A Christmas message from your Mayor

As we head into the festive season I would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your loved ones a very special Christmas and happy 2018.

I would also like to thank you for your support these past 12 months in my role as Mayor.

As for many of you, 2017 has had its share of challenge and reward.

While the challenges have at times weighed heavily, they have certainly been offset by the rewards. The majority of these rewards have come from working with many fantastic community groups in the Western Bay.

These groups have given us a great deal to be proud of and it is worth reflecting on their achievements - many of which led to their success as category achievers in the Trustpower Awards. Those went to the Waihi Beach Volunteer Coastguard; Katikati Open-Air Art; Western Bay Heritage Trust; Te Puke Skate Park Group; Maketu Ongatoro Wetland Society and Te Puke Toy Library.

Through Council's Community Matching Fund we have helped 28 groups across the District with $100,000 divided between worthy groups in the Kaimai. Katikati/Waihi Beach and Maketu/Te Puke wards.

Council projects achieved this year include the Uretara suspension bridge, the start of the new Katikati Library and Community Hub; the Waihi Beach Reservoir and Trig walk; the Two Mile Creek erosion protection work; the Te Puna West community wastewater scheme; the opening of stage two of the Omokoroa Cycleway; the new Te Puke skate park and the continuation of our Wander Dogs walkabouts.

Reflecting on the pride, support and effort of the many people involved in these initiatives reminds of a photo of earth titled The Pale Blue Dot.

The photo was taken in 1990 by the Voyager One space probe when it was about six billion kilometres from earth. The photo achieved notoriety around the world and was subject to comments from thousands.

A comment by renowned Voyager astronomer Carl Sagan stands out for me.

"This photo underscores our responsibility to deal more kindly with one another and to preserve and cherish the pale blue dot and all the people who live here, it's the only home we will ever know.

I look forward to working with you in 2018 to preserve and cherish our small part of the pale blue dot.

Until then may the generosity, friendship and pride that makes the Western Bay such a special place to live, be with you, your families, whanau and loved ones over the festive season.

Garry Webber

Mayor