Heathcote Valley, Christchurch

186 days ago

New Canterbury bypass set to be a toll road

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Motorists could be paying a toll to drive a new bypass on State Highway 1, in North Canterbury, once it's complete.

Meanwhile, planned safety improvements to the area have been canned for now, as officials review the planned work as part of the … View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Motorists could be paying a toll to drive a new bypass on State Highway 1, in North Canterbury, once it's complete.

Meanwhile, planned safety improvements to the area have been canned for now, as officials review the planned work as part of the Woodend Bypass design.

The Government is considering a proposal for its promised roads of national significance to be partially funded by a toll.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) said the Woodend Bypass has been confirmed as one of the first five roads of national significance and that a safety review will be undertaken.

Associate Transport Minister Matt Doocey said the Government has backed recommendations by NZTA to introduce tolls in its Government Policy Statement on Land Transport.

‘‘As a Government, we are open to a wide range of funding tools to ensure we are able to deliver the roads that will allow kiwis and freight to get to where they want to go quickly and safely.’’

Safety improvements for Woodend’s Main North Rd were announced in December 2022, as part of a $35 million funding package for State Highway 1 between Saltwater Creek and Cam River, with work due to begin this year.

NZTA had previously advised the safety improvements were on hold, pending the revised policy statement on Land Transport.

Doocey said it made sense to have another look at the work programme.

‘‘When you look at the Woodend safety improvement programme, it was in response to Labour cancelling the bypass, so it is right to relook at that programme in the context of the new motorway.’’

The former Government included the Woodend Bypass in its policy statement on Land Transport announced in August 2023.

Funding was also announced in December 2022 for a $6 million project, including cycleways linking Kaiapoi, Woodend and Pegasus, as part of NZTA’s Transport Choices Programme.

But the programme was axed last December by the new Government.

Doocey said the proposed cycleways and an under-pass at the Pegasus roundabout would be considered as part of the final bypass design.

‘‘When you look at the Christchurch Northern Corridor, the (Christchurch to Kaiapoi) cycleway was an important part of it, so I think it would make sense to consider the cycleways and an underpass as part of the bypass design.’’

Woodend-Sefton Community Board chairperson Shona Powell said she welcomed news about the bypass, but the safety improvements were needed now.

‘‘It will take several years to build the bypass. It is just getting frustrating.’’

Waimakariri mayor Dan Gordon said he had been seeking clarity about the promised safety improvements without success.

But he welcomed Doocey’s comments that the cycleway and under-pass would be considered as part of the final design.

‘‘It makes total sense to construct this as part of the works and I know the community would be thrilled to have these included.

‘‘This is an incredibly important project for our district and I am delighted by the depth of consideration the Government is giving to it.’’

He would also like to see a cycleway clip-on added to the State Highway 1 bridge over the Ashley-Rakahuri River.

The council has been planning the Kaiapoi to Woodend and Woodend to Pegasus cycleways for several years, along with a Rangiora (Southbrook) cycleway.

Proposed safety improvements had included road widening, wider centrelines and safety barriers, and reducing the speed to 60kph at the Pegasus roundabout, which would have become one lane with raised safety platforms.

Traffic lights were also proposed at the Rangiora-Woodend Rd intersection, roundabouts at the Woodend Beach Rd and Williams St intersections and a crossing refuge for people using bus stops near Pineacres.

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

167 days ago

Power outages across Christchurch

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Early this morning, a power outage affected parts of Christchurch.

What you need to know:
- Over 1500 homes in Christchurch lost power.
- Power company Orion showed 1576 properties across Avonhead, Broomfield, Burnside, Hyde Park, Ilam, Russley, Upper Riccarton were affected at 6.28am.
- Some… View more
Early this morning, a power outage affected parts of Christchurch.

What you need to know:
- Over 1500 homes in Christchurch lost power.
- Power company Orion showed 1576 properties across Avonhead, Broomfield, Burnside, Hyde Park, Ilam, Russley, Upper Riccarton were affected at 6.28am.
- Some 889 properties had had power restored by 7.45am, but the rest could be waiting up until 9am, Orion’s website showed.
- An investigation is under way into what caused the outage.
- Temperatures in central Christchurch were about minus 1.8C, according to MetService.

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167 days ago

Free lessons for women to learn how to ride a bike

The Team from Citizens Advice Christchurch Area

Bike Bridge will be offering a series of 4 daytime bike lessons for women during the July school holidays.

