Speech
Opening of the Selwyn District Council Headquarters
I greet all you in the languages of the realm of New Zealand - English, Maori, Cook Island Maori, Niuean, Tokelauan and New Zealand Sign Language.
Greetings, Kia Ora, Kia Orana, Fakalofa Lahi Atu, Taloha Ni and as it is the afternoon (Sign)
May I specifically greet you: Your Worship Michael McEvedy, Mayor of the Selwyn District; Paul Davey, Chief Executive of the Selwyn District Council; Member of Parliament Tim Barnett, Councillors and staff; Pat Nutira and other Kaumatua and Kuia of Ngai Tahu; Members of the New Zealand Defence Force and Police, Distinguished Guests otherwise; Ladies and Gentlemen.
Thank you for the invitation to formally open the Selwyn District Council's new Headquarters in Rolleston today.
The Selwyn District, formed in 1989 from the merger of the Ellesmere, Malvern and Paparua counties, has grown, I am advised, by more than 70 percent since 1991 and now has an estimated population of more than 36,000. I am told that it is the second-fastest growing territorial authority in New Zealand after Queenstown.
This town, Rolleston, is the largest of these new growth areas, having expanded from a small railway village of less than 1,000 people a decade ago into a bustling town of more than 5,000. Other fast growing nearby towns are Lincoln and Prebbleton, and the villages of Springston and West Melton as well.
Given that population growth, the district now boasts 22 primary schools and three secondary schools, and Lincoln University, as well as several other research organisations. I also note the presence of Burnham Military Camp, home of the Third Land Force Group, in the District representatives from which organisations are also here this afternoon.
It is not difficult to see how a combination of the Southern Alps, the Arthur's Pass National Park and the Waimakariri and Rakaia rivers, the rural aspect and various local attractions, as well as those available in nearby Christchurch, make this such an attractive place to live. Many who work in the city have chosen to live in this beautiful district.
Such growth has meant that the Selwyn District Council has had to respond to increased community expectations as to the range and quality of services.
Since the District was formed in 1989, much consideration has been given as to where to site the Council's headquarters. As the District's fastest growing town and its position in the geographical centre of the District, Rolleston was seen as a logical choice.
This new building is long awaited as it will bring all staff and council requirements under one roof and provide a focus for the Selwyn District.
Designed by award-winning architect Ian Athfield, it incorporates many significant products from the Canterbury landscape both in its design, materials and landscaping.
I am advised the complex, with its four linked blocks and Council chamber, incorporates the latest features of environmental sustainability and energy efficiency as well as state-of-the-art information technology.
The distinctive stone cladding exterior panels not only make for a stunning a visual impact, they also contribute to the building's environmental performance by helping keep the interior warm in winter and cool in summer.
The building has also been oriented to take advantage of the sun to warm it while solar water heating is also used. Rainwater is collected for use in some toilets and stormwater is directed into rain gardens.
This has clearly been a complex project and has been subject to much consideration and public consultation. But I understand that since the letting of the main contract just under a year ago, it has been completed within budget and on time. It will serve as a practical civic venue for many years to come.
May I therefore add congratulations to the Council and its management on undertaking this project and to council staff, architects, project management team and builders and subcontractors involved in bringing the whole to fruition.
It is for all these reasons and with great pleasure that I declare the Selwyn District Council Headquarters officially open.
No reira, tena koutou, tena koutou, kia ora, kia kaha, tena koutou katoa