An informal record of the BRP in
2009 as told by staff and students
The 2009 Yearbook
This yearbook is an informal record of the BRP in 2009.
It is always hard to live up to any successful endeavour and 2009 has shown we not only lived up to what was a very successful 2008 but even went one step better.
2009 was also the 30th year that the BRP has been offered at Massey University and we think this yearbook shows the degree as strong as it ever has been. We have celebrated this by using a pearl theme throughout the yearbook.
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Contents
First Years 4
Second Years 10
Third Years 16
Fourth Years 24
Graduation 36
Staff 38
Social Club 48
Flat Crawl 50
Planning Ball 52
Pub Crawl 60
Quiz Night 62
Netball 64
Contact Details 70
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Credits:
Collated, edited and designed by Ian Luxmoore Specific text contributions credited in text.
Non-credited text written by social club.
Images from staff and students.
This year saw unusually large numbers in our first year papers, with 112 peaking at 70 of which at least 40 were BRP students. We hope to see most back with us in 2010!
The David Spring 1st year planning prize went to Luke Place First Year Orientation Tour
A new initiative this year saw the social club run an orientation tour for the first year BRP students. This gave them the opportunity to meet planning staff and to locate the facilities that they will use throughout their time doing the BRP. The tour guides were third and fourth year students and the tour finished with a BBQ next to GLB.
First Years
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132.112 - Planning for Sustainable Development Taught by Christine Cheyne in first semester with a roll of 70 students, this paper is the students‟ first encounter with planning.
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132.112 Fieldtrip around the Manawatu
The highlight of 112 was a fieldtrip around the Manawatu which took place on 25 March on a glorious fine autumn day.
The focus of the fieldtrip was planning for a sustainable city in Palmerston North and we looked at a range of issues:
biodiversity, integration of landuse and transport, energy, urban design, heritage, and waste.
From Massey we travelled to view work being done to restore biodiversity by the Green Corridors community group in the Turitea Valley. This was also a chance to learn about the site of the proposed Turitea windfarm, the subject of a resource consent that had been called-in by the Minister under the RMA.
Highlights according to the students:
“Recycling centre and Savage Crescent”
“Getting to see the Green Corridors project and the lunch!”
“The Great weather”
“LUNCH!”
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From the rural-residential Turitea valley we travelled through the new urban subdivision of Summerhill checking out integration of land-use and transport, green space and housing. En route to Ashhurst Domain we stopped at the site of the proposed new bridge over the Manawatu connecting Te Matai on the north with Staces Road on the south.
In Ashhurst we gathered information about the wind farm developments from the information display at the Domain and then checked out some biodiversity initiatives followed by lunch which seemed to be particularly appreciated! The final two stops of the day were the Savage Crescent heritage housing precinct and Awapuni Sustainable Development Centre.
Article by Christine Cheyne
Advice from the students for next year:
“Don‟t wear white shoes!”
“Take lots of notes, wear sunscreen, and listen up!”
Don‟t wear canvas shoes!”
“Have fun!”
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132.106 - Introduction to GIS
Taught by Derek Williams and Rachel Summers with a roll of 62 students, this paper introduces students to Geographic Information Systems and spatial analysis.
132.111 - Planning and the Environment
Taught by April Bennett in the second semester with a roll of 44 students, this paper develops students‟ knowledge of planning and local government.
132.111 Fieldtrip around the Manawatu
The theme of the 111 field trip was Ki Uta Ki Tai: Mountains to the Sea. This involved the class travelling around the Manawatu District looking at issues to do with water. First stop was the Pohangina Wetlands, where we saw how two landowners have turned their cow paddocks into a series of vibrant wetlands.
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From there, we headed uphill to see examples of hill country erosion and to talk to the regional council about the work they‟re doing with farmers to encourage land use change and soil conservation.
Winding our way down through the Oroua catchment, we headed to the outskirts of Fielding to check out the new Kiwitea floodgate „in anger‟ (thanks to Rob for turning it on for us!), and then through town to consider cycle commuting to Palmerston North, heritage, and how planning impacts on marae and the obligations of tangata whenua.
After a well deserved lunch break at Kowhai Park (note no tables – bad planning!), we travelled to the Feilding Wastewater Treatment Plant to view firsthand what happens to our waste and where it goes – not nice, but necessary!
Then onto our final stop of the day, the beautiful Oroua River, where we heard about freshwater planning from two local scientists.
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This year‟s second year papers saw 23-24 students on the rolls. Both first semester core papers are with Bruce Glavovic while second semester sees them with Caroline Miller and Ian Luxmoore.
