Photo credit: The Valley Profile
After nearly a decade of service as Deputy Chairman of the Hauraki Rail Trail Charitable Trust, Basil Morrison has retired, leaving behind a powerful legacy of leadership, community pride, and regional influence.
A local farmer raised in the Hauraki District, Basil has long been a champion for the area - not only as a former Mayor and Justice of the Peace, but as an active force across countless community, sporting and charitable organisations.
His mana, deep knowledge of local, national and international politics, and ability to connect with stakeholders alike have been instrumental in guiding the Trail’s growth and success.
In September, we farewelled Basil and thanked him for his dedication to the Hauraki Rail Trail. In this conversation, we talk with Basil about what first drew him to the Rail Trail, the milestones he is most proud of, how the Trail has shaped communities along its path, and what he hopes for its future.
Photo: Celebrating the extension to the Hauraki Rail Trail from Te Aroha to Matamata. Captured here at the 160 kilometre post is MPDC Councillor Kevin Tappin, Hauraki Rail Trail Chief Executive, Diane Drummond, and former Deputy Chairman, Basil Morrison.
A Lifelong Commitment to Community
What drew you to become involved with the Hauraki Rail Trail Charitable Trust in the first place?
I was sceptical at first, my cycling experience ended over 60 years ago, when I left school and threw my bike into the corner. My next bike had a motor and that’s how it stayed. So when I first heard about the Cycle Trail, I didn’t understand why anyone would want to ride a bike from (say) Thames to Te Aroha. The proposed Trail was full of blackberries and hard train ballast. My concerns were embedded in thinking that ‘city-folk’ might be critical of farming practices alongside the Trail, and how a rurally based cycle-trail would impact on the adjacent farmers.
I couldn’t have been more wrong, and was absolutely dumbfounded at the enthusiasm from locals and visitors alike. As the Trail started to develop with surfacing and bridges, my thinking started to change. When five years on, the Mayor of Hauraki, John Tregida, asked me to sit on the Trail’s board, I didn’t hesitate. I realised that the Hauraki Rail Trail was going to be a big earner for local business, and really promote the region as a place to live, work and play. My concerns about the agricultural sector did not prove to be the major concern, as this activity is largely passive. Quiet folk reconnecting with open spaces, and fresh air.
I realised that the Hauraki Rail Trail was going to be a big earner for local business, and really promote the region as a place to live, work and play. My concerns about the agricultural sector did not prove to be the major concern, as this activity is largely passive. Quiet folk reconnecting with open spaces, and fresh air.
It was immediately obvious that the fledging organisation that managed the Trail needed to strengthen its governance role. It needed to build confidence with its funding partners, and deliver on its promise to the visitors of the region. My personal relationships were key to bringing the three councils together, to agree on a funding model, now proven to be one of the most successful in New Zealand.
What are you most proud of achieving during your time on the Trust’s board?
Without a doubt, I am most proud of firming up the Trust’s governance structure, and the employment of a passionate and well-connected CEO who had the vision and experience to pull the strings together. The Trust board lacked stability in its early years, and together with Chairman Wati Ngamane, and the new CEO, we firmed up the foundations, and rebuilt the trust and relationships with our partner councils.
The Trust is now recognised locally, regionally, nationally, and also internationally as a very sound and professional operation, showcasing best practice for co-governance partnership models.
Milestones and Memories on the Rail Trail
How important has the Rail Trail been for the communities along its path, both economically and socially?
I can comment from personal observations how the Trust has supported the growth of new, and the retention of existing businesses. I am proud of the Pedlars Motel in Paeroa, the first new-build motel that anyone can remember, new build cafes at Te Aroha West and developments at Manawaru. Likewise, the Trail has enhanced the viability of many small businesses like the Hikutaia Dairy, and the Matatoki Cheese Barn, and supported the interest in the Shorebird Centre at Pūkorokoro-Miranda. There has been a multitude of new business developed, providing services to Trail users such as bike hire, touring, and shuttles, all creating employment and confidence in business investment.
Photo: Pedlars Motel - Paeroa
You’ve had a long history of public service and community involvement. How has this role been different or special for you?
A bit of background is necessary here. I was asked recently about writing my memoir called From Ferry Road to London. I was born in Ferry Road, Hikutaia, and became the Chairman of Commonwealth Local Government Forum Board in London. That Forum covered 52 commonwealth countries of which I had the privilege of visiting 42 of them. I was also the Deputy Chair of ASPAC- Asia Pacific Forum.
More locally, I have been an active public servant, serving with the Ohinemuri County Council between 1971 and 1989, and was the Chairman of that organisation for 5 years. I was then elected Mayor of the Hauraki District Council for 15 years, and also sat one term on the Waikato Regional Council, and was the President of Local Government of NZ for 8.5 years, while also holding down the London role.
Photo: Basil Morrison
When I ‘retired’ in June 2008, I was appointed to Waitangi Tribunal, and also became the Chairman of several other high profile organisations including NZ Lottery board. On a localised level I am the Patron of Thames Valley Deerstalkers Association, Paeroa Rugby Club and the Historical Maritime Park.
You might ask what does this all have in common with the Hauraki Rail Trail. Well, it’s all about relationships. Similar to some of the other higher profile organisations, we had to build the staffing structure, get planning across authorities, sometimes where conflicting views were dominant. We had to get the Trail recognised in District Plans, and achieve continuity of Trustees to rebuild confidence in the organisation. And we needed strong leadership. We needed to be well-managed, competent, and grow the confidence of funding partners.
Photo: Historical Maritime Park
Looking Ahead - Hopes for the Future
What will you miss most about being part of the Trust?
I will sorely miss the camaraderie and dedication of the Hauraki Rail Trail governance and staffing team that has really bonded. We all are on the same page, and we have great leadership and a steady hand with Wati Ngamane as the Chair and Diane Drummond as the CEO.
Likewise, I will miss the interaction with mayors and their staff who over the period of time have been exceptional to work alongside.
What’s your hope for the future of the Hauraki Rail Trail?
I have long-held the opinion that the Great Rides of New Zealand need to be better connected. I am thinking a Viaduct to Viaduct, and also connecting the Trail down to Taupō, and eastwards to Tauranga and around the East Cape.
I call it the ‘Grand Tour’. I have witnessed the growth in Bikepacking, largely on the back of Tour Aotearoa, where cyclists ride from Cape Reinga to Bluff.
Photo: Kay and Basil Morrison
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