tea towel. This will give them time to actually enjoy gardening! We have successfully raised thousands of dollars from a calendar and a tea towel with the 2026 calendar and Garden Trail set to raise more. Also we have received funds from the Tree Crop Association which required quite a bit of nursing through and admin (producing a booklet etc.).

We discussed the fact that if further Funding applications are successful (e.g. Pelorus for the Kiwi Rail fee) we will have more funds in the kitty and we can look at how these are best spent within the CGFF committee.

Encourage new helpers
How to encourage and keeping new volunteers. Make work day into an event like Strawberry Fair in the winter(e.g. shifting the platform). Natural printing workshop.

Rongoa
Judy and friends removed convolvulus, stakes to be named when Ara is back. We also will look on the info sheet.

Calendar and Trail – 9 Nov
Gay and Jane have visited all but 2 of the gardens to take photos. Designs are underway for finalising in July. The beach house will be penguin focused, and we have a crankie story. We have local experts. We can have a workshop making compost.

He Ara Report

• New Facebook story added: 𝗣𝘂𝗸𝗲𝗿𝘂𝗮 𝗕𝗮𝘆 𝗠𝘂𝗺 𝗚𝗼𝗲𝘀 𝗠𝗼𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗰𝘆𝗰𝗹𝗲 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗦𝗼𝗻 – 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗕𝗮𝗴𝗽𝗶𝗽𝗲𝘀.
• Progress continuing with the Bevan story. Isaac has so far produced 12 illustrations
• Three of the He Ara team made a field trip to Waikawa as part of research for the Bevan story.
• A progress payment has been made to Isaac.
• He Ara provided the CGFF with photographs and stories for their Nobby Clark crankie project.
• More is being written about Lindsay Gray DFC.
• Up to 30 visitors a day are viewing He Ara Pukerua website
• He Ara would like a page in the next Korero for an ANZAC themed story.

Kōrero

Hutt Mana Trust Funding Application

Motion – Kōrero has the approval of the RA to apply for funding from Hutt Mana Charitable Trust for printing costs in the September 2025 grant round.
Moved Jane / seconded Nikky. All in favour. Carried

Climate Action Rōpū

School Gala
The Crop Swap, Recycling and possibly Predator Free Pukerua Bay Free will be at the School Gala.

General Business

a. Beach Signage
Penguins – Paul to follow up with Andrew.

Dog / beach use sign – Paul followed it up and heard nothing. Will follow up again.

Another year until dog bylaws for the whole city are reviewed.
We will submit again.

b. Pukerua Bay Developments Ltd (Muri Road Subdivision). Paul spoke with them. Finished tree felling, doing clearup. Will start on earthworks. Contractor Brian O’Sullivan is starting on the earthworks. There will be an entrance road from Muri Rd between 34 and 50 which is on the opposite side of Muri Road as Kahikatea

The access to the logging area will likely be turned into a section.
They’re planning to chip the slash. They going to see if letting the community get firewood would be feasible.

There will be traffic control when earth moving trucks are going in etc.

Paul will put this on the website and FB pages.

c. Bus Replacement bus route to go nearer the train station.
Paul got a response from Thomas Nash – he was sending it on to officials. Paul to follow up again.

Meeting ended 9.15pm

February 2025 Residents Association meeting minutes

Minutes Tuesday 11 February 2025
7:30 –9:00 pm RSA Wairaka Rd

Attending: Paul FitzGerald, Margaret Blair, Judith Frost-Evans, Jane Comben, Jonathan Harker.
Apologies: Nikky Winchester, Ross Leggett, Iain MacLean.
Community members: Pamela Nunn

Last month’s minutes a true and accurate representation

Moved Judith / seconded Paul. All in favour. Carried.
Note: Judith was away in Nov but there in Dec minutes.

Council updates

PCC – None

GWRC – None

Matters arising

Bus Shelter – Paul has had no contact Thomas Nash. Signage at Muri Road giving direction to bus stops essential. Involving Te Araroa Trust, GWRC and Metlink (Including App).

