In the September edition of FYI I noted that advocacy comes in many guises and, whilst recently the opportunities to make formal written submissions on topics relevant to our members have been scarce, we have been very busy making the most of other opportunities, some of which I previously highlighted may become available.
Business North Harbour (BNH) was able to take the opportunity to highlight the impacts on local businesses due to the traffic chaos caused by the recent damage to the Auckland Harbour Bridge. We collaborated with our colleagues at Takapuna Beach Business Association (TBBA) to issue a joint statement to a variety of media outlets to raise awareness of the problems that businesses were facing and seeking some reassurance that contingency plans were being developed to soften the blow in the unlikely event of a recurrence.
One of the main topics of discussion within BNH has been how we can leverage our positive working relationships to collaborate with key stakeholders, and thereby support our members and drive local
economic development in our area. To this end BNH has been proactive in seeking meetings with Upper Harbour Local Board (UHLB), our two ward councillors (John Watson and Wayne Walker) and Auckland Tourism Events and Economic Development (ATEED) to discuss how we can all work together to achieve positive outcomes for our members and help grow the local economy.
Another topic which members continually highlight as being of great importance to them is access to and movement around the area for business owners, staff and consumers. We have again been proactive in organising a meeting with UHLB and Auckland Transport (AT) to discuss a collaborative approach to identifying and – wherever possible – mitigating, travel and transport issues, which as everyone knows are a growing problem right across the city, not just in our neighbourhood.
The overarching reason for any conversations with all of these key stakeholders is to enable BNH to be in a position to influence decisions which have an effect on the economic development and prosperity of our
members. Unfortunately, we don’t always get the outcomes that we are looking for. The recent decision by independent commissioners to allow the development of Rosedale Bus Station to go ahead without public notification, despite the numerous potential problems that this will cause, being a prime example. However, we will not be deterred by this or any other disappointing decisions as we owe it to our members to continue to have a say in their best interests. I assure you that this is exactly what we will continue to do, even if, at times, our words fall on deaf ears.
This example further highlights the need for a consolidated, collaborative approach to advocacy, where many voices come together as one, forming a far more influential group.
Our Shore Unity Final Report, which was approved for implementation by members at our recent AGM, outlines how this can be achieved. I will keep you informed as BNH looks to bring such a group together.
Kevin O’Leary
General Manager, Business North Harbour
