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Recent developments at the Racecourse

The Enabling Infrastructure Project at the Hokitika Racecourse is progressing well. The stormwater installation is well underway, with most of the piping installed. Lateral connections… Read More

Early Hari Hari History

Compiled by Charles Lucas, “Early Hari Hari History” is a captivating exploration of the rich heritage of Hari Hari, a small yet historically significant settlement… Read More

Every Corner Project

The Air New Zealand Every Corner Project aims to support grassroots efforts by communities – big and small – to improve, protect or restore their… Read More

Ratepayer voting

Do you live in one area and pay rates on a property in another area? You may qualify to vote in both areas at the… Read More

Netsafe back to school webinars

Netsafe is hosting free webinars designed to help parents and caregivers navigate the digital world with their tamariki and rangatahi. Upcoming sessions: Online Safety For… Read More

Dog days of summer

Westlander’s love their dogs (there’s around one dog for every four people in Westland!) and during the summer more dog owners are out and about… Read More

Fox Glacier Market Day

November’s market day in Fox Glacier was a great success for the community. It was well attended and everyone enjoyed a busy and eventful day,… Read More

Otira’s new public toilets

The Otira community celebrated the opening of their new public toilets on 10 December. Mayor Helen Lash, along with Diane Gordon-Burns and Vicky O’Malley from… Read More

Franz Josef Christmas Market

Another successful Franz Josef Christmas Market is done and dusted. The Franz Josef Community Council (FJCC) hopes everyone who attended had a blast, found… Read More

Fox Glacier Paint and Sip

Fox Glacier Community Centre was transformed into an Art Studio for a night on Saturday, 12 October for a community Paint and Sip event. Hosted… Read More

Sport NZ Rural Travel Funding

Congratulations to Westland Sports Teams who will receive funding through the Sport NZ Rural Travel fund to assist their junior teams to travel to their… Read More

Poutini book launch

Come along and hear from author Paul Madgwick, the publisher, and other guest -speakers to celebrate the launch of ‘Poutini” – a… Read More

SuperGold Information Hub

The SuperGold Information Hub is a one-stop-shop for up-to-date info on all the offers available to SuperGold cardholders. You might be… Read More

Honouring Bruce Smith

Westland District Council Elected Members, staff and public attendees observed a minute silence at the beginning of September’s Council meeting to honour the life of… Read More

Current projects updates

Tancred Street Toilets Work has started on the revamp of the Tancred Street Toilets. All sanitary fittings and wall linings have been removed. Some… Read More

Loopy tunes at the Library

Westland District Library were thrilled to welcome the fabulous Siu and Leah, of Loopy Tunes Preschool Music for a special concert to celebrate Te Wiki… Read More

Dogs at the beach

During spring and summer, a lot of wildlife enjoys the Westland shoreline. To ensure the safety and well-being of both our furry friends and the… Read More

Tyrewise

In July 2020, tyres became the first of the government’s ‘priority products’ with regulations to make sure those making, selling and using tyres take responsibility… Read More

Kidney Kids Fundraiser

Over July and August of this year, Council staff took part in a friendly competition among our departments to collect KanTabs (ring pulls from aluminium… Read More

Enjoy a safe whitebaiting season

With whitebaiting season officially underway, we want to encourage everyone to whitebait safely. Here are some safety tips to observe when whitebaiting: Always practise water… Read More

Rates rebates 2024/2025

Rates rebates may be available for property owners with a household income of $62,000 or less who are the ratepayer on their property. You must… Read More

Custom House restoration completed

The Custom House restoration project has been completed. The lead-based paint was stripped off, the building repainted, a new flagpole installed, a new sign installed,… Read More

Netsafe – Re:scam is back!

In continued efforts to disrupt the scammer network, Netsafe has brought back rescam.org, our cutting-edge ai tool designed to waste scammers’ time so they can’t… Read More

Creative Communities

Supported by the October 2023 Creative Communities funding round, the Marie Island Music Students hosted a student showcase for their family and friends last December… Read More

National Volunteer Week 2024

National Volunteer Week celebrates the collective contribution of the millions of volunteers who enrich Aotearoa New Zealand. National Volunteer Week 2024 runs from June 16-22. Read More

More ‘R’s of managing waste

In last month’s Westland Matters, we talked about the 5 ‘R’s’ of managing waste, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Refuse and Repurpose, but there are many more… Read More

Drinking? Don’t drive

Alcohol is the highest factor contributing to deaths and serious injuries crashes in the West Coast district. Between 2014 and 2023 there were 248 crashes… Read More

Midwinter food drive

Te Hono o Nga Waka, WestREAP and the West Coast Te Rito Network are holding a Mid-Winter Food Drive to Feed the Tamariki! The mid-winter… Read More

2024 Garden Bird Survey

New Zealand’s longest running citizen science project, THE NEW ZEALAND GARDEN BIRD SURVEY, kicks off on Saturday, 29 June and we need… Read More

Representation Review

Westland District Council is undertaking its six-yearly Representation Review. In accordance with section 19H of the Local Electoral Act 2001 (the Act) Council must determine… Read More

Local Hero Award

Mayor Helen Lash presented Hari Hari resident Helene Hindman with her 2023 Local Hero Award on 17 April at the Hari Hari Community Meeting. Helene… Read More

