The rural sector came out in force on Friday, taking part in the Groundswell NZ “A Howl of a Protest”.
Events were organised around the country – including Hastings and Dannevirke – to protest against Government regulations.
There were utes, tractors, trucks and other vehicles at the local protests.
In Dannevirke, an estimated 300 vehicles took part, making their way through High Street just after midday.
In Hastings, more than 800 vehicles were in a 4km long convoy, with the protest finishing at the Hawke’s Bay Showgrounds.
Organiser Chris Miles said there were about 2500 people in attendance at the Showgrounds, and thanked everybody for their fantastic support of the event.
Farmers have called on the Government to make a number of policy changes, including scrapping the tax on diesel vehicles, withdraw “unworkable” elements of the climate change policy, and prioritise seasonal rural workers from overseas through MIQ.
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Central Hawke's Bay’s Mayor says an announcement from the Government last week over 3 Waters gives confidence that it is a willing partner to ensure a strong and bright future for Local Government.
Last week Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced a $2.5 billion package for local councils following the announcement of a shakeup of 3 Waters around the country.
Each Council would receive a sum of money, with CHB expected to receive nearly $12 million if the proposals go ahead.
Alex Walker said the current model of Three Waters delivery is putting significant financial strain on our households, so for Central Hawke’s Bay this reform makes some sense.
She said Council will take time to consider all information on the table, alongside the assurance that Three Waters entities will be protected against privatisation, and that all debt currently sitting with Council, associated with Three Waters, will shift to the new water entities.
Ms Walker said the financial package announced gives Council an opportunity to invest to strengthen our community’s future.
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Another week of daytime closures for the Saddle Road.
Waka Kotahi NZTA will close the road between 9am and 4pm today through until Thursday, and from 10am to 4pm on Friday.
Motorists will need to use the Pahiatua Track during these hours.
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The Bay’s Lotto luck continued over the weekend, with a MyLotto player from Hawke’s Bay winning a share of second division on Saturday night.
The ticket was one of twelve to win $24,631.
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Weekend rugby results
Bush competition : It was semi-finals time, with Puketoi playing Tuhirangi. Unfortunately for the local team, Tuhirangi narrowly came out on top, 12-10.
Manawatu competition : The Dannevirke Seniors had a 17-13 win over College Old Boys in their semi-final game on Saturday.
Hawke’s Bay competition : It was finals time for the Hawke’s Bay competition.
On Friday night Aotea played Havelock North in the Division One final for the Hepa Paewai Memorial Trophy, with Havelock North coming out on top, 44-12.
In Division Two, MAC beat Waipawa Country United, 42-32, with Taradale securing the Colts competition with a one-point win over Central, 26-25.
In other divisions, Taradale are the Premier champions for 2021 with a 21-15 win over Hastings Rugby & Sport, with Clive winning the Division Three final 29-18 over Taradale.
