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Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to … View moreKia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.
Haven Falls are very blessed to be opening their new branch in Rotorua.
Located at 271 Old Taupo Road, Rotorua these facilities offer a large chapel, dining hall and extended off road parking.
We invite you at anytime to pop in and speak with one of our team members and have a look around … View moreHaven Falls are very blessed to be opening their new branch in Rotorua.
Located at 271 Old Taupo Road, Rotorua these facilities offer a large chapel, dining hall and extended off road parking.
We invite you at anytime to pop in and speak with one of our team members and have a look around the facilities offered.
We operate 24 hours 7 days a week.
0800 428366
Call now for free consultation
• Complete Denture
• Partial Denture
• Same day Denture relines and repairs
• Provide WINZ Quote and insurance claim.
Contact us at 09 634 4543.
12C Waddon Place, Māngere, Auckland 2022
Forget Facebook marketplace, traders at a fledgling car boot sale in one of Hamilton’s affluent suburbs are dodging “tyre kickers” and “scammers” and going old-school.
While some were trying to clean up their over-crowded garages at the Harrowfield Club’s second car boot sale of the … View moreForget Facebook marketplace, traders at a fledgling car boot sale in one of Hamilton’s affluent suburbs are dodging “tyre kickers” and “scammers” and going old-school.
While some were trying to clean up their over-crowded garages at the Harrowfield Club’s second car boot sale of the year on Sunday, others were testing the market to turn hobbies into businesses.
Do you go to car boot sales? Tell us your reasons in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).
Housing stock is starting to move on the Coromandel Peninsula, including a dilapidated place one block back from Whitianga's Buffalo Beach that sold to a Hamilton bargain hunter for $500,000.
Real estate companies are starting to see more deals go, however, prices have stabilised with high … View moreHousing stock is starting to move on the Coromandel Peninsula, including a dilapidated place one block back from Whitianga's Buffalo Beach that sold to a Hamilton bargain hunter for $500,000.
Real estate companies are starting to see more deals go, however, prices have stabilised with high supply levels still outstripping demand.
Would you ever buy a total doer upper? Tell us your reasons in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).
By local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Mid Canterbury roads will get an extra 50km of road resealing after the council dipped into ratepayer funds to cover the cost.
The Ashburton District Council decided to use $2.46 million of ratepayer money after there was a shortfall in the NZ … View moreBy local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Mid Canterbury roads will get an extra 50km of road resealing after the council dipped into ratepayer funds to cover the cost.
The Ashburton District Council decided to use $2.46 million of ratepayer money after there was a shortfall in the NZ Transport Agency funding.
The council aims to complete an extra 50km of road resealing on top of the already planned 60km of NZTA-subsidised reseals.
Infrastructure and open spaces group manager Neil McCann said staff selected roads that would ensure the additional work was done as soon as possible.
The contractor has been given the selected sites to be completed by the end of March, he said.
“We’ll monitor that and make sure we can get as close to 50km done.”
As part of the selection process, staff found priority roads that didn’t require significant pre-seal work, he said.
“The sites selected are from the forward work programme, but ones that require minimal pre-reseal repairs, have relatively long lengths, and [are] having a single coat chip seal.
“They have been selected according to the need of being sealed before the cracks open up and water gets in and causes potholes.”
The 27 unsubsidised reseal sites are for pothole prevention rather than pothole repairs, he said.
When the council was deciding how to allocate the $2.4m last month, mayor Neil Brown had suggested putting it all into extra reseals, calling it "preventative maintenance” to avoid the roads cracking and forming potholes.
The extra reseals will push the total past 100km, doubling up on last year’s 49.5km of road resealing.
The estimated cost of the 50.8km of reseals added to the programme is $2.03m, which could leave around $400,000 in the roading budget to allocate to other work.
“We will wait and see if there is much left after doing the reseals before deciding what to spend the remainder on, as it will depend on available time and the season,” McCann said.
Major unsubsidised reseal sites:
Ashburton Staveley Rd 5.8km
Back Track 3.5km (4 sites)
Barkers Rd 5km
Chertsey Kyle Rd 6.4km
Dromore Methven Rd 5170 (2)
Hinds Arundel Rd 6395 (4)
Rakaia River Rd 5.6km
Springfield Rd East 3.7km
Timaru Track Rd 4.2km
Care, Community, And Connection
Acacia Cove, a country-style village situated on the beautiful Wattle Downs Peninsula has 31 weekly activities.
For those who appreciate the tranquility of an estuary setting Acacia Cove has it all, as well as its own restaurant, heated indoor pool, library, … View moreCare, Community, And Connection
Acacia Cove, a country-style village situated on the beautiful Wattle Downs Peninsula has 31 weekly activities.
For those who appreciate the tranquility of an estuary setting Acacia Cove has it all, as well as its own restaurant, heated indoor pool, library, bowling green and gym.
