The South Brighton Newsletter Issue 3 - 12 - 2012 http://www.facebook.com/BrightsideTheSouth [email protected]Roll up. Roll up for the Letter Box Parade Introducing the Great Letter Box Parade: a community member, Beryl Anderson, has had the wonderful idea of showing off letterboxes from the area, an off-beat way to show people how many families have moved on and how many homes have gone forever. If you are moving out of a red-zoned house please donate your letter box and we will put them in a permanent spot. They will remind us of families and homes, of birthday cards and bills, postcards and pamphlets, expectations and hopes, and a way of communicating that is fast disappearing. You’ll be able to visit your letter box, and make sure it’s enjoying its new home. Leave the number on the box, and your name if you want. You can drop your letter box off at the Community House at 47 Rockinghorse Road, Southshore, or at 391 Marine Parade. Email [email protected] for help or collection. Then watch for news of where the Letter Box Parade can be found. The Residents’ Association South Brighton Residents’ Association is steadily growing. Our aim is to work with our community for our community. We are passionate about making and keeping South New Brighton a fantastic place to live. To work more effectively we are always looking for more members who may be able to assist us, even in small ways. Meetings are generally held on the last Friday of the month, 7-9pm at the Southshore Community house, 47 Rockinghorse Road. Local residents are invited to come along to our friendly meetings. Email [email protected] to check dates for December and January. Campbell Live Slot for South Brighton The SBRA TC3 group have been working hard. Local issues, particularly around land drop and increased flood risk in South Brighton, were aired on Campbell Live 7pm, 29 November. It can be watched again at http://www.3news.co.nz/Sinking-homes-in-Canterbury/ tabid/367/articleID/278775/Default.aspx The group recommend the following actions for both TC2 and TC3 owners who need to rebuild or repair: 1. Carefully consider cash settlement offers as repairs / rebuilds may be costlier than anticipated; 2. For houses needing foundation repairs, ask for consented and inspected repairs and a code of compliance certificate on completion. 3. If you are not satisfied with your insurer’s approach, you could take your own professional advice by contacting the Institute of Professional Engineers New Zealand (IPENZ) (http://www.ipenz.org.nz/ipenz/). For more information or to be involved in the group email the residents’ association. Carols in the Community: Saturday 15th December, 5-8pm (rain date 16th December, 5-8pm) South Brighton Residents’ Association are holding a Carols in the Community event on 15th December at Te Karoro Karoro Reserve (next to South Brighton surf club) between 5-8pm. We want this to be a real community event, and hope everyone can come. Bring your own picnic. Enjoy music, carols, a children’s entertainer and a FREE barbecue (vegetarians catered for). Noticeboard The city council approved the RA’s request for funding for a noticeboard. This has now been installed outside the Bridge Street dairy, and we thank Mukesh for giving us permission to use his fence. The noticeboard is regularly updated -take a look!
Roll up. Roll up for the Letter Box ParadeIntroducing the Great Letter Box Parade: a community member, Beryl Anderson, has had the wonderful idea of showing off letterboxes from the area, an off-beat way to show people how many families have moved on and how many homes have gone forever.
If you are moving out of a red-zoned house please donate your letter box and we will put them in a permanent spot. They will remind us of families and homes, of birthday cards and bills, postcards and pamphlets, expectations and hopes, and a way of communicating that is fast disappearing. You’ll be able to visit your letter box, and make sure it’s enjoying its new home. Leave the number on the box, and your name if you want.You can drop your letter box off at the Community House at 47 Rockinghorse Road, Southshore, or at 391 Marine Parade. Email [email protected] for help or collection. Then watch for news of where the Letter Box Parade can be found.
The Residents’ AssociationSouth Brighton Residents’ Association is steadily growing. Our aim is to work with our community for our community. We are passionate about making and keeping South New Brighton a fantastic place to live. To work more effectively we are always looking for more members who may be able to assist us, even in small ways. Meetings are generally held on the last Friday of the month, 7-9pm at the Southshore Community house, 47 Rockinghorse Road. Local residents are invited to come along to our friendly meetings. Email [email protected] to check dates for December and January.
Campbell Live Slot for South BrightonThe SBRA TC3 group have been working hard. Local issues, particularly around land drop and increased flood risk in South Brighton, were aired on Campbell Live 7pm, 29 November. It can be watched again at http://www.3news.co.nz/Sinking-homes-in-Canterbury/tabid/367/articleID/278775/Default.aspx The group recommend the following actions for both TC2 and TC3 owners who need to rebuild or repair:
1. Carefully consider cash settlement offers as repairs / rebuilds may be costlier than anticipated;
2. For houses needing foundation repairs, ask for consented and inspected repairs and a code of compliance certificate on completion.