Action Items

Treaty Principles Bill Submission – we’ve submitted, offeref to speak but not called so far
Freedom Camping Submission – prepared but not submitted in time due to illness. Emailed to see if we can under the circumstances.

Financial report as at 8 February 2025

BNZ   		$11,330.72 
Income:
$ 7.34 Interest
$ 20.10 He Ara Tee
$ 175.00 CGFF Tea Towels
$ 462.35 CGFF Pelorus Trust
$ 108.00 CGFF Summer Festival
$ 50.00 Korero Advert

Expenditure:

$ CGFF Rongoa
$ 471.59 CGFF Kiwi Rail
$ 206.80 CGFF Running costs and Crankie
$ 227.70 CGFF Crankie printing
$ 155.25 He Ara Website


Invoices – Issued
$ 1410.00 Korero
Invoices – Paid
$ 50.00 Korero

Account balances as at 8 February 2025
Res Assn 000 $ 459.15
He Ara 001 $ 237.67
CGFF 002 $ 2535.21
Kōrero 066 $ 1300.27
Surf Seat 067 $ 174.73
On Call Acct 025 $ 6623.69
CGFF $1000.00 Donation
CGFF $ 500.00 Payment
He Ara $5000.00 Donation
Residents $ 123.69 Interest

NOTE: As at 29 January Gay has five TT to sell.


Motion: Pay for the “Story of the Garden” Crankie printing costs $227.70 incl.
Moved Jane / seconded Judith, All in favour. Carried.


Budgets:
• Draft from CGFF to be emailed to Margaret
• Action no budget
• He Ara
• Kōrero
o Consider Koha for Anne Johnston for all her work
o Accountability report for the Pelorus Trust required
Moved Margaret / seconded Paul. All in favour. Carried

 Correspondence

20 December 2024: Whetū Bennett – celebratory event
January 30, 2025: Megan Krishnan – Placemaking and community meet up for local Res Assoc
February 6, 2025: Whetū Bennett, and follow up email. Screening of Tina, Thursday, 27 February, 5:00pm at Lighthouse Cinema Pāuatahanui. Suggest we share with Climate Action People – such as Megan and Matt.RSVP is by Friday. (All tickets now allocated)
January 25, 2025: Judith Frost-Evans. Various concerns brought up. See General Business in these minutes.

Project Updates

Community Garden Food Forest

Successful Summer Celebration

  • $111 from plant sales
  • Launched the “Story of the Garden” crankie
  • 60 people attended including VIPs and Mayor

Budget – prepared for the RA with help from Yvonne
(Costs over $200 need a RA motion)
Motion for RA: Pay for the “Story of the Garden” Crankie printing costs $227.70 incl.

Tea towel account
$4264 costs (printing)
$6250 sales
$1986 Profit

Rongoa progress

  • Driftwood collected for use on the slope. More required.
  • Planting planned for April/May
  • Plan to prepare holes for planting
  • Notice will be given when Taku Parai is available to bless that particular part of our garden.

Planning for the fundraising Calendar and Garden Trail underway

  • Palmers have promised $500 sponsorship towards printing
  • Printing quotes received
  • 10 Garden hosts for the trail being arranged

Crankie of Garden story outing to Porirua Childrens’ Library Storytelling Festival
Gay and Judith told the story aimed at involving children in gardening. It was very well received and posted on Facebook by the library.

Application Hutt Mana charitable trust underway

  • Concept plan from Dave and Jen purely for the purpose of getting quotes
  • Motion required in the RA minutes for funding application

CGFF Funding Application

  • Motion – Pukerua Bay Community Garden and Food Forest has the approval of the RA to apply for funding from Hutt Mana Charitable Trust for a total of $2113 for:
    – Funding Aon Insurance public liability $713 due July 2025.
    – Water collection and distribution system $400
    – Composting storage and management $1000

    Applications open on 1 March 2025.

