Letter to the Editor: Thursday October 13, 2016

Make it happen

There was another excellent editorial in the Age on Tuesday September 27 (Had enough of the violence?) It included some very good suggestions about launching a pilot programme that would put an end to 'free' benefits, and ensure that those capable of working be put into work.

I waited to see what the responses would be - some emails and tweets supporting the idea - nice. Some loveKaitaia comments - equally nice, and it's great to see the number of people who actually do love Kaitaia.

But there were no letters to the editor about providing the work that people need to go to, just more boring letters from politicians who have never been near the place.

So here's an idea from a pensioner with a part-time job.

Work with whoever it takes to provide tourism opportunities that will create jobs and training in the hospitality industry.

Northland Inc statistics show an increased number of tourists heading to our area, and statistics also show that the west coast of the South Island is booked out from January to early April. Why not encourage tourists north instead?

The government has funds available for tourist infrastructure. There's investment money available if you like to look for it.

The council's holding company has a property in an ideal location for a three-star 100-bed hotel, which would ideally link to a Bay of Islands hotel, such as the Scenic, and capture the same tourist market. FNHL can also undertake commercial transactions.

Kaitaia has an under-utilised airport. We have stunning beaches. Kauri is our claim to fame. Gumdiggers' Park is just north of here, and Kaitaia could be part of a kauri trail - we've just been to Matakohe Kauri Museum and Nelson's Kaihu Kauri. Both brilliant establishments, and not too far away through live kauri forests.

Make it happen Te Hiku.

Every now and then we hear rumours that the mill may close. Hopefully they're not true, but it's always a good idea to have a Plan B, and in the case of this community, it's essential.

Our rates should be used for infrastructure and local public services, as defined in the Local Government Act. But there's no reason why our elected members can't help to facilitate some development that will drag Kaitaia out of the doldrums.

Our first Mayor, the late Millie Srhoj, never let anything get in his way in the interests of Kaitaia. With the right community support they may just fit John Carter.

SHERYL BAINBRIDGE
Doubtless Bay