Location: Addington School
Wednesday 10th July, 11am-1pm
Thursday 11th July, 11am -1pm

Wednesday 17th July, 11am-1pm
Thursday 18th July, 11am -1pm

As usual, lessons are free and … View more
Bike Bridge will be offering a series of 4 daytime bike lessons for women during the July school holidays.

Location: Addington School
Wednesday 10th July, 11am-1pm
Thursday 11th July, 11am -1pm

Wednesday 17th July, 11am-1pm
Thursday 18th July, 11am -1pm

As usual, lessons are free and there is no need to register - just turn up on the day. All equipment is provided, just please wear closed shoes. All abilities are welcome, from complete beginners who have never sat on a bike before, to those that can ride but want to learn to ride safely on the road.

For more information see link under 'Read More' for their Facebook page.

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167 days ago

Win a brand-new home!

Heart Foundation Lottery

For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in gorgeous Mangawhai, worth almost $1.4 million dollars.

Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be loved by its new … View more
For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in gorgeous Mangawhai, worth almost $1.4 million dollars.

Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be loved by its new owner.

Make this coastal property your permanent residence, a holiday home, a rental, or you can simply sell it!

Get your tickets today at heartlottery.org.nz.
Find out more

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167 days ago

Hang it up

The Team from Resene ColorShop Ferrymead

Magnetic frames make it easy to change what’s on display – whether it’s wallpaper or works of art. Paint yours in Resene testpots to contrast what's on display and complement your home's décor.

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

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169 days ago

Addictive Eaters Anonymous

The Team from Addictive Eaters Anonymous - Christchurch

Do you have no off switch for food?

Then take a look at our list of 15 questions. If you find yourself answering “Yes” to more than one, it may be that you have a problem with food. If that is the case, AEA can help.

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175 days ago

Why are ghosts such bad liars?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

...You can see right through them.

No, we haven't lost the plot! July 1st is International Joke Day and because laughter is good for your body, we want to get involved.

So, go on, jokers! Share your best joke below...

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172 days ago

Do you have a quick question for a lawyer?

The Team from Citizens Advice Christchurch Area

On Thursday each week we hold free lawyer clinics.

These clinics allow you to see a lawyer at no cost for 10 mins. So, if you need help understanding a legal document or deciding whether to pursue a legal case, then this is a great starting point.

- 1pm - 133 Brighton Mall (entrance on Union … View more
On Thursday each week we hold free lawyer clinics.

These clinics allow you to see a lawyer at no cost for 10 mins. So, if you need help understanding a legal document or deciding whether to pursue a legal case, then this is a great starting point.

- 1pm - 133 Brighton Mall (entrance on Union Street, SBA office) – 03 366 6490
- 6.15pm - 8 Goulding Ave (Hornby community centre) – 03 349 5236

You will be given a number when you arrive, so everyone is seen in order and usually the lawyer can see 5-7 clients.

If you need a specialist lawyer or advisor for immigration, employment or ACC then email christchurchclinics@outlook.com to make an appointment with the separate clinics.

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170 days ago

A message from Christchurch Police

The Team from Canterbury Police

Christchurch Police are urging the community to ensure children are properly restrained following a concerning vehicle stop in Harewood. About 11:30am yesterday, Thursday 4 July, Police stopped a vehicle travelling almost 20kmh above the speed limit on Harewood Road.

When Police came to the … View more
Christchurch Police are urging the community to ensure children are properly restrained following a concerning vehicle stop in Harewood. About 11:30am yesterday, Thursday 4 July, Police stopped a vehicle travelling almost 20kmh above the speed limit on Harewood Road.

When Police came to the window, four children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years were seen in the back and front passenger seats with their car seats incorrectly fitted.
The driver was issued a formal warning and an infringement notice. Police are working with the driver around the correct way to secure seats, secure the children, and making sure they have the right seat for their size.

Inspector Ash Tabb says, ensuring car seats are properly attached and kids are properly restrained is essential in reducing the risk of serious injuries or worse if a crash occurs.
“I am glad this didn’t result in more serious consequences; not only were the kids not properly restrained, but the vehicle was also travelling almost 20 kmh above the speed limit, two of four known crash and serious crash contributors, labelled RIDS (Restraints, Impairment, Distraction, and Speed).

"We understand parents, and caregivers may not know what the right seat is, or how to attach it correctly for your child. There are several services available to assist people with this, including child restraint technicians who can provide advice on what restraint may be needed. They can also help you fit them to your vehicle,” Inspector Tabb says.

Check out Whānau Āwhina Plunket website here.
Or the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi website here.

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180 days ago

Kaitlyn

The Team from Humans of Christchurch Ōtautahi

"I've been doing compost workshops for the community for four years. But I guess composting for like the past eight years.