3. If you are not satisfied with your insurer’s approach, you could take your own professional advice by contacting the Institute of Professional Engineers New Zealand (IPENZ) (http://www.ipenz.org.nz/ipenz/).
For more information or to be involved in the group email the residents’ association.
Carols in the Community: Saturday 15th December, 5-8pm (rain date 16th December, 5-8pm)South Brighton Residents’ Association are holding a Carols in the Community event on 15th December at Te Karoro Karoro Reserve (next to South Brighton surf club) between 5-8pm. We want this to be a real community event, and hope everyone can come. Bring your own picnic. Enjoy music, carols, a children’s entertainer and a FREE barbecue (vegetarians catered for).
NoticeboardThe city council approved the RA’s request for funding for a noticeboard. This has now been installed outside the Bridge Street dairy, and we thank Mukesh for giving us permission to use his fence. The noticeboard is regularly updated -take a look!
Saturday 13th October saw some hardy South Brighton residents on the beach. In spite of the atrocious weather we managed to plant two trailer loads of Pingao in front of the surf club and have a general tidy up. People loved seeing the old photos of South Brighton on display. It was great to hear talk about our community and see new connections being made. Thanks to the CCC rangers for their assistance, and we’re told we are owed a BBQ - it was too wet to stand around eating sausages!We have other projects in mind including an ‘estuary clean up’. Let us know if you have other ideas - we can achieve great things working together for even a few hours. At the recent reserves management plan meeting it was suggested that a working bee be organised to clear the fenceline track between Bridge Street and Beatty Street. If people would like to help organise or be involved in this, please email the residents’ association.
Roadworks SCIRT held a meeting in October to update local residents on the status of Bridge Street bridge following concern about the impact on local residents and businesses. SCIRT explained the restrictions of allowing two-way traffic or using a tidal flow system. A local business owner suggested making the bridge two way at weekends, but SCIRT have analysed the feasibility of this and it will not be possible. However over the Christmas period, 21 December 2012 until 15 January 2013 it will be two-way. The wastewater lift station being installed on Bridge Street is expected to be completed by Christmas. Information on other local works can be found at http://strongerchristchurch.govt.nz/work/schedule/ or phone Fulton Hogan on 0800 277 34 34
Local Shops Yellow StickeredAs residents will know the block of shops from the café to the hairdresser have been issued a yellow sticker. CERA tried to keep the shops open, but the engineers deemed there was nothing that could be done to make them safe enough. The building owner is committed to repair / rebuild but this will take time.
Representatives of SBRA, Southshore Residents Association and other community groups met with some of the affected business owners and a representative from Recovery Canterbury. Ideas discussed included the possibility of using temporary buildings. Although the surf club owner would happily have a temporary business set-up in the car park, such facilities are very expensive. Recovery Canterbury explained how they can help and will continue to work with the businesses to find a medium term solution.
Shop local - Support South Brighton businesses We recently spoke to the owners of three local businesses and they all had similar stories to tell. They are part of the close-knit South Brighton business community and they feel deeply the loss of so many of our shops. All are very appreciative of the on-going support of the community.
Bridge St DairyMukesh Patel and his wife have owned the Bridge St Dairy for 9 years. He believes this is the best area of Christchurch and has a lovely community. He has formed good relationships with the other local business owners and believes that they all benefit from having a group of shops in the same vicinity. Since the earthquakes Mukesh has struggled – the on-going roadworks, lack of available parking and fewer people have all contributed to a decrease in business. He is very grateful to those customers who have remained with him. The lack of information about what is happening with the roads and the slowness of the work being done have been frustrating.
South Brighton PharmacyIan Leighton set up business in South Brighton 20 years ago. Since then he has enjoyed seeing the same people on a regular basis and getting to know his customers. He and his staff pride themselves on providing a personal service. Since the earthquakes, Ian’s business has been affected by local depopulation, the roadworks, lack of available parking, no bridge access and recently the loss of his premises. He counts himself lucky that he has been able to reopen in the doctor’s surgery opposite. Ian is grateful for the support and encouragement of his customers, but has still suffered loss of business and is finding it a struggle at the moment. He wants people to know that he is able to accept prescriptions from any doctor and that the intention of the landlord across the road is to repair or rebuild. He plans to be back in bigger premises, serving the South Brighton community in the near future.
Southshore Service StationJeff and Denise McDougall have owned the Southshore Service Station for 22 years. They have enjoyed working amongst a close-knit community. The vast majority of their customers live in the area, says Denise, and she has loved being able to see the children of her early customers grow up and bring their own children into the garage. Since the earthquake things have been difficult, but it was the bridge closure that Jeff describes as devastating for them – reducing their business by 50%. He also feels the loss of the other local businesses. Jeff and Denise want people to know that the road in front of the garage is open to 2-way traffic now, making it much easier to come and go in both directions. They would also like to thank everyone who has continued to support their business in recent times.