Recent events in Fox Glacier

Fox Arts – art exhibition On Saturday the 20th of April locals of Fox Glacier township Ellie Dodridge and Yan Qin Yang hosted ‘Fox Arts’… Read More

Digital Cash in New Zealand

At the Reserve Bank – Te Pūtea Matua, we’re looking at digital cash. It would be an electronic version of cash, issued by the Reserve… Read More

Cass square opening delayed

Work on the Cass Square playground is going well, but unfortunately the completion has been delayed. Jan Visser Facilities and Property Manager advises that, “Creo… Read More

Citizenship ceremony

Westland District Elected Members were very pleased to host a citizenship ceremony before the March Council meeting for 11 new citizens. Each person swore an… Read More

School holidays at the Library

The library is moving Full STEAM Ahead into the school holidays this month. Thursday 18th April 2.30pm Put your creativity and engineering skills to the… Read More

Have your say on biometrics

The Privacy Commissioner is asking New Zealanders to have their say about new draft rules that would outline how biometrics can be used. Biometrics are physical… Read More

Kea proof rubbish bins

If you are in Franz Josef you will see that the public rubbish bins there are a little bit different. Staff from Westland District Council… Read More

Valuation Rolls 2024

The Valuation Rolls for Westland District Council have been revised by Quotable Value Limited (as the Council’s valuation service provider). The revised Rating Values are… Read More

The Library app is back!

Exciting news for our Library App users… it’s working again! The Westland District Library App has been repaired and is back in action. If you… Read More

Cass Square and Custom House

Cass Square Playground The installation of the new playground is starting to take shape. Some of the equipment is now installed and other equipment has… Read More

Increasing mobile coverage

The Government funded Rural Broadband programme, run by Crown Infrastructure Partners to improve mobile connectivity across the Westland District is in its final stages, with… Read More

Creative New Zealand Funding

Creative New Zealand has many funding opportunities opening during March for artists and musicians. Click on the links to find out more and how to… Read More

News from the Franz Josef community

Community Centre Facelift The newly painted community centre. Franz Josef Community Centre has recently undergone a facelift. Due to a successful Lotteries funding application in… Read More

Recycling tips

You may be aware that from 1 February 2024 kerbside recycling has been standardised across New Zealand. These are the only things that can be… Read More

Events at the library

We have lots happening in February at the library. Our regular programmes are all back underway for the new year and we have some great… Read More

What to do with dog poo?

Responsible dog owners are expected to clean up and remove their dog’s poo when out and about (you can be fined if you don’t), and… Read More

Sun’s out, dogs are out!

Over summer more dog owners are out and about in busy places. Everyone has a responsibility when it comes to being safe around dogs. Dog… Read More

Westland Civic Awards

Council and the Hokitika Lions Club celebrated the achievement of members of the local community during the December Council meeting on 14 December 2023. Congratulations… Read More

All Black Bench

Earlier this year, Hokitika was selected as one of 26 communities across NZ to be gifted a hand crafted macrocapa bench as a thank you… Read More

News from the waters team

Fox Glacier WTP commissioned On Thursday 30th November the Boil Water Notice for Fox Glacier was lifted.  The new Water Treatment Plant was successfully commissioned… Read More

Swimming Pool fun

Over the summer holidays, many families put up a temporary swimming pool in the backyard. These can be a fantastic way for everyone to cool… Read More

Final stage in Starlink rollout

Westland District Council’s Starlink rollout, a crucial part of the Alternate Communications Package funded through the ‘Better Off Fund’ is now completed. The last… Read More

Beautifying Hokitika Wastebins

You may have noticed the wastebins around Hokitika have been spruced up for the summer. Featuring images of Westland these have been installed by Signlink… Read More

Cass Square playground and toilets

The tender to build the replacement playground at Cass Square has been awarded to Auckland-based company, Creospace Ltd. Their proposal provided the Working Group with… Read More

October Citizenship Ceremony

In October Council hosted a citizenship ceremony for 10 people to swear an oath or affimation of allegiance and receive their certificates of citizenship. Council… Read More

Biodiversity Credit System

The Government is exploring whether a biodiversity credit system could help to incentivise the protection and restoration of native wildlife in Aotearoa New Zealand. A… Read More

Recycling week 2023

Recycling Week is an annual initiative to raise awareness and educating New Zealand on best practices for waste minimisation and recycling. Encouraging conscious procurement, and… Read More

TTPP Hearings start soon

Hearings of the submissions to the Te Tai o Poutini Plan begin at the end of the month. Meetings will be held where independent Commissioners… Read More

Australasian Road Safety Conference

Glenys Byrne, Road Safety Coordinator for the West Coast has recently returned from attending the Australasian Road Safety Conference in Cairns, Australia. Glenys was one… Read More

Whitebaiting safety tips

Whitebaiting season has officially started! We want everyone to whitebait safely, so here are some safety tips when whitebaiting: Whitebaiting season is declared open on… Read More

Lots happening at the library

School holiday activities Date Time Activity Tuesday 26 September 10.30 am -11.30 am Build XL structures with our new Straws & Connectors game Thursday 28… Read More

