Ashburton District, Ashburton

Wondering about something in your neighbourhood?

Wondering about something in your neighbourhood?

Whether it's a new building going up or a strange noise you keep hearing, ask your neighbours here.

109 days ago

Meet Regional Councillor Joe Davies

The Team from Environment Canterbury

🚍 Why is boosting biodiversity spending in Ōtautahi/Christchurch and Te Pātaka o Rākaihautū/Banks Peninsula so important? And should pets be allowed to travel on buses?

Regional Councillor Joe Davies, who represents the North East Ōtautahi constituency, gives us his view.

109 days ago

Remains found in search for Yanfei Bao

The Team from Canterbury Police

Police can today advise that a year on from her disappearance, remains have been found in the search for missing Christchurch woman, Yanfei Bao.
While searching private farmland in the Greenpark area this morning, a shallow grave was discovered along the treeline.
The remains cannot immediately… View more
Police can today advise that a year on from her disappearance, remains have been found in the search for missing Christchurch woman, Yanfei Bao.
While searching private farmland in the Greenpark area this morning, a shallow grave was discovered along the treeline.
The remains cannot immediately be formally identified, and work is now underway to excavate and forensically examine them.
This news has been shared with Yanfei’s immediate family, and while long hoped for, still comes as a shock.
The area had previously been searched, and new information led us back here to search specific locations of interest.
For operational reasons, we are unable to share the information that led us to search this location.
A scene examination is now underway and Police will be visible in the area for some time.
Police investigation staff are working towards an October trial date for a now 53-year-old man charged with murder in relation to Yanfei’s death.

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110 days ago

Fears deepen for Canterbury’s shrinking lake

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:

A summer recreational mecca for over half a century, now families fear Lake Camp will be too dry to use this summer.

The Canterbury lake's level has dropped considerably, sparking a community campaign to restore its historic water source to … View more
By local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:

A summer recreational mecca for over half a century, now families fear Lake Camp will be too dry to use this summer.

The Canterbury lake's level has dropped considerably, sparking a community campaign to restore its historic water source to avoid it becoming a "manky puddle".

Rangitata MP James Meager has slammed council inaction, saying the situation feels like the Greenstreet Creek all over again, “where in a month's time someone will be apologising for their inaction”.

Native fish died when Greenstreet Creek in Canterbury dried up, despite farmers raising the alarm with the regional council.

“Letting Lake Camp dry up and turn into a muddy puddle is totally unacceptable," Meager said.

“I'll be writing to agencies telling them they need to sort this out, before locals take matters into their own hands. And if they did, I wouldn't blame them."

But Environment Canterbury (ECan) says low water levels aren't having environmental impacts at Lake Camp, and at this stage, there is no need for action.

The Sim family from Methven have waterskied at Lake Camp since the early 1990s, but may not get the chance this summer.

Steph and Mitch Sim’s children are third-generation recreational users of the lake, and they would like to keep the tradition alive.

“It’s a pretty amazing spot up there and the reason we go ... is for the lake,” Steph said.

But the state of Lake Camp was “pretty dire” when the family were there in March.

“It’s the lowest I’ve seen it and Mitch has never seen it that low before and he’s been going since he was a kid.”

Low rainfall in the high country and the lack of flow from the Balmacaan Stream has caused the lake to drain away.

It's frustrating when there is a logical solution that has worked for half a century, she said.

The solution she refers to is a request from the Lake Clearwater Hutholders Association to restore the Balmacaan Stream diversion, which would fill the lake back up.

A diversion from the Balmacaan Stream had previously fed into Lake Camp helping maintain its levels for over 50 years.

The resource consent for the stream diversion ended in 2020 and the diversion itself was scoured out by flowing in 2021.

ECan and DOC have indicated the receding lake level hasn’t impacted the water quality and restoring the diversion would require a resource consent.

Clearwater Aquatic Club president Tony Moore said he is irritated by that stance.

“ECan mechanically opens Lake Ellesmere every year to manage the lake levels, and they are only doing that for the lake's benefit.

“They are assisting nature elsewhere so what’s the difference at Lake Camp?”

ECan has been accused of just letting nature take its course.

However, surface water science manager Elaine Moriarty said that's not the regional council's position.

“We are not currently seeing evidence of environmental harm due to low water levels in this particular lake and that this type of intervention would require a resource consent.”

ECan will intervene where there’s risk to the safety of communities, from flooding for example, or if there is immediate environmental harm.
“Lake Camp’s water levels, although low around the shore, are not impacting the lake’s water quality.