Whether you choose to live in a villa or one of our luxurious apartments, you’ll have the security of a 24 hour, fully monitored emergency call system built in.
If you’re aged 60 or over, value your independence but want greater security, come and have a look at the superb properties we have to offer.
Contact long time manager Bruce to book a visit today!
(09) 268 8522.
admin@ocaciacove.co.nz
This Fraud Awareness Week, we’re reminding everyone to stay sharp and look out for the warning signs of scams to stop them before they start.
Here’s what to watch out for:
🔍 Unrealistic offers or promises of easy money that are too good to be true
🔍 Pressure tactics: Scammers may … View moreThis Fraud Awareness Week, we’re reminding everyone to stay sharp and look out for the warning signs of scams to stop them before they start.
Here’s what to watch out for:
🔍 Unrealistic offers or promises of easy money that are too good to be true
🔍 Pressure tactics: Scammers may rush or threaten you to act immediately.
🔍 Requests for personal info: Be cautious if you’re asked for bank details, passwords, or sensitive information.
🔍 Unusual payment methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
🔍 Unverified contacts: Emails, calls, or messages from unknown or suspicious sources.
How to protect yourself:
✅ Stop and think before sharing personal details or making payments.
✅ Don't click on any links until you know that it is safe.
✅ Verify the source: Contact the organisation directly using official channels.
✅ If something’s not right, it's OK to hang up, walk away, ignore it and move on.
If you wish to report a scam, contact Police on 105 or report it online via 105.police.govt.nz/use-105.
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
A lack of public transport and access to healthcare were among the issues raised in recent a survey of older residents in the Hurunui district.
The Hurunui District Council surveyed residents aged over 60 during August and September, as it looks to … View moreBy David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
A lack of public transport and access to healthcare were among the issues raised in recent a survey of older residents in the Hurunui district.
The Hurunui District Council surveyed residents aged over 60 during August and September, as it looks to develop an age-friendly community plan to support an ageing population.
There are currently no public bus services in Hurunui, which includes the town of Amberley, about 40km north of Christchurch.
Community development facilitator Vanessa Nelmes said public transport is a big issue for many elderly people, while accessing medical care when needed remains a concern.
While there are a number of community vehicle trusts operating in the district, respondents felt a regular bus service from Amberley to Rangiora and/or Christchurch is needed.
Hurunui mayor Marie Black has been among those advocating for a bus service, but for now Environment Canterbury says there are no plans to offer public transport in the district.
The distance to medical care in Christchurch and the lack of a dentist were also mentioned, Nelmes said.
The survey received 213 responses from residents aged from 60 to their 90s, with half coming from residents in the south ward, which includes Amberley.
Nelmes said the survey found a majority of the respondents felt confident using computers, internet and / or smart phones.
‘‘It kind of puts that myth to bed that old people don’t like using technology.
‘‘I think we really do need to change our mindset compared to what is really happening in our community.’’
Although about 50 respondents said they were not confident using technology, showing there was still a need for providing support.
The survey also asked if people would like to improve their skills with technology and it was ‘‘evenly split’’, Nelmes said.
A concerning trend in the survey was a number of respondents who said they felt socially isolated, especially those new to the community, she said.
‘‘We had half a dozen people who replied along the lines, ‘you have to put yourself out there, but it’s how to make the first step’.’’
The survey has been analysed by the age-friendly steering group, which plans to widen its membership to include different agencies such as district nursing and is seeking a rural voice, Nelmes said.
Council staff plan to do a stocktake of services available for senior citizens in the district, before beginning work on a draft age-friendly plan.
Environment Canterbury public transport strategy and planning manager Sonia Pollard said there are no plans to extend bus services into Amberley or the wider Hurunui district.
‘‘The focus for public transport improvements is on delivery of the core routes in Christchurch and the direct services between the main urban areas in Waimakariri and Selwyn districts and Christchurch City.
‘‘Service improvements are reliant on funding through local rates and the National Land Transport Programme.’’
She said routes outside large urban areas are unlikely to meet the funding criteria in the 2024/27 National Land Transport Programme.
But as part of the 2025/26 annual plan staff are considering how to best serve the rural community, including assessing new routes outside the Greater Christchurch boundary.
■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
Welcome texture into your room by using leftover Resene Anaglypta wallpaper to accentuate furniture and décor items. Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
An Amberley ratepayer says he intends to fight a plan to develop a cricket ground in the new Eastern Reserve.
John Weyers has asked to speak at a Hurunui District Council meeting on Tuesday, November 26, when the council is due to adopt its new reserve … View moreBy David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
An Amberley ratepayer says he intends to fight a plan to develop a cricket ground in the new Eastern Reserve.