The Ken Nairn 2nd year planning prize went to Alana Standish
132.217 - Planning for Hazard Resilient Communities Taught by Bruce Glavovic in first semester with a roll of 24 students, this paper is all about hazards and preparing communities for them.
132.217 - Fieldtrip to Wanganui
New Zealand hasn't experienced a major disaster in many decades but we do face floods on a fairly regular basis and their impact can be very significant. A fieldtrip to look at flood risk management issues in Wanganui and Palmerston North let students see how two different communities deal with flood risks.
Second Years
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It was a biting cold day as we gathered on the banks of the Wanganui River to hear what the local planner and emergency management officer had to say about the very real risk that flooding poses to parts of the Wanganui central business district. It was very sobering to see where the one- in-a-hundred year flood would reach under an anticipated climate change scenario some decades down the track.
Palmerston North has chosen to upgrade its stop banks after coming perilously close to being flooded in 2004. Hearing firsthand from local planners and emergency managers was hugely helpful for us to understand the real-world challenges that communities face in dealing with hazard risks. Clearly, we have to work creatively with communities to design solutions that reduce hazard risks.
Article By Bruce Glavovic
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132.218 - Building Collaborative Communities
Taught by Bruce Glavovic in first semester with a roll of 25 students, this paper focuses on the 'process' dimension of planning - how to engage the public in the planning process and of course this means learning how to deal effectively with public conflict.
An extended roleplay is a core part of this course and is designed to provide students with a safe learning environment to develop skills in collaboration and conflict resolution. This year's class took to the roleplay with gusto and many students adopted their roles with enthusiasm and creativity. Nothing can prepare one for dealing with the reality of 'an angry public' - but at least this roleplay provides an opportunity to translate readings and lectures into practice. But whilst these are essential skills for every planner, hopefully our graduates don't get faced with too much conflict in their first few year of work as professional planners!
132.212 - Professional Practice I
Taught by Caroline Miller in second semester with a roll of 23 students, this paper is all about getting to grips with life as a professional planner out in the workforce and covers all as- pects of planning.
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132.213 - Policy Analysis and Evaluation
Taught by Ian Luxmoore in the second semester with a roll of 22 students, this paper is about learning numerical and computer skills for planning.
One of the practical exercises in the paper was to learn computer skills including using Photoshop and Google Earth.
Some of the results of an exercise to redesign Stirling Grove in Palmerston North are shown below (original in the middle):
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Second Year Class Roll
Claire Baldwin
Catherine Bryant
Averyll Edgar Rochelle
Braithwaite
Luka de Jong
Alana Hawke Emma
Farley Katrina
Ellis
Nick Law Finbar
Kiddle
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Susan Rawles
Rachel Slater Margaret
Moody
Alana Standish Lisa
Orchard
Dave McKevitt Andrew
Mason
Sheena McGuire Hugh
McCullough Nicole
Marshall
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The third years came out of their shell this year and keep up good numbers from 2009.
The J T Steward 3rd year planning prize went to Kate Pascall 132.305 - Heritage Policy and Planning
Taught by Jeff McNeill in the first semester with a roll of 22 students, this paper develops students knowledge of natural and cultural heritage planning.
132.305 Fieldtrip
The focus of this paper was a two day field trip around the lower Manawatu and Horowhenua that sought to provide concrete examples of ideas raised in class. The weather was rainy for the first day, as we looked at iconic Palmerston North Maori cultural sites around that have been updated as asphalt and concrete covered car parks.
Third Years
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Then we went to the Manawatu River where the concrete floodgates were examined, followed by visit to the controversial Foxton concrete seawall for lunch. The Horowhenua District Council kindly hosted us for afternoon tea and a talk by their planners. We followed this with a visit to the STP („poo plant‟ in the argot) and a chance to revisit lunch, and the landfill.
The next day, we got more back to nature, with a visit to two Horowhenua coastal lakes, the beautiful Lake Papataionga and the much abused Lake Horowhenua. A visit to the concrete Tokomaru power station and then the Keebles Bush restoration project completed the day. Catering was organised by Faye Sherriff, who would easily get an A+ pass, except that I want her to organise catering for 2010.
Article by Jeff McNeill
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132.305 - Fieldtrip , student perspective
During the eighth week of semester one 2009, an eager 132.305 Heritage Policy and Planning class, lecturer Jeff McNeill and first aid lady Faye Sheriff took a two day tour of the Manawatu Plains and Horowhenua District.