“It has a deep middle section (18m deep) which helps support aquatic life during dry times.

“We do recognise that there may be recreational impacts for people using the lake for water skiing and boating this summer, if lake levels remain low, and that this is disappointing for the community.”

The aquatic club, with a membership of around 60, cancelled annual water ski championships last summer because of the water depth, and it looked unlikely they would hold it this summer, Moore said.

“There is nothing stopping anyone going out there, but [with lower water levels], when you get a few boats and jet skis on there it becomes a real water safety issue.”

The Ashburton District Council has invested in facilities at the Ashburton Lakes and is actively promoting it as a tourism destination, Moore said.

“When people drive in to see Lake Camp it’s the ugly duckling in the middle, the puddle that’s got no water in it."

The diversion must be restored to allow the lake to fulfil its recreation reserve status, Moore said.

Acting district council chief executive Jane Donaldson said they aware of the situation but the council “has not been formally approached yet”.

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112 days ago

Vintage Fair North Canterbury

Amanda from Eyrewell Forest

A Vintage Fair is coming to town 👋

Tomorrow, step into a world of nostalgia and charm at this enchanting Vintage Fair, where treasures from yesteryears come alive.

Stall holders fees to be donated to Kaiapoi Food Bank for the Vintage Fair on 28 July 2024. The charity stall for this fair … View more
A Vintage Fair is coming to town 👋

Tomorrow, step into a world of nostalgia and charm at this enchanting Vintage Fair, where treasures from yesteryears come alive.

Stall holders fees to be donated to Kaiapoi Food Bank for the Vintage Fair on 28 July 2024. The charity stall for this fair is Miscarriage Matters, please give them your support.

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123 days ago

Poll: Have you had a pen pal?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

With the invention of the internet and mobile phone communication, pen pals seem to be a thing of the past but it was a common practice at one point.

Did you have a pen pal? Where did you meet them? Share below!

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Have you had a pen pal?
  • 66% Yes
    66% Complete
  • 33.6% No
    33.6% Complete
  • 0.4% Other - I'll share below!
    0.4% Complete
1191 votes
113 days ago

Electric Blanket

Lee from Oxford

Single, working order, free for pickup from Oxford

Free

129 days ago

Latest scams to look out for 👀

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Neighbourly hopes to keep you safe by keeping you informed of the latest scams circulating. This week, we are sharing two common text message scams:

NZTA / Waka Kotahi scam:
- The scam is a text message saying it's from New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, and it encourages the … View more
Neighbourly hopes to keep you safe by keeping you informed of the latest scams circulating. This week, we are sharing two common text message scams:

NZTA / Waka Kotahi scam:
- The scam is a text message saying it's from New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, and it encourages the recipient to pay an overdue road toll by visiting a fake website, threatening to take the matter to court within 15 days if they don’t pay up.
- The aim is to trick people into giving away their personal details or pay them money.
- While it is not the first time toll payments have been utilised by scammers, the threat of court action could see more people fall victim.
- The sender will either be a unknown phone number or unknown email address.
Want to report one of these scams? Do so, on Netsafe

NZ Post scam:
- This scam arrives by test message and says it's from NZ Post.
- The premise is that delivery of your parcel was unsuccessful so in order to rearrange delivery. you must click on a link to give your correct address.
- The aim is to trick people into giving away their personal details or pay them money.
- NZ Post advises people not to click the link, but to report the message to the Department of Internal Affairs by forwarding it to 7726.
Think you may have fallen prey to a scam? Get in touch with Netsafe or contact your bank if it involved your bank details.

Remember, if you didn't expect the message and you are now asked to share personal details or money, then stop contact and seek advice elsewhere.

Feel free to share any below that you've encountered recently. This may help others across the country be aware.

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114 days ago
115 days ago

Best medical alarms

Kevin Hickman Retirement Village

Do you feel less steady on your feet than you used to be, or perhaps have already experienced a fall or seizure? If so, a medical alarm can help you regain your independence and confidence.

If you have a medical emergency or fall, just press the button on your personal medical alarm and speak to… View more
Do you feel less steady on your feet than you used to be, or perhaps have already experienced a fall or seizure? If so, a medical alarm can help you regain your independence and confidence.

If you have a medical emergency or fall, just press the button on your personal medical alarm and speak to an operator through the built-in speaker. If you can’t speak, an ambulance will be dispatched immediately.

