Rates
Yes, this is once more about rates and it calls upon thousands of ratepayers: As I have pointed out in my open letter to John Carter in April, there are many of us who don't receive what he calls "essential services", for instance drinking water, sewerage, rubbish disposal or animal management. Especially in challenging times like now this is a hardship for all of us but if we read what our Mayor has written, like (quote) "...Your Council is also taking a hands-on role helping the far North respond to this pandemic....At the same time, we are ensuring the essential services WE ALL RELY ON CONTINUE UNINTERUPTED...They are VITAL to the wellbeing of our communities..." (unquote) then we are left speechless because his words are indeed misleading and untrue since in many parts of the district these in the highest degree important services have never been delivered, let alone now when they do especially matter. However: We are still expected to pay rates for something essential that is not available to us. This is unacceptable and I appeal to all of you who think the same: let's unite in our efforts to change this injustice to the old principle of "user pays." Now this is more important than ever before, but to be successful we need numbers. Therefore please write to atair.nz@gmail.com and/or go to transition towns Bay of Islands www.facebook.com... Together we are stronger!
What workplace change would you like to see most?
This coming Monday is Labour Day in New Zealand. This public holiday marks when the eight-hour workday and 48-hour workweek became law in 1899. The idea started with Samuel Parnell, a carpenter in Wellington, who in 1840 refused to work more than eight hours a day. Since skilled workers were in short supply, his employer had to agree.
As more skilled workers arrived, employers tried to change working conditions, but Parnell and others kept pushing for better rights. In 1890, Parnell led a Labour Day parade of 1,500 people to promote the eight-hour day. He passed away shortly after, and nine years later, Labour Day became an official public holiday.
Do you feel that we have reached the ideal in working environments yet? What rights are you passionate about relating to employment? Share your thoughts!
Poll: Does grocery bagging affect where you shop?
There's only a few differences between our larger chain supermarkets here in New Zealand. Having someone bag your groceries is one of them.
Does having your groceries packed for you at the checkout influence where you do your grocery shop? If so, tell us why.
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23.8% Yes
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75.5% No
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0.7% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for gooseberry?
Love gooseberries? Share your favourite way to enjoy them. We're looking for our readers' favourite family recipes for this delicious crop. Send yours to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the magazine, you will receive a free copy of our December 2024 issue.
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