Belfast, Christchurch

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162 days ago

Could the jury service process be improved?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Every year, thousands of New Zealanders are called up to serve as jurors in the High and District Courts, and it's an important way to contribute to your country.

But for some, jury service can be a huge disruption and a financial burden. Do you think changes could be made to our jury … View more
Every year, thousands of New Zealanders are called up to serve as jurors in the High and District Courts, and it's an important way to contribute to your country.

But for some, jury service can be a huge disruption and a financial burden. Do you think changes could be made to our jury service system to address these challenges?

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160 days ago

Canterbury ratepayers face 17.9% rates hike

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Canterbury households are facing a lower than expected rates rise after the regional council found savings, including delaying some transport projects.

After two days of deliberations last week, Environment Canterbury pulled back its proposed average … View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Canterbury households are facing a lower than expected rates rise after the regional council found savings, including delaying some transport projects.

After two days of deliberations last week, Environment Canterbury pulled back its proposed average rates rise from 24.2% to 17.9%.

Acting chairperson Craig Pauling said there were some tense negotiations, but he was pleased with the outcome.

The councillors voted on 15 main resolutions, with several resulting in close division among the 16 councillors, he said.

‘‘Even though it was tense throughout, there was good support at the end and people felt there was some good give and take in the room,’’ Pauling said.

‘‘The feeling in the room was, ‘we have done all we could have’.’’

More than 1300 submissions were received on the draft long-term plan, with 153 making oral presentations during the hearings, which were held over four days.

‘‘We tested the water with some bold options in our consultation and the response demonstrated there were mixed views, with some saying we needed to deliver more, while others identified we could make savings or prioritise work,’’ Pauling said.

Savings were made by delaying some of the proposed public transport projects, including delaying work on a mass transit business case until year 2 and postponing bus route improvement work until year three.

‘‘It makes sense to delay this work so we have a better idea of where the Government and Waka Kotahi (NZ Transport Agency) are heading,’’ Pauling said.

‘‘Some councillors thought we should be more cautious, but if we don’t put it in the plan, we don’t get anything from Waka Kotahi.’’

About three-quarters of submissions supported the council increasing its spending on ‘‘river resilience’’, including flood protection, and pest and weed control.

The council is proposing to invest $25 million a year, over the next 10 years, to boost flood protection.

There was strong support for a district-wide rate for river resilience in Selwyn, and the council was considering similar options from the Ashley Rakahuri River and other rivers in South Canterbury.

Pauling said it would need support from the community, local councils and ultimately central Government.

‘‘Over the last five years we have been getting more and more requests for how we might move forward in addressing our rivers.

‘‘It is recognition that rivers are important to everybody.’’

He said river resilience was a national issue, as disruption to bridges on major routes could affect the whole country.

‘‘Room for rivers’’ was an important conversation and could be achieved by buying land, such as Environment Canterbury buying land beside the Ashburton River.

Another example was the Waimakariri District Council’s land purchase on Lineside Rd, beside the Cam Ruataniwha River.

‘‘By acquiring the land we can do something great for the community,’’ Pauling said.

Council staff will now finalise the long-term plan before it is audited by Audit New Zealand and adopted by councillors on June 26.

■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

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158 days ago

Home projects

The Team from Resene ColorShop Papanui

Creating an office out of a small room by utilising built-in furniture, floating shelves, a tidy charging station and Resene Atlas makes space-saving sense.

Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.

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159 days ago

Addictive Eaters Anonymous

The Team from Addictive Eaters Anonymous - Christchurch

Do you obsess about your weight, food, or exercise?

Is food just one of your many obsessions? Don’t know how to stop emotional eating? Are you also struggling with alcohol or other mind-altering substances?

Do you use mind-altering substances to change the way you feel?

Find out how … View more
Do you obsess about your weight, food, or exercise?

Is food just one of your many obsessions? Don’t know how to stop emotional eating? Are you also struggling with alcohol or other mind-altering substances?

Do you use mind-altering substances to change the way you feel?

Find out how AEA members have put down the food and other mind-altering substances and found freedom from obsession.

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159 days ago

Nationwide protests

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Nationwide protests are taking place today (Thursday) having been organised by Te Pāti Māori and other connected to Toitū Te Tiriti movement.
There is likely to be some traffic disruptions so Waka Kotahi are closely monitoring the situation. Below are the locations of these gatherings across … View more
Nationwide protests are taking place today (Thursday) having been organised by Te Pāti Māori and other connected to Toitū Te Tiriti movement.
There is likely to be some traffic disruptions so Waka Kotahi are closely monitoring the situation. Below are the locations of these gatherings across the country.

Northland:
Whangārei, Farmer’s car park, 9am.
Kaitāia, Commerce St, 9am.

Auckland:
West Auckland, BP Hobsonville, 6.30am.
South Auckland, Z Petrol station, 6.30am.
North Auckland, Palmers Albany Garden Centre, 6.30am.
Central Auckland, Aotea Square, 11am.

