Te Ahu not ‘under investigation’

A review of Te Ahu in Kaitaia is about finding a sustainable governance and management model for the facility and was initiated about a year ago with the agreement of the Te Ahu Trust, says the Far North District Council.

Council Chief Executive Officer (Acting) Colin Dale is concerned that some news organisations have published or broadcast stories implying that the Council is investigating the financial management of Te Ahu.

“We have explained to a number of journalists this week that we are reviewing the governance and management of several community facilities in the District.

“However, some journalists have filed stories without bothering to contact us for the facts.”

This review is about ensuring that these facilities are financially sustainable and provide maximum benefits and value for residents and ratepayers.

“There is no investigation of staff or of the financial management of Te Ahu.

“We are simply reviewing the best way for this iconic community facility to be governed and managed in the long-term.

The Trust with its many volunteers has done an outstanding job in providing a really first-class facility for the community.”

Mr Dale says Te Ahu Trust supports the review and talks about a sustainable governance and management model for Te Ahu have already begun. This model proposes:

• a clear separation of the governance and management of the centre

• transparency around additional Council funding of $90,000 a year over three years to Te Ahu Trust

• a service contract with measurable performance indicators

“We are seeking public feedback on this model in the Long Term Plan Consultation Document which we launched this week. We encourage people to have their say on this issue before submissions close on 23 April.”

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