The purpose of the fieldtrip was to see the common place through new eyes, aided by a planning lens. We identified landscape features of these regions that indicated contemporary resource management challenges and the results of past resource management decisions that have impacted on future generations‟ choices. Sites that were visited included the Longburn Freezing Works, Moutoa Floodway, Foxton Loop, Estuary and Beach, the Horowhenua District Council, Levin Landfill, Levin Wastewater Treatment Plant, Mangahao Power Station, and Keeble‟s Bush with many interesting speakers at most of the sites and a rolling commentary from Jeff in the bus.
Some resource management challenges that were brought to light on the fieldtrip included cultural landscape management, biodiversity/conservation management, coastal management, waste management and many obvious historical resource management decisions that have impacted on future generations‟ choices including the degradation of the Foxton Loop and Estuary, and Lake Horowhenua and Papaitaonga. Thanks to Jeff for organising two brilliant days and Faye for being a great first aid lady and caterer. We all left the fieldtrip a bit more knowledgeable and wondering where does it all go?
Article by Sarah Mako
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132.311 - Planning Theory
Taught by Katharine Moody in the second semester with a roll of 22 students, this paper develops students‟ knowledge of the theoretical principles underpinning planning.
One highlight of the paper was a group research project in which groups uncovered “wicked” problems in Auckland, Kapiti, Wellington and Canterbury, and then put critical theory to the test in proposing solutions to these local planning issues.
132.312 - Planning Law
Taught by Marilyn Bramley in the second semester with a roll of 22 students, this paper develops students‟ knowledge of the NZ legislation and case law crucial to planning.
Marilyn Bramley comments on 312:
The Planning law course was well attended. Law courses are sober and conservative courses and this course followed the format. Electronic tests drilled students in the basics of the RMA and a case law assignment acquainted students with judicial rambles and off the topic comments. The assignment also meant that I met a lot more students as they checked that they had understood what was required.
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132.313 - Advanced Planning Techniques
Taught by Ian Luxmoore in the second semester with a roll of 22 students, this paper teaches evaluation methods and systems analysis tools.
Part of the paper involves an involved group project where groups develop system dynamics models of complex planning related systems. The project is a difficult one and often can get out of hand quite quickly. Overall it is a good lesson in thinking about the world from a systems point of view.
Below is part of the model developed by one of the groups to determine the impact of an aging population in New Zealand:
0-14 Population
15-24 Population
25-39
Population 40-64
Population
>65 Population People Maturing
from 14-15
People Maturing from 24-25
People Maturing from 39-40
People Maturing from 64-65
Births Deaths
Natural Maturation Rate (14-15)
Natural Maturation Rate (24-25)
Natural Maturation Rate (39-40)
Natural Maturation Rate (64-65) Deaths
(0-14)
Deaths (15-24)
Deaths (24-39)
Deaths (40-64)
<Death Rate (0-14)>
<Death Rate
(15-24)> <Death Rate
(25-39)> <Death Rate
(40-64)>
<Death Rate (>65)>
Birth Rate (40-64) Birth Rate (15-24)
Births (15-24)
Births (25-39)
Births (40-64)
<Births (15-24)>
<Births (25-39)>
<Births (40-64)>
Birth Rate (25-39) Emigration
(0-14) flow
Emigration (25-39) flow
Immigration
(25-39) flow Immigration
(40-64) flow
Emigration (>65) Emigration flow
25-39 flow
Immigration 15-24 flow
Emigration 40-64 flow
<Emigration
(0-14)> <Emigration
(15-24)> <Immigration (15-24)>
<Emigration (25-39)> <Immigration
(25-39)>
<Emigration (40-64)>
<Immigration
(40-64)> <Emigration
(>65)>
<Immigration (>65)>
<Immigration (0-14)>
Immigration
(0-14) flow Immigration
(>65) flow
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132.314 - Transport & Urban Planning
Taught by Imran Muhammad in the second semester with a roll of 21 students, this paper develops students‟ knowledge of urban planning with a particular focus on sustainable transport.
As a part of the group assessment, 3rd year students prepared an Integrated Transport Assessment (ITA) report to support a resource consent application for a major land use development. They worked on five different sites including two Greenfield subdivision sites, one Brownfield medium density housing site, one commercial and one religious building site in Palmerston North. A field trip to all five sites were organised as a part of this project.
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Third Year Class Roll
Tiffany Gray
Brad Greening
Scott Major Michael
Beech
Chris Buhler Will
Bamford
Laura Clemens
Ben Courtman Daniel
Collis
Jessie Donovan
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Kate Pascall Sarah
Mako
Regan Mansfield
Hannah Murphy
Michelle Perrott
Gareth Pottinger
Courtney Smithers Emily
Rogers
Tiffany Williams Cole
Taylor Amanda
Staddon-Smith
Lynette Trewavas
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This year‟s fourth years had an eventful year, dealing with everything from a recession-impacted job market to attention from the media and honours projects some thought would never get done.