Waikato:
Hamilton, Kirikiriroa Marae, 7.30am.
Matamata, Matamata Woolworths, 6.45am.
Te Puaha, Weraroa Marae, 8.30am.
Hauraki, Victoria Park, 12pm.

Waiariki:
Tauranga, Whareroa Reserve, 8am.
Whakatāne, SH30, 7.30am.
Ōpōtiki, Waioweka bridge, 7am.
Taupō, Lake Terrace, 8am.
Tūrangi, Tūrangi town centre, 9am.
Rotorua, Lake Rd intersection, Old Taupō Rd, Fenton St and Sala St, 7am.

Ikaroa-Rāwhiti:
Tūranganui a Kiwa, Heipipi Park, 7am.
Hastings, Hastings Clock Tower, 7am.
Wairarapa, Masterton Town Hall, 12pm.

Te Tai Hauāuru:
Hāwera, Hāwera Netball Courts, 10.30am.
Palmerston North, Te Marae o Hine, 7.15am.
Tokoroa, Leith Place, 8am.

Wellington:
A hīkoi to Parliament 12pm.

South Island:
Christchurch, Bridge of Remembrance, 11am.
Nelson, Church steps, 12.30pm.
Dunedin, Queens Gardens, 12pm.

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160 days ago

Product and food recalls

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

These items have been recalled, some in the last few days. 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:
Pams plant based creamy tomato pasta bake
Mrs Rogers Naturals brand gluten free batter mix
View more
These items have been recalled, some in the last few days. 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:
Pams plant based creamy tomato pasta bake
Mrs Rogers Naturals brand gluten free batter mix
The Collective brand Suckies strawberry probiotic yoghurt

Product recalls:
Country Road two-tone demm mug
Postie Little Kids adventure pants
Fortis heavy duty weight bench
Honda outboard marine engine
Quincy Mae baby/kids nightwear
Ryobi airwave stapler/nailer
Puretec Filtration
Grabstore pruning saw / chainsaw
Full Speed Ahead crankset

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

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161 days ago

Powerline tampering/theft across Christchurch.

The Team from Canterbury Police

Police are appealing for information following recent incidents of powerline tampering and theft across Christchurch.

Over the last 10 days, Police have been notified of increasing reports of powerline theft and tampering.
Incidents occurred in multiple central locations such as Disraeli Street… View more
Police are appealing for information following recent incidents of powerline tampering and theft across Christchurch.

Over the last 10 days, Police have been notified of increasing reports of powerline theft and tampering.
Incidents occurred in multiple central locations such as Disraeli Street in Addington, the area surrounding Hillview Road and Phillips Road in Phillipstown and Brougham Street, they are as wide spanning as West Melton, Halswell, and Marshlands.

Police have informed Community Patrol and Frontline Police units on what to look out for and have communicated with businesses and residents in affected areas.
Police are also engaging with local scrap metal dealers as part of the investigation.
On multiple recent occasions powerline tampering and the theft of copper from the powerlines have led to power outages on affected streets.

Typically once the offenders get what they want, the powerlines are left in an exposed and dangerous state. In one occasion powerlines were tampered with and left broken outside of a Phillip Street Preschool. Fortunately, no one has been harmed, but as far as Police are concerned it is only a matter of time.

Senior Sergeant Roy Appley says: “Our message to offenders is to stop this behaviour before someone, including yourself, gets hurt.
“You are putting yourselves and others at extreme risk of electrocution, for such a small return.”
We are appealing to the public for any information that could assist in identifying and locating those involved.
“If you hear anything out of the ordinary overnight, do not think nothing of it.
“We need Christchurch residents to be aware of the risk of exposed or damaged wires – do not touch them and call Orion on 0800 363 9898 straight away,” says Snr Sgt Appley.
Police urge residents to ring 111 immediately if you see anyone acting suspiciously around power poles and lines, or 105 after the fact

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161 days ago

Keep yourself protected against Covid

Ministry of Health

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, or talk to your healthcare provider.
Find out more

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162 days ago

As voted by you New Zealand

The Team from Ryman Northwood Retirement Village

Ryman is proud to be recognised as New Zealand’s Most Trusted Brand in Aged Care & Retirement Villages once again! So we want to say THANK YOU Aotearoa, for your continued trust and support. Together, we’ll continue building vibrant communities where everyone can thrive.

Here’s to 10 … View more
Ryman is proud to be recognised as New Zealand’s Most Trusted Brand in Aged Care & Retirement Villages once again! So we want to say THANK YOU Aotearoa, for your continued trust and support. Together, we’ll continue building vibrant communities where everyone can thrive.

Here’s to 10 more years of trust and excellence! #Ryman #MostTrusted #Community

Click read more for more information.

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169 days ago

Share your most delicious (but affordable!) go-to meal...

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Winter is knocking at the door and the cost of living has already made itself at home. So let's help each other out by sharing your meal ideas that don't break the bank.

Comment below with your go-to meals that are delicious and affordable.

Type 'Not For Print' if you wish… View more
Winter is knocking at the door and the cost of living has already made itself at home. So let's help each other out by sharing your meal ideas that don't break the bank.