News from the Heritage Park

The last month has been a fairly quiet time at the Westland Industrial Heritage Park with a slow-down of visitors, although the railway, in particular,… Read More

Otira Centenary Day

Celebration organisers and attendees While the Otira Tunnel Centennial Commemorations have been and gone, the memory and evidence of the day of celebration is still… Read More

Events at the Library

Library Talk: Take Action for Nature Come celebrate Conservation Week by learning a bit more about how we can all ‘take action for nature’ every… Read More

Keep NZ Beautiful Awards

Does some one or somewhere deserve to be awarded a Keep NZ Beautiful Award? We’re asking Kiwis everywhere to nominate the people, projects and places… Read More

Fox Glacier Research Project

Caroline Cech, Master of Planning student at Otago University is undertaking research on community perceptions and awareness surrounding climate change hazards and adaptation in Fox Glacier… Read More

Garden birds survey

Council staff and the wider Hokitika community recently contributed to a mapping project about garden bird interaction conducted in Hokitika and Whangārei. The project was… Read More

Change to rates processes

From 1 July 2023, rates for the 2023/2024 year will be due on the 20th of the middle month of each quarter. Rates are invoiced in… Read More

Starlink satellite internet rollout

This month, Westland District Council with the assistance of West Coast Emergency Management are rolling Starlink satellite internet kits to 19 communities throughout Westland. Each… Read More

Welcoming new Citizens

It was wonderful to welcome seven new citizens to the Westland District on 20 June following the Council meeting. Citizenship ceremonies are very moving and… Read More

Electrical items recycling

In conjunction with EnviroNZ, Westland District Council is launching a trial to accept used electrical items for potential resale at the Hokitika Transfer Station’s Magpies… Read More

Pooches Pool Party

The swimming pool staff celebrated the end of the season with a very successful Pooches Pool Party. Due to the success of the event, they… Read More

Westroads Upskilling Staff

The next round of upskilling staff has commenced for the Westroads team. Over the next couple of years many Westroads staff will undertake training and… Read More

Parking Strategy underway

Staff in the Land Transport team are working on developing a parking strategy for Westland, looking particularly at issues in the Hokitika CBD area. Later… Read More

Museum Director departure

Kararaina TeIra has been the director at Hokitika Museum for over 2 years and will be leaving in June to take up a fantastic opportunity… Read More

Rural Women NZ Business Awards

The NZI Rural Women NZ Business Awards celebrates the innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurial excellence of New Zealand’s rural communities. The calibre of this year’s entries… Read More

Celebrating 40 years at Council

Executive Assistant, Diane Maitland (nee Nolan) has just completed 40 years of service with Westland District Council and is happily continuing on in her 41st… Read More

Text message notifications

Anytime, anywhere – if you are signed up to our free text message notification service you will receive important messages from Council. We will send… Read More

Camp Creek Shelter rebuild

Council was very disappointed in the senseless vandalism that destroyed the Camp Creek shelter on the West Coast Wilderness Trail in February. However, events such… Read More

Water Chlorination implemented

Westland District Council has recently installed chlorination equipment at all the previously unchlorinated water supplies and chlorination will begin soon. Council must comply with the… Read More

Do it online with WDC

Online forms are available on our website to make transactions quicker and easier for Council’s customers. Use is increasing as we add… Read More

Well-read Westland

A big thank you to everyone who took part in the Westland District Library’s Beanstack Summer Reading Challenge online. 260 badges were earned and a… Read More

Customer Service Kiosks

Westland District Council constantly seeks to improve our customer service with new ways for customers to access our information and services. A Self Service kiosk… Read More

West Coast Transport Survey

This is the last week to share your feedback on the joint West Coast Councils transport survey for local roads (roads that aren’t the State… Read More

Northern Ward by-election

Nominations for the Northern Ward by-election close soon. If you intend to stand for the vacant seat, your nomination must be received by midday (12pm)… Read More

Apply for rates rebates

The full rates rebate for the 2022/2023 year is $700. To be eligible for the full rebate your income must be $28,000 or less, but… Read More

Projects progressing at WIHP

It’s been a fairly quiet couple of months at the Park. Project work has progressed steadily and we look forward to Christmas and the holiday… Read More

Resource Management Act reform

Two pices of the legislation that will replace the current Resource Management Act are now available for public consultation. At the conclusion of the… Read More

Welcome to the new Council

On 27 October 2022 the new Westland District Council met for their first Council meeting of the triennium. The Mayor and each Councillor made their… Read More

Bruce Bay Sports Day

It was a stunning South Westland day to bring the folks out to the Annual Bruce Bay Sports Day on 23rd October 2022. The Village… Read More

Safe Digging Month

November is safe digging month, which is supported by beforeUdig and the utilities that use the service to provide maps and safety information on… Read More

Council Meeting – October

Inaugural Council Meeting Thursday 27 October 9.00am The Inaugural Council meeting will be livestreamed on our YouTube channel. Image: Okarito Rock Tower,… Read More

New Milltown Cycle Shelter

Anyone riding the Kumara to Milltown section of the cycle trail recently will have found a new shelter that has replaced the one that relocated… Read More

Ōtira Tunnel

Determined to celebrate and remember the people and times of the construction of the Ōtira tunnel, the centennial planning committee has the 4 August 2023,… Read More

