Kia Ora,
A Whale Song Update!
Time flies when you’re having fun! Rest assured the Whale Song team has also been busy.
Here’s a summary of the team's efforts over the past few months: , collaboration with key stakeholders and new developments, continuing to build community support and partnerships, funding sources/sponsorship a focus.
Location Shift and Development Background:
o The Wellington Company (TWC) purchased the 28 ha parcel of land between the Wharemauku Stream, Kāpiti Rd and the Expressway for its “New Central Park” development.
o Whale Song's original location is shifting to accommodate the development, allowing the Ihakara St tributary to pass through Whale Song’s original site, leased from Ngahina Developments.
o The TWC development includes 1000 homes, large format, aged care, some high rise with retail areas, apartments, a possible hotel and commercial offices, with Whale Song at its centre. Currently going through the resource consent process and possibly inline for the Fast Track process being developed by the current government. (See attached images)
Environmental Impact and Features:
o The wetland area, alongside Whale Song, has expanded, with larger ponding and planted areas to reduce floodwater flow downstream.
o The new path of the stream will meander naturally through this restored wetland, enhancing the area's hydrology.
o Plans include boardwalks, footbridges connecting to the district’s cycle/walkways, with cultural art reflecting Kapiti's rich history.
Community and Stakeholder Support:
o The development aligns with local district plans and has support from Kāpiti Coast District Council, local hapu Puketapu ki Paraparaumu, Coastlands and Ngahina Developments.
o There is significant community support for Whale Song, restoring the Wharemauku Stream and establishing a new park for the town centre.
Whale Song's Role and Significance:
o Whale Song will become a key tourism asset expected to attract 150,000 new visitors annually, generating upwards of 500 jobs, building resilience in support for the many new residents and businesses in the district. Infometrics Report.
o Whale Song will play a crucial role in the telling of the “Kāpiti Story” and the district’s historic connection to whales, with a key focus on environmental education.
Partnerships and Outreach:
o Positive collaboration with TWC and recent discussions with Mills Albert. Mills Albert has initiated a training programme in partnership with KCDC, aligning with Whale Song and the training of welders etc needed for the construction.
o Continued support from Coastlands, including use of meeting spaces and exploring future opportunities. Hugely grateful to the Coastlands board.
o Partnership alignment with KCDC with the team collaborating on the Town Centre plan.
Funding and Government Collaboration:
o Assessing opportunities with the new Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) and collaborating with KCDC and MBIE's Kanoa team.
o Past application to the Provincial Growth Fund failed due to lacking a territorial partnership agreement, which is now secured with KCDC.
o Kāpiti Growth Summit with Ministers planned 2005
o Fund-raising efforts by the team continue – Lotteries, sponsorships, services/capability, individual support.
Community Engagement:
o Presented Whale Song at Charles Fleming Retirement Village and plans for similar presentations in Kapiti area villages.
o The TV and donation whale display continues its presence in Coastlands Shoppingtown, keeping that important and significant profile that the mall provides.
We thank all of you for your continued support and welcome your feedback or suggestions! Want to help, call me!
He pai ake te mahi tahi (It is better to work together)
Ma te atawhai me te whakaute (with kindness and respect)
Ngā Mihi,
The Whale Song Team!
To contact the trust:
Marco Zeeman (0274) 933 626 – Whale Song Charitable Trust Chairman
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