Hanmer Forest, Hanmer Springs

308 days ago

$15,000 to welcome you home...

The Team from Ryman Healthcare

It could be our wonderful staff. Our vibrant communities. Our amazing amenities. Or just the peace of mind that our guaranteed fixed base weekly fee* brings. There are so many reasons to choose the Ryman lifestyle. We’d love to add one more reason to your list - $15,000 back for a limited time*.
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It could be our wonderful staff. Our vibrant communities. Our amazing amenities. Or just the peace of mind that our guaranteed fixed base weekly fee* brings. There are so many reasons to choose the Ryman lifestyle. We’d love to add one more reason to your list - $15,000 back for a limited time*.

If you sign up to one of our new home offers, you’ll get a $15,000 credit on settlement*.

There’s truly never been a better time to choose Ryman.

*Terms and conditions apply.
Explore our villages now

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310 days ago

Poll: What power issues have you faced?

The Team from NZ Compare

Hey neighbours! How has your power been treating you lately? Any sparks or stumbles in the past year?
Share the woes and let's brighten each other's day!

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What power issues have you faced?
  • 13.1% Power Outages
    13.1% Complete
  • 73% High Bills
    73% Complete
  • 2.9% Billing Errors
    2.9% Complete
  • 4.2% Voltage Fluctuations
    4.2% Complete
  • 6.8% Poor Customer Service
    6.8% Complete
382 votes
312 days ago

Wedding dresses old and new on show

Ernest Rutherford Retirement Village

This week, we're celebrating love in all its forms, with some of our residents celebrating by sharing cherished memories, including their wedding dresses and the beautiful stories behind them.

An array of wedding dresses, ranging from the modern to the traditional, were on display along … View more
This week, we're celebrating love in all its forms, with some of our residents celebrating by sharing cherished memories, including their wedding dresses and the beautiful stories behind them.

An array of wedding dresses, ranging from the modern to the traditional, were on display along with dozens of amazing wedding photos dating back to the 1800s in a nod to Valentine’s Day.

“With it being Valentine’s Day this week, we wanted something that would be inclusive of all the residents, those who are still lucky enough to have their partners but also those sharing happy memories of those that they have lost.”

Click read more for the full story.

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312 days ago

Is your furry friend protected?

Southern Cross from Neighbourly Nz

The Pet Life.

It’s the life you share with your pet, and the life they share with you. We believe the pet life’s a life worth protecting.

Which is why we are dedicated to helping pets live longer, healthier and happier lives every day.

We’re proudly born and bred in New Zealand, and … View more
The Pet Life.

It’s the life you share with your pet, and the life they share with you. We believe the pet life’s a life worth protecting.

Which is why we are dedicated to helping pets live longer, healthier and happier lives every day.

We’re proudly born and bred in New Zealand, and are equally proud to partner with the NZ Veterinary Association and Pet Refuge. Just two ways we’re there to support the Pet Life community.

Protect the Pet Life.
Learn more now

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314 days ago

Large rate rises proposed for Hurunui

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Hurunui ratepayers can expect hefty rate rises over the next two years.

Average rate rises of 12.41% for this year and 14.14% for next year (2025-26) have been signalled in the Hurunui District Council’s draft long-term plan (LTP).

Speaking at an … View more
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter

Hurunui ratepayers can expect hefty rate rises over the next two years.

Average rate rises of 12.41% for this year and 14.14% for next year (2025-26) have been signalled in the Hurunui District Council’s draft long-term plan (LTP).

Speaking at an extraordinary council meeting on Tuesday, chief financial officer Jason Beck said he expected the rates rise to drop below 5% in 2026-27.

He said the proposed rate rises are in line with other councils and reflected the significant cost increases and impacts of regulatory changes the council faced.

The council was also continuing to upgrade its three waters infrastructure over the next two years.

Deputy mayor Vince Daly questioned whether ‘‘rates smoothing’’ could be introduced to spread the impact of rate increases over the next three years.

‘‘A lot of people are on fixed incomes, so I think we need to look at balancing it out instead of having two big rate increases and then going under 5%.’’

Beck said some form of ‘‘rates smoothing’’ was possible by spreading out debt repayments.

‘‘It can be done. It doesn’t move the cost, but it moves the funding of the cost from the rates in year one out to years two and three.’’

Chief executive Hamish Dobbie said he was not in favour of ‘‘rates smoothing’’.

‘‘We’ve done it before and something else always happens and we end up having to push the rates up to cover extra debt.’’

An expenditure of $368.6 million was proposed over the next 10 years, with roading ($160.8m) the biggest expense, followed by three waters ($142.6m) and other capital expenditure including the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa ($65.2m).

Beck said funding social housing was also proving to be a headache.

The initial budget allowed for a 10% yearly rent increase, but this was found to be unsustainable and has been reduced to 5%.

Social housing ownership will be reviewed as part of the LLT consultation document.

‘‘We have a social conscience, so we want to have the provision of social housing, but we need to look at what our long term commitment is,’’ mayor Marie Black said.

The council’s debt level was expected to peak at $142m in 2030-31, before dropping back to $116m in 2033-34.

This equates to a debt to revenue ratio of as high as 161.29%, so is dependant on a change in the Treasury policy which limits it to 125%, Beck said.

The council will meet again on March 26 to adopt the draft LTP for consultation.

■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

314 days ago

Troubleshoot Your Broadband: Tips & Savings!

