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Source: ONE News -
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Residents of Waiheke Island voiced their concerns to the super city select committee on Tuesday, raising issues about local representation.
Over 800 of 2500 submissions were put to the Royal Commission by Waiheke Island's 3000 ratepayers, concerned particularly with being overlooked should the super city initiative go ahead.
"We are inquisitive, we are informed, and where necessary, we speak out," said Brent Simpson of the Waiheke Community Radio Trust.
The select committee heard from local residents how disappointed they were that Waiheke's rubbish contract had been recently awarded to a multi-national company, which left a community based company out in the cold.
There were also complaints about the rate of ferry fares to and from the city to Waiheke Island.
"The Half Moon Bay to Auckland is $13.40 return, why are Waiheke people paying $32 for the same distance?" asked Shirin Brown of the Fair Ferry Fares campaign.
"If the greater Auckland is anything like the Auckland city we have now, I'd be appalled."
Locals were generally pleased that the committee had come to Waiheke Island, and argued that a strong community board is crucial to their future, saying that Waiheke is unique, with unique needs.
However, that is a message chairman of the select committee John Carter says he has heard before.
"We're getting the same message actually from other communities as well. Papakura yesterday was saying they're unique. When we sent to Waitakere, they're unique."
Despite Waiheke Island's local concerns, residents say that given the right autonomy, the super city could be one of the best things for what they call a "world-class treasure."
