Community Board Tackles Rubbish Concerns and New Initiatives

Concerns regarding litter on roadsides and the responsibilities of the West Harbour Community Board were the primary topics at a meeting held on March 8, 2023, at the Rolfe Room in Port Chalmers Town Hall. New board chairman Jarrod Hodson addressed these issues following a public forum where local resident Steve Dunder raised alarm over increasing rubbish, particularly fast food containers, along the route from Port Chalmers to Aramoana.

Dunder reported that he frequently collects substantial amounts of litter during his walks in the area. He urged the board to take action, highlighting that the rubbish could endanger both pedestrians and cyclists. In response to these concerns, the board agreed to initiate an education campaign via social media to promote awareness about littering and encourage community engagement in keeping the area clean.

To further address this issue, the board plans to collaborate with Keep Dunedin Beautiful, with hopes of organizing a community cleanup or an “adopt-a-spot” project. Hodson emphasized the need for collective action to tackle the growing rubbish problem effectively.

New Roles and Responsibilities Within the Board

In addition to discussions on litter, the meeting included the allocation of roles among board members. Responsibilities were assigned as follows:
– Port noise liaison committee: Jarrod Hodson, Angela McErlane, and Marian Poole
– Ravensbourne liaison, including Ravensdown Community Liaison Group: Jarrod Hodson
– Infrastructure liaison: Angela McErlane
– Long Beach and Pūrākaunui Amenities Society: Duncan Eddy
– Aramoana liaison: Barbara Olah
– West Harbour Emergency Response Group: Barbara Olah and Angela McErlane
– Policing matters: Wayne Sefton
– Social media: Duncan Eddy and Jarrod Hodson
– Historic information panels (board project): Marian Poole

The board also addressed the cancellation of a state housing project on Albertson Ave, leading to the decision to create a community housing liaison position, which will be held by Duncan Eddy. Additionally, a new role for a West Harbour Community Board grants liaison was established, with Marian Poole taking on this responsibility.

The board decided to discontinue its involvement in the “Round the Boards” podcast produced by OAR FM. Finally, members recognized the need to update the community plan and agreed to schedule a workshop for this purpose.

The next meeting of the West Harbour Community Board is set for February 25, 2026, from 18:00 to 20:00 at the Rolfe Room, Port Chalmers Library.