Exploring an Estuary for Christmas? We are still selling the wonderful Estuary books. All proceeds go to the residents’ association. Everyone who has bought one has been very impressed by the quality of the books. Great for Christmas presents! Only $15. Contact Mary on 388 8920 for a copy.
CyclingPotholes, or loose metal/glass/debris on the road, are the responsibility of either CCC (941 8999) or NZTA (for state highways – 0800 444 449). Any issue around a SCIRT site should be directed to the team in charge of the site – there will be an 0800 number on the site signage. Alternatively, CCC can pass on details.The Transport for Cycling website (http://www.transportforchch.govt.nz) shows where the latest city works are happening and impacts on travel routes. This includes an interactive map of activities around the city and the latest city cycle maps.
Update from South Brighton Surf ClubSwimming Safe in South Brighton:The local beaches are usually safe for swimming can still be dangerous. Be aware of the nor-west wind if using new Christmas toys like boogie boards. Keep an eye on a landmark when in the water as there is usually a drift to either the north or the south. At low tide, watch for the waves dumping on the bar, these can become dangerous very quickly. Remember the golden rule when visiting the beach:
IF IN DOUBT, STAY OUT.
1. Swim between the flags;2. Always watch your children: It only takes a minute to drown;3. Never swim or surf alone if you’re not confident in the surf;4. Avoid flat spots in the surf; these usually indicate holes or rips in the surf line;5. Never swim when cold or tired;6. Be sunsmart: use sunscreen, wear sunglasses and cover up!; 7. Alcohol and swimming do not mix!
Land yachts and kite surfersWind propelled craft such as land yachts and kite surfers should stay at least 50m south of the patrol flags at all times. There are currently no formal rules around beach use for these craft but if everyone shows consideration for others, there will be room for all. So far it’s been so good - the life guards thank these users for their consideration.Surf PatrolsPatrols start at South Brighton beach in late November and run through to mid-March. Hours are usually 12-5 Saturday and 10-5 Sunday but can vary according to the weather. A children’s programme aimed at teaching basic surf safety and water confidence runs from 10.00am Sunday mornings at the South Brighton SLSC club house. All are very welcome.The club houseThe club house has come through the seismic activity of the last two years with only superficial damage. However the ravages of the maritime environment have taken its toll on the
building and we have major building works planned. We are commissioning a mural for the east and north walls which we hope will put an end to the tagging. Our thanks to Sue Davidson for her help. The club would like to thank Darren from SBRA and his helpers for the paint they recently applied which has tidied the walls up no end. We also hope to replace the upstairs external cladding as soon as possible (certainly before winter) but are caught up with latest CERA and council requirements which is slowing progress.
Update from Pleasant Point Yacht ClubPleasant Point Yacht Club was due to open for its 91st year on September 5th 2010. On September 4th the clubhouse on Rat Island Reserve was so badly damaged that only restricted access was possible. The February quake signed the death warrant for the building and in June 2011 the buildings and other structures were demolished and removed from the reserve. The club’s committee began the job of seeking appropriate land on which to re-establish the club, which has received its insurance money and is ready to reinvest in a new location.
Pleasant Point Yacht Club is keen to be at the forefront of re-establishing facilities for the South New Brighton area. The club has always felt a strong association to the area – especially as this was where we started and so many of our members have come from here over the years. Our favoured spot for the club is adjacent to the South Brighton domain jetty and ramps. The main hold-up seems to be the delay in removing the dangerous trees in the Domain and the revision of the Domain’s Management Plan. We have asked our members to submit to the Reserves Management Plan asking for the dangerous trees to be removed as soon as possible. With the loss of so many community buildings in South New Brighton, the club hopes to provide a facility catering for passive water sport activities such as kayaking and windsurfing, yacht racing and learning to sail. We hope the community will support our efforts. So watch this space … we haven’t gone away! For more information, contact Dan O’Sullivan, Commodore Ph: 388 3386
Earthquake Support Coordinators can assist people to navigate their way through the wide range of services involved in rebuilding people’s homes and lives. The coordinators work with you to access as little or as much help as you need.The assistance is free and confidential. Call 0800 777 846
InsuranceWatch.org.nz is the work of a team of volunteers helping quake-affected Christchurch property owners. Their aim is to improve insurance response to earthquake affected customers. Visit their website for up to date information on insurance issues, and comparisons of insurance companies.