The Team from NZ Compare

Experiencing broadband troubles? Our recent neighbourly poll reveals the top two issues: unstable connections and pricey bills!

Don't worry! Check out our latest article for expert tips to solve these issues.

PLUS, use Broadband Compare to compare NZ's best broadband deals & … View more
Experiencing broadband troubles? Our recent neighbourly poll reveals the top two issues: unstable connections and pricey bills!

Don't worry! Check out our latest article for expert tips to solve these issues.

PLUS, use Broadband Compare to compare NZ's best broadband deals & save up to $300/year. Enjoy smoother internet while keeping cash for treats!
Troubleshoot Now

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315 days ago

Rebecca renews her Cambridge connections

Ernest Rutherford Retirement Village

Classical crossover singer Rebecca Nelson told a captivated Cambridge audience how the town holds a special place in her heart for several reasons.

Rebecca’s performance was one of three shows lined up to entertain residents and soon-to-be residents of Ryman Healthcare’s Patrick Hogan … View more
Classical crossover singer Rebecca Nelson told a captivated Cambridge audience how the town holds a special place in her heart for several reasons.

Rebecca’s performance was one of three shows lined up to entertain residents and soon-to-be residents of Ryman Healthcare’s Patrick Hogan Village in Cambridge, Hilda Ross Village down the road in Hamilton and James Wattie Village in Havelock North.

Describing her connection to Ryman, she says: “It feels like coming home and performing for friends and family.”

Click read for the full story.

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315 days ago

Valentine’s Day Shows to Stream

The Team from NZ Compare

This Valentine’s Day, why not snuggle up with your loved one for a movie night in?

We've curated the ultimate list of the latest romantic flicks and binge-worthy shows to make your evening extra special.

Plus, don't forget to compare broadband options on Broadband Compare for the… View more
This Valentine’s Day, why not snuggle up with your loved one for a movie night in?

We've curated the ultimate list of the latest romantic flicks and binge-worthy shows to make your evening extra special.

Plus, don't forget to compare broadband options on Broadband Compare for the best streaming deals!

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315 days ago

Show your favourite local business some love...

Prospa

It's back for a fifth year! Recognise the best local businesses in your neighbourhood by nominating them in the 2024 Prospa Local Business Hero Awards.

Whether it's a bakery team who occasionally sneak you an extra sweet treat, a supermarket employee that's helped carry your bags… View more
It's back for a fifth year! Recognise the best local businesses in your neighbourhood by nominating them in the 2024 Prospa Local Business Hero Awards.

Whether it's a bakery team who occasionally sneak you an extra sweet treat, a supermarket employee that's helped carry your bags to the car or a bookshop that goes out of its way to find the best read just for you. Prospa Local Business Hero helps you show some love to the small businesses with the biggest hearts.

Plus your nomination could help a small business win over $10,000 worth of prizes!

Be a local hero yourself; give your favourite local business owner the recognition they deserve by nominating them in the 2024 Prospa Local Business Hero awards.
Nominate now

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317 days ago

Happy Chinese New year!

The Team from NZ Compare

Happy Chinese Lunar New Year from the team at NZ Compare!
May your year be as powerful and fortunate as the mighty dragon!

Don't forget to enter our Year of the Dragon contest to WIN 1 of 3 X $50 gift cards.

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319 days ago

PriceMe Awards 2024 Winners

The Team from NZ Compare

Discover the Best of the Best! The 2024 PriceMe Award Winners have been revealed, voted by thousands of Kiwi consumers!

From household favourites to tech essentials and more. Explore now for top-rated brands and unbeatable deals!
Do you often shop at one of the winning stores or brands?

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319 days ago

Make money from your unused space

Heybarn

Unlock the potential of your unused space, whether it's a shed, garage or paddock and start making it work for you.

Kiwis from all over New Zealand are looking to rent affordable space for storage, a workshop or an event.

Visit - let us help you find the perfect renter for your space.
Find out more

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322 days ago

6 Rejuvenating Wellness Tips

The Team from NZ Compare

Get ready for a refreshing summer with our 6 rejuvenating wellness tips!

Whether you're hitting the trails, diving into the waves, or simply chilling at home, these tips are perfect for making the most of your break!

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322 days ago

Have you got your tickets yet?

Heart Foundation Lotteries

Don't miss out! For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home in Pegasus, Christchurch worth nearly one million dollars.

Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be lived … View more
Don't miss out! For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home in Pegasus, Christchurch worth nearly one million dollars.

Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be lived in by its new owners.

Make this property your permanent residence, a holiday home, rent it or even sell it – it could be all yours! Get your tickets today at heartlottery.org.nz.
Buy tickets now

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324 days ago

Want to enjoy the best house & garden content every month?

NZ House & Garden

With NZ House & Garden you’ll be able to do just that. Flick through the pages to find inspirational and aspirational homes and gardens as well as sumptuous food, carefully curated lifestyle features, and all the latest homeware and shopping trends.

Subscribe to NZ House & Garden and … View more
With NZ House & Garden you’ll be able to do just that. Flick through the pages to find inspirational and aspirational homes and gardens as well as sumptuous food, carefully curated lifestyle features, and all the latest homeware and shopping trends.

Subscribe to NZ House & Garden and save up to 27% off retail, PLUS subscribe before 25 Feb and you’ll be in the draw to win 1 of 72 Antipodes Culture Probiotic Night Recover Water Cream worth $70! T&Cs apply.

The team at NZ House & Garden
Find out more

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