The B J Forde 4th year planning prize went to Bridget Venning
132.403 - Planning Project
The infamous fourth year planning project always seems like a simple task during week 1 of semester one and seems like a bridge too far during study week of semester two.
Each student chooses their own topic and with help from their supervisor conducts research on a planning related topic. This year‟s topics were diverse and interesting:
Fourth Years
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Some of the topics explored in 2009
Garden City Principles in New Zealand
Reducing Travel Related Carbon Emissions: DOC‟s Experience An analysis of council website provision of planning services Kerbside Recycling in Palmerston North
Flood risk management in the Manawatu
Enforcement under the Resource Management Act
Community groups conserving biodiversity on private land.
Discursive barriers to sustainable transport in Auckland.
Passenger rail south of Levin
Public transport network planning in Palmerston North The coastline and urban form in New Plymouth
Greenfield development in rapidly growing NZ urban areas Heritage protection in Onga Onga
The impacts of urban tourism on the Christchurch CBD
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132.414 - Urban Planning & Design
Taught by Imran Muhammad in the second semester with a roll of 21 students, this paper develops students‟ knowledge of urban planning and design. The design studios are a highlight and are great visual representation of the skills gained by the students over the four years of the degree.
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132.414 - Wellington Fieldtrip, student perspective In second semester the fourth year urban planning students ventured out of the library and away from the usual torments of assignments and honours research to see what Wellington had to offer. Faye and Rachel kindly drove us down in the two minivans then set us out at Te Papa so they could go in search of retail activities.
Each group dashed about the CBD streets looking like tourists in a hurry, as anything and everything was snapped on cameras. “It‟s all about details” Imran tells us. So photos were taken of paving texture, lighting design, street furniture, bus stops, building shapes, public art... and the list goes on! We sought any evidence of good urban design principles that could be used for our group projects based back in Palmerston North. To know how to improve our study areas we had to know what looks good outside of text books.
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After a long morning being snap happy our poor little sore feet (especially Emma-Jane with her crutches) and the cold wind had made us seek refuge for a lunch break. A few ringleaders, to remain unnamed, led the pack to an Irish watering hole. Where a few pints and a nice rest were enjoyed. After our break the hardy groups set off to find every last urban design detail possible. But the afore mentioned ringleaders refused to budge! They convinced their two groups that the remaining few hours of the afternoon would be best spent in a pub or two than wandering the streets in the cold. So after finishing their pints at Murphy‟s the two groups ventured to Mac‟s Brewery to sample a few more varieties before meeting up with the minivans.
As the groups met back up at the recon point one group was missing. Clearly they did not plan their city walk efficiently and were still way down by the train station. So while they made their way back to Te Papa parking building the rest of the class followed Rachel up to the giant squid exhibit.
The drive home was broken up with many stops to appease the sweet teeth. With visits to the chocolate factory and then the Kapiti ice cream and cheese shop. As we became more full and tired we managed to prevent a further shopping stop in Otaki.
The day was great fun and left everyone quite worn-out. For those still with energy the day was topped off with a BBQ at Wendy and Bridget‟s flat. Where more photos, giggles, beer and food were shared by all.
Article by Wendy Robinson
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132.415 - Environmental Planning
Taught by Jeff McNeill in the first semester with a roll of 22 students, this paper develops students‟ knowledge of planning and environmental issues.
A brief comment on 415 from Jeff:
The fourth year is an honours year, where expectations are raised yet again, with deeper and more critical thinking expected. The students were a friendly and engaging lot, keen to explore ideas in class. They clearly applied three years of learning to great effect with their very efficient and economical approach to their class work and assignments. I enjoyed our discussions and look forward to seeing them at graduation.
132.419 - Professional Practice III
Taught by Caroline Miller in the first semester with a roll of 22 students, this paper is designed to give students exposure to realistic planning and professional situations.
132.412 - Professional Practice II
Taught by Caroline Miller in the second semester with a roll of 20 students, this paper develops students‟ abilities as real life planners.
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Fourth Years in the News
This year was a busy year for BRP students making the news for a variety of reasons raging from job prospects to couches outside flats to publicity for their ideas in 414:
Manawatu Standard, 17th October 2009
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It is traditional for the fourth years to have a dinner with staff after the exams are over to celebrate finishing their degrees and this year it was held at Dejeuner Restaurant.
