Sarah Pallett promises 'more inclusive' style after defeating Gerry Brownlee in Ilam
As she turned away from her roaring fans on Saturday night, Labour’s Sarah Pallett was at a loss for words when asked if she had dreamed of such a victory.
“I dared to hope – we dared to hope. It’s something that we put a lot of work into, and we’re obviously surprised and completely delighted.”
Pallett had just pulled off perhaps the most unlikely of election night coups – ousting National’s Gerry Brownlee to win Ilam, a seat the National grandee held since 1996.
Brownlee called her to concede victory about 10.30pm, leaving her with tears in her eyes and needing the steadying reassurance of campaign manager Megan Woods as the enormity of what had happened hit home.
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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76.9% Yes
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21.6% No
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1.5% Other - I'll share below
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.
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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82.1% Yes
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15.2% No
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2.7% Other - I'll share below