Waiouru wants 'out' of region

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 6, Issue 232, 23 February 1988, Page 1

Waiouru wants 'out' of region

Waiouru wants to secede from Rangitikei County. The army town wants to break its historical ties and shift into the Waimarino. And the Waimarino is ready with open arms to welcome them. But the Army may have to go to war in order to break free. And so may the local authorities involved. At stake is about $135,000 of rates a year. And as Waiouru's commander, Colonel Bret Bestic, says, it's "easy money" because the Army provides all of its own services: sewerage, water, rubbish collection, library, recreational facilities, etc.

In other words, the council does little to earn its rates. An official approach has already been made to the Local Government Commission, but chairman Brian Elwood has given a flat no to the idea. But that's not the end of the matter, according to Waimarino district manager John Murrihy. Apparently the proposition is on hold only while the Government reviews the whole structure and strategy of local government. Mr Murrihy says it would be appropriate to raise the matter again because the Rangitikei County is planning amalgamation with the Taihape and Marton Boroughs.

When the merger takes place will be an appropriate time to adjust boundaries. The main reason for the move is that Waiouru's community of interest is in the Waimarino. Army people tend to do most of their shopping in Ohakune, Waiouru secondary students attend Ruapehu College in Ohakune and socially Waiouru gravitates in the same direction. The move was prompted by the Army and has been pursued by the Waimarino County Council. It will become a district council matter when the county merges with Ohakune and Raetihi Boroughs from April 1.