Comment below with your go-to meals that are delicious and affordable.

Type 'Not For Print' if you wish your comments to be excluded from the Conversations column of your local paper.

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174 days ago

Where do you find the best bargains in Canterbury?

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

The first South Island edition of the Reduced to Clear outlet store opened in Christchurch’s South City mall this month. It sells end-of-the-line products, cancelled exports or short-dated items - similar to other discount grocers in the city such as Save More and BargainMe.

We're keen to… View more
The first South Island edition of the Reduced to Clear outlet store opened in Christchurch’s South City mall this month. It sells end-of-the-line products, cancelled exports or short-dated items - similar to other discount grocers in the city such as Save More and BargainMe.

We're keen to hear from you - where do you find the best bargains in Canterbury? Who has the cheapest veges, the best deals on spices and nuts, the lowest price for petrol etc? What are your tips for dealing with cost of living increases? Comment below or email reporters@press.co.nz

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162 days ago

Fancy a tank of gas?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

These members have been drawn as our winners of the $100 petrol vouchers. Congrats to:

Sheryl Thompson from Hamilton

Tane LcLeay from Three Kings

Sandeep Kaur from Hastings

View more
These members have been drawn as our winners of the $100 petrol vouchers. Congrats to:

Sheryl Thompson from Hamilton

Tane LcLeay from Three Kings

Sandeep Kaur from Hastings

Sarah Bolton from Thorndon

Not a winner? Good luck next time!

Winners can get in touch here or by emailing helpdesk@neighbourly.co.nz before 4th June.

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162 days ago

Pixie Coat

Wendi & Russell from Kaiapoi

Made right here at Pixies Dog Grooming here in Kaiapoi where the famous Woollen Blankets were made at the Kaiapoi Woollen Mill. These beautifully made coats are 100% Wool & lined in 100% Cotton which is very important to know is 100% breathable unlike a lot of other fabrics they have a leather … View moreMade right here at Pixies Dog Grooming here in Kaiapoi where the famous Woollen Blankets were made at the Kaiapoi Woollen Mill. These beautifully made coats are 100% Wool & lined in 100% Cotton which is very important to know is 100% breathable unlike a lot of other fabrics they have a leather strap at the neck and Velcro around the belly for comfort. If you would like to know more, please email thepixiecoat@snap.net.nz

181 days ago

And the 2024 Prospa Local Business Hero is...

Prospa

A huge congratulations to mother and son duo, Mary and Sam Danielson from The Puketapu Hotel.

The votes for all finalists have been tallied and they have been chosen by Neighbourly members across the country as the Prospa Local Business Hero of 2024.

The Puketapu Hotel was nominated by a … View more
A huge congratulations to mother and son duo, Mary and Sam Danielson from The Puketapu Hotel.

The votes for all finalists have been tallied and they have been chosen by Neighbourly members across the country as the Prospa Local Business Hero of 2024.

The Puketapu Hotel was nominated by a local called Margaret and the nomination reads:
'On Feb 14, 2023, Cyclone Gabrielle flooded many of the rural areas. Puketapu Hotel went under perhaps half a meter of water. However, immediately Mary Danielson and her son, Sam Danielson, along with their loyal staff pulled it together to cook copious amounts of food that without electricity would have been wasted. Throughout the years many of us have been treated with a pub gathering where we can reconnect and a free meal. At Christmas there was Santa, games, gifts for kids, donated patchwork for adults, an ice cream truck and lots of camaraderie.
This February on the cyclone anniversary, they again pulled out the stops to give hundreds of us a special night. We are all tired of the cyclone cleanup and they understood that it was needed.'

Such a deserving business and team, well done Mary and Sam. And thank you to all those who voted!

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164 days ago

Apartment is for sales in Central city

Dilip from Belfast

Ready Apartment for Sale

Placing this information on Behalf of my family members:
My family members have invested in New Development taken place @3/163, Bordesley Street, Philipstown, Christchurch.

It is typical 2 story units with 1.5 Bathroom (One at Downstairs and another at first floor) … View more
Ready Apartment for Sale

Placing this information on Behalf of my family members:
My family members have invested in New Development taken place @3/163, Bordesley Street, Philipstown, Christchurch.

It is typical 2 story units with 1.5 Bathroom (One at Downstairs and another at first floor) with two bedrooms totaling around 84-86 (Gross build 90-91Sq M) Square meter. Total area is 106 Sq Mr of Unit plus it has one carport inside the development. I am sharing plan and few present passing certificates from Christchurch city council and other photographs.
My family members believe this units coming near CBD area and hence suits to first home buyer or investor as rental yield has gone up recently. Recent immigration shows that arrival figure has gone back to pre-covid level and since softness of house price rental yield has increased. Also, as per information, New Build approval have been reduced.
I shall share my family members details to interested parties.
They can show the unit and it is almost ready for occupation and code of compliance is expected soon.

Please PM me 021 446 384 So I shall direct to my family Members

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