Hauraki Looks to Extend Its China Connection

By John Freer

A second Chinese sister city relationship could be on the cards for the Hauraki District. Local Mayor, Toby Adams, recently visited the Pinggu District on the outskirts of Beijing with the aim of repeating the existing relationship with the Shanghai based district of Jiading.

Following the visit Mayor Toby said while the Pinggu representatives had made contact since his return, they would be required to take the next step on the relationship establishment process.

The existing relationship with Jiading has been credited with a $50 million ice-cream company investment and a number of exchange visits for school students.

After being re-elected unopposed, Mayor Toby has been leading his current council for 10 months. They have set new rates at a level well below most councils, have contended with weather impacts and challenging economic times, the Mayor’s description being that costs have exploded and inflation has kicked them in butt.

He also also the co-chairman of the Hauraki Gulf Forum which last week released its three-year State of the Gulf Report.

Open the link below to hear our interview with Mayor Toby Adams.