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By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Hurunui has always been a ‘‘welcoming community to live, work and play’’, mayor Marie Black said.
The Hurunui District Council is one of eight councils in the latest intake of councils to join Immigration New Zealand’s Welcoming Communities … View moreBy David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Hurunui has always been a ‘‘welcoming community to live, work and play’’, mayor Marie Black said.
The Hurunui District Council is one of eight councils in the latest intake of councils to join Immigration New Zealand’s Welcoming Communities programme.
‘‘It’s really cool. It’s something new and it sits nicely within our strategic direction,’’ Black says.
‘‘There’s plenty of employment available in our district and it’s about attracting and retaining people across all sectors, whether it be rural professionals, veterinary services, GPs, qualified technicians, engineers and workers for our hospitality sector.’’
Immigration New Zealand says there are now 26 councils taking part in the Welcoming Communities programme, including 14 in the South Island.
The programme was first established as a pilot in 2017, involving 10 councils including the Ashburton District Council.
Black said the programme would enhance efforts to ‘‘embrace newcomers into our community and support that integration’’.
‘‘A culturally rich community brings fresh perspective and vibrance that is incredibly valued.
‘‘It is important to us that our community is supportive, welcoming, and feels like home to all newcomers who choose to stay.’’
Migrant workers were particularly important to the vibrancy of the rural and tourism sectors, she said.
Immigration New Zealand refugee and migrant services general manager Fiona Whiteridge said the Welcoming Communities programme aimed to build strong and integrated communities to help newcomers feel included, so everyone could thrive.
‘‘We are grateful for the enthusiasm shown and the desire from councils around the country to be part of such an important initiative that began five years ago."
Whiteridge said Welcoming Communities supported councils and their communities to create welcoming environments for newcomers, especially recent migrants, former refugees and international students.
Immigration New Zealand provided funding, resources, accreditation, best practice information, networking opportunities, programme evaluation and guidance to participating councils.
Have you read our June Seniors newsletter? In this issue we discuss the Older Workers Employment Action Plan, Budget 2022 and hear from Equal Employment Commissioner Saunoamaali'i Karanina Sumeo. Read it here now: bit.ly...
The chilly, gum boot wearing, kettle on, soup season has moved into town! Don’t get stung by your winter power bill neighbours, start shopping around now - even if you’re on a contract.
We asked neighbours why they’re not switching power providers and found out for many it feels a bit … View moreThe chilly, gum boot wearing, kettle on, soup season has moved into town! Don’t get stung by your winter power bill neighbours, start shopping around now - even if you’re on a contract.
We asked neighbours why they’re not switching power providers and found out for many it feels a bit baffling with so many options and not enough help. Read why Kiwis aren’t switching and the easy steps to get your power sorted before bill shock hits.
Need to keep it stress free? Call our NZ based team on 0508 226 672, it’s free!
We’re here to help you compare, save and smile!
Help Kiwis in need this winter by giving through the Trade Me Kindness Store. Trade Me has teamed up with three awesome Kiwi charities - KidsCan, RainbowYOUTH and Women’s Refuge. The Kindness Store’s virtual shelves are stocked with small things that make a big difference to the Kiwis these … View moreHelp Kiwis in need this winter by giving through the Trade Me Kindness Store. Trade Me has teamed up with three awesome Kiwi charities - KidsCan, RainbowYOUTH and Women’s Refuge. The Kindness Store’s virtual shelves are stocked with small things that make a big difference to the Kiwis these charities help.
Giving is easy – just pick, click and ‘Give Now’. Trade Me takes care of the rest. 100% of the donations go to the charities – Trade Me doesn’t take a cut.
It’s time to sell your home, and you’ve decided to stage the place yourself for potential buyers. That’s an excellent choice – not only does staging tend to facilitate sales, but it can increase the amount of money you get for your property. In fact, some professional stagers estimate that … View moreIt’s time to sell your home, and you’ve decided to stage the place yourself for potential buyers. That’s an excellent choice – not only does staging tend to facilitate sales, but it can increase the amount of money you get for your property. In fact, some professional stagers estimate that their services boost their clients’ bottom line by up to 10%.
Read more 🕵
Rangiora Players are looking for some props for their next production.
We are looking for some props and wonder if anyone out there may be able to help?
The most unusual one we are trying to borrow is a standing Male mannequin.
It will not be hurt during the production and will stand … View moreRangiora Players are looking for some props for their next production.
We are looking for some props and wonder if anyone out there may be able to help?
The most unusual one we are trying to borrow is a standing Male mannequin.
It will not be hurt during the production and will stand centre stage!.
We are also looking for a galvanised rubbish bin and rocking chair, of the Granny Clampett style.
Enviro Painters Ltd are a professional and friendly company that prides itself on customer satisfaction.
We specialise in all aspects of painting and decorating be it your new home or renovation interior or exterior.
All staff are Trade Qualified and i have over 27 years in the trade giving you … View moreEnviro Painters Ltd are a professional and friendly company that prides itself on customer satisfaction.
We specialise in all aspects of painting and decorating be it your new home or renovation interior or exterior.
All staff are Trade Qualified and i have over 27 years in the trade giving you peace of mind that you will be dealing with a professional. We service all of North Canterbury and Christchurch.
I Look forward to meeting you onsite to discuss your project.