Fourth Year Final Dinner
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Traditional Fourth Year Dinner Awards Christine - for being the mother of the class Shaun - for being the ultimate hubby
Wendy - for being the next minister of the environment Nick - for being mr unnoticeable
Biddy - for being destined to live in Waipuk forever Kevin - for being sleeping beauty
Danielle - for being president of the Martin Brook fan club Bo - for being the saviour at the netball tourney Lucy - for being the most urbanised farmer Dave - for being the most absent
Bridget - for being number 1
Cam - for being the future Mr Venning Monique - for being the class giggler Brent - for the most inappropriate calls Alex - for being the class sweetheart Matt - for being the easy drunk Lee - for being quietly engaged Mike - for being whipped
Emajane - for having a free spirit
Simon - for being the most disorganised nerd Kirsten - for always being behind in life by 1 week
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Fourth Year Class Roll
Brent Cryer
Mike Duindam
Shaun Harvey
Kirsten Hauschild
Emma-Jane Hayward Cam
Aplin
Lucy Brophy
Kevin Chan Dave
Bracey
Nick Lynch
Christine Marteletti
Lee Matthews
Bridget Nicholson
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Simon Stewart
Matt Stulen
Bridget Venning
Bo Zhao Wendy
Robinson
Danielle Simpson Monique
Robertson Alex
Reilly
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While last years fourth years were finished their papers in November last year, they have to wait until May this year to formally receive their degree during the Palmerston North graduation ceremonies.
The BRP graduation was on Thursday morning and was well attended by staff and students. This year there were 23 BRP students graduating with the following degrees:
BRP, first class honours 4 students BRP, second class honours (division 1) 10 students BRP, second class honours (division 2) 4 students
BRP 5 students
We wish the graduates all the best with their future careers and endeavours.
Graduation
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Christine Cheyne
Programme Coordinator
2009 was a significant year in the life of the Planning programme, and the BRP in particular. We bid farewell to our longest serving staff member, Mr GIS Derek Williams, and marked 30 years of having a Bachelors degree in Planning. Back when it started it was known as the Bachelor of Regional Planning which reminds us that evolution has been a feature of the degree in the past three decades as it will be in the coming decades.
Another big event for us in 2009 was the re-accreditation process which comes round every 5 years. Thanks to those students who assisted the external NZPI accreditation committee. Both our BRP and MRP degrees are accredited by the NZ Planning Institute and once again we have been recognised as offering a high quality Planning education.
Those graduating and those of you still at Massey will know 2009 as, among other things, the year that the National-led government set out to simplifying and streamline the RMA.
Those who have gone to the world of planning practice will get to see how successful (or not) the reforms are; the rest of you will get to hear more as staff update our material!
Thanks for all the fun Social Club events in 2009 – top prize for physical form must go to the first years who fronted with the smallest team and had no bye until the last round! And top prize to the 4th years for their gear.
Staff Reflect on 2009
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Faye Sheriff
Programme Admin
I am now heavily involved with the tasks for all the school, mainly anything between the school/students and the College Office including paper offerings, timetable and room requirements while maintaining the administrative link to the Planning Programme. I see less of the students and their assignments but still „control‟ fieldtrips, enrolments and each graduation clearance.
Each class have their own characters that can organise a pub crawl, netball, quiz nights or even the hugely successful planning ball but it is amazing how many come from Hawkes Bay.
Fieldtrips this last year have been very enjoyable outings giv- ing me firsthand knowledge of many localities and getting to know students on an informal level. The spinoff is when stu- dents reach the workforce and other trips leading to their territory and we can poach them to address the visiting stu- dents, a quick lunch or shopping while the class does the planned work.
Graduation is a very special time of celebration that allows me to be the proudest mother in the school. It is so good to see the transformation from first year new students to the graduates all looking so prosperous with the stresses of study and assignment deadlines behind them. Each year one amazing group departs to be replaced by another unique group that I hope I can help smooth the Massey path in some small way.
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Caroline Miller
Professional Practice Lecturer
The teaching of professional practice in 2009 was somewhat overshadowed by the expected amendment to streamline and simplify the RMA, yet again. As usual this took longer than expected and I spent quite a bit of semester 2 explaining what may or may not happen.
On average I think I was about 75% correct with my predictions.
There were however some highlights. The fourth years in 132.419 in semester 1 got to work with Andrew Bashford on the Practical Planners Workbook, learning lots of new skills including why they should never mistreat a scale rule! Each week we had a shared lunch which demonstrated the variety and in some cases lack of culinary skill in the class. In semester 2 Jan Crawford a consultant from Auckland did an excellent workshop on Plan Monitoring, the first time the workshop had ever been presented. At the end of the year the local NZPI branch helped to organise a seminar on how to apply successfully for jobs, which saw Sheryl Bryant and Jeff Baker from the PNCC and Andrea Harris from Opus Consulting, providing some excellent advice.