Cybersmart Week

It might seem surprising, but your personal and financial information is gold to cyber criminals, and they’ll try all kinds of tricks to try and… Read More

Swimming Pool Fencing

If you are thinking about installing a swimming or spa pool this summer make sure that you understand the rules. Speak to our… Read More

Wadeson Island planting day

Staff from several local Jobs for Nature projects, including Sustainable Wild Whitebait Fishery and Weed Free Te Tai Poutini, and representatives from key stakeholders celebrated… Read More

Supporting Grey Power

Last week staff from Westland District Council collected over 120 items including tins and jars, baking goods, crackers and soup bases, cat food and toiletries… Read More

Big Book Sale

Calling all book lovers! Treat your shelves to Westland District Library’s all-you-can-read book buffet. Gold coin entry (under 5’s free).  Where: Pakiwaitara, 41 Weld Street,… Read More

Feedback on self-contained vehicles

Parliament is taking public submissions on the Self-contained Motor Vehicles Legislation Bill The Economic Development, Science and Innovation Committee is seeking public submissions on the… Read More

Our Council – District Assets

The District Assets group oversees the operation, maintenance and improvement of the Council’s infrastructural assets. These assets include local roads, three water services (drinking water,… Read More

Council’s online forms

Online forms are proving to be a popular choice for our customers with a great uptake over the last six months. Using the online form… Read More

Feedback on Speed Limits

Due to ongoing legislative changes in speed management, it is important that Council has a greater understanding of what our customers want for the district’s… Read More

New online services

Dog re-registration It’s that time of year again, and Council has made it even easier to re-register your dog. If there are no changes to… Read More

Library news and events

Fines Free This month the library joined many other libraries across New Zealand and removed overdue fines for adult issues. Fines are seen as a… Read More

E-waste recycling extended

If you are still holding onto any old computer or camera equipment now is the time to recycle it. Recycling allows the valuable material inside… Read More

All aboard the Mudfish Railway

Visiting engines from a number of train enthusiasts from Halswell, McLean’s Island and Greymouth helped to celebrate the Matariki Weekend at the Mudfish Bush Railway… Read More

Welcoming Communities

Westland District Council has joined 26 other Councils from around New Zealand as part of the Welcoming Communities programme. Welcoming Communities supports councils and their… Read More

Our Council – Corporate Services

Corporate services are the business arm of Council and provide customer services to external customers and the organisation. Staff in the Corporate Services team ensure… Read More

Demand Better 3 Waters

The main reason Communities 4 Local Democracy is advocating to keep a level of control over our water assets is that we feel they are… Read More

Council Meetings June / July 2022

Meeting Date Time Community Development Committee – held at Westland Industrial Heritage Park Monday 13 June 5.30 pm Extraordinary Council Meeting to hear the feedback… Read More

Coming up at the Library

Lantern Making Get ready for the Lantern Parade with our Lantern Making Workshops! The free workshops are on Thursday 16 and Friday 17 June from… Read More

Pride week celebrated at the Library

Westland District Library hosted their first-ever children’s Rainbow Storytime, part of our Pride Month celebration this June.  The fabulous drag queens, Erika and CoCo Flash,… Read More

Meet the Museum Curator

Helen Cook has been the Hokitika Museum curator for the last 8 years, and during that time she has been largely responsible for the management… Read More

Haast / Awarua Bike Park

Putting in the volunteer hours is paying off for the Haast community who are working together to build a pump track for the children in… Read More

From the library

Beanstack Challenge – 1000 Books Reading is a very important part of early childhood development. In conjunction with Beanstack, the library wants to help you… Read More

Council text message service

Receive notifications from Council directly to your phone. All you need is a New Zealand mobile phone number. Council only uses this service to send… Read More

Vote 2022 – Ratepayer roll

Anyone who owns property in the Westland District is eligible to vote for Westland District Council (WDC) elected members, whether or not they live in… Read More

Draft Natural Adaption Plan

The Government is consulting on a draft national plan to help Aotearoa New Zealand adapt to and minimise the harmful impacts of climate change. New… Read More

Meet the Photographs’ Curator

Sue Asplin, Hokitika Museum Photographs’ Curator has managed the Hokitika Museum photo archive for 11 years.  The collection consists of over 30,000 images – and… Read More

Notices from the Waste Officer

Recycle your dead lightbulbs at Mitre 10 Most lightbulbs are not supposed to be put into the ordinary household rubbish collection or transfer stations as… Read More

Library returns to normal hours

 Good news for library patrons, the library has returned to standard opening hours. You can now visit the library in Hokitika: Monday – Friday, 9.30am… Read More

Hokitika Museum Webinar

Join Museum Director Kararaina Te Ira on Wednesday 13 April at 6.30pm to hear about current plans and progress on the gallery development project –… Read More

Get Vocal in your Local

Get Vocal in Your Local has been developed by the Review into the Future for Local Government. The Minister of Local Government, the… Read More

E-waste recycling pilot a success

E-waste recycling at the Hokitika Transfer station is going from strength to strength, with increasing amounts of e-waste collected each month. Locals must have been… Read More

