Transition Harbour Project - Progress Report
A small but jolly group gathered at the Community Hall on June 20 for mid-winter cheer (mulled wine and a fine potluck feast) plus further planning of the Transition Harbour project.
The project is focussed on readying our community to be more pleasant and environmentally sustainable as we face the huge challenges of peak oil and climate change and their associated economic and social disruptions. The group did some brainstorming on where we are at now and how we can future-proof our community. Read on to find out what we came up with.
Local food/gardens: The Local Food Group is organising a soup and crumble night on July 24 with speakers to inspire you on growing (more of) your own food. From August the group will be starting its garden makeover program, helping one novice gardener each month get growing.
Nature Restoration: In the pipeline - a workshop for those wanting to get started (or improve on) planting native plants for birds, beauty, and soil and water protection on their property. Local experts and cheap plants are available. Interested? Please contact Christine - details below.
Heritage Protection: In the pipeline - heritage gardens at Stoddart's Cottage. Envisioned - a heritage walkway around Stoddart's Point and to other local points of historic interest.
Transport: In the pipeline - Ride-share/Carpooling matching via the new Diamond Harbour community website. Envisioned - bike lockers on the town side of the tunnel; ferries to go to Purau wharf; catch a ride designated stops; ECAN supported community shuttle in DH connecting to the ferry.
Health: Happening now - yoga, tai chi, meditation, dance, walking and sports groups; and a Green Prescription advisor making regular visits. Envisioned - healthy cooking workshops, more support for healthy school lunches.
Energy: Publish information in the Herald on government subsidies now available for insulation and heating. Envisioned - local wind power generation. Big vision - closing the loop for energy, water and waste on the south side of the harbour.
Time Bank: We are about to join the Time Bank established by Project Lyttelton with a sign-up day in September.
Community Café: In the pipeline - a monthly Friday night community cafe in the Hall, with live music and/or films to follow. A fundraising opportunity for local groups - expressions of interest please to christine@horomaka.org or 329 4588.