The second years gradually overcame their confusion about the RMA and how it worked to produce some interesting advice for the client they were advising on developing Ikon Interiors. For many students this led to some interest expeditions to the far reaches of Tremaine Ave.
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Jeff McNeill
Environmental Planning Lecturer
This was my first full teaching year on the programme. I have enjoyed challenging students to think critically in a topic I am passionate about. To challenge myself, I decided to become a Post-PowerPoint lecturer. I found that returning to drawing on whiteboards to be rather liberating (though some students might have thought it closer to a return to kindy). Does it work?
Feedback forms showed most fourth years liked this approach, the third years rather less. So, I promise to write more clearly in 2010, but I won‟t be providing PowerPoint handouts!
Natural resource management continues to be a salient part of New Zealand local and central government politics. The political agenda for 2010 is already full, with Auckland Supercity (shouldn‟t that be region?), water allocation, factory dairy-farming call-ins, possible mining on the Conservation estate, the review of the Foreshore and Seabed Act and post-Copenhagen climate change policy all looming.
We need some smart thinking by people who understand both the environmental and the institutional contexts for addressing these challenges.
These challenges won‟t be solved overnight, so despite 2009 being the first year in many that graduate planning and policy jobs have been scarce, the demand is going to be there in the medium term.
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Bruce Glavovic
Hazards & Communities Lecturer
2009 was a very full year. In addition to teaching three courses in the first semester, I was invited to present a paper at the International Human Dimensions Programme conference on climate change held in Bonn.
I was also invited to participate in a LOICZ workshop held in Oslo about how to deal with climate change in coastal communities. I did follow up fieldwork on post-Katrina recovery experiences in the Gulf Coast as well as fieldwork on coastal management experiences in South Africa and Brazil.
It was hugely rewarding to work with colleagues at the Joint Centre for Disaster Research and with colleagues overseas on various projects dealing with community sustainability and hazard-resilience.
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Ian Luxmoore
Techniques Lecturer
2009 was a great year for the BRP. We got re-accredited, we are the closest to a full staff complement that we have been in a long time, we have a planning studio which is hopefully being refurbished very soon, and the BRP social club was voted best new MUSA club for 2009.
It will be a challenge for 2010 to top that!
It has also been a big year for teaching with my redevelopment on 213 and 313 nearly complete after several years of work, refocusing 213 on skills and 313 on evaluation techniques. No doubt I‟ll keep finding reasons to update the material though!
I didn‟t make it on any fieldtrips in 2009 which is unfortunate but in semester one my PhD was the top priority and the same will be true in 2010.
This year‟s honours students were an interesting bunch and while even they‟d agreed that, at least for the first half of the year, they were among the slackest of class, they all man- aged to get there in the end.
The BRPSC which I am involved in grew dramatically in 2009 and established itself as a MUSA club and set itself up much more formally than in the past. I cannot thank the committee members enough for the effort they put in to make events like the ball come off as well as they do.
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Imran Muhammad
Urban and Transport Lecturer
In 2009, I was busy in completing two NZTA research projects. I submitted final report of one project to the NZTA in November 2009. I hope final report for another project will be submitted in March 2010.
I was awarded a Massey University Research Fund (MURF) to complete a research project entitled as the „institutional and discursive barriers to public transport in NZ cities‟. Later in the year I received a summer scholarship for a student, and fourth year Lee Matthews worked on my MURF awarded research project over the summer.
I also attended a number of transport related conferences over the year and as a part of the NZTA research project, I organised three workshops in February and two workshops in September in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.
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Rachael Summers GIS Lecturer
April Bennett 132.111 Lecturer
Marilyn Bramley Law Lecturer
Katherine Moody Theory Lecturer
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This year saw the retirement of our longest serving staff member Derek Williams. Derek was the founder of the Planning programme and wrote the regulations over the summer of 1978.
Many currently practising planners will have stories to tell of Derek and his field trips, his dry sense of humour and how he would answer your questions with a question, all designed “to make you think”. Derek learned quickly how to use the University system to get the resources he needed to equip the programme to its advantage. He believed that planning was about spatial analysis to provide people with opportunities as we as being able to process consent claims.
Again, many recent graduates will remember Derek‟s introduction of GIS to the programme. GIS provided him with a way of analysing patterns quickly rather than writing programs himself which would run for a week on the one and only university computer.
Farewell to Derek
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I joined the programme in 1988 and learned a lot of things from Derek. For instance:
Rules are there as to fall back on, rather than to force everyone into the square same box.
