NELSON / TASMAN AIRPORT LATEST

 

GO Rentals CEO and founder John Osborne, Nelson Airport Commercial Manager Simon Barr, Nelson Airport CEO Mark Thompson and GO Rentals Chief Operating Officer James Dalglish at the new GO Rentals building at Nelson Airport.

First stage of new Nelson Airport development precinct complete

21 December 2023

The first stage of a new development area at Nelson Airport is complete with the opening of a back of house facility for award-winning national rental car company, GO Rentals.

The 230 square metre facility provides car grooming, maintenance and EV charging facilities for GO Rentals, and is the first phase of the airport’s future development plans on land at the southern end of the terminal precinct.

A new roadway off Trent Drive provides access to the facility, as well as creating simpler exit and entry points to the Value Carpark for airport customers.

Future development phases will see additional commercial and light industrial tenancies created in the area currently occupied by the airport’s Value Carpark. Work is underway to consider options for catering for future carparking demand in a different location.

GO Rentals Chief Operating Officer James Dalglish says GO Rentals is delighted to be moving its back of house operations into the airport precinct.

“It’s been our goal for some time to carry out more of our operations within the airport environment. Talks began back in 2019 but were disrupted by Covid so it’s fantastic to see this come to fruition allowing us to fully support our airport rental car fleet in one place.”

Nelson Airport Commercial Manager Simon Barr says it’s exciting to see the first phase of the development area complete.

“The facility will allow for more efficient servicing of GO’s rental car fleet, and contribute to their journey towards a climate-friendly fleet and operations. That complement’s Nelson Airport’s vision and mission too – we’re working toward becoming a world-class airport where zero-emissions planes operate – so this development is a great fit here.”

GO Rentals plans to increase its low-emissions vehicle fleet at Nelson Airport over time, with a third of its national fleet set to be clean-energy powered (a mix of EV and hybrid) by the middle of 2024.

The company is paving the way in the car rental industry in terms of sustainability and climate change action and is New Zealand’s first rental car business to partner with CarbonClick. When customers rent a vehicle with GO Rentals, they get the opportunity to offset their emissions with CarbonClick – reducing the impact of their drive - and can calculate their driving footprint by offsetting via the website. 

The rental car company is also proud to be Toitū net Carbonzero recertified, accurately measuring the greenhouse gas footprint of their business.    

Nelson Airport Communications.

Pigeon Post News, Richmond.

Local Speed Management

 Speed Management process to continue with a local focus

20 December, 2023

 

The regional Speed Management consultation will continue with the added economic focus as described in the recent letter to all Councils from the Minister of Transport Simeon Brown.

“The consultation on reducing local speed limits will continue but we need to acknowledge the change in Government policy, particularly as any changes will need their approval. The new Minister has made plain that they do not support blanket speed limit reductions. We need to focus on those discreet roads and streets in Nelson and Tasman that are adjacent to schools or have other localised safety issues enabling a good case for change,” said Regional Transport Committee Chair Tasman Deputy Mayor Stuart Bryant.

While clearly outlining the Government's direction of ensuring the economy is not hampered through changes to local speed limits, the Minister acknowledges that communities are able to consider what they believe is appropriate for their areas.

“When planning the current consultation process the Regional Transport Committee extended the consultation period and final decision-making timeline to allow the predicted change in Government direction to be considered.

"Despite the change in Central government direction and the process no longer being compulsory, the Councils’ Joint Regional Transport Committee still wants to consider the views of the community regarding speeds on council managed roads throughout the region."

The current Speed Management consultation is set to close on February 29 next year with the Joint Regional Transport Committee making their recommendation to the Councils in the following months.

See: https://shape.tasman.govt.nz/speed-review

Tasman District Council Communications

Pigeon Post News, Richmond.

BROCKEN WINDSCREENS OCCURRING FROM NEW SEAL ON FOXHILL SOUTH OF WAKEFIELD

Fulton Hogan contractors reconstructing SH6 Foxhill.

Photo credit NZTA/Waka Kotahi.

 

Caution Urged on Newly Reconstructed Foxhill SH6 as Residents Report Broken Windscreens

Residents using Foxhill State Highway 6 are reporting broken windscreens, attributing the incidents to speeding traffic on the recently sealed road. The New Zealand Transport Agency emphasises the importance of driver caution, stating, "Our standard advice to drivers is always to slow down when driving on a new road surface, especially when loose chip is present."

