Strikes return
Wairarapa secondary schools can expect further teacher strike action. Post Primary Teachers’ Association Wairarapa representative Ryan McCroskery said schools would be given notice today for industrial action – meaning one or two year levels will be rostered home for a day each week beginning Thursday with Year 11. Wednesday is designated a whole strike day, with Thursday, May 1 rostering home for Year 13.
New chair
Ngati Kahungunu ki Wairarapa chairperson Hera Edwards is standing down after being selected for the New Zealand Black Dragons training crew. The dragon boating crew is aiming to compete in the World Championships in Thailand in August. Ngati Kahungunu ki Wairarapa made the announcement on its social media yesterday, and said it supported Edwards to “pursue this opportunity.’’ Edwards will remain on the board as a trustee, with Kristina Perry stepping into the chairperson role, and Melissa Ihaka as deputy chair.
Ruff rescue
Emergency services leapt into action yesterday after reports of a dog trapped on a cliff face. Fire and Emergency said a couple called 111 after 10.15am to report their dog had fallen 100 metres down a vertical bank in Ruakokoputuna in South Wairarapa. Tora and Martinborough volunteer fire brigades rescued the dog from the base of the cliff without incident.
Last chance
Consultation on Masterton District Council’s Annual Plan 2023/24 and its Draft Speed Management Plan closes today at 4pm. The public can submit on the council’s approach to reducing the impact of rates, and other proposals including, seeking Dark Sky Reserve status in the annual plan. The speed management plan outlines the council’s principles and approach to speed management, which includes a focus on reducing speed limits around marae, schools, and on high-risk roads.
No meeting
Masterton District Council has been forced to delay its adoption of the 2021/22 Annual Report. The council was due to adopt the report at a 3pm meeting on Wednesday. However, it said it was yet to receive Audit New Zealand’s opinion on the report, and the meeting was cancelled.