Transforming Recycling

Too much rubbish is ending up in landfills and our environment. The Ministry for the Environment (MFE) are keen to hear your views on… Read More

Lake Kaniere Safety Plan

Everyone enjoying the beautiful waters of Lake Kaniere expects to be able to do so safely, and expects other users to be courteous and considerate. Read More

Big Boost week

14 February 2022 February is a critical month in our fight against Omicron, which is why this month the Ministry of Health is asking New… Read More

Safer Internet Day 2022

14 February 2022 Each year, Westland District Council is proud to support Safer Internet Day. We believe that this is an important message for our… Read More

Make as Service request

14 February 2022 Westland District Council aims to make it as easy as possible to submit a request for service. Watch the video below to… Read More

Communities for Local Democracy

14 February 2022 Councils are better placed to deliver the Government’s Three Waters outcomes than mega-entity model, new research shows. Analysis commissioned by Communities 4… Read More

2021 Civic and Community Awards

14 December 2021 In conjunction with the Hokitika Lions, Westland District Council recognised local members of the community at an awards ceremony held during the… Read More

The Library is here to help

14 December 2021 If you are having difficulty downloading your Covid-19 vaccine pass the library staff are happy to help. Call them on 03 755… Read More

It’s a dogs’ life

14 December 2021 As the weather heats up we would like to remind dog owners that a hot car is not the best place to… Read More

We want your e-waste

15 November 2021 Westland District Council has partnered up with EnviroWaste & TechCollect NZ to bring you a free e-waste recycling service in Westland. The… Read More

Digital Direct Debit form

12 October With the upgrade of our website, we are progressively digitising our processes to make it easier for customers to complete forms. Moving away… Read More

New Language eResource

15 September 2021 Ready for Te Wiki O Te Reo Māori – Māori Language Week, the library is delighted to bring you access to a… Read More

Latest Library news

15 September 2021 Library at Level-2 The library is open with some adaptations to comply with the Level 2 regulations. Sign-in or scan-in, mask-wearing, 2m… Read More

New Toyota e-bikes for Council

15 September 2021 Council staff on bicycles should soon become a familiar sight around Hokitika. Earlier this year Toyota NZ offered to donate e-bikes to… Read More

August / September Council Meetings

13 August 2021 Meeting Date Time Council Thursday, 26 August 1.00pm Planning & Regulatory Services Committee Tuesday, 2 September 3.00pm Community Development Committee Monday, 6… Read More

Three Waters Reform

13 August 2021 The central government continues to provide further information to Councils and the public about the Three Water Reforms. We have put together… Read More

Netsafety week 2021

13 August 2021 Westland District Council was proud to be one of the supporters of the inaugural Netsafety Week 2021 with organisations, charities and schools… Read More

2021/2022 Communities Funding

13 August 2021 Sport NZ Rural Travel Fund The Rural Travel Fund subsidises travel for junior teams participating in local sports competitions outside of school… Read More

July / August Council Meetings

15 July 2021 Meeting Date Time Council Thursday, 29 July 1.00pm Capital Projects and Tenders Committee Tuesday, 3 August 3.00pm Audit and Risk Committee Tuesday,… Read More

Library News

The Library has a range of fantastic special events and regular events. Check out our Facebook page and website for details of all our events… Read More

Dog registration 2021/2022

All dog owners of registered dogs should have received a registration renewal notice for the 2021/2022 registration year. If your dog is registered and you… Read More

Recycling Number 1 Plastic

Thanks to our colleagues at Auckland City Council, here is a quick run-down of what plastic items with plastic code 1 (PET) can go into… Read More

Plastic Free July 2021

21 June 2021 Can you go plastic-free this July and reduce your household’s impact on the environment? The team at Plastic Free Aotearoa have come… Read More

May / June 2021 Council Meetings

18 May 2021 Meeting Date Time Economic Development Committee Tuesday, 18 May 3.00pm Council Thursday, 27 May 1.00pm Planning and Regulatory Committee Thursday, 3 June… Read More

Draft LTP 2021 – 2031

18 May 2021 With the Draft Long Term Plan adopted for consultation, Councillors took to the road last week to speak to our Southern communities… Read More

Rates Rebates

15 November 2021 Are you eligible for a rates rebate of up to $665 for the 2021/2022 rating year? Applications must be received by 30… Read More

Should it be recycled?

18 May 2021 Before you put anything in your recycling bin, take a minute to check if it can actually be recycled. Any items in… Read More

Anzac crafts at the library

18 May 2021 The library really enjoyed holding Family Anzac Craft sessions last month, it was great observing families spending time together and working together… Read More

Gorsebusted

19 April 2021 Congratulations to the Okarito community for their achievement in working together to make a difference to the environment that they are living… Read More

Almost there…

19 April 2021 Adoption of the draft Long Term Plan and Consultation Documents is scheduled for 7 May 2021. Following the adoption of the documents,… Read More

Cass Square maintenance

19 April 2021 Yearly maintenance of Cass Square is underway to keep the field in top condition following the sports and events season. Contractors Ground… Read More

Manatū Taonga Fund

19 April 2021 Manatū Taonga is providing support to the cultural sector to develop and transform our landscape, bringing culture and creativity to people. Funding… Read More

Autumn Library Events

23 March 2021 The Library has a range of fantastic events special and regular events. Check out our Facebook page and website for details of… Read More

Sunset Point Toilets Are Go!

