Change. It Happens!

[Written for this year's September issue of Ngnongotaha News] 

Change is coming, whether we like it or not.

We welcome some changes while others seem forced upon us.  Some take a while to get used to, others not.  Some changes happen naturally and others require our energy and input to achieve.

Changes are on the way in our community, in our environment and around our council table.

Statistics tell us that the average age of our community is increasing.  We don’t yet know what our aging population will want and need, but we can be sure that it won’t be just more of the same.

People of all ages are asking for change, especially our young people. Quite rightly, many of these changes are being led by community groups who want more say in how their community develops.  This needs to be encouraged and supported by those in local and national politics.

Our environment is changing, mostly for the better.  Stream replanting and significant changes in farming practices are having a positive impact on lake water quality.  These changes have been hard-won and at some cost to the farming community.  Thanks to cooperative efforts, I believe we are on the right track.

Local government in Rotorua will be changing on October 12^th.  The sad passing of Maureen Waaka and the departure of Maggie Bentley create room for two new councilors.  How much more change is up to you.

We have the opportunity to get some new thinking around the council table. New people bring new ideas; they challenge entrenched beliefs. They look with fresh eyes and they remind us exactly why we have elections every three years. All groups benefit from a balance of experienced and new members.  The Council is no exception.

Make sure you vote to get the sort of change you want.

Thank you for your support.

Cr Karen Hunt.