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National MP Shane Reti shared pre-election that he's wanting to review the Health Star Rating used on NZ grocery products. This rating is voluntary and uses a scale of 0.5 to five stars to rank packaged food on its nutrient profile. Have these ratings had an affect on what you've been … View moreNational MP Shane Reti shared pre-election that he's wanting to review the Health Star Rating used on NZ grocery products. This rating is voluntary and uses a scale of 0.5 to five stars to rank packaged food on its nutrient profile. Have these ratings had an affect on what you've been buying?
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By local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
One of the biggest hotels in the tourist town of Methven wants to expand, but neighbours are opposing the move.
Methven Resort in Canterbury wants to build two new wings on the site, along the west and north boundaries.
However, concerns have … View moreBy local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
One of the biggest hotels in the tourist town of Methven wants to expand, but neighbours are opposing the move.
Methven Resort in Canterbury wants to build two new wings on the site, along the west and north boundaries.
However, concerns have been raised the expansion will block sun and impact privacy for neighbouring residents.
The resort, which opened in 1982, currently features 47 guest rooms, a bar, restaurant, swimming pool, hot pools, and function rooms.
Ashburton District Council processed the resource consent for the expansion under limited notification.
Three submissions opposed consent and an independent commissioner will decide on the application. A public hearing to hear submissions would be held at the Mount Hutt Memorial Hall on Thursday (October 26).
Issues raised include the building's height impacting on the privacy of the neighbours and not meeting zoning rules, according to the executive summary of the planning hearing report.
The hotel sits in the Residential C zone, which is described as medium-to-low density housing with permanent residents.
The two proposed accommodation blocks exceed the 8m height limit for the zone.
It also does not comply to zoning as more than five guests would stay per night and it exceeds operating hours.
The council’s assessment of the application “raised issues of concern regarding the impact of the western accommodation block on the privacy and outlook enjoyed by the submitter's properties”.
“As such the effects are considered to be more than minor on those properties.”
Before granting consent, the council must be satisfied that either the adverse effects of the activity on the environment will be minor, or the proposed activity will not be contrary to the objectives and policies of a proposed plan.
The executive summary outlined that the “district plan makes clear statements that commercial development should be guided to the business zones" and the character of residential areas should be protected.
The summary said if the proposed western accommodation block was reduced to two storeys, then it could be approved.
The resort's owners did not respond to a request for comment.
The resort has been a subsidiary of the Ultimate Global Group since May 2021, which is a New Zealand-based conglomerate that has a hospitality footprint across the country and Asia.
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Methven Resort’s long line of owners
The hotel opened as Centrepoint in 1982, with numerous ownership changes over the decades - and even a blaze damaging the hotel’s interior in the 1990s.
Originally a family-owned business, it has since been under hotel chains such as Grand Chancellor, Sovereign, and Dynasty Group.
Under the Dynasty Group, it was sold in a mortgagee sale in 2008 after the company failed to pay a long list of creditors.
The hotel was steered back to stability by former French Farm Winery owners Mark Smith and Ann Tillson, who operated it for five years before being sold again.
The landmark hotel struggled when Covid-19 shut the borders to international tourists. It was closed down in June 2020 after the lessees, Gretha Group Limited, went into liquidation.
The family of the building owners, Maxim Fashions, reopened the venue in October 2020.
The venue has again changed hands with the Ultimate Global Group running the hotel since May 2021.
By local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
The way Ashburton's council is elected is up for review, but the mayor says it doesn't necessarily mean anything will change.
Māori representation, wards, and the number of councillors will be considered.
Ashburton mayor Neil Brown … View moreBy local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
The way Ashburton's council is elected is up for review, but the mayor says it doesn't necessarily mean anything will change.
Māori representation, wards, and the number of councillors will be considered.
Ashburton mayor Neil Brown said the review would discuss possible changes and decide if they are necessary.
“We don’t have to change for change's sake.
“If we think we have it right, then we have it right. When we did this six years ago we did change."