23 March 2021 You can’t miss the bright orange toilets at Sunset Point. These are now open for business! Further landscaping will be completed over… Read More

Book a Librarian

23 March 2021 A free 30 minute consultation for help and support for a vast range of things, including digital skills, using your own device,… Read More

Reminder – ways to pay

23 March 2021 Residents might be aware that banks in New Zealand will soon refuse cheque payments, and our local Westpac branch in Hokitika will… Read More

2021-2031 Long Term Plan

23 March 2021 Adoption of the draft Consultation Document and the Draft 2021 – 2031 Long Term Plan is fast approaching. Councillors and staff have… Read More

New at the Library

23 March 2021 Become a guardian of our native fauna and flora by turning your home garden into a safe haven where they can thrive. Read More

Mayors Taskforce for Jobs

23 March 2021 Fox Glacier man Jacob, 22, was working as a Glacier Guide when Covid-19 hit New Zealand. It instantly changed the outlook of… Read More

February / March 2021 meetings

15 February 2021 Meeting Date Time Economic Development Committee Tuesday, 16 February 3.00 pm Council Thursday, 25 February 1.00 pm Planning and Regulatory Committee Tuesday,… Read More

What’s on at the Library

15 February 2021 The Library has a range of fantastic events special and regular events. Check out our Facebook page and website for details of… Read More

Snap Send Solve

15 February 2021 If you are out and about and see anything that Council needs to fix, you can now use the Snap Send Solve… Read More

MTFJ Careers Day

15 February 2021 The inaugural Mayors Taskforce For Jobs Westland Careers Day is being held on 18 February 2021, from 9am – 5pm at 41… Read More

Parking at Sunset Point

15 February 2021 You might have noticed that parking at the newly redeveloped Sunset Point is a bit different from the typical car park. Safety… Read More

Payments to Council

15 February 2021 Banks in New Zealand will soon be refusing cheque payments. Council wants to help Westland residents to make any payments quickly and… Read More

Embracing our culture and heritage

15 February 2021 National Libraries Partnership funded librarians, Ruahine Coakley and Mike Dickison are making their mark on library services and increasing community involvement in… Read More

January / February 2021 Meetings

15 January 2021 Meeting Date Time Capital Projects Committee Tuesday, 2 February 3.00 pm Audit and Risk Committee Tuesday, 9 February 1.00pm Economic Development Committee… Read More

Summer events at the library

15 January 2021 The Library has a range of fantastic events happening in January and February. All our regular children’s programmes will be restarting after… Read More

Driftwood and Sands 2021

15 January 2021 Head down to the Hokitika Beach from Wednesday 27 – Sunday 31 January for the 18th Driftwood and Sands Festival. Entrants of… Read More

Hokitika Illuminated Exhibition

15 January 2021 Hokitika Illuminated has briefly returned to the Carnegie Gallery before the Museum is closed for earthquake strengthening. The free exhibition… Read More

Waitangi Day 2021

15 January 2021 Nau Mae, Haere Mai Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Waewae and Te Rūnanga o Makaawhio welcome residents and visitors to Westland to Arahura… Read More

What’s happening at the Library

Some events have limited spaces. To avoid disappointment, register for events and activities by visiting the library, email library@westlib.co.nz or call 03 755 6208. Read More

Staying safe around dogs

Over summer more dog owners are out and about in busy places. Everyone has a responsibility when it comes to being safe around dogs. Dog… Read More

Meet our new Library staff

Recognising the role that libraries have in supporting communities, the central government provided a $60 million funding package for libraries, the National Libraries Partnership Programme. Read More

Luminaries production materials

Production materials, including props and costumes, from the BBC/TVNZ production of the Luminaries will arrive in Hokitika in the New Year. These items have been… Read More

Old4New Lifejackets is back

Old 4 New lifejacket upgrade will be outside the council building on Railway Terrace on Thursday, 7 January from 10am – 2pm. Upgrade your old… Read More

Making payments to Council

13 November 2020 Council will be unable to accept cheques after 30 April 2021. Westpac recently announced that they are ceasing cheques as a means… Read More

Book Launch

13 November 2020 On 31 October Library staff were delighted to have Annette Copping in the library to launch her first picture book ‘Papatūānuku Has… Read More

Rating Valuation Rolls

13 November 2020 Ratepayers should now have received their revised rating valuations, which were sent to ratepayers by Quoteable Value Limited earlier this month. Read More

Councillors District Tour

13 November 2020 Somewhat delayed by Covid-19, as the final part of their induction, Councillors and relevant staff spent three days at the beginning of… Read More

Consultation Hearing

13 November 2020 Council will be meeting on Monday 16 November to hear and receive the verbal and written submissions received through the consultation process. Read More

Recycling Lids and Containers

13 November 2020 After recent advice on how to sort plastic lids in recycling Council has seen an improvement in residents’ recycling bins. However, Council… Read More

Council and Committee Meetings

15 October 2020 Council and committee meetings are held in the Council Chambers of Westland District Council unless otherwise noted. Meetings can also be viewed… Read More