Only enter into battle if you can win.
If you wait until the last minute to make a decision then you will make it with the most information possible.
One of the other things that always amazed me is that no matter where he went if he walked down the street he would be recognised by former students or colleagues. This included, Palmerston North, Sydney, Dunedin, Auckland, and the list goes on. That is an amazing global imprint for a quiet, unassuming fellow from Oswestry.
Good luck Derek.
Article by Rachel Summers
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2009 was a big year for the BRP social club (BRPSC).
Most notably we set ourselves up as a MUSA affiliated club, got funding from MUSA for our ball, and then won best new MUSA club for 2009!
The 2009 Committee
President: Cam Aplin Secretary: Matt Stulen Treasurer: Kevin Chan Staff Rep: Ian Luxmoore General: Michael Duindam
Simon Stewart Rochelle Braithwaite Averyll Edgar
Margaret Moody Rachael Law
Social Club
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BRPSC President’s Reflections on 2009
What a year 2009 has been, it‟s hard to believe that I‟m typing up my last ever university related document. It‟s has been a massive year academically and socially and I have thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it.
Since the social club decided to become MUSA affiliated at the start of 2009, the response from students to the events BRPSC has organised has been tremendous. With over 100 students attending both the flat crawl and ball , it‟s become apparent that we must be doing something right! Thanks to all those who participated, you guys were the ingredient that made each event successful and I‟m sure we can all agree that it‟s been a heck of a good time! I look forward to catching up with everyone @ the 2010 Ball.
A new year means new beginnings and a new president for the BRP Social Club. Congratulations to Rochelle Braithwaite who is the newly elected President. I‟m sure she will do a great job, and look forward to participating in some 2010 events. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as President, and wish to thank all of those who have supported me in my role, especially Matt and Ian.
Cam Aplin
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In what is becoming a traditional event the 2009 Planning Flat Crawl was held in Week 6 on a sunny Saturday afternoon and evening. Around 100 participants (up from 44 in 2008) took part in the event which covered 8 student flats.
Starting with a BBQ and handing out of T Shirts at Cam‟s Flat, the next 5 hours was all about drinking and the opportunity to meet all the new 1st years and other planners in the BRP degree.
Flat Crawl
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An inter-year boat race was held at flat 3 which was won by the second year team of Eddie, Rochelle, Susan, Alana and Dave over the fourth year team of Nick, Chris, Will, Lucy and Danielle.
About 30 of the original group made it to the last flat on where they were rewarded with punch, hot chips, flying eggs, a blazing fire poi display by 4th Year Dave and a Scooter Extravaganza.
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Following the success of the 2008 ball, 2009 saw us shift up a notch to the Silks Room at the Awapuni Racecourse. After a failed attempt to produce some stylish decorations saw 4 hours lost and several lives in danger the social club gave up and let the venue stand as it was.
At 8pm it was all on as over 100 planners (and friends) of all years began arriving and, once getting over the surprise at the lack of helium balloons and other decorations, they were into it and the night was a tremendous success.
2009 Planning Ball
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The night started with entertainment by DJ Sesh-ons and then two local bands, The Nerines and Ruski, kicked it up a level with awesome music right through until 1am. The bands provided the perfect musical environment for people to cut some mad shapes on the d-floor.
Ruski
The Nerines
Photos were taken, drinks were consumed and true to planning tradition a boat race was held and once again the clock struck 1am and another infamous planning ball drew to a close.
All ball photography by Gail Lochhead
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The first years
The second years
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The third years
The fourth years
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The graduates
Most of the ball organising committee
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This year we carried on the annual tradition of a quiz night with teams made up of roughly one member from each year group plus staff as a networking exercise as well as some fun.
The quiz night this year had 6 rounds plus two bonus rounds and was a tightly fought contest with a small controversy over the lead team and a nail-biting tiebreak to settle the winner between the aptly named The Winners and I Like Stripes. In a tense tiebreak The Winners lived up to their name and took the title.
The Winners consisted of Ian Keyes, Michelle Perrott, Rachel Slater, Brad Greening, Sarah Mako and Jeff McNeill.
