1866: The road to Hokitika
It was March 23, 1866, and The Press was highly enthusiastic about the opening of a route to the West Coast.
“When we recall what the West Coast was only little more than a year ago, and the great length of the journey, rarely of less than ten days, and that over the most impracticable country, it does seem a feat of which Canterbury, and the present Government of Canterbury, may be somewhat proud, that at this moment we can take our places in a comfortable four-horse coach, and be landed in Hokitika on the evening of the second day, having slept at a tolerably comfortable hotel one night on the road."
Read the full story here. It's part of THE PRESS 160 YEARS - a series marking the launch of The Press newspaper in Christchurch on May 25, 1861. Between now and the anniversary, The Press will revisit stories from every year of publication.
Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
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4.7% Second half of November
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43.4% 1st December
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17.6% A week before Christmas
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33.2% Whenever you wish
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1.1% Other - I'll share below
Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.
When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?
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82.9% Yes
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14.3% No
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2.8% Other - I'll share below
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.