Jackson Bay Wharf Progress

15 October 2020 Contractors GT Liddell Contracting Ltd will soon begin construction to repair and improve safety at Jackson Bay Wharf. Hardwood timber has… Read More

Kokatahi Hall Refurbishment

15 October 2020 In September Council received $1 million to upgrade community halls and war memorials around the district, with $68,000 allocated to the Kokotahi… Read More

Speed Limit Register Review

15 October 2020 There is still time to make your submission on Council’s Speed Limit Register Review. Submissions close at 5pm on Friday 30 October… Read More

Recycling Week 2020

15 October 2020 Recycling Week takes place over the 19th – 25th of October. The aim is to encourage New Zealander’s to be conscious about… Read More

Grant Recipients

15 October 2020 Council is pleased to announce that these groups have successfully applied for funding. Sport NZ Rural Travel Fund Eleven sporting groups received… Read More

From the Rates Office

15 October 2020 Rates Rebate Residential ratepayers on low incomes may be eligible for a rates rebate of up to $655 for the current rating… Read More

Reporting issues to Council

15 October 2020 Spotted a street light that isn’t working? Did you find some fly-tipping that needs to be cleaned up? You can make a service… Read More

Building Consent Exemptions

18 September 2020 From 31 August 2020, some building projects no longer need a building consent, making it faster and easier for people to turn… Read More

Arahura Water Treatment Plant

18 September 2020 Council is moving forward with work to build a new Water Treatment Plant for the Arahura Township, north of Hokitika. The tender… Read More

Mayors Taskforce for Jobs

18 September 2020 Westland District Council has been allocated funding through the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs Community Recovery Fund to help small to medium business owners… Read More

Follow the Sun

18 September 2020 New Zealand Book Awards 2020 The Library has been bathed in the light of 130 suns made by children from St Marys,… Read More

Enviroschools West Coast

18 September 2020 The Enviroschools programme encourages children and young people to become catalysts for change. Local facilitators work alongside students, teachers, whānau and communities… Read More

What’s on at Council Aug/Sept

21 August 2020 Council and committee meetings are held in the Council Chambers of Westland District Council unless otherwise noted. Meetings can also be viewed… Read More

Art at the Library

21 August 2020 If you would like to exhibit your work in this space, please contact the library for more information and an application form… Read More

Haast’s New Reservoir

21 August 2020 A new 400 cubic meter water reservoir has been constructed tol replace the existing 227 cubic meter concrete reservoir located on Zillian… Read More

Library Delivery Service

21 August 2020 The Westland District Library now offers a Home Delivery service of library books for patrons who are unable to visit the library… Read More

Let’s Talk About Lids

21 August 2020 Recycling information about plastic can be confusing, even when you take the time to check to see what number plastic it is!… Read More

It’s Not Okay, Hokitika

21 August 2020 Aayushi Puri (front), Records Officer at Westland District Council, is here to help as a Community Champion for the It’s Not Okay… Read More

Safer Westland July 2020

21 August 2020 The Westland Safe Community Coalition Safer Westland meets on the last Friday of every second month at 10.00am in various venues. Its goal is… Read More

Community Funding August / September

21 August 2020 Creative New Zealand Funding The Creative Communities Scheme is a fund aimed at supporting arts activities that celebrate Westland culture, community involvement,… Read More

Shovel Ready Project Funding

8 July 2020 Westland District Council welcomed the Parliamentary Under-Secretary  for Regional Economic Development Fletcher Tabuteau and MP for West Coast-Tasman, Damien O’Connor, on Wednesday… Read More

Library Home Delivery Service

8 July 2020 Westland District Library is looking for volunteers to help books to customers’ homes in the Hokitika area. The library would like to… Read More

Know Your Recycling

8 July 2020 Unsure of what you can put in your recycling bin? Waste and recycling staff have put together some new information that you… Read More

Dog Registration 2020/2021

8 July 2020 Dog registration fees for the 2020/2021 year are now due. Register your dog before 31 July to avoid late payment penalties. Information… Read More

Sunset Point Access

4 June 2020 Access to Sunset Point is currently closed to the public while construction of the new car park, access road, walkways and toilets… Read More

Library E-services and news

4 June 2020 Library E-services popular during lockdown During the lockdown period, Kanopy use during doubled.  These are the top 10 films streamed since… Read More

Level 2 Council Services

13 May 2020 All Council services that were operating at Level 3 will continue to do so, and some will have increased operating hours. Services… Read More

Fourth Quarter Rates

13 May 2020 Council has been undertaking all essential services throughout the Covid-19 Alert period. These services, such as rubbish and recycling collection, waste and… Read More

Warmer Kiwi Homes

7 May 2020 The Warmer Kiwi Homes funding programme offers low-income homeowners grants covering two-thirds the cost of ceiling and underfloor insulation and / or… Read More

West Coast Employment Portal

23 April 2020 An employment portal is being set up by the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) to help West Coast businesses and workers affected… Read More

Service update: District Assets

9 April 2020 Roading Council is currently carrying out only minimal and essential roading activities. This means that certain things such as debris removal and… Read More

Caring for your health

9 April 2020 Flu vaccinations The government has extended the time period for priority groups to get influenza vaccines free of charge, before they… Read More

