Simon Bridges pens open letter to Jacinda Ardern on behalf of faith communities
Extend the 10-person limit on religious gatherings to allow faith communities to gather in a "meaningful way", the leader of the Opposition has urged in a stern open letter to the Prime Minister.
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Dear Prime Minister,
I write to you on behalf of the hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders who practice many different faiths and religions, who continue to be unable to gather in any meaningful way for worship this weekend because the COVID-19 restrictions your Government has chosen to keep in place limit the number of people who can attend religious services to 10.
New Zealanders of faith have understood the need to sacrifice their freedom of religion to gather for worship to support our fight against COVID-19.
People of all faiths have done their part, however they are now being told that despite our alert level being reduced they are still no longer able to meet for worship.
New Zealanders find it inconsistent that you allow large numbers of people at bars, restaurants or sporting events but continue to deny more than 10 people gathering for religious services.
It was right to increase the number of people who can attend funerals and tangi – it is right to do the same for our faith communities.
Religious institutions are in a better place than almost any other organisation that is allowed to host larger crowds, and are therefore able to ensure appropriate physical distancing and health precautions are taking place.
I strongly urge you to reconsider this limit so New Zealanders of faith can gather and worship this weekend and participate in what is one of the most defining aspects of their lives: expressing their faith through worship.
Yours sincerely,
Simon Bridges
Leader of the Opposition
Leader of the National Party
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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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76.6% Yes
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22.1% 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.
Chrstmas light show
Hi everyone.
I have put my Xmas lights up and am currently doing the final testing.
This is an animated show set to music, so drive by viewing is not the best.
There are speakers out so you will be able to hear the music that goes with the lights.
As last year, I will have my shows running from 1st of December until 31st of Dec inclusive.
As I have neighbours, Please respect them and their properties.
Show times will be,
Sunday to Thursday 9pm to 10pm.
Friday and Saturday 9pm to 10:30pm.
Last but not least the address.
28 Harrington Rd
Henderson.
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