There are a number of different medical alarm options available in New Zealand, so you will be able to find one that suits your needs.

Click read more for the full article.

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117 days ago

Update your Covid protection

Health New Zealand

It might not be making quite so many headlines these days, but unfortunately, Covid is still here. If you’re 65 or over, taking care of yourself is just as important as ever.

The good news is, keeping up to date with the Covid vaccine can help protect you from serious illness. It’s free and … View more
It might not be making quite so many headlines these days, but unfortunately, Covid is still here. If you’re 65 or over, taking care of yourself is just as important as ever.

The good news is, keeping up to date with the Covid vaccine can help protect you from serious illness. It’s free and recommended for you and many others as long as you haven’t had the vaccine, or Covid, in the last 6 months.

To book your vaccination, go to BookMyVaccine.nz or talk to your healthcare provider.
Book now

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118 days ago

Recent product recalls

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

These items have been recalled this month. If you have one of these items at home, click on the title to see the details to ensure it is not a risk to your household.

Food Recalls
Kiki seed crackers
My Food Bag Ltg white sesame seeds
Couplands mince & vege pie
Ghiotti mozarella cheese
View more
These items have been recalled this month. If you have one of these items at home, click on the title to see the details to ensure it is not a risk to your household.

Food Recalls
Kiki seed crackers
My Food Bag Ltg white sesame seeds
Couplands mince & vege pie
Ghiotti mozarella cheese
Papamoa Spice King sesame seeds
Mahadeo Spices and Produce Warehouse sesame seeds and Qandahari Bazaar sesame seeds
Sesame seeds from these following brands / stores: Bin Inn, Scrumptious, Bare Refill, Grand Market, Classic Taste, Food 4 Less and Apna.
Doughboys bread products
New World Wanaka spaghetti & meatballs
Essente mixed nuts
Hubbards brand BeMighty granola blueberry & seeds

Product Recalls
Zodiac swimming pool heat pump
Rubber duckie toy
H&M children/baby pyjamas
CFMOTO Youth All Terrain vehicle
Magnetic Ball set
Vehicle recalls can be found here.

We hope this message was helpful in keeping you and your family safe.

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118 days ago

2024 ARTS CANTERBURY ART SHOW

Arts Canterbury

9th - 11th of August more than 80 LOCAL artists will be exhibiting at the 2024 Arts Canterbury Art Show at The Cashmere Club, 50 Colombo Street,Christchurch.

OPENING NIGHT:7pm Friday 9th of August with tickets available from Eventbrite.

At the opening receive a complimentary drink and … View more
9th - 11th of August more than 80 LOCAL artists will be exhibiting at the 2024 Arts Canterbury Art Show at The Cashmere Club, 50 Colombo Street,Christchurch.

OPENING NIGHT:7pm Friday 9th of August with tickets available from Eventbrite.

At the opening receive a complimentary drink and nibbles, enjoy the first opportunity to purchase the art and meet the artists.

SATURDAY/SUNDAY: 10am-4pm - gold coin donation on the door.

“Low sensory hour” Sunday 11th of August 9 - 10am with reduced noise, lighting and distractions during this time.
Find out more

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119 days ago

Have you got your tickets yet?

Heart Foundation Lottery

For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in beautiful Mangawhai, worth almost $1.4 million dollars.

Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be loved by its new … View more
For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in beautiful Mangawhai, worth almost $1.4 million dollars.

Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be loved by its new owner.

Make this property your permanent residence, a holiday home, a rental, or you can simply sell it!

Get your tickets today at heartlottery.org.nz.
Find out more

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128 days ago

Let's get social

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Tell us what groups you'd like to see in your area...(walking groups, coffee meet-ups, swing dancing, a family tree group - anything at all!)

Or if you are already in a great group, share it here for others to get involved.

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120 days ago

Cosy up with a fresh cup of coffee and a magazine

mags4gifts

Winter is well and truly here, and we’re helping you keep your cup full and your mind entertained. Simply purchase or gift a subscription via mags4gifts.co.nz before 31 July and you’ll automatically be placed in the draw to win 1 of 3 Delonghi Espresso Coffee Makers worth $229* each!

View more
Winter is well and truly here, and we’re helping you keep your cup full and your mind entertained. Simply purchase or gift a subscription via mags4gifts.co.nz before 31 July and you’ll automatically be placed in the draw to win 1 of 3 Delonghi Espresso Coffee Makers worth $229* each!

With over 50 titles to choose from, there’s something for everyone. *T&Cs apply
Find out more

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