Good Neighbour Awards

9 April 2020 Neighbourhood Support has launched the Good Neighbour Awards to recognise everyday Kiwis who are lending a hand, going above and beyond, and… Read More

A new audiobook resource

9 April 2020 Ulverscroft, the one of the world’s leading publisher’s of unabridged audiobooks has given library users free access to their uLIBRARY audiobooks until… Read More

Support for Farmers

9 April 2020 To support farmers, the Ministry for Primary Industries together with Beef + Lamb New Zealand, DairyNZ, AgFirst and Federated Farmers is providing… Read More

Free business marketing webinars

9 April 2020 Two free webinars from Westland Technology, Innovation & Enterprise Hub With the current restrictions on businesses and community groups, the WTIE Hub… Read More

Information about Rates

1 April 2020 Installment Four Rates Notices – Covid-19 The Covid-19 pandemic has changed the world’s situation dramatically. Councils are responsible for providing a number… Read More

Essential business information – South Westland

1 April 2020 South Westland Health Clinics: Call 0800 794 325 https://www.wcdhb.health.nz/your-health/covid-19-formerly-known-as-novel-coronavirus/ Emergency Services: All emergency services are available Fire, Police and Ambulance St… Read More

Jackson Bay Wharf

1 April 2020 Launching from Jackson Bay wharf for essential purposes only Local police have reported recreational boats being launched at Jackson Bay ignoring the… Read More

Stay safe online – Covid-19

1 April 2020 Keep yourself safe online during Covid-19 A number of scams are known to be circulating following the Covid-19 outbreak. It’s important to… Read More

Help to get online

1 April 2020 If you or someone you know cannot access the internet, Skinny’s JUMP pre-pay broadband can help. JUMP is a low-cost, pre-pay internet… Read More

Community Grants – Covid 19

1 April 2020 Ministry of Social Development COVID-19 Community Awareness and Preparedness Grant Fund As part of the Government’s response to COVID-19, new funding is… Read More

Customer Services & LGOIMAs

Friday 27 March 2020 Customer services Our building may be closed but our Customer Services are still working hard. Staff are available by sending an… Read More

Library’s e-services are go!

Friday 27 March 2020 The library is closed until further notice. All e-services are available and can be accessed on the library’s website. Library… Read More

Finance, up and running

Friday 27 March 2020 It is business as usual for the Finance team and all of our staff are working remotely as councils still have… Read More

Essential Services

Friday 27 March Essential Council services such as water, waste water, roads, cemeteries, public toilets and waste management continue to operate safely and effectively during… Read More

Building Control Services

Friday 27 March 2020 Good news! Our team is currently set up and working from home.  This means that some services can still be undertaken… Read More

Compliance services

Friday 27 March 2020 Freedom Camping Council’s Responsible Camping areas have been closed to all non-self- contained vehicles and campers. No services, such as waste… Read More

Covid-19 Stay calm, stay safe

Tuesday 24 March 2020 Message from Westland Mayor, Bruce Smith We are in interesting times and the safety and security of our residents is paramount… Read More

Covid-19 Library Closure

Tuesday 24 March Information about the library closure From Tuesday 24 March the Library will be closed for the purposes of borrowing and using computing… Read More

Covid-19 Business support

Tuesday 24 March 2020 Business support available from Development West Coast Development West Coast are assisting West Coast businesses to access the government’s business support… Read More

Council offices – Covid-19

Friday 20 March 2020 Where possible, Council will continue to operate as usual, with social distancing measures in place. However, we may eventually close our… Read More

Library Services – Covid 19

Friday 20 March 2020 Council’s Library Services remain open! Events and programmes are currently still running, but if you experience any of the symptoms described… Read More

News from Westland Civil Defence

Since the December 2019 flood event, the West Coast Civil Defence Emergency Management (CDEM) Group has monitored a number of smaller weather events, and placed… Read More

Tohu Whenua Launch

It was a beautiful day to launch the very special Tohu Whenua Pou. Hokitika is privileged to be part of the Tohu Whenua programme,… Read More

Library Talk! Mother Languages

International Mother Language Day was celebrated in February with another successful Library Talk. A crowd of about 25 people gathered to hear community members discuss… Read More

Upcoming Council Meetings

Meeting Date Time Council Thursday 27 February 1.00pm Planning and Regulatory Committee Thursday 12 March 3.00pm Council Thursday 26 March 1.00pm… Read More

Showcase Westland

Calling keen photographers! If you have beautiful images of the Westland District that you would like featured in our publications, please submit your photos using… Read More

Get Caught Reading!

You could win an Instax camera just by sending the library a picture of you reading and where you like to read! Send your entry… Read More

Waitangi Day Celebration

Arahura Marae will be hosting the annual Waitangi Day celebration on Thursday 6 February. The day begins with a powhiri at 11am, with guests asked… Read More

Summer Reading Challenge

There’s still time to start the Summer Reading Challenge, with entries closing on 7 February 2020. Each entry will receive a new book. Children can… Read More

Upcoming Council Meetings

Meeting Date Time Planning and Regulatory Services Committee Tuesday, 21 January 1.00pm Economic Development Committee Tuesday, 21 January 3.00pm Council Thursday, 23 January 1.00pm… Read More

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