Fulton Hogan report that since the conclusion of the work late last week, the speed limit has been returned to 100km/h.

The completion of major road reconstruction on this section of State Highway 6, just south of Wakefield, marks a significant milestone. Rob Service, System Manager Top of the South, notes the extensive rehabilitation required to address the deteriorating pavement. "Before we started, the pavement on this piece of road was at the end of its life, necessitating significant rehabilitation," says Mr. Service. Despite unforeseen challenges that required additional work on the subgrade, the Fulton Hogan team managed to complete the project on time. Approximately 13 thousand tonnes of rock and 21 thousand square meters of chipseal were used, resulting in a considerably smoother, safer, and more durable section of the state highway.

While acknowledging the disruption caused by major works, Mr. Service expresses gratitude for the community's patience, stating, "Major works like this are disruptive, and we appreciate they have meant longer travel times for road users. But the good news is the new and improved road is here and ready for the busy holiday season." He urges drivers to enjoy the enhanced stretch of State Highway 6 but emphasises the need for caution on the newly reconstructed road.

Looking ahead, minor safety works are planned at the site. Contractors are set to return early next year to install a gabion wall and a guardrail, further enhancing safety features along the road.

As we celebrate the successful reconstruction, let's prioritise safety and responsible driving on the freshly sealed Foxhill SH6. Your safety is paramount, and we appreciate your cooperation as we continue to improve our local infrastructure.

Pigeon Post News, Richmond.

UPDATE - PICTON ELEVATION NZTA/Waka Kotahi TRAFFIC BULLETIN - NO ROAD SURFACING WORKS THIS WEEK

 

UPDATED: NZTA/Waka Kotahi Traffic Bulletin: NO ROAD  SURFACING WORKS THIS WEEK

Pre-Christmas road surfacing work planned – State Highway 1, Picton Elevation. (NO ROAD SURFACING WORKS THIS WEEK)

Traffic bulletin UPDATE 11:40am 20 December 2023

The stop/go originally planned for State Highway 1 Picton Elevation will no longer proceed before Christmas.

 

Drainage works have proceeded faster than expected, and a further site evaluation has been done.

 

As a result, it has been decided not to carry out surfacing works this week and to keep State Highway 1 open to two lanes through the Picton Elevation.

 

This ensures there will be minimal disruption to holiday traffic on this busy route in the lead-up to Christmas.

A moratorium on roadworks will be in place across the entire state highway network from 22 December to 7 January.

 

This ensures delays and disruptions on state highways are minimised as much as possible over the holidays. However, contractors will be on-call to attend emergency maintenance and safety works as required.

People travelling to and from Picton should’t expect any travel delays.

Felix Marwick
Media Manager NZTA

Pigeon Post News, Richmond.

A Joyful Multicultural Christmas Celebration in Washbourn Gardens, Richmond.

Christmas Tree in Washbourn Gardens, Richmond. Photo credit Anne-Maree Therkleson.

Richmond Celebrates a Memorable Christmas Evening in Washbourn Gardens

In a heartwarming celebration organised by the Tasman District Council and Welcoming Communities Tasman, Washbourn Gardens in Richmond came alive on Saturday evening December 16, 2023. 

This festive gathering, blending multicultural elements with Christmas cheer, marked International Migrants Day and welcomed newcomers to the diverse Tasman community.

As the clock struck 6 pm, families and individuals convened for the Multicultural Picnic and Christmas festivities. The evening kicked off with a lively multicultural picnic, accompanied by family-friendly craft activities and an open mic session for musical performances, creating an atmosphere of joy and unity.

Multicultural Christmas in the park Richmond, Tasman. Photo credit Anne-Maree Therkleson

Santa and his elves, had a demanding yet entertaining job, engaging with children both amidst the crowd and in a Christmas-themed play area. With his characteristic jolliness and festive spirit, Santa brought smiles to the faces of young and old alike, adding a delightful touch of comedy to the celebration.

Santa surrounded by children. Photo credit Anne-Maree Therkleson.

All different nationality food carts, a coffee cart, and various kids' activities kept everyone entertained. The Richmond Volunteer Fire Brigade stood by, ready to assist Santa in his festive endeavours.

One of the food trucks. Photo credit Anne-Maree Therkleson.

Washbourn Gardens, adorned with bright coloured floodlights and bunting of multinational flags, became an enchanting spectacle. The trees and shrubs, illuminated in a vibrant tapestry of lights, added a layer of magic to the festive atmosphere, creating a breathtaking visual display that captivated all who attended. All the while the melodic notes of the music resonated from the park, wafting throughout Richmond.