Quiz Night
Round 1 Round 2 Round 3 Bonus 1 Round 4 Round 5 Round 6 Bonus 2 Sports Planning Science Countries TV/Movie Tui Caps Music People TOTAL
OUT OF 10 10 10 15 10 10 10 15 90
The Wise Ones 3 6 8 8 10 3.5 10 13 61.5
Team Baino 18 5 8 15 6 3.5 8 15 78.5
The Winners 8 6 18 12 6 6.5 8.5 15 80
Derek's Gone 8 7 9 11 12 4.5 8 14 73.5
Femme Fatale 2 8 6 10 18 2.5 9 11 66.5
Fore Runners 7 7 8 9 12 6.5 9.5 15 74
I Like Stripes 8 8 7 13 16 5.5 7.5 15 80
Far Canal 5 5 8 6 10 5.5 9 13 61.5
Houlahan 7.5 7 7 13 15 3.5 9.5 13 75.5
The round with the dark border is the chosen joker round which earns double points
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Best/Worst Rounds
The lowest scoring round was the Tui caps round which involved drawing random Tui bottle caps from a bag and only accepting the answers on the cap.
The highest scoring round was the music round which involved listening to a short clip of a music track and identifying the title/artist.
Joker Rounds
Each group had to identify one of the rounds to be their joker round at the start of the night to score double points.
The best use of the joker round went to the three teams (Team Baino, The Winners and Femme Fatale) that scored 9/10 in their joker rounds and gained an extra 9 points each.
The worst use of the joker round went to the two teams (The Wise Ones and Far Canal) that scored only 5/10 in their joker rounds.
Staff comments after the event:
It seemed to me to be very successful and I got the impression that the troops all had a good time and the evening helped develop esprit de corps. Jeff McNeill
So, next year it's the team that Jeff's in which is the one to beat! Katharine Moody
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On the 15th of August 2009 planners of all years hit the town dressed in costumes starting with the letter “P”. Costumes ranged from pre-schoolers to paedophiles to a sack of potatoes:
Pub Crawl
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The event kicked off at Rosie O‟Grady‟s and visited the Empty Vessel, The Brewer‟s Apprentice, Icons, Murphy‟s Law and the Cobb.
Prizes for best dressed female went to Emma Farley for her Pink Panther costume, prize for best dressed male went to Finbar Kiddell for his paedophile outfit and prize for completing the pub crawl „to do‟ list also went to Emma Farley for completing the list first.
All told it was a successful and enjoyable night for all.
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The last event on the social club calendar was the traditional annual planning netball tournament for the Miller Plate including the traditional “we don‟t have the keys!” start.
This year‟s event was a huge success with the best turnout in memory, with four complete student teams plus a staff and young planners team. In particular it was very pleasing to see a full 1st year team which hasn‟t been the case for many years.
2009 Miller Plate
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With everyone dressed in their team colours, the atmosphere was vibrant which lead to some exciting games. The round robin tournament was five rounds, with each team having a bye. Some imaginative costumes emerged with some used as a tactical ploy, i.e. wet blue paint!
At the mid-way stages, action stopped for 10 minutes where teams could have rest break.
During the break a sharp shooter competition was held, where individuals shot at designated places starting close then moving further away till only one player remained - Will Bamford of the 3rd Year (right). took out the competition in super casual fashion slotting goal after goal and finally winning over the runner up, 2nd year Rachel Slater.
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The First Year Reds
The Second Year Blues
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The Third Year Greens
The Fourth Year Yellows
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The results were very close with the 4ths coming out on top with four wins from four. However the next three places were hotly contested. The 2nds, 3rds and staff all got two wins each but the 2nds took runner up with a superior goal difference.
Continuing another long tradition, the firsts played well but couldn‟t quite bring home a win. However they have three more years to make amends!
Final Scoring Table (2 points per win)
1sts 2nds 3rds 4ths Staff Points For Against
1sts 10 (L) 6 (L) 10 (L) 18 (L) 0 44 77
2nds 21 (V) 26 (V) 9 (L) 12 (L) 4 68 60
3rds 9 (V) 14 (L) 5 (L) 23 (V) 4 51 61
4ths 20 (V) 20 (V) 15 (V) 16 (V) 8 71 32
Staff 27 (V) 16 (V) 14 (L) 8 (L) 4 65 69
This Team Scored….
Against
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In addition to first place/runner up there were other prizes too:
Andrew Mason (left) was awarded the most valuable player of the day by the refs and Finbar Kiddle (aka Papa Smurf) was an easy choice for best dressed.
Kirsten Hauschild and Danielle Simp- son (above) were the best support- ers, going all out to support the fourths
And a big thanks to our two impartial refs, Lacy & Gemma.
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Formal Contacts
Formal enquiries about the degree, enrolments and so forth should be directed to:
(06) 350 4343
Enquiries about the social club and social club events should be directed to:
BRP Web Presence
The official BRP website can be found at http://planning.massey.ac.nz
(or by searching for planning from the front page)
We also have an informal Facebook Group called Massey BRP http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=15703689466
And the social club has a Wordpress blog for event info http://brpsc.wordpress.com
