Big salary hikes at under-performing Dunedin council-owned company
Aurora Energy's annual report – released last week by Dunedin City Holdings Ltd, an investment company owned by the council – revealed 48 employees were paid more than $100,000 a year, including six paid more than $200,000. Chief executive Richard Fletcher received between $510,000 and $520,000.
Fletcher says the company had to increase wages to "employ and retain highly skilled and qualified specialists", but Aurora whistle blower Richard Healey says households will be picking up the tab when they are slapped with "huge" price rises next year, expected to be about $500 or possibly more.
Spring gardening tips
Dreaming of a garden bursting with colour and fresh produce? Shane Fairbairn, Ryman Healthcare’s Landscape Manager, shares his top tips to make it happen. You’ll be set to create a gorgeous, relaxing space in no time - grab your trowel, and let’s dig in.
Click read more for more information.
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% Yes
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14.7% No
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1.3% 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.