Look carefully at your latest rates bill folks.
On the subject of our wonderful council, property owners should take a close look at your rates bill for the current quarter. My eagle eyed wife spotted that the charge for this quarter was 15% higher than the last instalment, so I checked the time period (maybe this quarter covered a longer time period) but no significant difference. So we paid the same amount as last quarter and will require a letter of explanation before they get another red cent. The really annoying thing as others have pointed out is that they dont give a stuff about ratepayers, are quite happy to destroy our neighbourhoods in the name of progress (remember, anything done in the name of progress of man benefits only one wealthy group at the expense of everyone else) and use ratepayers as a piggy bank to fund their vanity projects. For example, Britomart which wrecked passenger rail transport in Auckland and now this idiotic light rail to the airport which will benefit nobody in our East Auckland neighbourhood, in our, or even our children's lifetimes.
Hmmm, Waihi is starting to look good.
Georgina's Rhubarb Crumble
Craving a dessert that makes the most of spring's fresh produce? Look no further than Georgina's signature Rhubarb Crumble.
This delicious treat has become a favourite at Ryman’s Bert Sutcliffe Village, where the sweet and tangy aroma often wafts through the air, tempting neighbours in for a taste. It’s also a hit with Georgina's 13-year-old granddaughter, Brooklyn, who loves serving it warm with gooey custard or a scoop of melting vanilla ice cream.
Click read more for the recipe.
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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75.8% Yes
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22.8% No
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1.4% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.