Any proposed changes will go out for public consultation.
The review will cover the number of councillors and if they are elected in wards (electoral areas) or at large (whole city), options for district-wide voting as well as wards, of a single rural and single urban ward or southern and northern rural ward.
The review will also consider Māori representation options.
Strategy and policy manager Mark Low said the district doesn’t meet the threshold for a Māori ward under current legislation.
“Part of this conversation is around potential other ways of representation," he said.
Democracy and engagement group manager Toni Durham said the legislation had been due for change ahead of the 2025 elections, including removing the formulaic approach to Māori wards.
However, Cyclone Gabrielle put that on hold.
The Methven Community Board boundary will also be considered, with the board proposing it change in response to the urban growth of the township.
In the last review in 2018, the council reduced from 12 to nine councillors, and there were some adjustments to the ward boundaries.
Councillor Richard Wilson said the review outlined all the different options for the council, including keeping the status quo.
“What we currently do could be fit for purpose so we don’t have to change.”
The pre-engagement for the review will take place before the end of this year.
That will allow the council to form an initial proposal to be notified by the end of May for consultation with the community.
The process and timeframe for the final proposal will depend on submissions received, a council spokesperson said.
The process needed to be completed by the end of August.
Ryman Healthcare has again been recognised as a top provider at the 2023 Aged Advisor ‘People Choice Awards’.
This year Ryman was selected as a finalist for Best Provider Nationwide, and Diana Isaac took home Best Large Retirement Village / Lifestyle Village.
The awards, run by … View moreRyman Healthcare has again been recognised as a top provider at the 2023 Aged Advisor ‘People Choice Awards’.
This year Ryman was selected as a finalist for Best Provider Nationwide, and Diana Isaac took home Best Large Retirement Village / Lifestyle Village.
The awards, run by agedadvisor.co.nz are based on almost 11,300 reviews and ratings for more than 890 facilities. Over 1600 of those in-depth reviews went towards this year’s awards.
Ryman took home the top prize in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022. As a finalist this year Aged Advisor voters recognise Ryman’s continued growth and efforts within the aged care sector.
Click to read more.
Dear neighbours, surely it's not too soon to think of this most wonderful time of the year. In fact, we're looking for recipes for your favourite Christmas dishes, whether it's your mum's pavlova, grilled tiger prawns or a colourful summer salad, to feature in the magazine. … View moreDear neighbours, surely it's not too soon to think of this most wonderful time of the year. In fact, we're looking for recipes for your favourite Christmas dishes, whether it's your mum's pavlova, grilled tiger prawns or a colourful summer salad, to feature in the magazine. Send your best ones to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz by October 29, 2023. Every published recipe wins a copy of the December issue of NZ Gardener.
We’re looking for the nicest neighbours in town, and Pam Driver of Burswood has shared her lovely neighbours, David and Lara Hurst, saying they “are just wonderful”.
This year, Pam had a missing cat, which was quite out of character. Driver let the Hursts know, and they joined the search, … View moreWe’re looking for the nicest neighbours in town, and Pam Driver of Burswood has shared her lovely neighbours, David and Lara Hurst, saying they “are just wonderful”.
This year, Pam had a missing cat, which was quite out of character. Driver let the Hursts know, and they joined the search, successfully locating him in the gap between the ceiling and roof of their neighbour’s house.
Pam said “They rescued him and brought him home to me... complete with some scratches! I hate to think what would have happened had he not been found”.
Pam nominated the Hursts to let them know she is thankful for them: “It’s so good to know I have such caring neighbours who have my back. Thank you neighbours!”
Nominate someone in your hood, and your special neighbour could feature on Stuff and Neighbourly as an inspiration to us all (plus there are prizes to be won!).
Don’t miss out! For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this Jennian home in the Coromandel's beautiful Whitianga worth over $1 million. Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms, two outdoor decks and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be lived in and … View moreDon’t miss out! For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this Jennian home in the Coromandel's beautiful Whitianga worth over $1 million. Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms, two outdoor decks and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be lived in and loved by its new owners.