It originally started because we moved and our house came with the compost bin. I was curious to know what it was, so we started composting, but like, just … View more
"I've been doing compost workshops for the community for four years. But I guess composting for like the past eight years.

It originally started because we moved and our house came with the compost bin. I was curious to know what it was, so we started composting, but like, just chucking stuff and not really knowing what we're doing. Then pumpkins and potatoes just started growing out of it.
I got into gardening during lockdown. My French teacher gave me some broccoli seeds, and I grew those and then obviously, you go through the journey of discovering soils are really important to grow healthy kai.

When I was in Year 13, I was volunteering at an orchard and I ran my first compost workshop. It was pretty cool. And then people just wanted me to keep doing them. Me and my sister got an internship at the Council doing compost education for the community but my compost passion actually came from hearing about Kaicycle's composting programme in Wellington. I want to set up a composting business like that.

Me and my sister started Compost Club at Uni last year. Our main aim is to make composting more accessible and commonplace on campus, especially for students because we find that students want to compost, but they don't know how or they don’t have the resources. We go to their flat and we run a mini workshop for them, come back three weeks later, check out how it's going.

I've taken a break this semester from burnout.

I just find it hard to say no, you get to that position where your body makes you say, no, I can't do any more. I feel like in the environmental space people burn out a lot. I guess why I've struggled with saying no, is because I feel like I can change the world. But no, I can't! We need everyone to do their little part to make a change.

I'm really passionate about cooking and growing healthy kai and having a slow life. And I haven't done that yet. But I'm working towards it."

- Kaitlyn

View more stories, or nominate someone: @humansofchch
www.humansofchch.org...

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171 days ago

Plywood pegboard

Resene National Head Office

Easily change the height and layout of the shelves any time as your plants grow or the items you want to showcase change with this handy pegboard finished in Resene Colorwood Whitewash.

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

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173 days ago

Last chance to share your Bright Spot...

Resene

From stunning sunsets to quirky murals - we're loving seeing the beautiful photos that members are sharing across the country. These local Bright Spots add a little colour and brighten the day.

Our Bright Spots campaign closes on Sunday, 15 July so time is running out to share yours. With … View more
From stunning sunsets to quirky murals - we're loving seeing the beautiful photos that members are sharing across the country. These local Bright Spots add a little colour and brighten the day.

Our Bright Spots campaign closes on Sunday, 15 July so time is running out to share yours. With 10 prizes of $250 Resene ColorShop vouchers and $250 Prezzy® cards up for grabs, do take a moment and share this happy place with us.

Enter your local Bright Spots pics here today and be in to *WIN*.
Find out more

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174 days ago

Try Joy’s Oven Hāngi Recipe

Essie Summers Retirement Village

This warming Hāngi recipe, created by Joy from Murray Halberg Village, serves six people with plenty of leftovers to enjoy the next day. Serve hot and enjoy with family or friends on a chilly winters night.

Click read more for the full recipe.

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181 days ago

Are we there yet? A city stuck in traffic

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

Christchurch is New Zealand’s fastest-growing main centre but has the lowest spend on public transport, an incomplete cycling network, and the worst peak-time traffic congestion.

For the second year running, data from global navigation company Tomtom shows it takes longer to travel 10km in … View more
Christchurch is New Zealand’s fastest-growing main centre but has the lowest spend on public transport, an incomplete cycling network, and the worst peak-time traffic congestion.

For the second year running, data from global navigation company Tomtom shows it takes longer to travel 10km in Christchurch during rush hour than New Zealand’s other main centres, and it is getting worse.

Tomtom’s data also shows that during rush hour, Christchurch can have 50 traffic jams across the city, with over 30km of clogged roads.

Driving that 10km takes an average of 19 minutes and 10 seconds, up from 18 mins 30 secs last year. Last week’s slowest day was Wednesday at 5pm, with 24 mins.

While Aucklanders’ longer journeys and extra motorways mean slightly more time overall in rush hour traffic, they cover 10km quicker at an average of 16mins and 30secs. Wellingtonians takes 18mins 20secs.

How's your commute? Read the full story by reporter Liz McDonald here and share your thoughts in the comments below. (A subscription is required, or you can see two free articles a month).

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175 days ago

Centaurus Combined Probus

Lynley from Hillsborough

Hi all! just letting you know that there will be no meeting at the Cashmere Club on Tuesday 2nd July. The group is celebrating Mid Winter with a luncheon elsewhere.

The next regular meeting will be at the Cashmere Club on Tues 5th, August, 2pm.

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