OCTOBER'S WEATHER IN KĀPITI

Murray from Paraparaumu

This third spring month in Kāpiti was milder and sunnier than average, and for three weeks we also seemed to be heading for a record dry one, but rain here and over most of the country on the last week changed that.

We ended up with 110mm of rain (airport), but this was only 12mm above the historic average for this month that is frequently our wettest. Despite the rain, we had the equivalent of 15.5 sunny days, slightly above average.

Our daily average maximum temperature was 17.8, almost 0.4C above average and 0.7C above last year, and our overall mean temperature was 14.2C, 1.3C above last year, and the warmest in central New Zealand.

November could average around 20C, as it often does, so we can look forward to the possibility of enjoying our first summer month.

Not yet reached our part of the country but be aware when traveling

James from Waikanae

Battle to eradicate toxic species silently established on remote beach.

Sea spurge is an invasive plant that could take over large areas of New Zealand's coast

Its sap is toxic and can cause temporary blindness

A newly discovered infestation at Mitimiti, in the Far North, is the biggest to date

www.rnz.co.nz...

Poll: Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Buses can be a relaxing way to get home if you have a seat and enough space. However, it can be off-putting when someone is taking a phone call next to you.

Do you think it's inconsiderate for people to have lengthy phone calls on a bus? Vote in the poll, and add your comments below.

Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?

• Yes
• No
• Other - I'll share below

Vote View Results

• 67.2% Yes
  67.2% Complete
• 30.2% No
  30.2% Complete
• 2.6% Other - I'll share below
  2.6% Complete

784 votes