Make this property your permanent residence, a holiday home, rent it or even sell it – it could be all yours! Be in to win by purchasing your tickets today.
Hello Neighbours, are you ready for a relaxing Labor Day long weekend?
If you're looking for some leisurely activities, we've got just the thing – a selection of fantastic shows to enjoy from the comfort of your home!
PLUS, we've got the scoop on broadband providers … View moreHello Neighbours, are you ready for a relaxing Labor Day long weekend?
If you're looking for some leisurely activities, we've got just the thing – a selection of fantastic shows to enjoy from the comfort of your home!
PLUS, we've got the scoop on broadband providers offering FREE streaming subscriptions! Let's dive in!
Bring out the best in your bathroom with a feature wall in your favourite Resene colour.
Find out how to get started with our easy advice.
Lower speeds can saves lives and prevent serious injury. Reducing the speed vehicles travel makes a major difference in a crash. People make mistakes on our roads, and those mistakes shouldn’t cost our neighbours, whānau or pets their lives.
We're asking for … View moreLower speeds can saves lives and prevent serious injury. Reducing the speed vehicles travel makes a major difference in a crash. People make mistakes on our roads, and those mistakes shouldn’t cost our neighbours, whānau or pets their lives.
We're asking for feedback on a Draft Safer Speed Plan which sets out a three-year implementation plan and 10-year vision for safe speed areas in Christchurch and Banks Peninsula.
To read the plan and give feedback by 25 October visit our website.
A common neighbourhood quandary is the shared fence and we wonder what you would do... Type 'Not For Print' if you wish your comments to be excluded from the We Say You Say column of your local paper.
Your fence needs a paint but it's a fence that is shared with your … View moreA common neighbourhood quandary is the shared fence and we wonder what you would do... Type 'Not For Print' if you wish your comments to be excluded from the We Say You Say column of your local paper.
Your fence needs a paint but it's a fence that is shared with your neighbour's property. Do you...
Wondering about your power, broadband and mobile providers? It's time to have your say!
Voting for the PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARDS in the Power, Broadband and Mobile categories is now open. Click below to VOTE NOW!
Share your voice and VOTE for who you think deserves to WIN … View moreWondering about your power, broadband and mobile providers? It's time to have your say!
Voting for the PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARDS in the Power, Broadband and Mobile categories is now open. Click below to VOTE NOW!
Share your voice and VOTE for who you think deserves to WIN People's Choice - Power, Broadband and Mobile in New Zealand.
Voting ends on November 17th, 2023.
From local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Three waters reform isn’t dead and buried with a change in Government, Ashburton’s mayor Neil Brown says.
“Three waters reform is not dead, it is just going to be done differently.”
As politicians begin wheeling and dealing to seal the … View moreFrom local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Three waters reform isn’t dead and buried with a change in Government, Ashburton’s mayor Neil Brown says.
“Three waters reform is not dead, it is just going to be done differently.”
As politicians begin wheeling and dealing to seal the balance of power after the election, it’s business as usual for local government.
At least while they await the new direction from the incoming National-led Government.
“There will be a few things set to change, and Three Waters is probably the biggest one,” Brown said.
“National have said they would repeal it as soon as they could and start work on what the reforms should look like in conjunction with councils."
National has a 100-day action plan that includes scrapping Labour’s affordable water reforms, featuring a co-governed mega-entities model.
Under National's plan, councils will retain the ownership of water assets under stronger government oversight, including requiring councils to put aside money for water infrastructure.
Another big piece of legislation in National’s sights is the Resource Management Act reforms.
“What’s drafted is not what most people want and work needs to be done on that to make it more acceptable,” Brown said.
Following the election results, Brown contacted new Rangitata MP James Meager to congratulate him and thanked outgoing MP Jo Luxton for her support. Luxton is in line to remain in Parliament as a Labour list MP.
