We had quite low numbers last night, I think Covid, flu and dreadful weather all contributed.
However, those of us who made it had a most enjoyable evening and a special highlight was Steve Lines presentation to Jim Duckworth of a brand-new kauri peel. This is to replace the 100-year-old one Jim has had in his garage for 60 years!!! Don’t know what a peel is? It is a shovel like tool to pop bread into the brick oven and get it out again. Steve Lines can give you a very full description should you wish to be further enlightened.
Our AG for this Rotary year was able to join us, David Bradshaw. David gave us an overview of his role and also made mention of work that is being done within an environment committee which he chairs. We look forward to him being able to visit us again and update us further on District issues.
Bill Charkow updated the club on the RYLA dinner which sadly did not escape Covid, but some quick thinking and decision making meant a modified dinner went ahead with very reduced numbers, but from all accounts it was a very good night. Barry and Ann Nicholls were present and Barry commended the team for an excellent night, enjoyed by all present.
The guest speaker for the evening was Ken Scott from HVA, as an ex member he was able to catch up with many of those present, and who knows maybe he might like to re-join the club!? Ken did express the appreciation of the association for the support and contribution we make as a club to the Howick Community.
The HVA started life as The Howick Business Association, later known as Howick Business and Village Association and now as we know it Howick Village Association. In 2006 the association became a BID member of Manukau City Council and in 2010 Auckland Council. BID stands for Business Improvement Development and a key objective is to improve business in the area and generate new business, which is very challenging in this current climate. BID is accountable to the Local Board so works closely to ensure plans are aligned.
Key public events managed by the HVA include Christmas Fair, Howick Village Hop, ECO Day, Food and Culture Day, Fun in the Sun and of course the very popular Village Market which runs at a substantial fee charged by the Panuku Developments (Auckland Council’s property management CCO) for use of the land.
The association has no power over the make up of businesses in Howick that is totally decided by landlords.
What are the challenges facing the Association?
Bureaucracy, competition from the Malls. Online shopping, we are a destination not a route, and are viewed as being out of the way with poor transport links, and ourselves!
A very interesting presentation generating some good questions and discussion.
The vote of thanks given by Mike Abercrombie was memorable largely because of the unique wrapping for the gift.
Next week is the first Board meeting for this Rotary Year and 26th July our next club the speaker will be Jan B the topic Poetry !! watch out for more detail.
Kia Tupato, Kia noho haumaru Take care, stay safe.
Madeleine East MNZM
President.