Plugging In....to Christchurch Central
In this seven-part election series, journalist Martin van Beynen is testing the mood of voters on the streets of Greater Christchurch-Ōtautahi ahead of the General Election. First up, Christchurch Central, a battleground electorate where Labour’s Duncan Webb battles it out with National’s Dale Stephens.
Murray Simmonds is deadheading his camelia as we steal soundlessly into his suburban Redwood street to check his voting pulse.
It’s a perfect day for plugging into the mood of Christchurch Central as we cruise around this diverse electorate in our 2019 Nissan Leaf with a grunty battery under the bonnet.
Trees are still in friendly blossom, the grass is spring green and it promises to be a warm sunny day for putting our election stethoscope to the multitudinous hearts of the electorate.
Simmonds, 75, a retired psychology lecturer, lives at the top of this strange-shaped electorate, bounded in the north by the Styx River and in the south by the Heathcote.
Poll: How should Guy Fawkes be celebrated?
While it is a fun occasion, fireworks on Guy Fawkes Night has caused much conflict over the years, upsetting our pets and disrupting the sleep of neighbours.
How should we celebrate Guy Fawkes Night? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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28.6% With a city-wide public fireworks display
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19.7% Small fireworks displays in each community
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7.8% Keep it as is
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33% We shouldn't celebrate it!
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10.5% Anything but fireworks
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0.4% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for gooseberry?
Love gooseberries? Share your favourite way to enjoy them. We're looking for our readers' favourite family recipes for this delicious crop. Send yours to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the magazine, you will receive a free copy of our December 2024 issue.
Brain Burn Alert! Today’s Riddle Will Make You Think Twice!
What is seen in the middle of March and April that can't be seen at the beginning or end of either month?
Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.
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