Poll: Auckland's super-city: One decade on: Is local government running more efficiently?
It's been 10 years since Auckland's new super-city was formed, forged from eight legacy councils.
For Aucklanders who have lived through the massive overhaul, do you think local government is running more smoothly?
Auckland Council's first year was far from smooth with the Occupy protest, the Rugby World Cup opening night transport debacle, a battle with central government over funding the inner-city rail loop, and a contest of wills over delegating powers to local boards and council-controlled organisations.
Auckland's inaugural super mayor Len Brown hailed it a success.
"Generally 2011 has been a good first year for the council, " Brown said in 2012.
"We've brought the region together... At the same time we have driven $81 million in efficiencies and reduced the inherited 9.3 per cent rates increase down to 3.9 per cent."
The boundaries of the new super city were unveiled in 2010.
Super city Auckland was divided into 13 wards with 21 local boards.
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7.1% Yes
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92.9% No
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.
Warnings about scams
This Fraud Awareness Week, we’re reminding everyone to stay sharp and look out for the warning signs of scams to stop them before they start.
Here’s what to watch out for:
🔍 Unrealistic offers or promises of easy money that are too good to be true
🔍 Pressure tactics: Scammers may rush or threaten you to act immediately.
🔍 Requests for personal info: Be cautious if you’re asked for bank details, passwords, or sensitive information.
🔍 Unusual payment methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
🔍 Unverified contacts: Emails, calls, or messages from unknown or suspicious sources.
How to protect yourself:
✅ Stop and think before sharing personal details or making payments.
✅ Don't click on any links until you know that it is safe.
✅ Verify the source: Contact the organisation directly using official channels.
✅ If something’s not right, it's OK to hang up, walk away, ignore it and move on.
If you wish to report a scam, contact Police on 105 or report it online via 105.police.govt.nz/use-105.
Tactile texture
Welcome texture into your room by using leftover Resene Anaglypta wallpaper to accentuate furniture and décor items. Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.