Johns joins the race out west
From local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
There are now four candidates for the western ward by-election, with nominations closing at midday Thursday.
This ward is the western area of the Ashburton District, the biggest geographical area.
Community event organiser, Carol Johns, has become the latest to come forward to fill the vacant seat at the Ashburton District Council.
The by-election comes after the death of councillor Rodger Letham in December.
Johns joins Dame Lynda Topp, Hayden Tasker, and Rob Mackle.
Like the other three candidates, Johns was unsuccessful in her bid in last year’s election, where she stood in the Ashburton ward alongside rural contractor Tasker.
Topp was the only other candidate to stand on the western ward, behind incumbents deputy mayor Liz McMillan and Letham.
Mackle, who farms just out of Ashburton, stood in the eastern ward.
With nominations closing today, the election will open on April 20 and close on May 12.
The successful candidate will then be sworn in as a councillor for the rest of the council term, with the western ward councillors also sitting on the Methven Community Board.
Tasker attended the board meeting on Monday.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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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.
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