I put up 5 special white crosses from the World War 1 commemorations on the back lawn.
It was a really special occasion – not what we’re used to – but a poignant way to honour the sacrifices our servicemen and women have made for us. Big thanks to Radio New Zealand for broadcasting the 6am service. I think it shows great respect and commitment to our country and our fellow New Zealanders in these tough times.
Later in the morning I was able to join – all at appropriate distance – with a small number of members of Karori RSA and neighbours for the Last Post and Binyon’s Ode to the Fallen. Another special occasion. Lest we forget.
Tomorrow will be the last day of Alert Level 4 – it feels good to say that.
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Mayoral update for 20 April
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That means there will be some changes coming on Tuesday for Council services – more about that soon – but also some fantastic opportunities to support local businesses, especially those producing top-quality food and drink.
If, like me, you’ve been missing our world class café and restaurant fare, you’ll be delighted to know that there’s a new online Wellington food directory, called ‘At Yours’.
‘At Yours’ is a one-stop shop for Wellington food businesses providing takeaways, ready-meals, meal-kits – you name it – via contactless delivery or click and collect during Alert Levels 3 and 2. It’s brought to you by the team behind Visa Wellington On a Plate, supported by WellingtonNZ.
Heaps of amazing eateries have already signed up. WellingtonNZ has committed $250,000 to support our businesses even further, with each one able to claim $10 per delivery they make, up to a total of $500 per business. It’s a wonderful scheme.
So go to the Visa Wellington On A Plate website and support your favourite eateries – from Tuesday – by ordering some of the best food available anywhere in the world. I know I will be.
Since we’ve been in lockdown we’ve seen a lot of people out walking, running and biking, including around the south coast. It’s great that we’re all staying fit and enjoying our beautiful city.
Unfortunately, as a result we’ve also had a few near misses involving vehicles and pedestrians and cyclists. Because of that we’re introducing a temporary 30kmh speed limit on sections of the road between Breaker Bay and Owhiro Bay.
Formal speed reductions will apply from 5 May, which is the earliest we can install the necessary number of temporary signs due to signage and contractor availability. In the meantime, motorists and cyclists please slow down to 30kmh and take extra care on those roads, so we can all enjoy them safely.
And finally, as I’ve said before, in terms of Council services and facilities Alert Level 3 will look a lot like Level 4. But there are some important differences. From Tuesday more businesses will be able to operate.
Construction will be able to resume under Level 3 protocols. This includes work on the Convention Centre, Town Hall, Te Awe Library and the St James, as well as the Wallace St pipeline renewal project. Work on Cobham Drive and Evans Bay Parade will also get under way again from Tuesday.
More good news: The Makara Peak Mountain Bike Park will reopen under level 3 - although with special Level 3 guidelines. So will Newtown Park, the Hataitai Park velodrome, and our dog parks. Of course you can continue to use sports fields and outdoor courts – just keep doing that only with your bubble.
Graffiti removal will also start back on Tuesday, along with Noise Control. Rubbish collection will obviously continue but public access to the landfill and recycling collection will only resume under Level 2.
Wellington City Libraries will continue to support bubbles with online library programmes and eResources, with the branches staying closed under Alert Level 3. And don’t worry, due dates for all items currently on loan have been extended until July.
Metered and coupon parking will resume normal service on 12 May alongside existing parking enforcement activities.
Information for all services and facilities will be updated at 5pm tomorrow on the Wellington City Council website. There’s a special section dedicated to Covid-19 information.
That’s all for today. Enjoy the rest of the long weekend. We’ve been very lucky with the beautiful weather.
Keep up the good work everyone, and I’ll be back with another update soon.
Kia kaha.