Hutt River Riverbank
This is just to invite some comment.
A lot of (expensive) re-development is scheduled for the riverbank much of which is reputed to be to safeguard the Hutt Valley from future floods.
In the 1960's at least, and probably earlier and later than the 60's, shingle was bulldozed from the river regularly which kept the river bed at a safe level and provided protection when the river did rise. And it did then and still does. The shingle was processed by River Shingle & Sand and later Winstones for the construction industry.
We still build homes and commercial buildings don't we? Where do we get the mix for infill and concrete from? Not only are we ignoring a product that is useful and readily available but the removal of it helps to safeguard our community.
I am curious to hear from people think. Many would not even know that the riverbed shingle has a use. Look at the steadily rising level of the riverbed next time you drive by or take the dog for a walk. A major flood may not be that far away.
Live Q&A: Garden maintenance with Crewcut
This Wednesday, we're having another Neighbourly Q&A session. This time with John Bracewell from Crewcut.
John Bracewell, former Black Caps coach turned Franchisee Development Manager and currently the face of Crewcut’s #Movember campaign, knows a thing or two about keeping the grass looking sharp—whether it’s on a cricket pitch or in your backyard!
As a seasoned Crewcut franchisee, John is excited to answer your lawn and gardening questions. After years of perfecting the greens on the field, he's ready to share tips on how to knock your garden out of the park. Let's just say he’s as passionate about lush lawns as he is about a good game of cricket!
John is happy to answer questions about lawn mowing, tree/hedge trimming, tidying your garden, ride on mowing, you name it! He'll be online on Wednesday, 27th of November to answer them all.
Share your question below now ⬇️
Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
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4.6% Second half of November
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43.6% 1st December
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17.5% A week before Christmas
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33.2% Whenever you wish
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1.1% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
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 mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.