The objective of this paper is to observe the concept of town planning ("machizukuri" in Japanese) in Wellington. Everywhere in the world, there are many cities with beautifully designed main streets, but their back streets are almost in disorder and confusion. However, whenever I stayed in New Zealand I was impressed to find that the back streets, downtown and residential areas in this country are so beautiful and attractive. Generally, the concept of the town planning of a country is deeply influenced by its local pride and love for their home. Mayor of the City of Wellington, K. Prendergast appropriately indicated, "In everything we propose, we're keeping in mind the things that make Wellington special. We nurture smart, creative, innovative industries and attract talented people who share our love of this city" (A message from mayor in Annual Plan 2004/5). It should be noted that Wellington authority supplies the citizen every detail of information of city activities including finance, project and so forth. It should be more noted that city authority asks citizen to participate for various steps of city activities. Accordingly, to consider the town planning of a country, one must reflect on the culture, social attitude and relevant policy of city authority. Though there are, of course, many other important factors that should be considered, I maintain that these matters directly affect the concept of town planning of Wellington.

View full abstract

New Zealand has been making a proactive approach to FTA over the last few years, based on the recognition that comprehensive agreements underpin the wider economic and investment relationship as well as opening up opportunities for productive commercial partnerships through the removal of tariffs on all goods, the liberalisation of services trade, provisions to encourage investment, etc. This paper examines the outcome and issues of recent FTAs, especially in terms of the views of the business sector on those agreements. The first part of the paper organises all the agreements by categories of those that have entered into force, have been singed, and those under negotiation, which enables us to see the active and positive attitude of the New Zealand Government toward a number of bilateral and multilateral trade negotiations. The second part focuses on the opinions of the related organisations and business groups on trade negotiations. Original information was collected by a method of interview survey conducted by the author in Auckland and Wellington in 2005. As a result of the survey, it has been revealed that the favourable environment for the facilitation of FTAs is supported by the broad consensus between the government and the business sectors as well as a good communication network between them.

View full abstract

[in Japanese]

View full abstract

[in Japanese]

View full abstract

[in Japanese]

View full abstract

Jane Symes was president of Kaiti Playcentre from 2001 to 2005. She also achieved success at the Tairawhiti Playcentre Association, which controlled the Playcentres in Gisborne area In October 2002, she was elected to the Association's Board of Governance. During this time, she managed the centre's advisor portfolio, education portfolio, and was elected President. Her major achievements include: (1) the relocation of the association office and Playcentre shop, (2) attending the national executive conference in Christchurch, (3) evaluation and planning for improving their bi-cultural relationships between Maori and European communities/families within Playcentre. Currently she works for delivering adult education workshops, and as an approved commentator for completed adult education courses. She enjoys and is passionate about both her roles which support parents to develop their knowledge and skills as parents and educators of their children. The most rewarding outcome is the empowerment for children's growth and development in a family based nurturing environment. She continues to attend Kaiti Playcentre supporting her youngest son Kairo. Kaiti Playcentre is a "special place of belonging" for Jane and her family now. If you ever get the opportunity to visit Gisborne, New Zealand, the first city in the world to see the sun, remember to call Jane and see her and other members in Kaiti Playcentre. It will be their honor to host you.

View full abstract