He also sent messages to incoming Prime Minister Chris Luxon and the likely new Transport Minister Simeon Brown.
The two Browns will be set to discuss the plans for Ashburton’s second bridge, a project National has committed to starting in its first term.
The Labour Government included the bridge in the draft Government Policy Statement on land transport.
National will issue its own revised draft to incorporate its roads of national significance and public transport projects.
Given National's election pledge to build the second bridge, mayor Brown was confident it will stay there.
“The existing draft GPS lines up with what National promised so there shouldn’t be any tinkering there.”
All the work has been done for the second bridge project to hopefully start next year, he said.
“All that needs to be done is the detailed design and go out for tender.
“It shouldn’t take too much time but it won’t start until after July 1 next year when the new GPS comes in.”
National has also promised to work on replacing the Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2022.
That could result in a change to the rules that forced the council to impose 30kph permanent speed areas outside of urban schools.
National could introduce 30kph limits within specific timeframes, which isn’t currently an option, Brown said.
By local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
A funding boost is helping an Ashburton rugby club get a new half marathon event up and running.
The Allenton Rugby Club is holding the inaugural Ashburton River Trail half marathon event on March 2, 2024.
Event organiser Ryan Jameson said a group… View moreBy local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
A funding boost is helping an Ashburton rugby club get a new half marathon event up and running.
The Allenton Rugby Club is holding the inaugural Ashburton River Trail half marathon event on March 2, 2024.
Event organiser Ryan Jameson said a group came up with the idea for a running event along the river trail and quickly partnered with the rugby club.
“The location, facilities, and accessibility to the track made it the perfect place.”
Entrants will run along the established track by the Ashburton/Hakatere River, starting and finishing at the club’s adjoining grounds.
There will be a 5km event on the Friday night and the 10km and 21km events on the Saturday, followed by a social function at the clubrooms.
Organisers will look to add a full marathon in the future, taking runners from the rugby club all the way to the coast and back, Jameson said.
“The aim is to make it an annual event and entice runners from all over the country to Ashburton for a weekend to compete.
“To our knowledge, it’s the only sort of running event of its type in Ashburton.
“The river track is a hidden gem and this is an opportunity to showcase that.”
Many consider it a bike trail, but it's also a great running track, he said.
Jameson said the Hakatere River Trail users group deserved a lot of credit for the state of it.
The Ashburton District Council helped organisers by directing them to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s Regional Event Fund.
The river trail marathon was one of nine Mid Canterbury events to receive a grant from the fund, which was set up to kickstart local events that support cross-regional tourism recovery.
A $30,600 grant for the event would help attract visitors from outside the district.
Hemsworth Estate, an Edwardian Villa just out of Ashburton, received a $4000 grant to hold a Bridgerton Ball, for fans of the Netflix series Bridgerton.
Bridgerton Balls have been held in Auckland and Hamilton but this is the first for the South Island.
Council compliance and development group manager Jane Donaldson said there were 17 applications and the successful ones were decided by a panel including council and community representatives.
“There were some great events seeking grants, so it was a hard job.
“It was clear though, that local groups and businesses are back in the event business and that is great to see.
The Regional Event Fund aims to help events that will boost visitors to local businesses.
"These visitors stay on and shop, eat at local restaurants and explore the district," Donaldson said.
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Regional Event Fund grants:
Ashburton Rowing Club: $4000 for rowing regattas
Hemsworth Estate: $4000 to run Bridgerton Ball
Allenton Rugby Football Club: $4000 for Ashburton River Trail Marathon
Mid Canterbury Vintage Machinery Club: $3000 for Wheat and Wheels Rally
Dynamic Gymnastics Sports: $4000 for three events
Ashburton Aviation Museum and Society: $7000 for Militaria and Aviation Extravaganza
Methven and Foothills Walking Festival: $1000
Mid Canterbury Netball: $2400 for senior tournament
Multicultural Bite: $1200 for annual event on Waitangi Day
© Neighbourly 2024
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