Sealed surfaces around houses
I commented after the floods in the North Island and excess water arriving on properties from everywhere, that I would ask the council what rules and controls we had in place to stop people covering their property and so not having any land for water to soak into, so overloading other properties and/or the stormwater systems that are planned around a smaller unsealed surface.
There is a restriction when 1st building a house and maybe if you apply for a new building on that land, here is the response
"In the District Plan, there are no impervious surface rules. However, landscaping, maximum building coverage and setback rules indirectly can control the amount of impervious surface on a site. These rules vary across different zonings too.
Where a resource consent is required, most are monitored to check developments are in accordance with the plans. For example that the landscaping is in place. This is usually a one-off check once the development is completed.
There is no ongoing monitoring unless Council are made aware of an issue (e.g. through a complaint)."
Given that so many properties are converting to rental properties and/or people maybe do not have the time for gardening, I have noticed more and more 'sealing' more of the land.
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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4.6% 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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33.3% 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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83% Yes
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14.5% No
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2.5% 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.
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