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.
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How can the number four be half of five?
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Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84.3% Yes
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14.2% 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.
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