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985 days ago

Volunteers needed to operate Yusuf Islam's peace train when it arrives in Christchurch

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

British singer-songwriter Yusuf Islam, better known as Cat Stevens, announced last year he was donating an electric-powered peace train to Christchurch.

He came up with the idea while in Christchurch following the March 2019 mosque attacks, when he travelled across the world to perform his classic hit Peace Train at the memorial service held just days after the attacks. He wanted the train to bring smiles to future generations.

The train, a reference to his 1971 hit of the same name, has four carriages to carry children and families and operates without tracks. It is expected to arrive in New Zealand soon, and will be officially unveiled as part of this year’s commemorations of the attacks.

However, the city council needs to find people to drive it and organise the volunteers.

Council parks, programmes and partnership manager Kate Russell​ said the council planned to run the train in South Hagley Park on the second Sunday of every month – except for the winter months of June, July and August – from 10am to 4pm.

“We’re looking for a group of willing volunteers to drive the train and to act as conductors for people wanting a ride.”

It also wanted someone to co-ordinate the volunteers, organise the roster and train schedule.

“If you love trains, enjoy being around children and are willing to commit to a minimum of three two-hour shifts a year, we would love to hear from you.”

Expressions of interest can be emailed to kate.russell@ccc.govt.nz

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Here's Thursday's thinker!

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I am lighter than air, but a hundred people cannot lift me. What am I?

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6 days ago

Poll: Should drivers retake the theory test every 10 years?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Drivers get where they need to go, but sometimes it seems that we are all abiding by different road rules (for example, the varying ways drivers indicate around a roundabout).
Do you think drivers should be required to take a quick driving theory test every 10 years?

Vote in the poll and share any road rules that you've seen bent! 😱

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Should drivers retake the theory test every 10 years?
  • 47.9% Yes
    47.9% Complete
  • 50.2% No
    50.2% Complete
  • 1.9% Other - I'll share below
    1.9% Complete
3305 votes
10 days ago

💐 FRESH FLOWERS 💐 NATIVE PLANTS

Danielle from Heathcote Valley

Fresh spring flowers $3 per bunch.
Native plants $3 each.
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