    Moved Judith, Seconded Jane. All in favour. Carried

He Ara Report

  • A Short History of Muri Station, Pukerua Bay on He Ara Facebook along with displayed copy at the Community Garden Summer Celebration generated positive interest and feedback.
  • We shared photographs and stories of the Gray family with Alan Gray and Lindsay Olsen, both descendants of Charles and Elizabeth Gray.
  • Additional photos added to Lindsay Gray DFC and Charles Gray stories on He Ara website.
  • Additional material being prepared for Lindsy Gray DFC story.
  • Regular He Ara meetings recommence on Thursday 13 February
  • Next Kōrero, He Ara would like a full page for an Anzac theme

Kōrero

No report

Climate Action Rōpū

Regular Crop Swaps

  • This year it is still to be held at the RSA every third Saturday of the month from 3-4pm.
  • December swap included Te Tiriti Bill submission help
  • Ella has smartly suggested that the March event take place at the School Gala* where we can host crop swapping and recycling collection under a Hub gazebo. *To be approved by School Fundraising Trust
  • We have been giving back to the community by donating any excess to the community garden. Gay has been the contact here.

Thoughts about a name change to “Pukerua Bay Climate Café” to align with Plimmerton crowd to be discussed.

Budget

  • No upcoming expenses planned as yet.
  • $70 cash held by Kate

General Business

Website

Jonathon suggest we rearrange the website home page navigation. To elevate the key groups and demote Village Planning. He will also archive pages and information that is no longer relevant. Margaret has requested access to minutes from 2005/6. The last minute cannot be sourced.b. Dog Control rules for our beach

(Judith email 25 January)
I propose we approach PCC for new clear public notices regarding dog control.
Given that a staff member from Parks will be attending our meeting, this might be a good time.
The purpose of these notices will be to protect Korora and other wildlife and also to give peace of mind to humans who don’t wish to swim with dogs or have dogs roaming..

I will include more background below…

Korora Protection
For both dog rules and our vulnerable Korora I would like to see a sign on Pukerua Beach Road at the place where there are lines painted for cars to stop to allow uphill vehicles through.
This would be seen by visitors who at present can drive down and park somewhere out of sight of any signs.
The sign could state;
‘Welcome to our Special beach which has rare and vulnerable species in need of all of our care’
Please see restriction by laws for dog and vehicle control at the bottom of this road.

Or whatever the sign experts recommend.

Citizen Action
Could we print a small summary of the rules for handing out to people with dogs? These could be 6 or 8 to a page and printed at Stationary Warehouse very cheaply. I speak with some dog owners but at other times I feel intimidated – see below for an example.
Action – Paul has discussed signage previously with Andrew Gray, PCC. Paul will email the full story and our suggestions to Ross Leggett, to follow up with Council.

Muri Rd Kahikatea trees

(Judith email 25 January)
Mindful of the SNA’s that are adjacent to Muri Road, to be monitored with future development

Rubbish Bin removed from Beach corner of Brendan Beach

(Judith email 25 January)
They took one out, replaced with new bin and then removed.
Paul, to add to list for Ross.

Haunui Road Speed restriction

(Judith email 25 January)
I have previously emailed regarding the 30km sign on Haunui Road which was removed.
Pamela understands that the sign was put up by a resident so not gazetted. Pamela is in conversation with the Council concerning the dangers to people and animals. It seems the council is looking into the conduct of drivers on Beach and Haunui Roads and related safety factors. She will keep us informed.

Community and Placemaking

(email from Megan Krishnan)
This ties in with our work on the hui after the end of Village Planning.
Paul is happy to respond to email, go and we’ll recommend March dates.

Communication with PBRA members.

A courtesy email update to people who are signed up members, who attended the last two AGMs (as per new incorporated rules where people need to opt in). Possibly a quarterly newsletter.
Request Kōrero half a page advert for Residents’ Association. Judith to find out the dates so we can discuss at the next meeting

St Mark’s.

There is an upcoming parish meeting about the future of the building.

Action: CG Budget to Margaret – Judith and Jane
Action: Contact Megan and Matt (3 tickets) from Whetu – Jane (done)
Action: Paul to contact Ross Leggett about beach signage, Freedom Camping Submission, Community and Placemaking.

Meeting ended 9.06pm