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601 days ago

Sealed surfaces around houses

Gordon from Halswell

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.

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2 days ago

Poll: How should Guy Fawkes be celebrated?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

While it is a fun occasion, fireworks on Guy Fawkes Night has caused much conflict over the years, upsetting our pets and disrupting the sleep of neighbours.

How should we celebrate Guy Fawkes Night? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.

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How should Guy Fawkes be celebrated?
  • 28.6% With a city-wide public fireworks display
    28.6% Complete
  • 19.7% Small fireworks displays in each community
    19.7% Complete
  • 7.8% Keep it as is
    7.8% Complete
  • 33% We shouldn't celebrate it!
    33% Complete
  • 10.5% Anything but fireworks
    10.5% Complete
  • 0.4% Other - I'll share below
    0.4% Complete
2468 votes
20 days ago

What's your favourite recipe for gooseberry?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Love gooseberries? Share your favourite way to enjoy them. We're looking for our readers' favourite family recipes for this delicious crop. Send yours to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the magazine, you will receive a free copy of our December 2024 issue.

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1 day ago

Brain Burn Alert! Today’s Riddle Will Make You Think Twice!

Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

What is seen in the middle of March and April that can't be seen at the beginning or end of either month?

Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.

Want to stop seeing riddles in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.

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