We Say/You Say: Electric Scooters
Hi Hamilton,
Should electric scooters stay or go?
Electric scooters are set to stay on Hamilton Streets with pedestrian and user safety remaining a concern.
Hamilton City Council's Infrastructure Operations Committee approved the extension to operate indefinitely and has opened up a previously exclusive contract to other operators.
Councillor Sarah Thomson said she had heard from the disabled community and older residents that sharing the footpath with scooter riders could be a terrifying experience, and she had recently experienced a close call herself with a scooter rider.
"I was coming around a corner, I was pushing [my son] Leo in a pram and I nearly collided with someone riding a scooter. Leo, who is 10-and-a-half months old, would have been the first one hit."
The committee has attempted to address these concerns, with three-monthly reports needing to be submitted to ensure companies and scooter riders are adhering to regulations. Public liability insurance worth $2 million will also be required from each operator.
Share your thoughts below and don't forget to type NFP if you don't want your comments used in the Hamilton Press.
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.
Have you come across many roadworks sites recently?
The frustration of seeing a detour sign partway through your journey on the main highways possibly the new way forward when it comes to roadworks.
One of the latest areas to have a section of the road blocked off is State Highway 1 between Putāruru to Tokoroa as part of a massive renewal project that extends down to Waiouru.
Have you come across many roadworks sites recently?