John Weyers has asked to speak at a Hurunui District Council meeting on Tuesday, November 26, when the council is due to adopt its new reserve management plan.
A proposal to develop a new cricket ground is included in the plan.
But Weyers said there is no need for a new cricket ground, as cricket is already played at the Amberley Domain.
‘‘If Amberley needs a cricket ground that is one thing, but they are talking about doing it in the only green space available in a residential area.’’
Weyers said he had heard of plans to build an international standard cricket ground in the reserve at a cost of more than $900,000.
‘‘The area is screaming out for a nice park for the community.
‘‘I am hoping to be able to speak at the meeting and I will be asking whether it is appropriate to use ratepayers funds when there is no evidence there is a need for it.
‘‘I will be considering what action to take if it passes.’’
Hurunui District Council chief executive Hamish Dobbie said a cricket ground was first mooted for the Eastern Reserve a decade ago.
While there has been interest in establishing an international standard cricket ground, it is not the council’s intention, he said.
‘‘The shape of this particular piece of ground is for a cricket ground, based on an agreement with the developer.
‘‘It was what the council decided it wanted to do, based on community feedback at the time.’’
The council entered into a sale and purchase agreement with the developer in 2014 and the land was vested in the council two years later.
Dobbie said funds have been set aside to develop the reserve, with 90% coming from development contributions.
‘‘We will be seeking to move forward with the reserve, but that is up for the council to decide.
‘‘We haven’t gone out for tender yet, but our engineers’ estimates are well below $900,000.’’
Dobbie said an area has been set aside for other sports and it will include a children’s play area and a pump track.
There was potential for tennis courts, croquet and other sports, as well as a modest sports pavilion.
The council consulted on its draft reserve management plan earlier this year, receiving nearly 200 submissions.
The Eastern Reserve attracted the most interest, with residents expressing a range of views on how they wanted the reserve to be developed.
Views varied from those in favour of a cricket ground and those opposed, while others advocated for outdoor areas for light exercise and fellowship for the growing elderly population.
The Amberley Cricket Club has played cricket at the Amberley Domain since the 1890s, but in recent years there had been a dispute due to the overlapping seasons with football.
■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
Is the flooring at your school, early childhood, community or sports centre old and threadbare? Or perhaps you have a new space where there’s no flooring at all. Your organisation could be eligible to receive $2,000 + gst from the RhinoKids Flooring Fund to go towards new flooring. Plus, one … View moreIs the flooring at your school, early childhood, community or sports centre old and threadbare? Or perhaps you have a new space where there’s no flooring at all. Your organisation could be eligible to receive $2,000 + gst from the RhinoKids Flooring Fund to go towards new flooring. Plus, one lucky organisation will win a $20,000 flooring makeover!
Carpet Court is continuing its’ mission to help improve Kiwi kids’ learning environments by rolling out its’ nationwide fund for the fifth year in a row. Apply today!
Enviroflo are discovering widespread damage in ceramic drains across the Canterbury region - often there are no obvious signs.
Let our experienced team take care of it. We'll diagnose the damage, provide a report and work with the Natural Hazards Commision (formally EQC) on your behalf.
… View moreEnviroflo are discovering widespread damage in ceramic drains across the Canterbury region - often there are no obvious signs.
Let our experienced team take care of it. We'll diagnose the damage, provide a report and work with the Natural Hazards Commision (formally EQC) on your behalf.
Book your free check today! Call 03 242 0828 or 020 4 DRAINS. Terms and conditions apply
Higher qualifications can lead to better-paid and more stable jobs in a career you enjoy and give you greater job satisfaction. This helps you and your family by giving them access to more resources and less stress, long term.
NorthTec’s courses are designed to give you relevant, hands-on … View moreHigher qualifications can lead to better-paid and more stable jobs in a career you enjoy and give you greater job satisfaction. This helps you and your family by giving them access to more resources and less stress, long term.
NorthTec’s courses are designed to give you relevant, hands-on training so you have the skills to jump straight into an exciting new role.
So, if you’ve been thinking about studying then go for it!
Enrol now for 2025 with NorthTec
For only $15 a ticket, you could win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in Clarks Beach, Auckland.
This coastal town offers the perfect escape, just a short drive from the city.
Valued at over $1 million, this home features three bedrooms and generous open-plan kitchen, … View moreFor only $15 a ticket, you could win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in Clarks Beach, Auckland.
This coastal town offers the perfect escape, just a short drive from the city.
Valued at over $1 million, this home features three bedrooms and generous open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area. It is waiting to be loved by its new owner.
Make this property your permanent residence, a holiday home, a rental, or simply sell it!
Get your tickets today at heartlottery.org.nz
Ryman villages across the country are open every Wednesday in November.
Experience the Ryman lifestyle and learn about our living options, tour our showhomes and discover the wonderful amenities on offer.
Click to find out more information.
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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