On Wednesday the airport made its case for an expansion of the tarmac across the former golf course, leaving around a third of the land as a buffer between houses and tarmac. Muthu and his family – three daughters, his wife, and his mother – have lived there for the past eight years, and he was concerned about the potential noise. “I come from India. I know about noise.”
Kate Green/Stuff
Strathmore Park resident Karuna Muthu will be metres away from the tarmac if the designation for the former golf course land is confirmed. One of his daughters had severe autism requiring round-the-clock care, stability, and familiarity. Large-scale construction and activity right next door would be especially hard for her.
The hearing, which began on Wednesday, is presided over by three panellists; lawyer Helen Atkins, planner David McMahon, and engineering consultant Ray O’Callaghan. Clark also faced questions from the panellists about the airport bus, a transport option sorely missed since the Airport Flyer was suspended in April 2020. Covid-19 restrictions caused a drop in demand, and it was “the straw that broke the camel’s back,” Clarke said.
Kate Green/Stuff
The arguments of Wellington Airport lawyers and experts, left, and city council, right, are heard by an independent panel, far end of the room from left, David McMahon, Helen Atkins and Ray O’Callaghan.
The big news of the day from the Wellington Stuff team, including traffic and weather updates, and all the latest news you need to go about your day in the region.
Wellington Airport revealed its $1 billion expansion plans late last year (video published in September 2020).
Good evening Wellington. I’m Mandy Te, taking over for live updates this afternoon and evening.
8.44pm: Late night reminders Tree felling is happening near State Highway 1 Hataitai until 4.30am. Thanks for joining us. We will be back tomorrow morning to provide you with the latest updates.
7.44pm: Overnight closure of State Highway 58 Paremata cancelled Tonight’s overnight closure of SH58 between Paremata roundabout and Postgate Dr is cancelled. Road works will continue tomorrow, so drivers should plan ahead and detour via Whitby.
7.42pm: Tree felling near State Highway 1 Hataitai
Launched on April 1 last year, Te Pūkenga brings together New Zealand’s 16 Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs). In July education minister Chris Hipkins set out his intentions for it, saying the Crown’s investment would total almost $121 million. “This is a significant amount of funding and I have high expectations,” he wrote. “(The organisation) needs to be nimble and a driver of change, and leverage off the extensive expertise that already exists within NZIST and other key stakeholders.”
Stuff In August, In total the organisation will pay its seven top staff at least $2.3 million in its first year.