021 226 8476
Enviropainterltd.co.nz
Paul and Lesley Askin hold their next family-friendly monthly service on Sunday, 7 August, at the Ashley Community Church from 4.30 pm. Dress warmly and bring a finger food contribution for shared tea afterwards. Masks are encouraged. Remember to go before you come as there are no toilet facilities… View morePaul and Lesley Askin hold their next family-friendly monthly service on Sunday, 7 August, at the Ashley Community Church from 4.30 pm. Dress warmly and bring a finger food contribution for shared tea afterwards. Masks are encouraged. Remember to go before you come as there are no toilet facilities
Enquiries to Paul or Lesley, Ph 021 140 2074
39 Canterbury St, Ashley. .
Are you overdue a getaway? You could win a 13-day Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer South Island Rail & Coach tour by participating in Neighbourly’s 8th birthday celebration.
To enter the competition, just tell us what you love about your neighbourhood. It could be your favourite spot, a … View moreAre you overdue a getaway? You could win a 13-day Sir Edmund Hillary Explorer South Island Rail & Coach tour by participating in Neighbourly’s 8th birthday celebration.
To enter the competition, just tell us what you love about your neighbourhood. It could be your favourite spot, a beautiful view, or something that makes you smile. You could be in for a once-in-a-lifetime getaway!
Enviro Painters Ltd are a professional and friendly company that prides itself on customer satisfaction.
We specialise in all aspects of painting and decorating be it your new home or renovation interior or exterior.
All staff are Trade Qualified and i have over 27 years in the trade giving you … View moreEnviro Painters Ltd are a professional and friendly company that prides itself on customer satisfaction.
We specialise in all aspects of painting and decorating be it your new home or renovation interior or exterior.
All staff are Trade Qualified and i have over 27 years in the trade giving you peace of mind that you will be dealing with a professional. We service all of North Canterbury and Christchurch.
I Look forward to meeting you onsite to discuss your project.
021 226 8476
Enviropainterltd.co.nz
Brighten up your life and home with these fun party cup dolls, beads of joy and blooming plant pots with your favourite Resene testpot colours.
Find out how to create your own.
Unleash the artist within you, showcase your DIY creative skills and spruce up an old item or completely repurpose it! Resene and Neighbourly are challenging everyday Kiwis like YOU to take part in the Resene Upcycling Awards.
We want to see your amazing creations so don't be afraid to go … View moreUnleash the artist within you, showcase your DIY creative skills and spruce up an old item or completely repurpose it! Resene and Neighbourly are challenging everyday Kiwis like YOU to take part in the Resene Upcycling Awards.
We want to see your amazing creations so don't be afraid to go all out! Check out some of the previous entires here.
Take part in the 2022 Resene Upcycling Awards. There are four great prizes worth $500 up for grabs: a $200 Resene voucher and a $300 Prezzy® card!
From local democracy reporter David Hill:
“Sticking to the plan’’ has come at a cost to Hurunui ratepayers.
The Hurunui District Council says it will not budge from its 2021-31 long-term plan (LTP) priorities to improve its roading network and other infrastructure, which has resulted in an … View moreFrom local democracy reporter David Hill:
“Sticking to the plan’’ has come at a cost to Hurunui ratepayers.
The Hurunui District Council says it will not budge from its 2021-31 long-term plan (LTP) priorities to improve its roading network and other infrastructure, which has resulted in an average rates rise of 10.5%.
The council adopted its 2022-23 annual plan at its council meeting on Thursday.
A rates rise of just 4.99% had been signalled in last year’s LTP.
Mayor Marie Black said the rates rise was due to inflation and the impacts of Covid-19, as the council looks to honour its commitment to three waters, roading, footpaths and building new public toilets.
But the council opted to reduce funding for other projects, such as strengthening work for earthquake prone buildings.
“We’ve had to leave off some projects, and it has been a difficult decision as to what must stay and what has to go,” she said.
“Unfortunately, local councils sit the same as everyone else, and are not immune to the current economic challenges.
“Every household in the district will be feeling its own pinch as we ride this wave, but what I can confidently say is that the council is sticking to its game plan, sticking to its promise to continue to deliver key services to everyone in Hurunui.”
More than $1.7 million has been earmarked for roading and footpaths in the next financial year.
The council recently renewed its roading contract after a period of seven years and has allocated a budget increase of 30%.
The biggest expense is three waters (drinking, waste and stormwater), with the council committing $11.4m to water projects and a further $1.4m to sewerage.
Services such as new public toilets, and transfer station and reserve improvements account for another $1.5m.
Black said the impact of Covid-19 had been felt in the performance of the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pool & Spa, which is owned by the council.
The availability of contractors, a competitive market for retaining staff and an increase in interest rates had all taken a toll, she said.
News of the rates rise has received a mixed reaction from ratepayers, with some understanding the need to maintain services.
Some submissions included in Thursday’s council agenda questioned how the rates rise could be justified in the present economic environment.
In a submission, Federated Farmers North Canterbury president Caroline Aymes urged the council to keep rates below the rate of iinflation.
But she applauded the council’s decision to push ahead with its roading and infrastructure improvements.
‘‘The effective management of infrastructure, such as the roading and bridge network, is crucial to the viability and wellbeing of rural communities and to ensure their contributions to the regional and national economies.’’
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