RMLA Regional News - February 2015
Wellington - Nicky McIndoe/Maia Wikaira
The Wellington branch committee had its first meeting of the year this week, and has plenty of ideas to keep members busy over the coming year. First up, we are planning a wine options evening to give members a chance to reconnect after the Christmas break. More details for that will follow in a few weeks. Also planned for 2015 are seminars for young RMLA members, and to discuss the proposed RMA amendments once more details have been released.
Bay of Plenty - Cushla Loomb
The BOP branch is holding its first committee meeting this week and will be setting the date for our AGM. Conference planning is proceeding on track.
Nelson/Marlborough - Antoinette Besier
The Nelson-Marlborough branch had a quiet end to 2014 but has launched itself into 2015 by starting to plan for the 2016 conference which is to be held in Nelson. This will be the first time the RMLA conference will be held in Nelson! The branch has put together a group of enthusiastic organisers and we have recently met to discuss ideas for a conference theme, topics and field trips. In addition to conference planning, the branch is keen to host a local event to learn more about the proposed RMA reform package and also to work with NZPI to jointly host events through out the year.
Queenstown / Central Otago - Jan Caunter/Graeme Todd
We held a very successful end of year social function at the Boatshed Café at the historic Boatshed development on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
There were some 65 attendees with RMLA members being joined by members of NZILA and NZIA as well as commissioners and staff from the Otago Regional Council who were in town conducting a hearing.
The function was also a chance to wish branch Committee member and local planner Carey Vivian all the best for his off road bike ride across the length of NZ on which he embarks in the first week of February. Carey is raising money for Motor Neurone disease research due to his father contracting that disease. His mammoth trek can be followed on www.raceagainsttime.co.nz on which he has live tracking of his journey down the country . Colleagues can arrange to join Carey on parts of his ride and also sponsor him via his website.