LinksRed Cross grants (see for details of Christchurch Earthquake grants including winter heating grant (more broadly available than previously),
disability support grant and storage / relocation grant). 0800 754 726 or http://www.redcross.org.nz (look at Grants tab towards top of page). Cancern: http://www.cancern.org.nz. (good source of information)Rebuild Christchurch http://www.rebuildchristchurch.co.nz/For Red Zone Residents http://www.canterburyaffordablesections.org.nz
Local LinksSouthshore Residents’ Association : A very informative website, full of local information: http://ssra.org.nz/
Events and ActivitiesCarols in the Community: 15th December, 5-8 pm(rain date : 16 December 5-8pm)Submissions for SB reserves close: 14th DecemberMove 5KS Lose 5 KS Raise 5 KS: Early 2013Letterbox Parade: CurrentGardening Group: From now‘We have done our best to provide accurate information. Apologies for any inaccuracies.’SBRA
Going Digital:Our TV signal will be transferring to digital on 28th April. Look at http://www.goingdigital.co.nz/, or phone 0800 838 800 for information. Any set can go digital with the addition of a set-top box.
Targeted Assistance Package: FREE supply and 1 year service support for residents over 75 years old with a Community Services Card, recipients of Veteran’s Pension, or Invalids Benefit, and those previously on these benefits who transferred to NZ Superannuation at 65 or over. To apply – telephone 0800 838 801
Do You Have Green Thumbs? Are you interested in sharing your gardening knowledge, plants or produce? We know that there have been gardening groups in South Brighton in the past and would be keen to hear from people interested in being part of a group of enthusiastic gardeners who meet regularly to share their knowledge, plants and extra fruit and vegies with other community members. We have had suggestions from local people about running a produce market, even starting a community garden in the area (maybe at the former croquet club?), so if you’re interested in talking about these possibilities or have any other exciting ideas, please let us know:SBRA – [email protected] or phone Jane – 388 2265
South Brighton Reserves Management PlanMany local residents shared their visions and ideas at 1st November meeting on the Reserves Management Plan. Current Issues:• Many people at the meeting expressed their concerns that there is still
no access to a stretch of the estuary along the walkway. Update: SBRA have been in touch with the council and been told that in the fenced off areas arborists believe the trees pose a high risk to public safety. However they hope to retain the trees if possible, and they will be reassessed in 2013.
• Complaints about motorbikes in Blighs Garden. The council will remove the piles of bark chips.
• Beatty Street hall, originally built with huge community input and now to be demolished, has been identified as a priority project for council.No time-frame can be provided.
• Jetty - tenders for repair will be going out next year. • Hall (by Jellicoe Street) is currently leased by Sea Scouts for storage.
SBRA has tried to have the tagging on this building removed. The council have promised to look into this again, and to see if the plants around and on it can be trimmed / removed.
• Update: Trees near Jellicoe Street to be removed this week, and play park re-opened. Flying fox currently being re-installed at South Brighton domain.
• Croquet club: awaiting engineer’s report. Following this, will be opened to tender for future use.
Future Plans:• It is proposed to change the classification of Bridge Street Reserve to
allow the installation of a storm water basin. This would be drained by gravity or pump, but likely to dry out by the end of a low tide. Pumps only create 42dcb of noise (similar to a fridge), and would be situated at least 30 metres from any property. Queries were raised by community members about other options.
• It is likely the walkway south of Bridge Street will be stop-banked.• Installation of a path from the end of Blake Street into Bridge Reserve. • The slipway by the jetty needs to have all-tide access for emergency
use and civil defence. • Different types of planting were discussed. Submissions are already
being received expressing a wide range of ideas - from no pines to be replanted to only pines; to include fruit and nut trees, to natives only.
• It was suggested that a workshop be held with residents, arborists, landscape architects and ornithologists to develop ideas. This will hopefully take place February 2013.
History of Reserves• Peter Haughey, a local resident spoke regarding the history of the
area. The trees were originally planted in the reserves in the 1880s in order to provide tall shelter for the proposed residential area of South Brighton. Pines were chosen to provide a wind buffer and allow visibility. Many local people, in particular Bruce Ellis, former campsite manager, planted hundreds of replacements over the years.
Do you have ideas for the future of the reserves?• Go to www.ccc.govt.nz/haveyoursay before 14th December. • Alternatively use a printed copy, available at Bridge Street Dairy, or by
phoning 941 8142.
Get Fit Have Fun and Support the South Brighton CommunityWe’ve heard about these projects in other communities and thought it would be fun to try it in South Brighton. The idea is to get together a group to exercise, plan a 5km walk or run, and try to raise some money for a local cause. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels – do it as a family, a group, a couple or an individual. If you’re interested in being part of this group starting early 2013 contact [email protected] or phone Jane 388 2265