Washbourn Gardens with bright coloured floodlighting. Photo credit Anne-Maree Therkleson

The picnic and open stage activities unfolded between 6pm and 8pm, preceding the commencement of the enchanting carol singing. As the carols began, the crowd, now settled from the earlier festive activities, became remarkably attentive, basking in the wonderful music and joining in the collective joy of the season.

The transition from the picnic to the carol singing marked a shift in the evening's ambiance. The Nelson Brass Band, Salisbury Road youth band, and the enchanting Take a Chance Singers filled the air with beloved Christmas tunes. Pianist Louis Lucas Perry and Samantha Baxter from Musical Theatre New Zealand added a magical touch to the musical repertoire.

The Take a Chance Singers. Photo credit Anne-Maree Therkleson.

Candles were lit during the carol singing, casting a warm glow across the crowd and enhancing the enchanting atmosphere of the evening as it became darker. This luminous touch added to the overall charm of the celebration.

In a heartening display of community engagement, the Tasman Youth Council, comprising enthusiastic teens from across the district, demonstrated their commitment to making a positive impact. During the Christmas in the Park event and the recent Speak Up event, the youth council collected an impressive sum of $236.40. These dedicated young individuals not only contributed to the festive ambiance but also worked diligently to raise funds for a noble cause. The proceeds from their efforts will be directed towards Youthline, reflecting the council's collective effort to support and uplift the well-being of youth in the community. Their initiative exemplifies the spirit of giving and community involvement, embodying the true essence of the holiday season.

The Tasman Youth Council. Photo credit Tasman District Council.

I wondered around Richmond for a few minutes to explore what was happening, on this wonderful evening elsewhere, I discovered an unexpected serenity. Everything was quiet, with only the Christmas lights on Queen Street flickering in the distance and Pak’nSave appearing empty. However, the tall Christmas tree in Washbourn Gardens twinkled with Christmas lights, creating a distant yet radiant beacon of the festivities in the Park.

Washbourne Gardens. Photo credit Anne-Maree Therkleson.

In this festive spirit, the Tasman District's Christmas event successfully bridged the gap between cultures and created lasting memories. Whether engaging with Santa's playful antics, enjoying the multicultural festivities, or becoming immersed in the beauty of the carols and the illuminated gardens, everyone enjoyed the unity and goodwill that defines the Christmas season. The Tasman District and Welcoming Communities Tasman truly demonstrated the essence of a welcoming community, where diversity is celebrated, and the joy of Christmas is shared by all.

More photos of the event below:-

Organised by Tasman District Council Te Kaunihera o te tai o Aorere and Welcoming Communities Tasman.

Generous sponsorship for this event also from Atkinson Crehan Law. 

The Nelson Brass Band. Photo credit Anne-Maree Therkleson.

Pigeon Post News, Richmond. 18 Dec 2023.

Merry Christmas from the team here at Pigeon Post.

Security Scare at Nelson Airport

Nelson Airport receives "Concerning" email. Photo R Therkleson.

Security Scare at Nelson Airport Resolved: Terminal Evacuated Following email of a "concerning nature"

In a development today, Sunday, December 17, at Nelson Airport, authorities swiftly responded to a threatening email, resulting in the evacuation of the airport terminal as a precautionary measure. Police are actively working to trace the origin of the concerning email and assure the public that no immediate threat has been identified.

The security measures were implemented after the airport received an alarming email, prompting the involvement of the police, ambulance, and fire service. The evacuation, which took place just after 9 am, was conducted to ensure the safety of all individuals present. The building was cleared for re-entry shortly before 10 am, allowing for the resumption of flights.

While there is confidence from the police that there is no ongoing threat, the terminal remained evacuated as a precautionary step. Authorities advise members of the public to avoid the airport until the incident is fully resolved. Traveler's with flights to and from Nelson are urged to follow instructions provided by their respective airlines.

Police expressed understanding of the unsettling nature of such incidents and extended gratitude to everyone involved for their cooperation during the investigation. Ongoing inquiries are being conducted to determine the source of the threatening email, and updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

The latest update from the Police Media Centre is that normal operations are resuming at the Nelson Airport and that “both the airport and planes there have been cleared and Police are confident there is no ongoing threat.

Police Media Centre

Pigeon Post News, Richmond.